5 Factors that Influence Automobile Shipping Quotes

Driving a vehicle yourself to a new destination is less expensive than hiring an automobile transportation company. There are, however, a few advantages such as comfort and convenience that make domestic or international car shipping services popular among most car owners. Almost all the reputable shipping companies provide a quote to clients at the initial stage to give an approximate idea of the cost involved in transporting the vehicle to the new destination. There are several factors that influence the quote, and this is why it is rare that two shipping companies would provide you same price for the service. Let us look at the five main factors that determine the price of shipping your vehicle to another city, state or country. 

1. Destination 

The location where the vehicle is to be shipped is the biggest factor that influences its shipping cost. International car shipping, for instance, would incur duties and taxes. If the vehicle is to be shipped to a remote location, the automobile transportation company might have to reroute your asset to the nearest city, which means additional fees.

2. Vehicle Size

Automobile transport companies function on the basis of economies of scale. That said, if you are transporting a pickup truck, minivan, or any other large vehicle, there would be additional oversize or overweight charges. Most cars, on the other hand are not subject to overweight or oversize fees.

3. Vehicle Condition

If your car is operable, the automobile shipping company would usually drive it onto the ship or truck. Inoperable cars, on the other hand, might require the shipping company to use other equipment for loading the vehicle to the shipping vehicle, which means more fees. Don’t forget that not every automobile transportation company ships inoperable vehicles. 

4. Carrier Type

Whether you are shipping a vehicle within or outside the US, there are two types of carrier options you can choose. The first is an open trailer, which is the most popular choice because of its low cost. The second is an enclosed trailer that offers more protection to your cargo, but is more expensive than open shipping trailers. 

5. Timeframe

The stipulated duration within which you want your vehicle to reach its destination is another factor that influences shipping quotes. If you need fast delivery, the automobile transportation company would use an expedited shipment method and charge you accordingly. If time is not a concern, opt for standby shipping and save some money. 

There’s More!

Several other factors including the type of delivery also influence automobile shipping quotes. Door-to-door delivery, for instance, costs more than terminal-to-terminal delivery. Similarly, if it is an international car shipping, the country you are transporting your vehicle to will influence the shipping fees. The reason is not just the distance, but customs and tax regulations that vary from one country to another. Other factors including congestion charges and fluctuation also impact the shipping quote.