Over the course of the last 40 years the auto shipping industry has experienced rapid growth due to technological advances providing safer transport and better tracking methods. No matter the distance, companies are able to move vehicles nationally and internationally. There are many factors to consider when choosing an auto shipping company including cost, length of transport and method of shipping.

The need for an auto shipping company varies with everyone. An extended vacation, job relocation, or moving a significant distance are all reasons to utilize the services of an auto shipping company. And since so many vehicles are bought and sold online a vehicle will need to be shipped to the new owner once the sale is finalized.

Cars, trucks, motorcycles, SUVs, and most recreational vehicles are all eligible for vehicle transport. With so many options available for auto shipping it is important to do your research or ask for references. There are a range of shipping methods to choose from and in some cases you can have your vehicle shipped right to your door.

Open truck trailers come in a variety of sizes and will leave your vehicle either partly or completely exposed to the elements. For more protection, choose to have your vehicle shipped in an enclosed trailer much like a mobile garage. It will cost a significant amount more to ship your vehicle in an enclosed trailer than it will in an open truck, but the choice is yours.

It is sometimes difficult for shipping trucks to maneuver around residential areas so the term door-to-door shipping can be misleading. The term simply means the auto shippers will get as close to you as is lawfully and securely possible. It might be best to meet your driver in a large parking lot, such as a grocery store, since shipping trucks require a lot of room.

If you are considering having a vehicle shipped it is important to make sure you have insurance on your vehicle. You may be responsible to pay a deductible even though insurance is provided by your auto shipping company. Your personal insurance may also cover your vehicle but be sure to have the particulars in writing from both your personal insurance company and the company transporting your vehicle.

Depending on the company, some small items may remain in the trunk but it is recommended that you remove all personal items from the vehicle. If an item is lost or damaged it is likely that insurance will not cover you to replace the item. The amount of gas that can remain in a vehicle varies, but it is recommended that little remain.

It can take up to 3 to 4 weeks to make arrangements for auto shipping so it is recommended that you allow plenty of time to arrange transport. The time it takes to ship your vehicle varies and there are several other factors to consider as well. Unexpected delays, weather conditions and traffic can all attribute to the time it takes to ship your car.