Should You Ship a Car or Drive It? (2023 Guide)

Choosing whether to ship your car or drive it across states or cross-country can be baffling. When moving, you want everything to go seamlessly without any hitches. This involves moving your belongings and deciding the best method to move your most prized possession – your car. As a reliable solution, shipping cars across the country has gained popularity for a variety of reasons, which we will discuss here. Additionally, we will explore why Optimance Transport is considered the best choice for car shipping. 

The Pros and Cons of Driving Your Car 

Driving your car cross-country can certainly have its perks. You get to enjoy a road trip, perhaps sightseeing and enjoying the landscapes the country has to offer. However, it comes with its own set of challenges. Let’s weigh the pros and cons. 

Pros: 

  1. Sightseeing Opportunities: Experience the beauty and diversity of different states firsthand. 
  2. Personal Control: You have control over the journey, including breaks and overnight stops. 

Cons: 

  1. Wear and Tear: Long drives will contribute to your car’s depreciation by adding miles and wear and tear. 
  2. Safety Concerns: Long journeys can be tiresome, posing a safety risk due to fatigue. 
  3. Unexpected Expenses: You might encounter unplanned expenses such as lodging, food, and fuel. 

The Benefits of Shipping a Car Cross-Country 

In contrast, shipping a car cross country comes with numerous benefits, including the convenience and safety of your vehicle. Here, we will explore some of the significant benefits: 

Convenience and Peace of Mind: 

Choosing services like Optimance Transport means you can have peace of mind knowing professionals are handling your car. They ensure that your car reaches its destination without the added miles and wear and tear. 

Various Shipping Options: 

When you are shipping a car to another state, you have several options, including open transport car shipping and enclosed auto transport. Open transport is budget-friendly, whereas enclosed transport provides more protection for your vehicle. 

Specialized Services: 

Certain companies provide specialized services like Snowbird Auto Transport, ideal for individuals who migrate seasonally. It ensures that your vehicle is safely transported to your seasonal home, ready for you to use. 

Making the Right Choice with Optimance Transport 

Optimance Transport stands out as the best choice for a myriad of reasons. Here’s why: 

Expertise and Experience: 

With years of experience in the field, they are adept at handling any car transport requirements professionally and efficiently. 

Safety Guarantee: 

Optimance Transport prioritizes your vehicle’s safety, utilizing the industry’s best practices to ensure your car arrives in pristine condition. 

Cost-Effective Solutions: 

By opting for their services, you can save on the expenses and potential risks associated with long drives, offering a cost-effective solution for moving your car. 

Customer-Centric Approach: 

Their customer-centric approach means that you are kept informed throughout the process, with transparent communication and tracking options. 

How much does shipping a car across the country from the US cost? 

The cost to ship a car across the country in the US can vary greatly depending on various factors, including the distance, the type of transport chosen, the make and model of the vehicle, and the current demand for shipping services. Here, I will provide you with a general idea of the costs involved. 

General Price Range 

The average cost of shipping a car across the country is $1,589 for open car transport, and it can exceed $2,000 for large vehicles or enclosed shipping. 

However, note that these prices may have changed, and it’s best to get a quote directly from the shipping company. Here’s how different factors can influence the cost: 

  1. Distance: The farther the distance, the higher the cost. Cross-country shipping, from coast to coast, is generally more expensive than shorter interstate shipments. 
  2. Type of Transport: 
  • Open Transport Car Shipping: This is often a more affordable option, where your car is transported along with several other vehicles on an open carrier. 
  • Enclosed Auto Transport: This option is more expensive as it offers better protection for your vehicle. It’s often used for shipping high-value or classic cars. 
  1. Vehicle Make and Model: Larger vehicles, like SUVs and trucks, usually cost more to ship compared to smaller cars. 
  2. Season and Demand: The cost might be higher during the peak season. For instance, prices may surge during the snowbird season when many people are moving to warmer states. 
  3. Pickup and Delivery Locations: Urban areas might offer more competitive pricing compared to rural areas due to higher availability of transport services. 

Getting a Precise Quote 

To get a precise quote for your specific needs, it would be best to contact a reputable car shipping company like Optimance Transport. They would be able to provide an accurate and up-to-date quote based on the specifics of your car shipping needs. 

What is the cheapest way to ship a car long-distance? 

Shipping a car long-distance doesn’t have to break the bank. By understanding the options available and making informed decisions, you can find the cheapest way to ship your car without compromising safety and reliability. Here are some strategies and options to consider: 

Open Transport Car Shipping:

Open transport car shipping is typically the cheapest option. In this method, cars are transported on open trailers, which can carry many vehicles at a time, thus reducing the cost per vehicle. Though slightly less protected from the elements than enclosed transport, it is still a safe and widely used method. 

Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping:

Instead of door-to-door service, you might save money by choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping. This means you drop off your car at a designated location and pick it up from a terminal near your destination.

Flexible Shipping Schedule: 

Being flexible with your shipping dates can also help in reducing the costs. Sometimes, shipping companies might offer discounted rates during off-peak seasons or when they have less business. 

Comparative Shopping:

Get quotes from multiple shipping companies and compare their services and prices. Sometimes, you might find a newer company offering competitive rates to build their customer base. But ensure to verify their reliability and customer reviews.

Discounts and Deals:

Look for companies that offer discounts for military personnel, students, or return customers. Sometimes, bundling services (like moving and auto shipping) can also result in discounts.

Self-Service Transport: 

Consider options like tow dollies or car trailers, which you can rent to haul your car using another vehicle. This method might be economical, but it requires a bit of work and expertise on your part. 

Prepare Your Car:

Preparing your car for shipping can also save you some money. This includes removing personal belongings, minimizing fuel to about a quarter tank, and disabling alarms. 

Insurance:

While not directly reducing the shipping cost, having proper insurance can potentially save you money by protecting you from unforeseen expenses in case of damages during transit.

Book in Advance: 

Booking your service well in advance can sometimes fetch you a better deal compared to last-minute bookings, which might come with a premium charge. 

Choosing a Reliable Service:

While looking for the cheapest options, don’t compromise on the service provider’s reliability. Sometimes, going with a slightly more expensive but well-reviewed company like Optimance Transport can save you from potential hassles and unexpected expenses in the long run. 

When it comes to deciding whether to embark on a long drive or opt for shipping your car to another state, considering factors like safety, convenience, and costs become paramount. Shipping a car cross country, particularly with a reliable partner like Optimance Transport, presents an attractive, hassle-free, and safe vehicle transport option. 

Remember, your choice will ultimately depend on your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Therefore, weigh your options carefully and choose what suits you best. With the reliable services of Optimance Transport, you can be assured of a seamless car shipping experience.