Transporting a car, bike, or any vehicle is a back-breaking process. Finding trustworthy logistics, ensuring it arrives without a scratch – there are a lot of aspects that you need to consider when making a move. And let’s not forget steep costs, delays, and unexpected issues. But what if there was a way to make the whole process easier, safer, and budget-friendly?
In this blog, we will talk about 6 clever strategies on how to make transportation easier. Whether you’re selling, relocating, or delivering to a showroom, these can help you get your vehicle to its destination smoothly.
Let’s get your wheels rolling in the best way possible!
What are Tips to Make Your Move Easier?
Here are some smart strategies to make your vehicle transport easier and stress-free:
Choose right transport mode
Start the process with choosing the most appropriate mode of transport. Open carriers are cost-effective for standard cars, offering protection against most road conditions. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, can be used for making a move to shift high-value, classic, and luxurious vehicles. It will give you additional protection against weather, debris, and any possible damage.
Similarly, motorcycles may require specialized trailers that have wheel chocks and soft ties. This will help you avoid scratches or tipping.
Compare multiple quotes
Want to transport your motorcycle in California? Or ship your car from state to state? Always seek or compare quotes by qualified carriers. Their prices may differ, depending on the distance, size of vehicle, and type of service. Better get 3-4 estimates so you don’t end up overpaying.
Check reviews online and verify USDOT/FMCSA licenses of your selected vendors. These will help you assure yourself if they are reliable. Suspiciously low rates? Better stay away from such service providers. Why, you ask? Because they point out some hidden charges or unsatisfactory services.
An established company will always offer you fair prices and open terms, making your move safer and efficient.
Check insurance coverage
Do not assume that your vehicle will be fully covered by the transporter. Check limits and exclusions on the policy because basic liability might not cover costs of expensive repairs. Some carriers insure on a door-to-door basis. Others only protect against certain damages.
Bikes and cars that are super costly might require supplemental insurance to put your mind at peace. Take timestamped photos of your vehicle before handing it over. When shipping a motorcycle, ensure that the policy covers parts like fairings and mirrors since they are likely to get damaged when moving.
Always read fine print. Knowing your coverage will help avoid disagreements if anything goes wrong during transit.
Prepare your vehicle properly
Alexander Graham Bell once said, “Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” We agree with this. Some preparation will help you avoid big headaches during your moving journey. Clean your car or motorbike to make checks easier. Note damages that are already present in the form of dents and scratches. Take their pictures.
Take off the toll tags, detachable accessories, and personal items since your shipping partner will not cover lost belongings. Especially for those who are shifting their motorcycles, remove the batteries and stabilize fluids if it’s going on a long haul. Keep fuel at 1/4 tank. This will minimize fire risk and weight.
Provide spare keys to the driver and switch off alarms to tackle transport delays. With adequate prior arrangement, making your move will become easier.
Track shipment progress
A very important tip that can make your move-a-vehicle process smoother. A lot of people have no idea about the location and condition of their car or motorbike during shipment. Choose a carrier that has real-time GPS tracking. Sure, you have to pay a bit more than normal one but you will be able to track the route of your beloved vehicle on its way to delivery.
Most reputable companies offer online portals or mobile apps where you can check your shipment’s status anytime. Want added peace of mind? Request regular updates from your transport coordinator, especially during long-distance moves.
This transparency will assist you in planning for arrival and rapidly address any eventualities.
Schedule strategically
And yes, how could we not talk about this point? If you want to get your automobile moved the right way, all while saving time and money, just schedule strategically. Do not schedule it during peak seasons like summer (when families relocate) and December (holiday shipments) as demand drives up the prices.
Also, mid-month and mid-week have lower rates than the month-ends or weekends when everyone is rushing to transport vehicles. Flexible schedule? Inquire about hotshot or consolidated shipping options where your vehicle would be shipped with other vehicles that are going the same direction at reduced rates.
Planning just 2-3 weeks in advance usually bears better rates than booking at the last minute!
Making A Move Easier: Final Words
There you go!
We shared some practical tips to make your vehicle transport smoother, safer, and cost-effective. These strategies will help you avoid common pitfalls and guarantee a stress-free experience.