How to ship a car from the West Coast to the East Coast
The U.S. is the fourth widest country in the world, and if you’re looking to make the 2,800 mile move from the West Coast to the East Coast, you have a lot to consider in terms of moving. In the face of such a journey, car shipping can be a daunting task. With more than 1 million car carriers in the U.S., it can be hard to select a car transporter. Unreliable car transporters can be found everywhere on the Internet, and you want to be sure you are getting the best auto transport quote possible. Here are a few things you need to know before shipping your car from the West to the East Coast.
First, do your research into several different car shipping companies and get auto transport quotes to compare. Read the reviews of each auto transport company and make sure they are legitimate. Every legitimate auto transport company must be registered with the Department of Transportation. Make sure to ask for your auto transport’s DOT number.
To make sure you get the best and safest car shipping experience, do research into your car transporter’s insurance coverage. Most auto insurance policies will not cover damage that occurred during shipping. This insurance price should be included in your auto transport quote, but be sure to ask to make sure. When you ship your car, you will require a bill of lading which will document your car’s condition before and after shipping and be your proof of delivery. If you do not mark any new damage on your bill of lading after your car arrives, you may not be reimbursed by your auto transport’s insurance company.
For extra protection for your vehicle, you can look into enclosed car shipping. While this might cost you more, open car shipping puts your car at greater risk to the elements as its hauled across the country. You also will have to decide when and where your car will be picked up for shipping. You can have your car picked up at your door and delivered directly to your new residence, or you can drop your car off at a terminal and have it shipped to another terminal closest to your new location. Often, dropping your car off at a terminal will be cheaper than direct delivery.
Once your vehicle is on its journey, you’re ready for the long haul: the long haul of waiting. Shipping a car from the West to East Coast takes an average of five to 14 business days. Car transporters can be delayed by traffic, weather, truck breakdowns, and delivering other cars along their route. Truck drivers also are only legally allowed to drive a certain amount of time each day. Your car is travelling almost 3,000 miles. Non-stop, that is about a 45-hour drive. While you and a friend might be able to drive your car across the country in that time frame, for legal and safety reasons, your driver will take much longer to get your car to you.
