Shipping Your Car Vs Using A Driver Service
When you need to move your car across the country, your first impulse may be to drive it yourself. And when driving it yourself isn’t an option, chances are the next option you’ll consider is having someone drive it for you. Shipping your car across the country may not occur to you at all, but there are good reasons to choose auto transport over a personal driving service even though each mode of transport will have its pros and cons.
Relocating a vehicle can be tough, and so the last thing you probably want to do right now compares and contrast shipping versus hiring a driver. That’s why we put together a post that lays out the logistics of each mode of transport and proves that shipping a car across the country is more often than not the best option. Hopefully, this guide will make your decision easier so you can get your car where it needs to go.
Why not go on a road trip?
You might not have completely rejected the idea of driving your car across the country. Road trips are what Americans dream of. But the reality of road tripping - especially when you have kids - is very different. Although it is often assumed that driving your own vehicle will cost less than hiring a professional driver, or shipping a car across the country, road trips can be costly. Not only will you need to pay for gas but also for food and lodging. It is possible that you will find that the mileage you accumulate now becomes maintenance costs later. Transporting your car from one state to another can be stressful. You have to worry about traffic, missed turns, and other small inconveniences that can make road-tripping less enjoyable than it appears in movies.
Alternative 1 - Hire a professional driver
You'll find many results if you search for "hire someone who will drive my car across America". These companies will coordinate a group of drivers, often retired or college students, and match them up with clients.
There are many ways to find a professional driver for your vehicle. However, the best option is to look for a company that can match drivers with cars to make cross-country moves. These professional drivers are sometimes called "driveways" and claim that hiring one is safer than shipping your car across the country. Is it really? But is it? Let's take a look at some of the pros and cons of hiring a driver for your car.
Pros
You might be able to ride along with your driver. This means that you will be with your vehicle throughout the trip. This may be the only option for worriers who want to sleep at night.
Your car is the only one moving. It's almost like having a personal valet for your car.
Most drivers have specialized insurance. Professional drivers take great care of their safety and will carry sufficient insurance to cover any damages that may occur.
It is possible to transport luggage in your car. Professional drivers may even transport pets. This can be a great way to transport your pet if you are moving your vehicle.
Your car may be delivered faster than truckers. However, drivers don't need to stop to unload or load other vehicles.
Cons
It is more expensive. Because you are paying the driver's lodging and food directly, hiring a professional driver to transport your vehicle will almost always cost more than shipping it on a truck.
Your vehicle will still see wear. Long trips can be very damaging to cars.
Cross-country drivers can be difficult to find. A driver's license is not required. Some freelance drivers are reluctant to disclose their driving records, criminal records, or references.
Your vehicle may be rejected by companies. Companies that screen drivers and match them up with car owners who are looking to move a vehicle will not accept vehicles older than seven years and/or less than 150,000 miles.
Is it worthwhile?
Companies that hire drivers will usually do background checks, but may not offer additional insurance to their drivers. Independent drivers might not always be honest about their criminal and driving records. Short-term insurance will be required to cover your driver and protect you in the event of an accident. When you hire a professional to drive your car to its destination, driver availability cannot be guaranteed. If you are looking for an intimate experience with a professional driver to drive your vehicle to its destination, this could be the right choice.
Option 2: Ask someone to drive your car across the country
You don't have to hire a professional driver to drive your car. Instead, tap into your networks to find someone willing to drive your car to its new location. This option is possible for people who have retired friends, students, or those who do odd jobs. Although there is more risk in having someone you know to move your car, you might feel more secure working with someone you already know. Below are the pros and cons of having someone you know drive your car across the country.
This is the most affordable option. While you should still pay your friend or acquaintance for their services, it is likely that you will pay less than if you were working with a professional cross-country driver.
Your driver is your friend. Knowing who will drive your car on its journey is a comforting thing.
Most likely, you'll be able to load your car with your luggage. If you trust your driver, which you should if they are giving you the keys to your car, you can use the extra space for non-essential items.
Cons
They won't be covered by any special insurance. This will increase the cost of driving your car.
Road trips can cause damage to your car. In the end, you'll have to pay for it in future mechanic bills.
It is difficult to gauge how well someone drives. You don't know what they drive like when they are stressed unless you have actually been on a road trip together.
Is it worthwhile?
Because you are closest to your friend or acquaintance, you can answer this question. It could be worth it if you know with absolute certainty that they will get you there on time, without any hassles, and without you having to pay a penny.
Third Alternative: Hire a professional car transport company
According to USAToday, shipping a car across the country is the most popular way to move a car in the US. It's easy to move a car with an auto transport company. The drivers are professionals who have been vetted and shipping should take only one to two weeks. You can be sure that your vehicle is covered by shipping companies. These companies have strict deadlines so you can be sure your vehicle will arrive on time, regardless of whether you choose an open carrier option or closed truck.
There are pros and cons to any method of moving a car around the country.
Pros
You can trust your driver and know they are qualified. You can be sure that your vehicle will be transported by a reliable auto transport company. They are highly skilled, familiar with different vehicles, and trustworthy.
The safety of your vehicle will be guaranteed by the shipper. The type of insurance auto transport companies offer will cover you regardless of the problem. Their drivers are well-versed in how to avoid these issues.
Both you and your customers will save time. The loading and unloading of vehicles are made easy by auto transport companies. You will have your vehicle delivered quickly and picked up at the right time.
Shipping a car across the country can be cheaper than driving. Getting a free quote is the fastest way to find out if moving your car by truck will save you money.
There is no wear and tear. Your car won't have to touch the ground during its long journey. This means it won't get the wear and tear associated with road trips.
Cons
Extra gear is not allowed in your car. To calculate the cost to ship your car across the country, transport companies will use the vehicle's weight. Shipping companies cannot guarantee safety for items inside a car.
There may be less flexibility with regard to dates. Auto transport companies will adhere to your schedule so that your car arrives when you want it to.
Is it worthwhile?
Shipping a car across the country is probably the best option, as it avoids the risk of driving on some of the most dangerous roads in America. Truckers are highly trained and know the best routes. They also have experience dealing with traffic and unpredictable weather. You can avoid many unknowns by shipping your vehicle across the country.
There are many benefits to using a reliable auto transport company such as Move Car, and very few disadvantages. Shipping your car can not only help you save money but it will also save you time, effort, and stress. The details will be taken care of by the transport company while you handle all other responsibilities. You can rest assured that your car will reach its destination.