How Cars Are Shipped Within the US

Cars are almost an integral part of life in the US, and studies have tried to explain why this is so. More than fifty million units were sold in the past year, between new and used, but how does this industry move around so many vehicles across the country?

If you are curious about how cars are typically shipped within the United States, a breakdown of the various methods used follows. Taking into consideration the type of vehicle, the distance, cost, and any specific requirements for each situation, there are many ways in which you can transport a car from one place to another in the USA.

Car Carrier Trucks

Trucks are a familiar sight on a highway in the USA, as they are the most common form of transporting goods there. These, in particular, are also known as car haulers and are specialized trucks crucial for the automotive logistics industry.

We can divide them into two main types:

Open-Air Transport

The most common type of carrier truck. They have multiple levels of open decks on which vehicles are securely strapped. This is a cost-effective method, which means it's a popular choice for short to medium-distance trips. It is open to the elements but is a practical and efficient way to move multiple vehicles simultaneously.

Enclosed Transport

These trucks provide a higher level of protection to the goods being transported. Cars are loaded into an enclosed trailer that will shield them from weather or road debris. This option is more common for luxury cars, classic vehicles, or those with a higher value requiring additional transport security.

Benefits

Trucks are one of the most popular ways to transport vehicles, which must be for a reason. Let's check some of the benefits of this type of service:

1. Efficiency: Car carrier trucks can move multiple vehicles at once, so with this capacity to transport several cars on a single journey, they help with logistics for dealerships, manufacturers, and individuals transporting vehicles.
2. Cost-Effective: Open-air carriers are cheaper for individuals or businesses looking to move cars over shorter distances. The fact that they can carry more vehicles reduces the overall cost per car.
3. Nationwide Coverage: These trucks also cover long distances, which means they provide a network for this service. They are one of the most essential components of the automotive supply chain, connecting manufacturers, dealerships, and consumers nationwide.

Rail Transport

Another reliable method of moving goods across long distances is rail, which offers a great set of advantages too for businesses and individuals.

It is one of the most cost-effective transportation methods, especially for long-distance trips. Trains can often carry many vehicles or other goods simultaneously. Trains have a higher capacity to transport cars, compared to trucks, for example, which means that they can be significant assets for streamlining logistics and reducing the overall environmental impact.

Rail transport is also efficient for cross-country shipping, as trains cover vast distances relatively quickly. It is also a very safe method of transportation because the vehicles are loaded onto specially designed railcars, reducing the risk of damage from road debris or lousy weather conditions.

But when it comes to rail transport, especially in the USA, you might need to consider a few things:

• Rail Access and Network: Some regions in the country have limited access to rail transportation, which could make it harder to reach a specific location and impact the final price.
• Loading and Unloading Points: Cars transported by rail must be loaded and unloaded at specific terminals, so you might need to consider the proximity of these points to the origin or destination of your product.
• Transit Time: Rail is generally faster than road transport for long distances, but it might be a good idea to consider the specific transit time required for a particular route to plan the delivery better.

Driveway Services

This type of service is unique because you'll be hiring a professional driver to get behind the wheel and deliver your vehicle to its destination. You can get this type of service from big companies and small contractors, and it is undoubtedly one of the best ways of saving money on transportation costs.

Another great thing about driveaway services is that they offer much more flexibility in scheduling. Other transportation methods may have specific delivery windows, while hiring a driver gives you a more personalized service to accommodate your needs. Not to mention how versatile this option is: if there's a driver for it, you can transport any vehicle, from RVs to trucks and even motorcycles.

As with the other methods mentioned above, it is necessary to consider some things before you hire this type of service:

• Insurance Coverage: Always verify the insurance coverage provided by these services. Reputable companies offer insurance during the journey and understanding the coverage while ensuring it meets your needs is critical to having a great experience.
• Driver Qualifications: Licensed, experienced, and with a clean record is the minimum you must request for the service driver. Professional companies have vetting processes, but confirming the qualifications for added peace of mind doesn't hurt.
• Vehicle Inspection: Inspecting the vehicle before handing it over to the driver is also a good idea; that way, you can ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of the vehicle's condition, and you avoid problems later.

Container Shipping

If your car must be transported over long distances, especially coast to coast or to places that have access to ports in the vicinity, container shipping is a great solution. If you're also interested, it offers a secure way to transport cars and caters to the national and international markets.

Vehicles transported in containers are entirely shielded from the elements, protecting against saltwater, lousy weather, and potential damage from external factors during the trip. It is particularly relevant while transporting high-value vehicles. They also accommodate many cars, from compact vehicles to large SUVs. Special containers can also be used to transport motorcycles.

As for the considerations when using this type of service, they are as follows:

1. Respectable Services: It's always great to hire a company with experience in this type of transport. The recommendations of the kind of containers used and the loading and unloading procedures are much more qualified in this case, minimizing the risk of damage to your property.
2. Insurance Coverage: Confirming that you have adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle during transit is essential. This is why working with reputable companies offering comprehensive insurance can give you peace of mind.

Towing and Trailering

For people who like to be hands-on, this is the perfect method. If you need to move your car over shorter distances, towing and trailering are more flexible solutions to help you out. While relocating to a new city, transporting a car, or helping someone move, towing a vehicle allows you to take complete control of the process.

Instead of hiring a professional driver or using a carrier service, you can tow your car or rent a trailer, saving you money on transportation costs. It is also pretty much a do-it-yourself approach to transport, so you can decide when and how it happens, something that can go a long way when you have specific time constraints.

Like many methods mentioned above, towing and trailering are versatile options because you can use many vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and even small boats. Different types of trailers are available to suit various transportation needs.

But what do you need to keep in mind when considering this method? Check this list below:

1. Towing Capacity: You need to ensure that the towing vehicle can pull the weight of the trailer and the car being transported. Exceeding towing capacity may lead to safety problems and damage.
2. Trailer Type and Size: Choosing the right type and size of trailer is crucial. Enclosed trailers may protect you from the elements, while open trailers might be a better option for your budget.
3. Proper Loading and Securing: Properly securing your vehicle on the trailer is essential. This includes the use of straps, wheel cocks, and other connecting devices that might keep your car safe during transit.
4. Regulations and Licensing: Individuals who are towing vehicles must know towing regulations and safety standards. This includes understanding speed limits, lighting requirements, and any additional rules that may apply.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! If you're wondering about moving your car across the country or to a place closer to you, now you have a clear idea of your options. It is now a case of considering your budget, the type of service you prefer, and the timing of the operation.

But if you are looking for a company to give you all you want in shipping services, choose A1 Auto Transport. You can get a free shipping quote and dedicated help if you need car transportation services.