Our latest load included a 1971 Chevrolet Malibu transported from Westland, MI to DeSoto, TX by open trailer transportation. The Malibu was covered 1194 miles at the cost of $1,200.00, i.e., $1.01 per mile.
This Malibu was transported as non-functional, which means that this car could not be started or driven independently. This has a significant impact on the loading process itself.
The Route
The 1194 miles of Westland to DeSoto route starts from Detroit and continues southward all the way down the center of the country. Transport trucks leave Westland via I-275 south and connect through I-75 via Ohio to Kentucky.
From here, the route continues south through Louisville and Nashville to I-40 westbound towards Memphis. The last leg of the route is on I-30 west to Dallas-Fort Worth and terminates at DeSoto south of Dallas.
Why an Inoperable Malibu Needs a Winch
The car that doesn’t start or drive itself cannot be simply loaded using the ramps just like other cars do. The whole process of loading will require the use of the winch of the carrier because there is no self-propelled movement to assist in getting the car up the deck.
It is important to understand that there is nothing about such car which could help in controlling it while it is being loaded. The power steering system cannot function properly when the engine is off, and the brakes cannot lock. The car must be loaded completely by the winch.
Why Open Transport Still Works for This Classic
Despite the car being non-operational, it is not an issue of loading but the type of trailer to be used. Open transport is still very common and affordable option for such an antique, because the state of the car determines the need for additional care during pick-up and delivery and not necessarily the age of the car.
Upon loading, the car will then be tied using the conventional four-point system that is used for all cars and this ensures stability for the whole duration of the 1194 miles.
Transport Summary
- Origin: Westland, MI 48186
- Destination: DeSoto, TX 75115
- Distance: 1194 miles
- Service cost: $1,200.00
- Cost per mile: $1.01
- Vehicle: 1971 Chevrolet Malibu
- Condition: Inoperable
- Trailer type: Open
- Route: I-75 south through Ohio and Kentucky, I-40 west through Nashville and Memphis, then I-30 into DeSoto
