Car Shipping Rates
Whether you’re relocating across the country, purchasing a car from a distant seller, or are a dealership, rental agency, or other automotive business seeking car transportation services, numerous factors will influence the cost of shipping your car. This article will explore the intricacies of car shipping and suggest the best way to get accurate auto transport rates.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Rates
Distance: The Primary Determinant
Generally, the longer the distance, the higher the shipping cost. At GP Auto Logistics, we typically calculate these rates based on miles because these long distances require more fuel consumption, labor, and time.
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It's important to note that short distances typically have a higher cost per mile than longer distances. For instance, open transport below 500 miles might cost $1.85/mile while it will cost $0.59/mile for journeys above 1500 miles.
Vehicle Type and Size
Standard-sized sedans are usually the most economical to ship due to their dimensions and weight. Larger vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, and vans may incur higher costs due to their increased size and weight.
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​Specialty vehicles like classic, luxury, or high-performance sports cars may require additional handling and care during transport, leading to higher car shipping rates.
Transport Method: Open Vs. Enclosed
The transport method you select affects auto transport rates. At GP Auto Logistics, we offer two main transport methods: Open and enclosed.
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We ship vehicles on an open-air trailer for open transport, exposing the vehicles to the elements and road debris. While this method is generally more effective, it is unsuitable for some vehicles, especially those requiring extra protection.
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Enclosed transport, although more expensive, provides a higher level of security and protection for the vehicle by transporting it in an enclosed trailer. This option shields the car from adverse weather conditions, debris, and potential theft or vandalism.
Seasonal and Market Factors
Car shipping rates can also fluctuate based on seasonal demand and market conditions. During peak moving seasons, such as summer when many families and people relocate, demand for car shipping services tends to surge.
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Additionally, market factors such as fuel prices, carrier availability, and economic conditions can influence auto transport rates. Similarly, changes in the economy can affect consumer demand for vehicle transport services, thereby influencing pricing dynamics within the industry.
Additional Services and Considerations
GP Auto Logistics also has additional services and considerations that may affect the shipping rate. These include door-to-door Vs. terminal-to-terminal, expedited shipping, insurance coverage, vehicle condition, scheduling flexibility, and more.
How to Get Accurate Car Shipping Rates
You can get accurate rates by contacting a trusted carrier who will consider all the factors above combined with your unique needs to come up with the best rate for you. Always make sure that you talk about any special requests you may have since these are also likely to affect the price.
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If you are looking for reliable and accurate auto transport rates our team at GP Auto Logistics will consider all the factors unique to your situation to help you take advantage of the most cost-effective options while still maintaining the safety of your vehicle during shipping. Call for a free quote now.