Save Money with These Cheap Car Shipping Tips

Summary

• Introduction to affordable car shipping.

• Key factors that affect car shipping costs.

• Tips for reducing car shipping expenses, including booking strategies, choosing the right transport, and timing.

• Conclusion

Introduction

Car shipping can be a significant expense, especially when moving long distances or across state lines. But the good news is, with the right planning and strategies, you can save a lot of money without sacrificing service quality. Whether you're shipping a car for relocation, a purchase, or any other reason, knowing how to reduce these costs can make a big difference in your overall budget.

In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that affect car shipping prices and share actionable tips to help you cut down on shipping expenses. These tried-and-true methods will ensure you get your vehicle to its destination at a reasonable cost.

Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs

Before diving into the money-saving tips, it’s essential to understand the key factors that influence the cost of shipping a car. Knowing these variables will help you make informed decisions and adjust your strategy to get the best deal.

1. Vehicle Size and Weight

The size and weight of your vehicle play a huge role in determining shipping costs. Larger and heavier vehicles require more space on a carrier, which often results in higher prices. For instance, shipping a compact car will be cheaper than transporting an SUV or truck because the latter takes up more room and adds more weight to the carrier, which increases fuel consumption.

2. Shipping Distance

As expected, the longer the shipping distance, the more you’ll pay. Shipping a car across the country will cost significantly more than transporting it to a neighboring state. Carriers typically charge by the mile, and while longer distances can sometimes bring down the per-mile rate, the overall cost still rises with distance.

3. Open vs. Enclosed Transport

The method of transport you choose is another crucial factor. Open transport, where your vehicle is shipped on an open-air trailer, is the most common and affordable option. In contrast, enclosed transport offers added protection from the elements but comes at a premium—typically 30% to 40% more than open transport. Unless you’re shipping a luxury or classic car that requires special handling, open transport is a much more cost-effective option.

4. Seasonal Demand

The time of year also affects car shipping rates. During peak seasons, such as summer or winter holidays, demand for car transport services increases, driving up prices. Conversely, shipping during off-peak times, such as fall or early winter, often results in cheaper rates. Planning your shipment around seasonal demand can have a significant impact on cost.

Cheap Car Shipping Tips

Now that you’re familiar with the factors affecting car shipping costs, let’s get into some practical tips to help you save money. These methods can be applied individually or combined for maximum savings.

1. Book in Advance

One of the easiest ways to save on car shipping is to book your transport at least a couple weeks in advance. Waiting until the last minute to book your transport could lead to higher rates due to limited availability.

2. Be Flexible with Pickup and Delivery Dates

Flexibility can go a long way when it comes to saving on car shipping. If you have some wiggle room in your schedule, being open to a wider pickup and delivery window can result in lower costs. Shippers prefer to fill their carriers completely, so they’re often willing to offer discounts if they can adjust the timing to fit multiple shipments on one route.

3. Opt for Open Transport

As mentioned earlier, open transport is the most economical option for car shipping. While it leaves your vehicle exposed to the elements, it’s generally safe and reliable for most cars. Unless your car is a high-end luxury model or a vintage vehicle that requires extra protection, open transport will save you a considerable amount of money compared to enclosed transport.

4. Ship During the Off-Season

Shipping demand tends to spike during the summer months and around major holidays, leading to higher prices. If your shipping schedule is flexible, try to avoid these peak times. Opting to ship your car in the fall or early winter, when demand is lower, can result in significant savings. Not only are the rates cheaper, but carriers are often more willing to negotiate during the slower months.

5. Take Advantage of Multi-Car Discounts

If you need to ship more than one vehicle, many auto transport companies offer discounts for multi-car shipments. Whether you’re relocating with multiple family vehicles or coordinating a shipment with friends or neighbors, this is an excellent way to reduce costs. Be sure to ask about multi-car discounts when getting quotes.

6. Compare Multiple Quotes

One of the best ways to ensure you’re getting a good deal is to compare quotes from several car shipping companies. Prices can vary significantly between providers, so it’s important to shop around. When comparing quotes, be sure to factor in any additional fees or surcharges that might not be included in the base price. Also, check the company’s reputation to ensure you’re not sacrificing service quality for a lower price.

Additional Tip: Check for Discounts

Many car shipping companies offer special discounts to certain groups, such as military personnel, students, and senior citizens. Be sure to ask about any available discounts that you might qualify for. Taking advantage of these discounts can significantly reduce your shipping costs.

Conclusion

By understanding the factors that influence car shipping costs and applying these money-saving tips, you can significantly reduce your expenses. From booking early and choosing open transport to shipping during off-peak times, there are plenty of ways to save without compromising on service quality.

At AmeriFreight, we understand the importance of affordable and reliable car shipping. That’s why we offer competitive rates and flexible shipping options to meet your needs. Whether you're relocating or purchasing a car from another state, you can rely on us to get your vehicle where it needs to be—without breaking the bank.

Ready to save on your next car shipment? Get an instant quote today with AmeriFreight's online calculator and see how much you can save!