Since summer of 2020, Florida has had a surge of people moving to the state. Many of these people have moved to the Tampa Bay area thanks to a lower cost of living compared to Miami, the amazing weather, beaches, and, of course, some of the best sports teams in the country between the Rays, Buccaneers, and Lightning.
When people are moving to Tampa Bay, many are moving across the country for the first time. Moving into a new home is already stressful, but moving across the country brings added stress. Out of the long things of to-dos, one of the things many people don’t think about is having their vehicle shipped.
The majority of households have more than one vehicle and driving multiple vehicles can add more logistical planning (stress!) to an already taxing move. Hiring a reliable auto transport company can help ease the stress of moving multiple vehicles.
When you’re looking to ship your car to Tampa, there are 5 steps to ensure a smooth vehicle transport process from start to finish.
Step One: Do your research.
To start, a best practice is to generally get three to five different quotes. Then, look up each company and their reviews online. By doing your own research,you can be confident in your decision that you’re having your vehicle transported by a reliable company at a competitive, affordable price.
Step Two: Choose which shipping service and delivery option is best.
There are two types of car shipping haulers available: open and enclosed.
Open car shipping service is when a vehicle is loaded on an open car hauler (along with several other vehicles) and remains on that same transport truck the entire trip. More than 95% of vehicles use this shipping method and it is the cheapest way to ship a car.
The next shipping service option is enclosed car shipping. This service is usually for classic cars and exotic vehicles, and although it’s a bit more expensive (approximately 45 cents more per mile), if you want added protection for your vehicle during the transport, choose enclosed car shipping.
As far as delivery options, there are door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal. Door-to-door service is exactly as it sounds: the transport company will pick up and deliver the vehicle at your doorstep. This is the most common—and stress-free way—to pick up and deliver your vehicle. Terminal-to-terminal car shipping is reserved for people who may not be available for the pick-up and/or delivery of their vehicle. This is mostly used by military personnel, but some customers do want their vehicle in their new city before they arrive, so it’s an option to keep in mind.
Step 3: Be flexible (or at least try!).
The auto transport industry is not like FedEx or UPS shipping a package. Finding a quality transport company to ship your car could take a few days. The more flexibility you have, the less stress and anxiety you will feel. The auto transport industry often works on very short notice and most vehicles are picked up within 1 to 3 days.
Step 4: Make sure your car is cleaned and nothing inside of the vehicle.
The company that is shipping your car is going to need to do a vehicle inspection report upon picking up the vehicle. This inspection will note any current dings, dents, and scratches on the vehicle prior to the vehicle being loaded on the auto hauler. As a customer, you will receive a carbon copy (or electronic copy) of the vehicle inspection report with your signature. Make sure you keep this safe during your move.
Step 5: Receiving your vehicle.
The transporter who is hauling the vehicle will be in touch with customers within one to three hours prior to delivery. Upon delivery, the truck driver and customer will again go over the vehicle and note any of the existing and potentially new dings, dents, and scratches on the vehicle. It’s important to note, while a ding, dent, or scratch could happen, more than 99% of vehicles arrive in the exact same condition as they were before being shipped. If there has been damage to the vehicle, the good news is: the transport is insured and your vehicle is covered.
Not so bad, right? Shipping a car to Tampa sounds easy, and it definitely is when you choose the right company! Following the five steps listed above will help make your move to Tampa Bay a bit easier while starting your move off on the right foot.
