How Car Dealerships Deliver Vehicles | AmeriFreight

Summary

• Why Dealerships Deliver Vehicles: Increased demand for vehicle delivery due to online car shopping and pandemic influences.

• Methods of Delivery: In-house delivery by dealerships vs. third-party transport companies like AmeriFreight.

• Step-by-Step Delivery Process: From preparing the car to customer inspection upon arrival.

• AmeriFreight’s Role: How AmeriFreight helps dealerships with cost-effective, nationwide vehicle delivery.

• Cost Factors: Detailed breakdown of pricing factors, including distance, transport type, and vehicle size.

• Get an Instant Delivery Quote: AmeriFreight’s pricing calculator allows customers to easily estimate delivery costs.

• Customer Tips: Best practices for a smooth delivery experience.

• FAQs: Common questions about vehicle delivery from dealerships.

• Comparison Chart: See how AmeriFreight compares to other shipping services.

• Vehicle-Specific Delivery Options: When to choose open or enclosed transport based on your vehicle type.

• Logistics & Coordination: Insights into GPS tracking, scheduling, and inspections at both pickup and delivery stages.

• Post-Delivery Follow-Up: AmeriFreight’s commitment to customer satisfaction and feedback after delivery.

Getting Your Car from the Dealership to Your Doorstep

Buying a car is an exciting experience, but after completing your purchase, the next step is getting your vehicle delivered. Whether you’ve bought your car online or made the purchase in person, dealerships are now offering convenient delivery options to get the vehicle to your home. 

With the rise of online car shopping and remote purchases, dealerships are increasingly partnering with third-party companies like AmeriFreight to handle vehicle deliveries, especially over long distances.

This article will break down the steps dealerships take to deliver cars, explore the benefits of using professional shipping services like AmeriFreight, and provide insights on how to ensure a smooth and cost-effective delivery.

Why Dealerships Offer Vehicle Delivery

The way people buy cars has changed significantly. As more customers prefer to shop online and complete purchases remotely, dealerships have adapted by offering vehicle delivery services. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend by pushing dealerships to offer contactless home delivery services. Here’s why dealerships now prioritize delivery:

• Online Sales: Virtual showrooms allow customers to buy cars from anywhere in the country. Delivery ensures a seamless experience from purchase to receipt.

• Customer Convenience: Many buyers prefer having their vehicles delivered, especially if the dealership is far away or if they’re purchasing from out of state.

• Increased Demand: The pandemic and the rise of online sales have increased the demand for home delivery of vehicles.

Methods Dealerships Use to Deliver Vehicles

Dealerships typically offer two methods for delivering vehicles: in-house delivery services or third-party shipping through companies like AmeriFreight.

In-House Delivery Service

Some dealerships manage their own vehicle deliveries using their staff for short-distance shipments. This is common for local buyers who live within 100 miles of the dealership.

• Pros:

• Fast delivery for local customers.

• Direct communication between the dealership and the buyer.

• Cons:

• Limited to shorter distances.

• Often more expensive for long-distance deliveries.

• Less experience handling long-haul shipments, leading to potential risks.

Third-Party Car Shipping Companies (e.g., AmeriFreight)

For long-distance deliveries, many dealerships turn to third-party auto transport companies like AmeriFreight. These companies specialize in vehicle shipping and offer nationwide coverage, providing dealerships with a reliable solution for delivering vehicles across state lines or coast to coast.

• Pros:

• Expert handling for both short- and long-distance deliveries.

• Cost-effective solutions for dealerships and customers alike.

• Nationwide coverage, ensuring cars can be delivered anywhere in the U.S.

• Open and enclosed transport options, giving flexibility based on vehicle type.

• Cons:

• Delivery times may vary based on distance.

• Coordination between the dealership and transport company adds another layer of communication.

Vehicle-Specific Delivery Options: Open vs. Enclosed Transport

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when shipping your vehicle is choosing between open and enclosed transport. Understanding which option best suits your car’s needs will help ensure safe and affordable delivery.

Open Transport

Open transport is the most common and cost-effective option for vehicle delivery. Cars are shipped on an open carrier, where they’re exposed to the elements but still securely fastened.

• Best For:

• Standard vehicles, sedans, and SUVs.

• Customers looking for the most affordable option.

• Faster deliveries due to higher availability of open carriers.

• Drawbacks:

• Exposure to weather and road debris.

• Less protection for luxury or classic vehicles.

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport provides extra protection by shipping vehicles inside a fully covered trailer. This is ideal for high-value or delicate vehicles that require added care.

• Best For:

• Luxury vehicles, classic cars, and modified vehicles.

• Owners who want maximum protection from weather and debris.

• Shipping long distances or in bad weather conditions.

• Drawbacks:

• More expensive than open transport.

• Slightly longer wait times due to lower availability of enclosed carriers.

Recommendation:
If you’re shipping a standard car or SUV and are looking for the most economical option, open transport is the way to go. However, for higher-end vehicles or cars with special handling needs, the added protection of enclosed transport is worth the extra cost.

The Delivery Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s what you can expect when your vehicle is delivered, whether by the dealership’s own service or through a third-party shipper:

Step 1: Preparing the Vehicle for Delivery

Before the vehicle is handed over for transport, the dealership will:

• Inspect the Vehicle: They conduct a thorough inspection to ensure the car is in the promised condition.

• Prepare Documentation: All necessary paperwork, including the vehicle’s title, registration, and delivery forms, will be prepared.

• Detailing: The vehicle will be cleaned and detailed to ensure it arrives in pristine condition.

Step 2: Arranging the Delivery

Next, the dealership will work with you to schedule delivery.

• Transport Method: Choose between open transport or enclosed transport, depending on your needs.

• Insurance: Transport insurance will be arranged to cover the vehicle during transit.

Step 3: Tracking the Vehicle

You’ll be able to track your car throughout its journey. AmeriFreight, for instance, provides tracking updates so you know where your vehicle is at all times.

• Delivery Time: Local deliveries may take a few days, while cross-country shipments can take up to 10 days or more.

Step 4: Vehicle Arrival and Final Inspection

Upon arrival, you’ll inspect the car and ensure it meets your expectations before signing off on the delivery.

• Inspect for Damage: Look over the vehicle for any damage that may have occurred during transit.

• Complete Final Paperwork: Finalize any paperwork required to officially take ownership of the car.

Logistics & Coordination Insights

Effective coordination is key to a smooth vehicle delivery. AmeriFreight uses advanced logistics and tracking tools to ensure that each vehicle is delivered on time and in perfect condition.

• GPS Tracking: AmeriFreight’s GPS tracking system allows customers and dealerships to monitor the exact location of the vehicle during transit, providing peace of mind and real-time updates.

• Scheduling Flexibility: AmeriFreight coordinates with dealerships and customers to ensure that delivery times are convenient and align with both parties’ schedules.

• Vehicle Inspections: Inspections are conducted both at pickup and delivery to ensure the vehicle’s condition is maintained throughout the journey. Any discrepancies are documented, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Post-Delivery Follow-Up & Customer Engagement

At AmeriFreight, our commitment to customer satisfaction doesn’t end once the vehicle is delivered. We emphasize the importance of follow-up checks to ensure the vehicle has arrived in perfect condition and the customer is satisfied.

• Post-Delivery Inspection: We encourage customers to carefully inspect their vehicle upon delivery. AmeriFreight provides clear guidelines on what to look for and how to report any concerns.

• Customer Feedback Loop: AmeriFreight values customer feedback and follows up after delivery to address any concerns. We offer incentives, such as discounts on future deliveries or referral bonuses, to encourage customers to share their experiences.

• Problem Resolution: If any issues arise after delivery, AmeriFreight has a clear policy for resolving them quickly, ensuring the customer remains satisfied.

Get an Instant Delivery Quote

AmeriFreight offers a user-friendly Instant Quote Calculator that allows you to estimate delivery costs in just a few clicks. Simply input details like your vehicle type, location, and preferred transport method to get an accurate quote without waiting for a representative. This tool is especially useful for dealerships and customers alike, offering transparency and helping to plan for delivery costs upfront.

Detailed Cost Breakdown for Vehicle Delivery

Several factors influence the cost of vehicle delivery. Understanding these variables helps you make an informed decision about shipping your car.

Key Cost Factors:

• Distance: Longer distances result in higher shipping costs.

• Transport Method: Open transport is more affordable, while enclosed transport is more expensive due to the added protection.

• Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles require more space and resources to ship, increasing costs.

• Seasonal Trends: Shipping costs fluctuate throughout the year. Demand spikes during the summer months and holiday seasons, often resulting in higher prices.

• Delivery Speed: Expedited shipping options are available for those who need faster deliveries, but they come at a premium.

Cost Example Breakdown:

• Open Transport (Local Delivery - 200 miles): $500-$700.

• Open Transport (Cross-Country - 2,500 miles): $1,200-$1,500.

• Enclosed Transport (Local Delivery - 200 miles): $800-$1,200.

• Enclosed Transport (Cross-Country - 2,500 miles): $2,000-$2,500.

AmeriFreight offers competitive rates that are among the most affordable in the industry, with no hidden fees and full transparency.

Customer Tips for a Smooth Vehicle Delivery

• Stay in Contact: Keep in touch with the dealership or transport company to stay updated on your delivery status.

• Prepare Documentation: Make sure all paperwork, including insurance and registration, is ready before your car arrives.

• Inspect the Vehicle: Carefully inspect your vehicle upon delivery for any damage or issues.

• Know Your Rights: If something goes wrong during delivery, contact the dealership or transport company right away to resolve the issue.

FAQs About Car Dealership Deliveries

• How long does it take for a dealership to deliver a car? 

Local deliveries may take a few days, while cross-country deliveries can take up to 10 days or more.

• Is there a difference between dealership delivery and third-party transport services? 

Yes, dealerships typically handle short-distance deliveries, while third-party companies like AmeriFreight specialize in long-distance and nationwide shipping.

• What’s the cost difference between in-house delivery and using AmeriFreight? 

In-house delivery may be more expensive for long-distance trips, while AmeriFreight offers competitive rates for cross-country transport.

• How do I track my car during delivery?

AmeriFreight and many dealerships provide tracking updates, allowing you to follow your car’s progress.

• What should I check when my car is delivered? 

Inspect the vehicle for any damage or discrepancies and ensure all paperwork is in order before signing off on the delivery.

Conclusion: Seamless, Secure, and Affordable: Choose AmeriFreight for Your Vehicle Delivery

Car dealerships are increasingly offering vehicle delivery services, and for long-distance shipments, third-party companies like AmeriFreight provide the expertise and reliability needed to ensure a smooth process. Whether you’re a dealership looking to expand your delivery capabilities or a customer awaiting a new car, AmeriFreight offers affordable, fast, and secure vehicle transport. For more information or to get an instant quote, check out AmeriFreight’s Instant Quote Calculator and see how easy vehicle delivery can be.