So, exactly how long does it take to transport a vehicle? Whether you’re attending a car show or moving into your dream home, this is a question that’s probably been swirling around in your head. The fact is that transport time depends on several major factors. In this article, Caravan Auto Transport breaks down typical shipping timeframes, as well as tips for quicker car delivery.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car?
It typically takes between 1 to 7 days to ship a car state-to-state or cross-country. Along with your location and destination, there are a few factors that affect transit time (as well as cost) of vehicle delivery.
There are several ways to ship your vehicle: truck, train, boat, and even airplane. To keep it short, let’s focus on the most common aspects that contribute to shipping time.
Factors That Affect Transit Time by Truck
As we mentioned before, it can take up to about a week to ship a car. But in some circumstances, it might take up to 10 days or even two weeks. This timeline is highly dependent on factors like distance, location, and multiple stops.
1. Open vs. Enclosed Carrier
There are two main options for shipping your vehicle over land: open transport and enclosed transport.
- Open shipping is the most cost-effective and readily available pick. This generally translates to quicker transport, too. However, it does expose your auto to the elements, debris, and potential damage.
- Enclosed shipping is a less readily available (and more costly) option. But if you’re looking for the ultimate protection of a prized or valuable vehicle, this is the way to go. As far as shipping schedules, an enclosed carrier might provide a slower delivery time.
2. Shipper Limitations
Truck drivers are legally required to travel for only so many hours per day. They must get off the road and take a break every eight hours or so to ensure a safe trip. On average, a long hauler can cover approximately 350 to 500 miles daily.
3. Drop Off and Pick Up Locations
If you live in a city or other urban area, chances are that pick-up will be relatively smooth. However, if you are located in a more rural community, it can take longer for the driver to navigate dirt roads and narrow streets. The same goes for the drop-off location.
Door-to-door service is the most convenient method, but in some cases, it might slow down the travel time. If necessary for a tight schedule, you might have to meet your driver at a more convenient parking lot or other public location.
4. Shipping Season
Going down south for the winter? Moving across the United States? Whether you’re a snowbird or headed to a new coast, the season of the year can affect not only the price but also the length of transit. In general, summertime and spring are the most in-demand months.
If possible, consider having your car shipped during an off-peak season. This will save you money as well as time. Also, keep in mind that haulers might take time off around and on holidays, which can tag one or two more days onto the shipment schedule.
5. Traffic and Road Conditions
It would be great if your carrier of choice had a clear path the whole way, but the reality is that a number of issues can arise on the road. Depending on the time of year, traffic can create a bottleneck. The same goes for any accidents that occur during transit.
Another thing to keep in mind is road conditions. From winter storms to road work, your hauler can be slowed down to a crawl or have to drive along an alternate route. Though top car shipping companies pride themselves on quick service, they can’t control these variables.
Tips for Quicker Delivery
Looking to ship your car faster? Here are some handy tips!
1. Plan and Book Ahead Of Time
Waiting until the last minute can result in a lack of availability and slower delivery. If you’re planning to attend a car show, for instance, give yourself and the shipping company plenty of room to account for delays and so on (anywhere from a few weeks to a few months).
2. Choose the Right Service
If you need a vehicle to get from Point A to B quicker, consider an open carrier. This option is more readily available compared to enclosed shipping. However, if you want the fastest service, look into an expedited shipment. It costs more, but it can definitely be worth it.
3. Consider Time of Year
The season can greatly affect transit speed. Summer is a high-volume time, which typically leads to higher rates and busy schedules. But bad weather during winter can also slow things down big time. Consider your needs and plan accordingly.
4. Prepare Your Vehicle
To ensure a drama-free and timely shipment, be prepared. This goes for paperwork as well as routine maintenance. If the car doesn’t run, it can cause several issues with your delivery. Clear communication is also key. Make sure you and your driver are on the same page.
5. Work with a Reliable Company
It’s tempting to go with the lowest bid, but it can also end up being a major headache. Always do your research and book with an outfit that’s fully licensed, insured, and bonded. Experience goes a long way, so ensure that your company of choice can back up its words.
Not all companies are created equally. Make sure that terms are clear, and inquire about insurance coverage. Take a look at the website and reviews. And ask direct questions. There are a ton of companies out there that claim fast service. Pick a reputable one.
Not sure where to start? We’ve done the hard work of ranking the top auto transport companies by city and state. With Caravan, you can request free quotes from licensed and insured transporters faster than you can go from 0 to 60!
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Whether your car is headed to a new state or country, you need a trustworthy and skilled transport company. With the help of Caravan Auto Transport, it’s a breeze to book the perfect fit! Click here to request your free quote and enjoy a smooth experience… it’s really that easy!