Car Shipping 101: How to Ship a Car from a Dealer

Your Guide to Vehicle Shipping

So, you’ve found the perfect used car at Apex Auto in Ocoee, Florida, but you live hundreds or even thousands of miles away. Thanks to modern vehicle transport services, that’s not a problem. Nationwide shipping makes it possible to buy your ideal car from anywhere in the country and have it delivered right to your doorstep. But how does it all work? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about shipping a car after buying it from a dealership.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport: Which is Right for You?

One of the first decisions you'll make is choosing between open and enclosed transport. Each has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your vehicle, budget, and risk tolerance.

Open-Air Transport

Open transport is the most common and affordable method, accounting for about 90% of all vehicle shipments. Your car will be transported on a long, two-level trailer that’s open to the elements, similar to the trucks you see delivering new cars to dealerships.

• Pros: More affordable, more availability leading to faster shipping times.
• Cons: The vehicle is exposed to weather and road debris like dust, rain, and insects.

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport provides maximum protection for your vehicle. The car is shipped inside a fully covered trailer, shielding it from weather, dirt, and potential road hazards. This option is highly recommended for luxury, classic, antique, or high-value vehicles.

• Pros: Complete protection from weather and road debris, higher security.
• Cons: Significantly more expensive (often 40-60% more than open transport), and less availability can mean longer wait times.

Expert Tip: For most standard used vehicles, open transport is a safe and economical choice. The risk of significant damage is low, and it's the industry standard. However, if you're purchasing a collectible or a high-end luxury car, the extra cost of enclosed shipping provides valuable peace of mind.

Breaking Down the Costs of Car Shipping

The cost of shipping a car can vary widely. On average, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,500, but several factors influence the final price. The average cost per mile is typically between $0.60 for longer distances and over $1.50 for shorter trips.

Key Factors Affecting Shipping Costs:

• Distance: The primary factor. Cross-country shipping will naturally cost more than a regional transport.
• Transport Type: Enclosed shipping is the premium option and costs more than open transport.
• Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles like trucks and SUVs take up more space and weight capacity, increasing the cost.
• Time of Year: Prices can be higher during peak seasons like summer and holidays. Shipping during the winter, especially to northern states, can also increase costs due to weather challenges.
• Location: Shipping between major metropolitan areas is generally cheaper than shipping to or from rural, less-trafficked locations.

Here at Apex Auto, we can help you arrange shipping and get a competitive quote from our network of trusted carriers, whether you're in a bustling city or a quiet town.

Timelines: From Our Florida Lot to Your Driveway

Patience is key when it comes to car shipping. While it’s a reliable process, it’s not as fast as overnight package delivery. A cross-country trip from our dealership in Ocoee, Florida, to the West Coast typically takes between 7 to 14 days. Shorter distances, such as to a neighboring state, might only take 2 to 5 days.

The Shipping Process Unpacked:

1. Booking: Once you finalize your purchase, we'll work with you to book a spot with a reputable carrier.
2. Pickup Window: You'll be given a pickup window, usually 1-5 days, during which the truck driver will arrive to load your vehicle.
3. In Transit: The driver will make several stops to pick up and drop off other vehicles along the route. You can often track the progress of your shipment.
4. Delivery: The carrier will contact you to schedule a delivery time. Be prepared to meet the driver in a large, accessible area, as car carriers can have trouble navigating residential streets.

Insurance and Preparing Your Car for the Journey

Reputable auto transport companies are required to carry insurance. Before your vehicle is shipped, you should confirm the carrier's insurance coverage and what it protects against. It’s also a good idea to check with your own auto insurance provider to see if your policy offers any coverage during transport.

Pre-Shipping Checklist:

• Clean Your Car: Wash your vehicle so you can easily inspect it for any existing scratches or dings before it's loaded.
• Document its Condition: Take detailed photos and videos of your car from all angles before it ships.
• Remove Personal Items: Transport companies are not licensed to carry household goods, and their insurance will not cover any personal belongings left in the car.
• Don't Fill the Tank: A quarter tank of gas is all that's needed. This reduces the vehicle's weight.
• Secure or Remove Loose Parts: Remove any custom, loose items like spoilers or antennas if possible to prevent damage.

Conclusion: A Smooth Ride Home

Shipping a car might seem complex, but it's a straightforward process when you work with an experienced dealership like Apex Auto. By understanding your options, preparing your vehicle, and knowing what to expect, you can ensure your new car arrives safely at your home. Whether you're buying from across the state of Florida or across the country, we're here to make the entire process, from purchase to delivery, as seamless as possible.