A Beginner’s Guide to Transporting Vehicles Across the Country

Transporting a vehicle across the country can seem like a daunting task, especially for first timers. Whether you are relocating, purchasing a car from another state, or sending a vehicle to a family member, understanding the process is crucial to ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

How Cross-Country Car Transport Works

Cross-country vehicle transport is a service offered by auto transport companies that move vehicles from one state to another. The process is relatively straightforward but requires careful planning to ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and on time. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Request a Quote – Contact a reputable auto transport company for a quote. Prices will vary based on the distance, type of transport, and vehicle details.
2. Choose a Transport Method – Decide between open or enclosed transport (more on this below).
3. Schedule Pickup and Delivery – Once you confirm the details, the transport company will schedule a pickup time that fits your availability.
4. Prepare Your Vehicle – Ensure your car is ready for transport by removing personal items and performing necessary maintenance checks.
5. Tracking and Updates – Some auto transport companies provide tracking options so you can monitor your vehicle’s journey.
6. Vehicle Delivery – Your car is delivered to the agreed-upon location, and you will inspect it before finalizing the transport process.

Open vs. Enclosed Shipping for Long-Distance Transport

When transporting vehicles across the country, you will have to decide between open or enclosed transport. Each method has its pros and cons:

Open Transport

• Most Common & Affordable – Open transport is the most widely used method due to its cost-effectiveness.
• Multiple Vehicles – Cars are loaded onto an open trailer with multiple other vehicles.
• Exposed to Elements – While safe, vehicles are exposed to weather conditions and road debris.

Enclosed Transport

• Premium Protection – Vehicles are placed inside a covered trailer, protecting them from the elements.
• Best for High-Value Cars – Ideal for classic, luxury, or exotic vehicles.
• Higher Cost – More expensive than open transport due to additional protection.

Factors That Affect Cross-Country Shipping Costs

Several factors influence the cost of transporting vehicles across the country. Understanding these can help you budget effectively:

• Distance – The farther the destination, the higher the cost.
• Vehicle Type & Size – Larger or heavier vehicles may require specialized transport, increasing the price.
• Transport Method – Enclosed transport is more expensive than open transport.
• Pickup & Delivery Locations – Urban areas are easier to service than remote locations, which may incur additional charges.
• Seasonal Demand – Prices fluctuate depending on the time of year. Summer and winter holidays often see higher rates.
• Fuel Costs – Fuel prices can affect overall transport costs.
• Expedited Shipping – If you need your vehicle delivered quickly, expedited shipping options are available at a higher cost.

Steps to Prepare Your Vehicle for Long-Distance Shipping

Proper preparation ensures your car is transported safely and minimizes the risk of damage. Follow these steps before handing over your vehicle to the transport company:

1. Clean Your Vehicle – A clean car makes it easier to inspect for any pre-existing damage before shipping.
2. Document Existing Damage – Take photos of your vehicle from all angles as a record before transport.
3. Remove Personal Items – Transport companies are not responsible for personal belongings left in the vehicle.
4. Check Fluid Levels and Battery – Ensure your car has the necessary fluids and the battery is fully charged.
5. Ensure Tires Are Properly Inflated – Prevents damage while loading and unloading the vehicle.
6. Disable Alarms & Toll Tags – Alarms can go off during transit, and toll tags may incur unnecessary charges.
7. Leave a Quarter Tank of Gas – Enough fuel is needed to move the vehicle on and off the truck, but excess fuel adds unnecessary weight.

How to Track Your Vehicle During Transit

Many transport companies provide tracking services so customers can monitor their vehicle’s journey in real-time. Some common tracking options include:

• Online Tracking Portals – Some companies have GPS-enabled portals where you can check your vehicle’s location.
• Customer Service Updates – You can contact the transport company for updates on delivery status.
• Driver Communication – In some cases, you can communicate directly with the driver for real-time location updates.

Average Delivery Times for Cross-Country Shipping

The time it takes to transport vehicles across the country varies based on distance, weather conditions, and carrier availability. Here are some general timeframes:

• 500 to 1,000 miles – 2 to 4 days
• 1,000 to 1,500 miles – 4 to 6 days
• 1,500 to 2,000 miles – 6 to 8 days
• 2,000+ miles – 8 to 12 days

Expedited shipping options are available for those needing faster delivery, though at a higher cost.

Why Choose Dealers Choice Auto Transport?

When selecting an auto transport company, reliability and experience matter. Dealers Choice Auto Transport has over 50 years of experience in the vehicle shipping industry. We have earned a reputation as the #1 car shipping service by providing safe, efficient, and reliable transport solutions for customers across the country.

At Dealers Choice Auto Transport:

• We offer both open and enclosed transport options to meet your specific needs.
• Our experienced team is available to answer any questions throughout the shipping process.
• We provide transport services beyond personal vehicles, including heavy hauling, heavy equipment, and freight shipping.
• Customer satisfaction is our #1 priority, ensuring every car is transported with care and efficiency.

Contact Us Today!

If you’re looking for a trusted and experienced auto transport company, look no further than Dealers Choice Auto Transport. Whether you’re shipping a personal vehicle, heavy equipment, or freight, we have the expertise to handle it all. Contact us today to get a quote and schedule your vehicle transport with the best in the industry!