Where your car is located and where you are planning to ship it is of great importance to estimate a price, it is not the same if the address your car needs to be picked up or delivered is 300 miles off the nearest main road as if it is within the route. Locations off main route are considered detours for drivers, and even though not impossible, it will cause an extra fee. It may be only 700 miles, but if 400 of those miles are in country away from main routes, the quote will be higher. Locations across bridges towards islands like Staten Island incur in a higher fee as tolls need to be paid.
The make and model of a car are also very important in order to get an accurate price. Something to keep in mind as many customers call in to request quotes for a “regular car”, there are no regular cars in the transport world; a 2007 Honda Accord, is not the same as a 2007 Honda Accord with a spoiler and 26 in rims. Yes, both are the same make and model, but the modifications done to one, make a complete different car when it comes to mounting it on the carrier and securing it. A strap that fits a regular tire may not fit on a 26 in rim.
Car Transport is also regulated by seasons, especially when using northern routes as they are severely affected by snow fall and bad road conditions. Shipping a car through northern states during summer is certainly not the same as shipping a car in the winter. If you requested an estimate to ship to Seattle during June, and call to book in December, don’t expect the estimate to be the same, conditions have changed, therefore prices will too.
Another important factor that affects transportation prices is the type of carrier you use. Regular prices are provided using an open carrier; however some customers may prefer to use an enclosed carrier. If this is the case it is important you advised your agent so he can accommodate your needs and provide you proper prices. Enclosed carriers are more expensive than open carriers as they require more maintenance and carry fewer cars on a single trip, however the advantage is that it offers maximum protection for your car and insurance coverage can be up to $1 million.
When transporting a car make sure you provide as many details as possible, this will help agents accommodate your needs and provide accurate prices for you to calculate your expenses for the transportation.