Moving Car From East Coast to West Coast (Complete Guide)
Moving a car from the East Coast to the West Coast can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve never done it before. The distance between the two coasts of the United States is significant, and driving your car all the way across the country can take a toll on you and your vehicle. That’s why many people choose to ship their cars instead.
However, shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. From choosing the right auto transport company to deciding on the type of trailer to use and understanding the costs and delivery times, there are many factors to consider. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what you need to know before shipping your car from the East Coast to the West Coast.
Things to Consider Before Shipping From East Coast to West Coast
Shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast can be a convenient and practical option, especially if you are moving across the country or purchasing a car from another state. However, there are a few things to consider before shipping your car to the West Coast.
One important factor to consider is the distance of your shipment. Shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast is a long journey, and it’s essential to choose a reliable and experienced auto transport company to ensure safe and efficient delivery. You should also consider the weather conditions during the time of year you plan to ship your car.
Another thing to consider is the type of transport you prefer. Open car transport is a popular and affordable option, where your vehicle will be shipped on an open-air carrier. However, if you are concerned about potential damage from the elements or want additional protection, enclosed car transport may be a better option. This type of transport uses a fully enclosed trailer to protect your vehicle during transit.
It’s also important to consider the timing of your shipment. The time it takes to ship a car from the East Coast to the West Coast can vary depending on several factors, such as the distance, route, and time of year. It’s important to plan ahead and schedule your shipment well in advance to ensure your vehicle arrives on time.
Finally, before shipping your car from the East Coast to the West Coast, you should also consider the cost. The cost of shipping a car can vary depending on several factors, such as the distance, type of transport, and the company you choose. It’s important to get quotes from several reputable auto transport companies to compare prices and ensure you get the best deal possible.
In summary, shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast can be a convenient and practical option, but there are several things to consider before doing so. These include the distance of your shipment, the type of transport, the timing of your shipment, and the cost. By taking these factors into consideration and choosing a reliable and experienced auto transport company, you can ensure safe and efficient delivery of your vehicle to the West Coast.
Shipping a car East Coast to West Coast – How Does It Work?
Shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast can be a daunting task, but with the right planning and assistance, it can be a seamless process. The distance from the East Coast to the West Coast is quite substantial, and the shipping process requires more attention than a local move. In this article, we’ll discuss the steps involved in shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast.
Step 1: Choose a reputable auto transport company
The first step in shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast is to choose a reputable auto transport company. You’ll want to research different companies and read reviews to ensure you’re selecting a reliable company that can handle long-distance moves. Companies such as Montway Auto Transport, Nexus Auto Transport, and AmeriFreight are reputable companies to consider.
Step 2: Get a quote
Once you’ve selected a company, you’ll need to get a quote. Auto transport companies typically offer free quotes, which will give you an estimate of the cost of shipping your car. You’ll need to provide the make and model of your car, as well as the pickup and delivery locations, to receive an accurate quote.
Step 3: Choose your shipping method
There are two main shipping methods for shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast: open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is more affordable, but your car will be exposed to the elements during transport. Enclosed transport is more expensive, but your car will be protected from the elements during transport.
Step 4: Prepare your car for transport
Before your car is picked up, you’ll need to prepare it for transport. This includes removing all personal belongings from the car and ensuring the car is clean and free of debris. You’ll also need to disable any alarms and make sure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full.
Step 5: Pick up and deliver
Once your car is picked up, the auto transport company will provide you with an estimated delivery date. It’s important to remember that this is an estimate, and the delivery date may change due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather or traffic. When your car is delivered, you’ll need to inspect it for any damage before signing the delivery receipt.
In conclusion, shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast can be a smooth process if you choose a reputable auto transport company, get a quote, choose your shipping method, prepare your car for transport, and carefully inspect your car upon delivery. With these steps in mind, you can ensure your car arrives at its destination safely and securely.
How to Ship Cars From The West Coast To East Coast?
Shipping a car from the West Coast to the East Coast can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are the steps to follow when shipping a car from the West Coast to the East Coast:
- Choose a reputable car shipping company: Do your research and find a reputable car shipping company that has experience with cross-country transportation. Check their ratings, reviews, and testimonials before making a decision.
- Get a quote: Request a quote from the car shipping company to get an estimate of the cost of shipping your car. Factors that can affect the cost include the distance, the size of the car, and the shipping method.
- Choose a shipping method: There are two primary methods of shipping a car from the West Coast to the East Coast – open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is cheaper but exposes your car to the elements, while enclosed transport is more expensive but offers greater protection.
- Prepare your car for shipping: Remove all personal items from your car and ensure that it is clean and in good condition. Take photos of your car before shipping to document its condition in case of any damage during transit.
- Schedule the pick-up and delivery: Once you’ve chosen a car shipping company and shipping method, schedule the pick-up and delivery of your car. The car shipping company will pick up your car from your current location and deliver it to your desired destination.
- Track your car during transit: Most car shipping companies offer real-time tracking of your car during transit. This allows you to know where your car is at all times and when to expect its arrival.
By following these steps, you can have a stress-free experience when shipping your car from the West Coast to the East Coast. Remember to choose a reputable car shipping company, get a quote, choose a shipping method, prepare your car for shipping, schedule the pick-up and delivery, and track your car during transit.
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
The cost to ship a car varies depending on various factors, including the distance, type of vehicle, type of transport, and timeframe. On average, the cost to ship a car ranges from $500 to $1,500 for a distance of 1,000 miles. However, the cost can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances.
For shorter distances, such as within the same state or nearby states, the cost may be lower. Meanwhile, shipping a car across the country can cost several thousand dollars. Open transport is typically cheaper than enclosed transport since it can accommodate more vehicles and is more commonly used.
Additionally, the type of vehicle can also affect the cost. Larger or heavier vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, may cost more to transport than smaller cars. Finally, the timeframe can also affect the cost. Shipping a car during peak season or with shorter notice may result in higher costs.
To get an accurate quote for shipping a car, it’s best to contact a reputable car shipping company and provide them with specific details about the vehicle and the shipping route. You can also get a quote from us here.
What Is the Time Needed for Delivery?
The time needed for car delivery depends on several factors, including the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations, the availability of carriers, and the type of service selected. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for a car to be delivered, depending on these factors.
For shorter distances, such as intrastate or neighboring states, delivery times can be as short as one or two days. However, for longer distances, such as coast-to-coast shipping, delivery times can range from five to fourteen days.
It’s important to note that these estimated delivery times are just that โ estimates. Delays can occur due to weather conditions, traffic, mechanical issues, or other unforeseen circumstances. That’s why it’s important to choose a reliable and experienced car shipping company that can provide you with real-time updates on the status of your delivery and can handle any issues that may arise during transit.
What Is the Type of the Trailer You’ve Chosen to Use?
The type of trailer you choose for your car shipping will significantly affect the delivery time and cost. Open trailers are the most common and affordable option. They can transport up to 10 vehicles at a time, which makes them a cost-effective solution for shipping your car. However, open trailers do not provide protection from weather elements and road debris, which can cause damage to your vehicle during transport.
On the other hand, enclosed trailers for enclosed auto transport are more expensive but offer complete protection for your car during transport. They are also ideal for luxury, classic, or exotic cars that require extra care and protection. Enclosed trailers can only transport up to 2 or 3 vehicles at a time, which makes them more expensive than open trailers.
Another option to consider is the type of carrier. There are two types of carriers: terminal-to-terminal and door-to-door. Terminal-to-terminal is a cheaper option but requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle at the shipping terminal. Door-to-door delivery is more convenient but can be more expensive.
Ultimately, the type of trailer you choose will depend on your budget, the level of protection you need, and the distance of your shipment. It is important to do your research and choose a reputable car shipping company that can provide you with the best option for your specific needs.
How To Choose an East Coast to West Coast Auto Shipping Company
Choosing the right auto shipping company for moving your car from the East Coast to the West Coast can be overwhelming, with so many options available. To make the right decision, there are several factors to consider. Here is a complete guide on how to choose a car shipping company.
First, you should look for a company with a good reputation and experience in the auto transport industry. There are a lot of companies that provide car shipping services. Reading reviews and testimonials from previous customers can give you an idea of their reliability and professionalism. Second, you should ensure that the company is licensed, bonded, and insured and has no major negative reviews about its auto shipping services. This is necessary to protect your vehicle during transport.
Third, check the company’s pricing and compare it to others in the market to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Fourth, make sure the company provides you with a clear and detailed contract, including pickup and delivery times, as well as any additional fees or charges. Finally, ask about the type of transport they offer and whether it suits your needs. With these factors in mind, you can choose an auto shipping company that will safely and securely transport your car from the East Coast to the West Coast.