You might have a hard time finding cheap auto shipping services, whether you are moving to or from Washington or just need to move your car for some other reason.
Don’t worry, though; we’re here to help you with that. Here are some helpful tips to help you find the best and cheapest way to ship your car to or from Washington.
Compare Several Quotes
First, if you want a reliable car transport to Washington, find out about different shipping companies and compare the quotes you get. You can use comparison tools online to look for deals from different service companies. It is important to look at more than just the prices when comparing companies.
Also, pick companies that give you breakdown quotes that are simple to understand. So, there’s no room for error, and it’s simple to keep track of your costs and any possible secret fees.
Always Book in Advance
To keep your costs as low as possible, it’s helpful to plan ahead. You should always book your shipping service ahead of time because you might be able to get better rates that way. People who wait until the last minute to buy their tickets might have to pay more because there aren’t many companies left. You should start getting prices for your move as soon as you know when you want to move.
Be Open to Different Dates
If you can be a little flexible with your shipping dates, you can also try to get a better deal. During off-peak times, car shipping companies often have better deals on prices. For those who are moving outside of those two busy months, you might be able to get lower rates.
It is very important to ask the shipping companies if there are any savings for picking up and delivering the packages at certain times. Find out more here.
Pick Shipping from Terminal to Terminal
Door-to-door service is more convenient, but it generally costs more. It might be cheaper to ship your car from one terminal to another, where you drop it off and pick it up at a designated terminal. It might take a little more work on your part, but you might save a lot of money.
Take a Look at Open Carrier Shipping
Open carrier shipping is the most frequent and least expensive way to move cars. It’s still a safe and effective choice, even though your car will be exposed to the weather. Open carrier shipping is usually enough and much cheaper than enclosed carrier shipping, unless you’re shipping a classic or expensive car that needs extra protection.
Look Around for Deals
Do not forget to ask about deals. A lot of companies that ship cars give discounts to people in the military, students, seniors, and AAA members. Some companies will also give you a deal if you ship more than one car at the same time. You should always ask, and you might be shocked at how much you can save.
Check the Company’s Credentials
You should look for a service that is both cheap and good, but you should never skimp on quality or dependability. Make sure the company that is sending your car has a license, a bond, and insurance. You can find out more about their USDOT and MC numbers on the website of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can also get an idea of the company’s image by reading reviews and testimonials from past customers.
Know What Your Insurance Covers
Make sure you know what kind of protection the shipping company offers. Some good companies cover basic insurance as part of their shipping costs, but it’s important to know how much that covers. If you need more protection, talk to the shipping company about your choices and include this in your budget.
Read the Fine Print
Before you sign a deal, you should always read the small print. You should read and understand the terms and conditions, which include how to stop, how to pay, and what the service includes. To avoid mistakes and costs that were not expected, it is important to communicate clearly and be open.
Check It Before Shipping It
Before you ship your car, give it a full inspection. Take pictures and write down notes of any damage that you see. This could help if your car gets damaged while being shipped, which is very rare. Any company will give you a review form to fill out, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own.
Negotiate the Price
Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price with the shipping company. If you’ve received a lower quote from a competitor, mention it. Many companies are willing to match or beat their competitors’ prices to win your business. Be polite but assertive, and you might be able to secure a better deal.
Look for Local Companies
Sometimes, local car shipping companies can offer better rates than larger, national firms. They may have lower overhead costs and more personalized service. Do a quick search for car shipping companies based in Washington or near your location and request quotes to see if they can offer competitive pricing.
