State to State Car Transportation Services

State-To-State Auto Shipping Services | A-1 Auto Transport

Having a car shipped from one state to another can be an expensive endeavor, depending on the distance, which is the primary factor in the total cost. Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to minimize the cost, while still enjoying the benefits of a quality, professional service.

If you’re shipping an expensive or classic car, you’ll probably want to choose and enclosed carrier, which is slightly more expensive than the conventional method. If that’s not the case, you might consider using an open carrier, which moves more cars at once and is “open” in the sense that it’s not covered on all sides as it would be with enclosed auto transport. An open carrier doesn’t increase your risk necessarily, but it does offer a cheaper method of shipping since more vehicles can be moved in the same load. If you’re unsure of which option is right for you, see the section at the bottom of the page under “Related Resources.”

What You Should Look For In A Quality Auto Transporter

Professionalism - If the website of a potential company looks shoddy, riddled with typos, and thrown together, chances are you can expect the same sub-par service from the company itself. Also, pay attention to first impressions. You want to work with a company who knows the industry well and is prepared to offer you a comprehensive and specialized quote based on your needs. Some agents will attempt to pressure you into committing upon the first contact, but those who truly offer the best value and service will let their pricing and service speak for itself.

Quality Experience - While some auto transport companies may boast about the volume or quantity of transport jobs they have completed, they may not have maintained a good reputation because their focus is misplaced. Quality always trumps quantity, so you will want to request references and do research on the company's past. A couple places to start are consumer online review websites, such as Yelp, and of course, verifying the company's standing with the Better Business Bureau. Even if companies have had issues in the past, the speed and willingness to rectify the situation is a great way to judge quality and integrity of service.

Flexibility - Every auto transport situation is unique in its own way, whether it be a customized vehicle, a rarely traveled route, or something else entirely, so most companies should offer flexibility in their shipping packages. Find a reputable company willing to listen to your needs, who offers a package that meets your expectations while staying within budget. Conversely, recognize that you must also be flexible, especially when it comes to pick up and drop off time frames, accept that these are fluid dates, and much can happen to change the dates once the shipping process is underway.

Using just these three basic traits to weed out the bad apples and narrow down the potential companies you are considering is a great start to the auto shipping process. Once you have found a good fit in a reliable, affordable company, you will already be on the fast track to a successful car transportation experience.

Related Resources

Open Vs. Enclosed Carriers - If you need some help determining if you need an open or enclosed auto carrier, this resource will help you make an informed decision that’s right for your situation.

FMCSA SAFER Database

- The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Safety And Fitness Electronic Records System has a