Transporting a car or vehicle

There are a number of situations when people need to move a vehicle. For example, when you order a new car from a dealer, it isn’t just driven across the world from where it was manufactured. Likewise, even if you’re moving a used car, it will very rarely be driven from door-to-door. When it’s not possible to drive a vehicle from A to B, you’ll want to be sure the move is secure and safe. It’s important to get things right, so here is a Freightabase guide to everything you’ll want to think about.

Where do I start with transporting a vehicle?

The things you’ll need to think about beginning as they would with any shipment. Think about where you are shipping to and from; domestic transportation (within one country) is going to be a quicker and easier process than say transporting a car from mainland Europe to an island like the UK, so prepare yourself for a longer organisation time.

When it comes to the vehicle itself, there is information that you will need to know if you are organising the shipment: weight, dimensions and maintenance of the car are examples of information which needs to be communicated to the shipper. The condition of the car is another, and it’s important this is as accurate as possible.

What else should I find out before shipping?

There are a few different methods used to move a car that isn’t being driven. One option is one we’re all probably familiar with, and that’s towing. Towing a car is best for shorter journeys, and is probably used by your own personal insurance company in the event of a breakdown. There are also car-carrier trucks, which are again more popular for domestic journeys, and involve a car being carried on the back of a vehicle, or in a trailer connected to the rear.

More commonly for trans-sea and cross country shipments are open and closed carriers. An open carrier can carry many vehicles and describes the way you can see the cars onboard from the outside. This is a cost-effective method of transportation, however, your vehicle will be exposed to the air and elements which is something to bear in mind. A closed carrier will contain fewer vehicles, and the car is more secure, but this does mean that this method is more expensive.

Whatever method of transport is used to move your vehicle, you will want to be sure that the shipper is both insured on his own vehicle, and has insurance that will cover your car in the event of damage, theft or an accident for example. Some shippers can also be insured on things such as delays, so do check before the shipment is confirmed.

If you put a request on Freightabase, you’ll receive a number of quotes from experts who frequently handle vehicle shipments. You can be reassured that all of our shippers are verified, and will be able to answer any questions about your shipment before you commit.

Can I ship a vehicle myself?

Whilst you can ship a vehicle yourself, it’s best to let an expert handle it. Not only does this remove much of the stress from the process, but it will most likely work out cheaper and quicker than trying to arrange the process yourself.

Method of transport, physically securing the vehicle, having the correct insurance, a permit, and handling customs where necessary – there are many considerations and if you forget just one, there could be huge repercussions.