Shipping classic cars is slightly different compared to transporting regular cars. It comes with more history and detail and, quite frankly, a bit more concern about what may happen during the process.
This particular 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air has just been shipped from Missoula, Montana to Tempe, Arizona and has covered a distance of approximately 1,208 miles via an enclosed truck at a shipping cost of $2,300.
The vehicle was in a condition that could be driven on and off the trailer, but since it is a classic Chevy with lots of details on the outside, enclosed transport was the obvious choice for this shipment.
The Route
Bel Air pick-up point – Missoula, MT 59808, and drop-off point – Tempe, AZ 85283; total travel distance was approximately 1,208 miles.
It is a lengthy drive for any kind of vehicle, but when it comes to moving a 1956 antique, it becomes even more of a challenge.
The fact of the matter is that the car was not supposed to be moved to the destination state by its owner but was transported via a carrier and permitted to take the journey without adding another 1,200+ miles to it.
The route spans between western Montana and Phoenix metropolis located in Arizona state, crossing a considerable part of western USA.
And here it is when the trailer selection comes into play.
Why Enclosed Transport Made Sense for This Bel Air
Bel Air traveled in an enclosed trailer and not an open carrier.
For most vehicles, open transport can be a feasible option. But when it comes to classic cars, things might be a bit different.
Consider everything that comprises the beauty of a 1956 Bel Air from its paint to chrome and everything else that makes it a classic.
Imagine these elements exposed to weather conditions during 1,200 plus mile journey.
This is one of the reasons why enclosed transport can be a good choice for classic cars, providing protection to them during their journey from any weather or road conditions outside.
It does not always mean that the process needs to be made more difficult. Sometimes, it just means taking care of the vehicle that needs protection.
Why the Bel Air Being Operable Helped
One small thing that helped make this move easier was that the Bel Air was driveable.
This means that the driver could climb behind the wheel and drive the car on to the truck without having to use things like a winch to move the car.
A non-running classic car takes more effort to move. The carrier might require extra equipment, take more time, and have to load the car differently.
In this situation, the Bel Air could be driven right into place before being inspected and loaded for transport to Arizona.
It’s always best to keep it simple when moving an almost 70-year-old vehicle.
The Human Side of Classic Car Transport
There is something special about delivering a classic car.
If one owns a 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air, then it is definitely not the way one would treat an ordinary commuter car. There is a history behind the car. It could have been restored many times. It could have been inherited from one generation to another. Or maybe one simply likes the feel of a vintage Chevrolet.
Regardless of the reason, giving someone else keys to your baby for a 1,208-mile drive may seem somewhat uneasy.
It is quite natural.
Good communication is key.
Knowing what kind of trailer will be used, how the car will be loaded, how it will be tied down, and what one should expect during the transport could help one feel more comfortable during the process.
With a classic car, such communication should happen before the truck arrives – not after.
Transport summary
- Vehicle: 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
- Pickup: Missoula, MT 59808
- Delivery: Tempe, AZ 85283
- Distance: Approximately 1,208 miles
- Condition: Operable
- Transport: Enclosed trailer
- Total cost: $2,300
- Approximate cost per mile: $1.90
