Shipping classic and luxury vehicles can feel really stressful. You need to find a company who provides enclosed vehicle shipping and will protect your classic auto just like it’s their own. While the cost of an enclosed vehicle transport is more expensive, you get the most security and protection from the elements. Below I’ll discuss where to find companies that transport classic cars, what you should ask before you hire them, and address some common questions. I will also share my experience with the place that does classic car transport near me.
Find a Classic Car Transport Near Me
If you are searching for classic car transport services, “Classic Car Transport Near Me” or “Auto Transport Near Me”, see the map below…
There are a lot of different companies that do auto transport near me. However, after shipping different vintage cars and luxury vehicles over the years for various reasons and over long distances I have learned a thing or two.
While your local company might have some differences, you can use this guide to assess how capable they are of protecting your vehicle.
How Does the Classic Car Transport Near Me Work?
There are both big and small companies in this space and your customer service and quality can vary. The big companies operate on a network of many car shipping companies and carriers nationwide that they outsource to, while small companies might be one guy with an enclosed trailer.
In my experience for a transport of under 300 miles, the small companies tend to be better. While for longer hauls a bigger company is preferred.
Price Quote for Transport
In most places, you can get a quote by calling, emailing, or using an online form. While online forms are really easy to fill out, I always think it is best to call. Either way in order to get a quote you need to provide:
- Details about where the vehicle is located now and where it needs to be.
- Any specific routes or accommodations that you require?
- Vehicle type, size, make, and model (Smaller cars may cost less because they weigh less).
- Vehicle specifics (is it operable).
- Pickup and drop off date (Some places will expedite for extra cost, prices can vary by season).
- Shipping method: Open or enclosed shipping (for a classic or luxury auto, enclosed is more expensive, but recommended).
- Preferred shipping method: open or enclosed.
- Delivery method: terminal to terminal or door to door.
All of the above factors will affect the cost of your transport distance and shipping method being the most impactful. In my experience using different companies for auto transport near me, prices typically range from $1 to $3 per mile.
According to Move.Org, only 10% of people use enclosed transport and at a price tag of approximately $1,500, it’s also around 40% more expensive than open.
Scheduling, Pick Up, and on the Road
After you have set a date, time, and route, they will come and pick up the vehicle. Any good service will call or text you the day before. Then call or text you again when they are en route and provide an estimated time of arrival. If you are scheduling and there is inclement weather, there is a potential they will call and reschedule your date.
In some cases, you may be shipping a vehicle from a place or state that you are not at. For example, I bought a vintage car and had to arrange with the previous owner for pick up. Any good vintage car transport company will inspect the vehicle before they load it.
They will walk around the vehicle with you filling out a visual inspection form, similar to what happens when you rent a vehicle. You will need to sign it when they load it on the trailer. This is to protect themselves from liability and a way of saying this dent didn’t happen in transit.
If you have your vehicle at a high end automobile storage that provides valet, then you can arrange with them to meet the driver for onboarding or off-boarding the vehicle.
Vehicle Delivery
When the vehicle arrives to you they will unload it and inspect it with you. Any questions you have about the condition can be answered by the driver and referencing the inspection form and digital photos from when the car was loaded.
If everything is satisfactory, that ends the transaction and you have to sign a Bill of Lading. Typically payment is complete when the vehicle arrives at the destination. If there are outstanding fees you can settle up with the driver.
Use an Enclosed Transport for a Classic Vehicle
When it comes to shipping a car you have two choices: Open transport or enclosed transport.
Open transport is a car carrier, where several vehicles are on a two-level trailer and placed bumper to bumper. This enclosed auto transport option is the common method dealerships use for shipping new cars. While it is cheaper and the driver can keep an eye on the vehicles, the cars can get really dirty, hit with road debris, and be exposed to the elements.
Enlosed transport on the other hand is car shipping service where a vehicle is shipped inside a container with walls and a roof overhead. This is more common for classic and luxury vehicle transport. It is more secure for the vehicle and protects it from the weather and road debris, however, the driver can’t see the cargo and you will pay more for this exotic car transport service.
When I was young and foolish I tried to save money at every corner. Open transport is less expensive but leaves your vehicle exposed to the weather. You may be thinking, not a big deal because I am restoring this car anyway. Well, what happens if your vehicle has a leaky convertible top that you didn’t know about and gets caught in a 2-day rainstorm in the Mid-West. $5K worth of interior damage that I didn’t plan for and a tough lesson learned.
An enclosed shipper will give you the most protection. It is more expensive, but it is worth it.
Choose Door-to-Door Over Terminal to Terminal Shipping
Some companies offer two different delivery methods: terminal-to-terminal or door-to-door.
Terminal to terminal means you drop the car off at one of their locations, then they ship the car to another one of their locations and you pick it up. This method is less expensive and good when you don’t need to have things done at specific dates and times.
The catch however is they will charge you daily storage fees if you need the vehicle to sit for more than a day and most storage is outside. This isn’t always a convenient option for those in rural areas there may be no terminal near you.
Door-to-door means they come to the vehicle location and pick it up. Then deliver antique car to the specified address that you requested. This mode of delivery is more expensive, but much more reliable carriers convenient for luxury and classic autos. Someone will need to be available at each end of the delivery chain in order to sign for the vehicle.
Save Money By Shipping in the Spring and Summer
When the weather gets bad in the winter many of these classic car shipping companies will charge more per mile. It makes sense because the weather can severely impact road conditions, making the trip longer, but also there is more risk of an accident. To make up for those risks, many classic car transportation and transport companies will charge more in the fall and winter.
If you have the option to wait for warmer weather you can reduce the cost of transport. In addition, you increase the likelihood of your vehicle arriving on time and reduce the likelihood of anything happening in transport. I prefer to ship my car off to storage at the end of summer, when I winterize it.
What is the Best Way to Ship a Classic Car?
As discussed above, the best way to ship a classic car is:
- Enclosed transport (to protect the vehicle in transit)
- Door-to-door delivery (for convenience and better protection)
- Spring/summer season (to reduce the risk of an accident and reduce the cost of transport).
Can I Ship a Car That Doesn’t Drive?
Maybe. Each company is different, some do and some don’t. If you have a vehicle that is inoperable, you need to tell the transportation company upfront. You don’t want them to get there and not have the ability to load it. You will be charged!
The classic car transport company near me does ship inoperable vehicles but for an additional fee of $200. The reason being is that it requires a trained person and different equipment to load and unload the vehicle.
Can I Put Personal Belongings In the Car to Ship With It?
A few companies will allow this up to 100 lbs, but many restrict this. This has to do with insurance on the items inside the vehicle, which they may not have insurance to cover it.
If you were to put something heavy in the vehicle and let’s say it tore your leather seat in transit, you might try and make a claim. It also adds more weight and therefore uses more gas.
Things I Recommend Doing Before You Transport a Classic Car
Here are a few things I have learned over the years about shipping cars.
- Have gas in the vehicle. 1/4 tank is sufficient. The transport company will need to drive the vehicle on and off the trailer.
- Safety inspects the vehicle yourself. Check your tires, battery, and mileage, disable any alarms, and check for any fluid leaks.
- Wash the vehicle. Clean the vehicle thoroughly.
- Visually inspect the vehicle yourself. Walk around the vehicle and look for dings, dents, damage, and paint discoloration.
- Take pictures of the car. This can be used to make sure your vehicle arrives the same way it left. You have proof of condition.
- Give the driver your second set of keys. Always hold the original. If the driver loses the keys you are safe.
- Don’t Pay to have it detailed. If something happens during transport, you will regret that you spent the money. Detail it after it’s delivered.
What to Ask Before You Hire an Auto Transport Company?
Shipping a classic car feels nerve-racking especially if you have already got money sunk in it. You need to be able to trust the auto transport or best classic car shipping company to care for it like it’s their own from pickup to destination.
Here are some questions I ask before I hire a classic car owner for antique car transport anywhere near me:
- Will the vehicle be fully insured from pickup to delivery?
- How long have you been shipping cars and what are the distances you ship?
- What size transports do you have and how do you secure the vehicle in transit?
- Do you have equipment for loading an inoperable car and are your drivers trained to handle it?
- How do you track where my vehicle is in transit?
- What is your policy and how do you communicate changes due to inclement weather?
- What route do you plan on taking?
- What type of vehicles do you typically ship and at what distances?
- Do you offer any guarantees?
- Do they have seasonal rates for shipping?
How to Choose the Best Classic Car Transport Near Me
Choosing a classic car or classic auto transport, is no different than choosing the right mechanic. You need to read detailed customer reviews and ask questions. Here is how I evaluate the various classic cars and car transportation companies near me.
- Call and get product quotes from several companies (big and small).
- Look online for pictures of the vehicles or fleet.
- Read Yelp and Google My Business Reviews (those are independent reviews).
Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Classic Car Transport
Compliance with Transport Regulations
When it comes to a classic car transport service, adhering to legal and regulatory standards is crucial. Transporting a classic car or a vintage vehicle involves more than just moving an automobile; it’s about handling a piece of history. Therefore, car transport companies, especially those specializing in classic car transport services, must strictly follow the laws and regulations set by transportation authorities.
Firstly, auto transport companies need to have the proper licenses and permits to protect classic cars and operate legally. This ensures that the classic car transporter is recognized and monitored by regulatory bodies, adding a layer of security and trust for classic car owners. Additionally, enclosed auto transport and open trailer options must meet specific safety standards to protect the classic vehicles during transit.
Moreover, shipping classic cars across state lines or internationally introduces another layer of complexity to classic car shipping costs. International classic car transport requires adherence to the laws of both the origin and destination countries. Auto shipping companies must be well-versed in customs regulations and import/export laws to avoid legal complications.
Understanding Contracts and Agreements
Entering into a contract with a classic car hauler or shipping company is not just a formality; it’s a crucial step in ensuring the safe and legal transport of your classic or antique car. Classic car shipping quotes and agreements should be read carefully to understand the liability insurance and cargo insurance coverage, which protect your vehicle in case of damage or loss during transport.
Best classic car transport and classic auto transport companies often offer fully insured auto transport. This means they provide an agreed value insurance policy, which is essential for classic car shipping, considering the high value and irreplaceable nature of these vehicles. It’s important for classic car shipment owners to verify that the insurance coverage meets their needs and that they understand any limitations or exclusions.
Enclosed car transport and enclosed shipping options might offer more comprehensive insurance coverage compared to open transport and enclosed carriers. This is something classic car enthusiasts and car collectors should consider, especially when transporting luxury car or exotic vehicles.
Lastly, the role of the a transport cars customer service representative is vital in clarifying any doubts regarding the contract. Best auto transport companies will have knowledgeable representatives to help you understand the terms of service, car shipping costs, and vehicle shipping procedures.
By understanding these legal and regulatory aspects, classic car owners can ensure a smooth and compliant transport process for their prized vintage vehicles too.
Classic Car Transport Near Me – Conclusion
Shipping a classic or luxury vehicle can be nerve-racking. Whether you are restoring a vehicle or shipping an original, the drama feels the same. Understanding how the shipping process works and asking the right questions up front are more important than the actual costs.
If you choose an unreliable, unqualified, or uninsured company it will cost you more in the long run. This is what I have learned from the classic car transport near me.