Before choosing an auto transport company, car owners compare quotes from several carriers to find the one most suited to their needs and the best fit for their budget.  

While it seems relatively straightforward, understanding a few factors like where to go for online quotes and variables to consider when comparing is essential. 

Each car shipping service handles online transport quotes differently. Please check RoadRunner Auto Transport car shipping quotes as an example. The varied formats and protocols can be confusing, but owners can reach out to the service provider directly via phone, email, or messenger for clarification.

Auto Transport Instant Shipping Quotes 

Car owners increasingly choose to ship vehicles when relocating, buying or selling a car, taking an extended holiday, and on. In order to ensure you receive services that accommodate your needs and fit your budget, it’s recommended to compare quotes from several providers. 

When using an online quote calculator, the information you input determines the price point. Some factors that impact the cost include the following: 

Vehicle type 

Among the top factors car shippers consider when determining a transport quote is the vehicle type. A small lightweight compact auto will have a distinct price compared to a heavy oversized vehicle. Because space is limited on a trailer, size (height, weight, and length) is integral in how many cars the driver can haul.  

Car owners pay more for big vehicles that consume space and less for smaller autos. Auto transport companies work to fit as many cars on a single delivery as possible for optimal cost-effectiveness. Visit Discovery Guide On How To Get The Car Shipping Quote – for guidance on getting auto transport quotes. 

Travel distance 

The distance plays a part in the delivery costs. While longer distances are overall more expensive, the price per mile is lower.  

Location 

Shipping is more straightforward and simpler in an urban area with distinct routes and easy access. When a driver needs to travel to a rural location, it can be challenging to navigate, depending on the area. Narrow streets, mountainous roads, and remote regions increase shipping costs. 

Carrier type 

The most common and favored transport is via open carrier.  More of these are available making them accessible and cost-efficient. The downside is that cars are exposed to the outside elements. The other choice is an enclosed trailer, which is often reserved for luxury, classic, or custom autos. 

The price is much higher but the vehicles have an added layer of protection that give owners peace of mind knowing the auto will be safe and secure. 

Peak season 

During the summer and the holiday seasons, car transport prices increase since there’s a higher demand for the services. Many people are on holiday and most prefer to move when the weather is more accommodating.  

Drivers are busy, and finding available space in a trailer during peak seasons is tough. If you have flexibility in your schedule, booking transport during the off-season is recommended. Some carriers provide discounts to owners with greater flexibility with delivery. 

In this vein, carriers also appreciate it when car owners book well in advance of departure, roughly four weeks, and offer lower rates for advanced scheduling. That can sometimes be challenging for those facing a sudden move, such as an immediate job transfer. 

In this case, express shipping is often requested, giving owners a more guaranteed window of time. Express shipping, however, also comes with a substantially higher cost. 

Vehicle condition 

Before shipping a car, it’s suggested to be serviced to ensure it’s in good running condition. Nonoperating vehicles cost more and are sometimes rejected for transport. These require specialized equipment for loading and can pose a hindrance while in transit if there’s a problem or emergency. 

Whether using an online quote calculator or speaking directly with a transport provider, the priority is finding out what the quote includes or if it’s all-inclusive. The objective is to avoid hidden fees or costs you weren’t made aware of initially.  

You want to review the offer, including the fine print details, because some charges could be excluded, meaning the final price will likely differ from the quoted cost. 

At the time you’re issued a quote, it’s vital to confirm how long the quote will be valid to ensure it’s still viable when you’re ready to book. Roughly a week is pretty standard, and after that time, transport companies will recalculate the charges using the details already provided. 

Final Thought 

Car shipping is an increasingly popular method for transporting a vehicle to another location whether moving or buying or selling a car. 

In order to find out how much the services will cost; owners are encouraged to seek quotes from a few companies. Go here for tips that you should know when having a car shipped. 

Reputable and quality car shipping services provide all-inclusive quotes with insurance factored into the price and no upfront payment. The best option will satisfy all your needs and fit your budget.