State-to-State Car Shipping

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Moving to a new state is an exciting fresh start, but it also comes with a hefty to-do list. Getting your car there shouldn’t be another headache.

In such instances, state-to-state car shipping or towing your car from state-to-state is your best bet. That’s where MoveWheels comes in. We specialize in car shipping, taking the hassle out of long-distance relocation.

We already have a comprehensive guide on state-to-state car towing so our focus here would be limited to just state-to-state car shipping. There are various companies shipping cars from one state to another and you can easily hire their services. 

So, instead of adding hundreds or even thousands of miles to your car, why not let the experts handle it? If you’re ready to simplify this part of your move, let’s explore how state-to-state car shipping works.

  1. Ship a car to another state in 3 easy steps
  2. How state-to-state car shipping works?
  3. Open and enclosed state-to-state auto transport
  4. State-to-state car transport rates
  5. Insurance and Bill of Lading when shipping to another state
  6. FAQs

Ship A Car To Another State In 3 Easy Steps

Ship A Car To Another State In 3 Easy Steps

Step 1: Choose Open vs. Enclosed Transport

When deciding to ship your vehicle via state-to-state auto transport, it is essential to first determine whether you want to opt for an open carrier or an enclosed transport (more on this in upcoming passages). Having decided what you will opt for, it is time to move on to the next stage of planning i.e., research and choosing the right state-to-state car shipping company

Pro Tip: Unsure which is right for you? Most shipping companies will gladly offer advice based on your car and needs.

Step 2: Find Your Perfect Shipping Partner

Investing some time into researching various auto transport companies can go a long way in ensuring hassle-free shipping of your car or an SUV from one state to another. In our routine lives, we often do not have to deal with car shipping companies which leads to a falsified notion that there are not many options when it comes to state-to-state shipping. 

It’s Not Just About Price: Compare quotes from multiple companies, but also factor in insurance, customer service, and reputation.
Dig Deeper: Check online reviews on independent sites to get a sense of a company’s track record.
Ask Smart Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask about insurance coverage, pickup/delivery procedures, and any additional fees.

At MoveWheels auto transport quotes always include all charges, so with our company your shipping process will not face any unexpected additional payments.

Step 3: Prepare Your Car & Finalize the Booking

After picking the best auto transport company out of the competition, the next step is to finalize your vehicle’s shipping with that company.

Book Smart: Locking in your shipping dates early often means better pricing. If you can be flexible, even better!
Get Your Car Ready: A quick wash, inspection, and removal of personal items ensure a smooth process.
Document the Details: Take photos of your car before it’s loaded – this offers peace of mind in case of any unexpected issues.

Shipping your car across the country doesn’t have to be complicated. With some smart choices and a bit of planning, you can get your vehicle to your new home with minimum stress.

How State-to-State
Car Shipping Works?

How State-to-State Car Shipping Works

State-to-state car shipping also referred to as auto transportation or car hauling may seem like a fairly simple business on the surface, but the reality is it involves a lot of variables including but not limited to planning, scheduling, safety, capital, and compliance to various regulations. 

Out of a variety of car shipping methods, the open car hauler(cars stacked on an open trailer behind a semi) remains the most widely used and economical method. The open auto transport method despite being the most cost-effective means to transport vehicles depends upon certain variables that ultimately constitute the total cost of state-to-state car shipping. 

The variables in order of their influence on the cost are distance/location, size, the weight of the car, insurance, and the season (summers and holidays tend to be pricier).

Aside from choosing your desired state-to-state car shipping company and the associated cost, you will need to prep your car for the journey. This includes washing the exterior, performing a thorough inspection, and taking pictures to corroborate when the car gets delivered. 

The paperwork is fairly straightforward, and the insurance generally takes care of all expected negligence on part of the shipping company, though acts of God like flood, tornado, hurricane, etc. are generally exempted.

Open And Enclosed
State-To-State Auto Transport

Open And Enclosed State-To-State Auto Transport

There are two modes when it comes to shipping cars from state to state. These modes referred to as open and enclosed are pretty self-explanatory.

The open shipping method is the most widely used one. It is the one that you most often get to see on highways where cars are stacked on the back of a semi without any solid walls/cover around them. Shipping via an open carrier exposes your vehicle to external elements which may result in damage, but such instances are quite rare.

This mode is best suited for mainstream vehicles. In addition, open carrier auto shipping tends to be economical. These attributes make it a favorite amongst new car dealers and private individuals alike.

On the other hand, enclosed state-to-state transport or enclosed car shipping is a safer option as your car is shielded from external elements by metal walls and a roof.

Understandably, it is a pricier alternative to open carrier shipping but the premium paid is generally worth the protection a vehicle gets especially if it is a collectible or a luxury vehicle.

State-To-State Car Transport Rates

State-To-State Car Transport Rates

The cost of shipping your car across state lines isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. However, by understanding the key factors, you can estimate your own rates and make informed choices.

Distance Matters Most: Generally, the further you’re shipping your car, the lower the per-mile rate. So, a long haul from California to New York will likely cost less per mile than a shorter trip from Florida to Texas.
Car Size & Type: Size definitely matters! SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than standard sedans.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport: This is a significant cost factor. Open carriers offer a more budget-friendly option, while enclosed carriers provide added protection for luxury or classic vehicles, naturally costing more.
Fuel Fluctuations: While not the biggest factor, gas prices can slightly impact the overall shipping cost.

You can ask for a quote from any state-to-state shipping company by yourself, however, we have taken the liberty to inquire about rates for normal cars/SUVs/pickups just so you can have an estimate as to how much will it cost you to ship your vehicle to and from the most popular destinations.

Destination

Quote

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

to San Francisco, California

$800-$1050

Albuquerque, New Mexico

to Miami, Florida

$1085-$1505

  Buffalo, New York

to San Diego, California

$1100-$1370

  Chicago, Illinois to Miami, Florida

$610-$933

Texas to MD/NY

$1085/$785

These rates are estimates. For the most accurate pricing and to explore flexible shipping options, get your free quote from MoveWheels today!

By understanding these factors and potential costs, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the most cost-effective state-to-state car shipping option for your needs.

Insurance And Bill Of Lading When Shipping To Another State

Insurance And Bill Of Lading When shipping To Another State

Being worried about the safety of your vehicle is an understandable concern that many have when shipping a car from state to state. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your car is safe during the whole journey. 

Insurance: Peace of Mind for Your Car’s Journey

Most reputable state-to-state car shipping companies include basic insurance coverage in their quotes. This protects you against most types of damage that might occur directly due to the transport process. However, it’s essential to understand the specifics of your chosen company’s policy.

Key Questions to Ask:

What’s Included in Insurance: What types of damage are covered (accidents, scratches, etc.)? Are there exclusions like weather-related damage?
Coverage Limits: Is the included coverage enough for your car’s value? If not, does the company offer supplemental insurance options?
Verification is Key: Always double-check insurance details with the company before finalizing your booking.

The Bill of Lading: Your Proof of Condition

Think of the Bill of Lading as your car’s “before and after” snapshot. This essential document details the vehicle’s condition both before it’s loaded onto the carrier and after it’s delivered.

Why It Matters:

Protection: If your car is damaged during shipping, the Bill of Lading provides proof to support your insurance claim.
Your Role: Carefully inspect your car alongside the driver at pickup and delivery. Note any new damage or discrepancies on the Bill of Lading immediately.

Remember: Thoroughly understanding insurance and the Bill of Lading process helps ensure a smooth car shipping experience and protects your investment.

State-to-state car shipping takes one major worry off your moving checklist. Instead of driving long distances, you can focus on settling into your new adventure. By choosing a reputable company like MoveWheels, you can rest assured that your car will be transported with care, saving you time, money, and hassle.

Let’s make your move a success!

FAQs

Can I ship my car with the luggage packed in it?

No, it is always advised to empty the car when shipping it to another state. Luggage or extra items are not covered by insurance and interstate shipping companies sometimes flat-out refuse to ship a car if there is anything major or valuable inside it. Minor add-ons or car accessories such as a smartphone holder, ashtray, and sunshades may be allowed.

Can I directly contact the driver of the carrier shipping my car?

It depends, while you may be able to contact your carrier’s driver in many instances and companies do tend to provide such contact information, however, it is generally advised to contact customer support or the dispatching agent first before moving on to contact the driver.

How long does it take for a state-to-state vehicle shipping company to ship my car?

There are a variety of factors at play that determine the time required to ship your car. The key factor is obviously the route taken/distance. Moreover, the loading and unloading time at each destination further adds to the required time. Thus, once all the bookings on a particular route are confirmed, the carrier company then intimates the estimated time to each of their customers.

Can I ship a non-running car across state lines?

Yes, most companies offer transport for inoperable vehicles. However, this often incurs additional fees, and you’ll need to disclose your car’s condition upfront.

What’s the difference between open and enclosed car shipping?

Open carriers are the standard, exposing your car to the elements but offering a more economical option. Enclosed carriers provide full protection from weather and debris, ideal for valuable or classic cars, and naturally cost more.

What if my car gets damaged during transport?

This is why understanding the included insurance is essential. Document your car’s condition thoroughly before shipping, and carefully inspect it on delivery. Notify the carrier of any damage immediately and follow their claims process.

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