When you’re relocating from one state to another or even overseas, you may not have the time nor desire to drive your car to your new home yourself. Since it has to get there somehow, it makes sense to check into transportation options with a local car dealership and then choose the one that makes the most sense for you.
Below are some popular options you can consider.
Rent a Cargo Container
This option is the most viable for overseas moves. Cargo containers are typically between 20 and 40 feet in length, which means you can ship anything from a small passenger vehicle to a large work truck like a Dodge Ram 1500. Before reserving the cargo container, make sure that your vehicle meets legal road requirements in your new country.
Hire a Driver and an Open Air Truck
You have probably seen an open-air truck out on the road. They typically carry anywhere from a few vehicles to more than a dozen. Since the driver is transporting so many cars and trucks at once, it may take anywhere from one to three weeks for you to receive your vehicle at your new location. Typically, these open air truck drivers transport vehicles to hubs in major cities for the sake of efficiency. A different driver will likely pick up your vehicle and deliver it to its final destination.
A Closed Truck is More Appropriate in Certain Situations
If your vehicle is new or you are moving in harsh weather conditions, it may be worth it to pay more to hire a driver who will transport your vehicle in a closed truck. According to USA Today, you can expect to pay about 60 percent more for this option as opposed to using an open air truck.
Hire Someone You Know or a Professional Driver
If you know someone trustworthy who is looking for extra money and has the time to drive your car or truck to another state, you may want to consider hiring him or her. However, you need to take even more precautions with an individual driver than you do when hiring a company to transport your vehicle. Make sure the person has current auto insurance that covers any potential accident as well as a spotless driving record.
Working with a professional driver may provide you with greater peace of mind than possibly straining a friendship if something goes wrong during the cross-country drive. The person you hire would drive your own car as well as your belongings to your new home. One drawback for both of these options is that you’re putting a lot of mileage on your own vehicle.
Do Your Homework
Regardless of which of these options you choose, it’s essential to research the company or individual providing the transportation services. In addition to a driving record, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration, feel free to ask for personal references and check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints from previous customers.
