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  • When making a cross-country move, many people sell their cars, donate them or give them to a family member or a friend. However, there are some instances where an owner wants to keep an automobile, for instance, a classic car or a very rare model. In such cases, it is possible to ship the car to the new residence or business location, even across the country.

    Moving Car Across the Country

    For shipping within the continental United States, many companies use open shipping, much like the trailers that are used to transport cars to dealerships. For more protected shipping, a closed trailer is available at extra charge. With domestic shipping, the car owner should allow sufficient time for shipping, generally two weeks. If the car is not running, many auto transport companies will charge an extra fee. Extra fees also apply for guaranteed delivery dates and for door-to-door service. Choosing the right company is important. Personal recommendations are preferable if they are available. Consult a publication, such as Hemmings, to find a dedicated auto transport company. Check out any possible choices with the Better Business Bureau before signing any contracts or paying any money. Take photos of the car inside and out before the move to provide evidence of the car's condition. Provide the exact make and model of the car, along with the origin and destination addresses and license plate and VIN and a set of car keys. Keep an extra copy of the license plate and VIN for your records, along with a set of keys for the car. Obtain verification of all upgrades made to the vehicle. Ask the shipping company to provide a statement pertaining to the condition of the vehicle and the terms of the move. Obtaining insurance for the car during the move is a must. The amount of insurance coverage should cover the Kelley Blue Book value of the vehicle, and be applicable in all instances of damage. For insurance purposes, the car should be empty of personal belongings.

    Shipping a Car Beyond the Continental United States

    For shipping beyond the continental United States, for instance, to Hawaii, the same necessities for completing the necessary paperwork and obtaining sufficient insurance also apply. However, the car will be almost certainly shipped in an ocean container by boat. The time required for shipping a car beyond the continental United States will vary depending on the starting and destination points, and whether the car will be delivered door-to-door for an extra charge. As with transport within the continental United States, shipping a non-running car will incur extra fees. However, it may be possible to pack the car with personal possessions if it is being shipped in a private container. Consult with the shipping company to determine the exact terms.

    Source:

    Car Shipping 101: How To Transport Your Vehicle From A To B

    United Streets Rods of Idaho: How to Ship a Car Across the Country

    AutoShipping.org: Preparing Your Vehicle

    More Information:

    Hemmings: Transport (Classifieds)

    movecars.com: Moving and Shipping Directory

    American AutoShipping

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