We transported a 1970 Ford Galaxie XL convertible from Dallas to Los Angeles using an open carrier. Classic car owners need to understand that moving a classic automobile is not like moving any other car. This is what we found out on a 1,400-mile move.
A Galaxie XL is what all classic car enthusiasts can point to and say is a classic car design. It is a classic car with a convertible top that is definitely one that needs to be protected while it is being shipped. This is one aspect of older models that one should understand: the body parts involved are not replaceable, nor is it feasible to fix scratched paint by running it through the body shop.
Why Classic Cars Require Specialized Shipping
Classic car enthusiasts do not drive such cars in the same way that people drive ordinary cars. A 1970 Galaxie XL is more than just moving from one point to another; it is a historical vehicle that requires unique care.
Preparation begins even before the trailer arrives. A walk-around is performed by the driver, who takes pictures of the car’s condition, indicating original paint and chrome. A spare tire that belonged with the Galaxie was not insured for separate transport since the transport company recognized that it held value for the owner.
Regular auto transport sports cars as drive dailies designed for roads of the current era. Classics were never intended for current highway conditions. Their suspension systems are different, current paints have a different solar reaction, and current clearcoats do not act like old finishes.
Vintage specialist carriers understand this. Classic cars are placed on the vehicle carrier in such a way that they are least exposed to the winds, with soft straps instead of chains, without stacking new vehicles on classic cars where a leak could potentially damage it.
Standard Auto Transport VS. Vintage Vehicle Hauling
A 9-car open trailer was selected for the Galaxie transport instead of the enclosed transport. This caught some classic car owners by surprise. Open trailers cost less and are easier to transport quickly, but it is the skill of the transport company that matters. We selected a 9-car open trailer for the Galaxie transport instead of the enclosed․
This is a very active route from Dallas to Los Angeles with considerable traffic, including cargo. While “standard carriers” are concerned with the fastest times possible and the greatest number of deliveries, “classic haulers” care more about the delivery being safe rather than speedy. Classic haulers also avoid heavy traffic when driving through major urban areas along “I-40,” opting for fuel stops at major truck stops with enough room to park.
Our Galaxie shared the trailer, placed on the lower deck away from the ramp to minimize overtakes by other trailers. The upper deck held sport utility vehicles and trucks as fluids could spill, thereby impairing our classic car.
See Also: How to Haul Collectible Cars Across the States
Route Specific Insights: Dallas to Los Angeles
Spanning five states, with a distance of 1,400 miles, it is a unique classic transport route in itself. One needs to keep an eye on the tire pressure in the scorching heat of Texas. Variations in height while repositioning classic cars in New Mexico can be testing for aged braking systems. One also needs to remain alert for fluctuations in temperature from morning to afternoon in the deserts of Arizona.
“The major highway here is Interstate 40; haulers do not prefer the smaller roads that do not have adequate shoulders, as breaking down on a two-lane highway can be hazardous for something of such value.” Additionally, major highways provide easier access to emergency services in case of a need for such services.
Normally, the transport takes 5 to 7 days, with monsoon weather in Arizona adding another 2 to 3 days. Ice in the Texas Panhandle in winter can bring transport to a standstill. Spring is expected to provide the most predictable weather.
In Los Angeles, factors for delivery would include some restrictions for certain residential streets for big rigs over certain lengths. Then again, it seemed that our 9-car trailer went over some of these limits in some areas, so the drivers called ahead a day before to ensure that they could deliver in a certain spot.
What to Do If You Discover Damage After Transport
Action you should take when the car is delivered:
- Look it over to check new scratches
- Compare with the pickup photos
- Check if a fluid leaks
This should be done before you sign any Bill of Lading.
Minor damages can occur even if transported with care, as road debris can chip paint, for example, or tie-downs can damage soft rubber. Most carriers provide insurance for such damages. Damage claims should be filed within the timeframe specified in your transport agreement (generally 24-48 hours after delivery).
Pictures should be taken for comparison with pickup pics. Classic car insurance claims are not like other auto insurance claims. Components may not be available, or duplicating the original paint may not be possible. Adjusters must work with knowledgeable individuals about classic car values, or repair damage that is unique through fabrication or restoration. All forms of communication should be documented. Emailing creates a paper trail for insurance purposes.
Hopefully the 1970 Ford Galaxie XL was delivered in Los Angeles without any damage, and the spare tire also reached safely. It was important to select a trustworthy carrier in order to make the delivery process smooth or hassle-free.
Shipping Summary
Vehicle: 1970 Ford Galaxy XL Convertible
Route: Dallas, TX to Los Angeles, CA (1,400 mile)
Dallas, TX → I-20 W (Abilene → Midland/Odessa) → merge to I-10 W (Van Horn → El Paso) → continue I-10 W (Deming → Tucson → Phoenix → Blythe → Indio/Palm Springs) → I-10 W into Los Angeles, CA
Service: Open 9 Car Hauler Trailer
Cost: $519.00 ($0.38 per mile)
Season: Winter
