Hire Someone to Drive Your Car Across the Country

Moving across the country or simply needing your car at a distant location can present logistical challenges. For many, the solution is to hire someone to drive their car, offering a practical alternative to auto shipping services. In this guide, we will explore the options, costs, and considerations when hiring a driver to transport your car across the country.

1. Introduction

When you're relocating, taking an extended trip, or sending your vehicle to another destination, hiring a professional driver can be a stress-free option. Rather than enduring long hours on the road yourself, a hired driver takes on the responsibility, ensuring your car arrives safely and on time. This method saves you time and reduces wear and tear on your vehicle, while allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your move or travel plans.

2. Why Hire Someone to Drive Your Car Across the Country?

Hiring someone to drive your car across the country comes with several key benefits:

• Convenience: Long-distance driving requires extensive planning, energy, and attention. Hiring a professional driver removes the need for you to navigate unfamiliar roads, manage fuel stops, and spend hours behind the wheel.

• Time Savings: Driving across the country can take several days, especially if you're accounting for rest stops and overnight stays. By hiring someone, you can travel via plane and meet your car at your destination.

• Reduced Wear and Tear: Every mile you drive adds wear to your vehicle. A professional driver is trained to manage the car efficiently and handle it with care, minimizing additional mileage wear.

• Stress-Free Experience: Avoid the physical and mental strain of long-distance driving. For families or individuals with tight schedules, this is a key advantage.

3. Available Options for Cross-Country Car Driving Services

There are several ways to find and hire a driver for your car, depending on your preferences and budget:

• Professional Drivers: Many companies provide licensed drivers who specialize in long-distance vehicle transport. These services often include insurance coverage, real-time updates, and professional handling of your car.

• Driveaway Services: These companies connect you with drivers who will deliver your car to its destination. Driveaway services can offer a more cost-effective option, though it’s essential to research the company’s reputation and ensure the drivers have solid backgrounds.

• Independent Freelance Drivers: You can hire freelance drivers directly through platforms that specialize in connecting car owners with drivers. While this option may offer flexibility in terms of price and schedule, it requires careful vetting of the driver's qualifications.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Driver?

The cost of hiring a driver to transport your vehicle will depend on various factors:

• Distance: The further the car needs to travel, the more expensive the service will be.

• Driver Fees: You’ll need to cover not just the driver’s rate but also expenses such as accommodation, meals, and sometimes return transportation.

• Fuel Costs: Fuel prices at the time of the trip will impact the total expense.

• Insurance: Some driving services include insurance coverage, but be sure to clarify the limits of the policy. If you're hiring an independent driver, check whether your personal auto insurance covers third-party driving.

Comparing these costs with traditional auto shipping, hiring a driver may be more cost-effective for shorter distances but could become pricier for cross-country moves.

5. How to Choose the Right Driving Service

Choosing the right driving service requires careful consideration of several key factors:

• Research and Compare Options: Start by gathering quotes and reading reviews from multiple services. Make sure to verify the company's or driver's track record for safety and reliability.

• Vetting the Driver: Ensure that the driver has:

• A clean driving record.

• Experience with long-distance driving.

• Valid insurance and proper licensing.

• Service Agreements: Have a contract in place that outlines the terms of the journey, including any specific handling requirements for the vehicle, expected delivery times, and how the driver will update you during the trip.

6. Preparing Your Car for the Journey

Before handing your car over to a driver, it's important to prepare it for the trip. Here are some steps to ensure your car is ready:

• Conduct a Maintenance Check: Make sure the car's oil, coolant, brake fluid, and other key components are topped off. Check the tire pressure, brakes, and battery health to avoid any mechanical issues during the journey.

• Remove Personal Items: Clear out any valuables or personal belongings from the vehicle to prevent damage or theft.

• Install a GPS Tracker: A GPS system allows you to track your car's location in real-time, providing peace of mind throughout the journey.

• Document the Car's Condition: Take detailed photos of the car before it departs, noting any existing scratches, dents, or other marks. This documentation will be important in case any damage occurs during the trip.

7. Advantages and Disadvantages of Hiring a Driver

While hiring a driver offers several benefits, it's important to weigh the pros and cons:

Advantages:

• Personalized Service: Hiring a driver allows for a flexible schedule, potentially accommodating pets or passengers if needed.

• Regular Updates: Professional driving services often provide real-time communication, ensuring you're always aware of your vehicle's progress.

• Avoiding Stress: The mental and physical toll of a long drive is eliminated, allowing you to focus on more important tasks.

Disadvantages:

• Costs: For long distances, hiring a driver can be more expensive than auto transport services.

• Trust Concerns: When hiring independent drivers, it may be more difficult to ensure reliability, so thorough vetting is essential.

8. Alternatives to Hiring a Driver

If you're not sure about hiring a driver, there are other ways to move your car across the country:

• Car Shipping Services: Professional car shipping can be a safer option for your vehicle, reducing the risk of accidents or wear and tear on the road. Shipping services may also be more affordable for long distances.

• Driving Yourself: While driving your car yourself offers control over the journey, it can be physically taxing and expensive once you account for fuel, meals, accommodations, and other travel expenses.

9. Conclusion

Hiring a driver to transport your vehicle across the country is a practical and flexible solution for many scenarios, including relocations and seasonal moves. It can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure your car arrives safely at its destination. However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and choose the option that best fits your needs.

For those looking for an alternative, AmeriFreight offers reliable auto transport services, providing safe, hassle-free vehicle shipping across the country. Get an instant quote here to explore how we can assist you in moving your car efficiently.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does it cost to hire a driver for cross-country trips?

• The cost depends on the distance, driver fees, and other associated travel costs such as fuel and accommodations.

2. Is it safe to hire an independent driver?

• Yes, but thorough vetting is crucial. Make sure the driver has a clean driving record, insurance, and experience.

3. What should I do to prepare my car for the journey?

• Perform a comprehensive maintenance check, remove personal items, and document the car's condition with photos.

4. How does car shipping compare to hiring a driver?

• Car shipping is often safer and more affordable for long distances. It reduces wear and tear and typically offers insurance coverage for the trip.

5. Can I track my car during the journey?

• Yes, most professional driving services offer GPS tracking so you can monitor your vehicle in real time.