How to Transport a Car Across the Country

Moving belongings and furniture across the country can be a stressful and taxing ordeal in itself. A professional moving company might be taking your possessions to your new home, but what are you going to do with the two cars in the driveway? Here’s how to transport a car across the country.

Driving one or multiple vehicles to your new home’s location is not always feasible for those relocating. Fortunately for those with a move on the horizon, there are auto transport companies to assist you in moving your car or motorcycle from Point A to Point B.

Here are some tips to help get you (and your car) on your way.

1) Pick A Transport Date

You probably have a general idea of when your move across the country is going to take place, but it’s good to pick an exact date of your move ahead of time. An exact timeframe is needed to get transportation quotes for moving your car. So it is a smart idea to pick a moving date sooner than later. In most cases, transporters are flexible and will work with you to accommodate your car-moving needs, but as a rule of thumb, it is best to give them no less than 7 days prior notice.

2) Ask Around About Car Movers

Chances are you know at least one or two people who have recently made a cross-country move. Ask them how they shipped their cars and what transport company they used to use as a reference. You can also find out information about car movers and best practices by searching the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

3) Research Car Moving Companies

It never hurts to compare the competition, especially when it comes to moving. With your moving date in hand, call around or get online to get quotes (including insurance options) from a number of respectable car transport companies in your area. But be sure to have the type of car you drive, your destination and the dates of your move on hand. The transport companies need this info to provide you with an accurate quote.

4) Check With Your Insurance Agent

Be sure to check in with your insurance agent and let them know about your upcoming move. You want to be prepared for anything, including a potential accident, theft or damage to your vehicle, and your insurance agent is a great resource for advice and info on supplemental insurance for your car.

5) Pick a Car Moving Company

You’ve done your homework, researched insurance options and received quotes from a number of companies. Now it’s time to pick the transport company that will move your car. In most cases, the transport company will require you to pay up front, so be sure to have a cash or cashier’s check for the exact amount owed.

6) Empty Your Car

Before your car is shipped off to your new home, be sure to remove any miscellaneous items inside. Unless you negotiated it beforehand, you probably will not be allowed to use your car as an extra moving box. Stuff your car with possessions and furniture means extra weight, which can result in extra costs or potential safety issues. Plus, the transport company could potentially refuse to move the vehicle.

7) Date of Arrival and Inspection

A lot can happen on a cross-country move, so you will want to be present when the car transport company delivers your vehicle. Keep an eye as the car is unloaded off of the trailer and inspect if from top to bottom to make sure it was not damaged during the move. The driver should also present you with a copy of the transport contract for your records for you to sign. As a rule of thumb, inspect your car from top to bottom and then inspect it again before signing off on its condition, otherwise you will be on the hook for any damage.

Jerry DeMuth contributed to this post.