Sports Car Shipping: How to Transport a Sports Car in the U.S.

Cars are valuable possessions, especially when they are expensive and luxurious. Shipping a sports car across the states is difficult, as it requires finding a reputable auto transport company with the expertise to safely and properly handle the auto-hauling procedure.

It is completely justified to have concerns for the safety of sports cars while on the road, given how expensive their maintenance is. A sports car is a unique and hefty investment that requires special care and attention throughout the shipping journey. Therefore, it is critical to thoroughly research the auto shipping company before assigning them to move your sports car.

In this guide, we will discuss transporting sports vehicles in the U.S., covering the following topics:

1. What makes sports cars so special?
2. Hauling sports cars across the United States.
3. Preparing sports cars for shipping, plus some useful tips.
4. Shipping sports cars costs.
5. What makes sports cars so special?

What makes sports cars so special?

Sports cars are a type of vehicle that people sometimes mistakenly confuse with race cars. However, although race cars are classified as sports cars, not all sports cars are designed for racing. Sports cars are mainly intended for energetic performance and high-precise handling rather than running errands, driving the kids around, or transporting luggage.

Sports cars are smaller in size and lighter in weight than other sedans or conventional vehicles, accommodating only two people being two-seaters, two-door, rear-wheel drive advanced vehicles. These luxurious cars enjoy high maneuverability due to their curb weight and aerodynamic efficiency.

What makes sports vehicles different from conventional ones is the superior handling and performance, as they have powerful engines and high-end technologies. They are also designed to fit only two seats to reduce their size and weight and achieve their desired acceleration and aesthetic purposes.

Designed with precision and care, sports cars are expensive, and repairs can be quite costly. This is why they need to be well taken care of.

Hauling sports cars across the United States

Several key principles to remember when considering shipping a sports car

Search for a reliable auto transport company

For people transporting their sports cars for the first time from one place to another, one should do in-depth research to separate reputable auto transport companies from scammers.

An auto transport company should be reliable, reputable, insured, and experienced. Tempus Logix is an auto transport company based in California that ships vehicles nationwide. The company has first-hand experience shipping various vehicles and high-quality hauling equipment and a wide network of carriers and professional drivers.

Tempus Logix is officially licensed and certified with the USDOT and FMCSA, which is a vital factor to consider before choosing an auto transport company. So far, the company has delivered more than 35,000 vehicles safely to their destinations and made the process easier for clients.

Take some time checking online reviews

One way to determine the authenticity of any car hauling company is to check their customers’ reviews. Reviews are priceless since customers usually tell the truth based on their experience, allowing others to get an idea about the quality of the company’s provided services.

If an auto transport company is highly rated and recommended by other customers, it is an encouraging sign to consider hiring it. However, if a company has negative reviews and ignores or handles them poorly, the shipping experience will likely be unpleasant. Therefore, check reviews and analyze how auto transport companies respond to choose the right company.

Tempus Logix has over 1000 online reviews from satisfied clients throughout the United States. Over the years, Tempus Logix has offered valuable auto shipping services and followed up with clients properly to ensure they get the best possible service.

Compare quotes

After finding two or three reliable auto transport companies, the next step is reaching out to them and requesting a shipping quote. It is worth mentioning that there is no one fixed price for transporting a sports vehicle since several factors must be taken into account to determine the final auto-shipping rate.

Reliable auto transport companies usually provide contact information on their websites to answer all inquiries. They also provide free auto shipping quote calculators to estimate the shipping price based on the client’s input.

 Recently, Tempus Logix implemented an advanced AI-based auto-shipping cost calculator on the company’s website. The cutting-edge calculator calculates the accurate shipping cost based on several factors, including the client’s input and other industry-related factors.

After using a company’s free quote calculator or directly contacting its customer agents, customers can get their shipping rates and compare them according to the services provided for each quote. Finally, they can choose the company that perfectly matches their needs and budget.

Booking

After researching multiple auto transport companies and comparing their shipping rates, customers can decide on the auto transport company they will book with.

However, there are a set of issues to consider when booking a sports car shipment. First, a sports car is a unique vehicle with unique models, features, and modifications. So, it is crucial to provide the person in charge of arranging the car shipping process with all the car’s details and specifications so they can find suitable carriers and other equipment needed to haul the car.

Some sports cars require special loading and unloading equipment depending on their current condition, whether they are operable or inoperable. In addition, some unique sports car models might not fit inside a standard carrier. Therefore, informing the haulers about the car’s condition and modifications in advance can prevent misunderstanding and unpredictable delays.

When arranging for a sports car hauling, it is also important to consider choosing a proper location for pick up and drop off. As mentioned earlier, sports cars are expensive and need to be handled carefully. So, steer away from residential streets and choose a place with plenty of space, like large commercial parking lots. Such locations are great for safer, faster, and easier car loading and unloading.

Finally, when it comes to choosing a method of shipment, there are two options: open or enclosed. A luxurious sports car better be loaded on an enclosed carrier. Though they are more expensive, enclosed carriers ensure that sports cars won’t be affected by any external factors during shipment. No debris or dust will damage the sports car as it is shielded inside the large walls of an enclosed truck. After all, such a big investment is worth paying the extra costs for premium services.

Preparing sports cars for shipping

For sports car owners who wish to transport their valuable vehicles across the states, here is a step-by-step guide to preparing the car for hauling:

Wash the sports car

Before having a sports car shipped, give it a good wash from the inside and outside. Cleaning a vehicle before handing it to the hauling company can help you detect any existing scratches or damage before and after shipment. Sports car owners can accurately compare their cars’ condition before and after shipping when it is cleaner.

Remove personal belongings

Personal items are not covered by insurance and won’t be included on the Bill of Lading. Hence, the auto shipping company won’t bear any responsibility if they are stolen or damaged. So, if the car contains any personal items, owners should remove them before shipping.

Moreover, sports cars are known to have special modifications or after-market accessories. If the shipped sports car has removable parts, detach them before handing them over. If they are undetachable, they could add to the size of the sports car. In this case, inform the transport company about these parts so they can properly arrange for their shipment.

Perform a maintenance check

Take the sports car to the mechanic to check whether it operates properly or has some problems. This will also help ensure the car’s condition before and after hauling. In addition, the mechanic will check for fluid leaks, brakes operability, and tire condition since tires should be adjusted according to the journey’s length.

Some useful tips

1. Keep only a quarter of the fuel tank full so that no extra costs will be required for the extra weight.
2. When loading the sports car into the carrier, keep it locked for additional safety.
3. Make sure to switch off any alarm, so it won’t irritate the driver and drain the car’s battery.
4. Ask the auto shipping company for a contract that includes detailed information about the quote, estimated delivery date, cancellation policies and fees, claims procedures, and insurance coverage.
5. Take pictures of the sports car before shipping to document its condition, then compare them with the car’s condition after shipment.

Shipping sports cars costs

We have mentioned previously that several factors can determine the final shipping quote. Calculating the shipping rate for a sports car mainly depends on the vehicle’s model, size, and modifications. In addition to the distance of shipment, pick up and drop off locations, the vehicle’s condition, supply, and demand fluctuations, and the type of transportation.

Indeed, enclosed auto transport is more expensive than open auto transport for the added protection it provides and the additional insurance coverage. Other safety features come at premium costs, like choosing single enclosed car transportation where a luxurious car is exclusively transported in a special enclosed carrier.

The estimated costs for sports car shipments are around $500 but could reach $2000 or higher under certain conditions like inter-state shipping. Furthermore, upon choosing enclosed auto transport, the best choice for expensive sports cars, prices are expected to be $300 to $500 higher than open auto transport. Anyway, there is no way to determine the auto shipping cost for a sports car without knowing the exact shipping details and the car’s specifications.

Conclusion

A sports car is a fancy and pricy possession that needs to be handled delicately and skilfully. When transporting these types of special and unique vehicles, sports car owners should only trust skilled vehicle haulers with expertise in dealing with different vehicles.

Will Self-Driving Cars Replace Auto Transport Companies in the Near Future?

A few decades ago, autonomous vehicles only existed in science fiction books and movies. Still, the speculations of having driverless cars running on the roads have widely spread, especially in developed countries. Integrating this technology into our lifestyles is expected to accelerate gradually until autonomous vehicles are ready to take over the driving task in all circumstances.

Introducing autonomous cars to the transportation system has raised several questions, and people have many concerns regarding the safety and reliability of this technology. One main concern is the potential of these self-driving cars to affect other industries, mainly auto transport companies, negatively.

To address this concern, we have to look at the advantages and disadvantages of autonomous cars to evaluate how they would affect the auto transport industry. In this article, we will answer whether self-driving vehicles will replace auto transport companies in the future.

Advantages of autonomous vehicles

Since the emergence of autonomous vehicles, people have debated whether these vehicles will have good or bad outcomes. Simply put, autonomous vehicles are sure to bring benefits and cause some anxiety simultaneously.

From a positive perspective, autonomous vehicles are expected to change several aspects of our lives, transforming traditional transport systems. They will make life easier as these vehicles are designed to outperform conventional automobiles since they are based on modern technology that can handle driving seamlessly.

The top predictions about the positive effect of autonomous vehicles include saving fuel costs and reducing road congestion, which will contribute to economic growth. These AI-based vehicles can recognize short and fast routes, significantly saving commuters time. Self-driving cars are also expected to replace traditional public transportation as they are considered more effective, time and cost-efficient, and convenient to users.

Another notable advantage of driverless vehicles is enhanced safety. Autonomous cars can reduce road accident rates on a large scale due to their smart systems that are developed to detect and react responsively to dangerous situations. Hence, mistakes made by human drivers, such as impaired vision or drunk driving, can be avoided with self-driving vehicles, resulting in fewer road accidents.

Disadvantages of autonomous vehicles

Despite the prosperous promises autonomous vehicles hold, there are still some drawbacks regarding economy and safety. Until now, autonomous cars are not fully prepared to operate the driving process without drivers handling particular tasks.

They are, to date, not safe to run on public roads all over the country and under any condition. So, these vehicles will face problems when coping with human drivers breaking the rules or dealing with unexpected situations.

Furthermore, cyber security threats are another major concern for the safety of autonomous vehicles, as malicious cyber criminals could hack these vehicles for various purposes, like stealing or carrying out terrorist activities. In addition, software malfunction poses an issue regarding safety, which could lead to road accidents and car crashes.

Aside from safety issues, launching self-driving cars will also badly affect the working force, mainly drivers of all kinds of vehicles: bus drivers, taxi drivers, truck drivers, and heavy equipment operators. Many drivers in the U.S. will lose their jobs as their services won’t be in need anymore since self-driving vehicles are available, which will cause a spike in unemployment.

Autonomous vehicles will also negatively impact several industries. Insurance companies, for example, will suffer significant losses as the demand for insurance coverage decreases. Institutions gaining profits from parking, speeding, and other driving offenses fines will also be impacted by the prevalence of self-driving cars, as such incidents will be reduced.

Self-driving cars replacing auto transport companies

After evaluating both the positive and negative outcomes of launching autonomous vehicles, we can now reflect on the impact of self-driving cars on the auto transport industry. As with all aspects, driverless vehicles will positively and negatively affect the auto transport industry.

On the one hand, relying on self-driving vehicles in the shipping industry to haul cars will provide several benefits for auto transport companies. The smart operating system of driverless cars counts for a more efficient hauling experience as it can find shorter and faster routes and drive during midnight hours, making car delivery more timely and reducing fuel costs. Hence, with reduced driver personnel and fuel costs, auto transport companies can significantly increase their profit margins.

However, if driverless vehicles prevail to the extent of replacing privately owned cars, the demand for auto transport services will also decrease. In that case, auto transport companies will have to find ways to adapt to this technology and use it to their advantage to keep their services in demand.

Moreover, allowing self-driving carriers to move across the states while having several vehicles on board is risky. Unless the technology can guarantee 100% safe delivery, it will not be legalized in the short term. We still don’t know if the day will come when shipping cars is a completely robotic-based process where humans don’t have anything to do with it. However, we shall wait and see how things will develop.

Wrapping up

Billions of dollars are spent on autonomous vehicle development and testing. Sooner or later, these vehicles will become an integral part of the country’s transport system. Autonomous cars will change how we live and make traveling and commuting simpler and easier than ever. Therefore, it is wise for all industries to start planning how to utilize this technology in their workflow and maintain the success of their businesses. Although Tempus Logix doesn’t offer self-driving carriers at the moment, the company is always eager to implement sare-of-the-art technology in its services. It might one day be one of the early adopters of such an approach. Speaking about implementing cutting-edge solutions, recently, Tempus Logix implemented an AI-based online auto-shipping cost calculator. The new tool enables instant and accurate car shipping quotes, considering several factors in real-time

Auto Transport History

Get an instant quote here: www.tempuslogix.com or call us at (818) 665-2090 Tempus Logix is a top-rated shipping company established in California. We are working nationwide, shipping vehicles across the United States.

Common Auto Transportation Problems and the Best Ways to Solve Them

Car owners transporting their vehicles from one place to another might suffer increasing anxiety and stress due to common auto transportation problems. It is quite natural to have those feelings since transporting a car is one big shipping issue, especially if it is a collectible or sports one.

Although auto shipping companies are experienced in moving cars for long distances, there is always a chance for something unexpected to happen—for example, severe weather conditions, blocked roads, car accidents causing delays, etc.

This article sheds light on the most common auto transport issues and the best ways to address them so you can rest assured when transporting your car without overthinking every detail.

Common auto transportation problems

We stress that there is no point in fearing misfortune as long as when it is going to happen, nothing can stop it. It is wise to be attentive and avoid problems in the first place, and it is wiser to learn to handle incidents that may come up unexpectedly and are out of control.

Like many other kinds of business, auto shipping transport also has several common problems:

Tardy delivery

One of the most common problems when transporting a vehicle is late delivery. Several factors account for delaying the set delivery time; some are unexpected or uncontrollable, like a natural phenomenon, road accidents, traffic jams, or mechanical troubles.

Sometimes, customers are the ones who account for the late delivery. For example, customers who arrive late at pickup time get unprepared or misrepresent their vehicles, unknowing that their actions cause a domino effect on the whole shipment process.

Handling the late delivery issue

Undoubtedly, a reputable and trustworthy auto shipping company is experienced well enough to deal with upcoming events that affect delivery time. Following are a few examples of what these companies can do to address late delivery:

1. Change the planned routes
2. Coordinate with other service providers to ensure punctual delivery
3. Force additional charges to cover the costs of additional drivers or road tariffs
4. Reschedule the pick-up or drop-off dates after discussing the matter with other clients

The risks of damaged vehicles

The possibility of the vehicles getting damaged by the transportation trip worries everyone who intends to move their cars. Vehicle damage also originates from different factors, from unforeseen road accidents, shipping during severe weather conditions, or having the vehicles loaded and unloaded improperly.

If hiring the wrong auto shipping company, vehicles are prone to many risks threatening vehicle safety. Unlicensed companies may also be dealing with unlicensed drivers, which means that cars are trusted to unqualified people who might be unaware of the real challenges of the auto transporting business.

Dealing with vehicles damage or avoiding it altogether

Of course, there are ways and solutions to solve car damage problems if they were to arise. This situation brings in the benefit of auto transport insurance. Buying a good insurance plan that covers all kinds of damage is a great way to relieve stress knowing that in case of any damage, insurance will reimburse expenses of damaged vehicle repair.

Furthermore, vehicle inspection before and after vehicle transportation becomes advantageous, allowing shippers and customers to be assured about the vehicle’s state before and after it is transported, so any minor damage becomes recognizable and covered by insurance.

Tempus Logix is a professional auto transport company with over eight years of experience in the industry. The company has shipped tens of thousands of vehicles across the United States and has contracted with a vast network of shippers to cover all states and territories.

Vehicle transportation is made extraordinarily easy and stress-free with Tempus Logix! The company has everything a successful and reliable auto transport company requires, from a professional team to a huge network of carriers.

Not showing up for vehicle pick up or drop off

Not attending when it is time to pick up or drop off a vehicle is another common problem auto shippers have to deal with. At the last moment, some car owners realize they won’t be available at the pickup or drop off time, causing inconvenience and delaying the shipment process.

Solving the problem

Auto shipping companies can avoid such inconvenience simply by continuously following up with their clients and fostering high communication through several channels. For example, some companies send follow-up emails or text messages a few days before the arranged date to ensure reminding the client about all the details. Moreover, some call or impose cancellation fees to prevent clients from changing the dates easily without a real reason for that.

To summarize, auto transportation is not a simple job considering its logistics nature. Yet hiring the right auto transport company guarantees that any rising problems will be managed efficiently and satisfactorily.

Types of Trailer and Trucks Used for Shipping Cars

Are you planning to ship your car? The transport companies usually offer more than one option for their customers to choose from, but the problem is that many people don’t know much about the different types of trailer and trucks used for car shipping. The reason is pretty simple; auto transport service is to some extent unknown to people unless they need to use it. There are two types of carriers you should know about.

Open Trailers

An open carrier is a trailer with no sides; transporting vehicles will be exposed to external elements such as rain, dust, and weather conditions. This type of truck transport is safe to use, and it is the most commonly used method in the shipping industry. The truck’s capacities vary from one to ten cars, and it is the best choice to move vehicles from a manufacturer to a consumer or other location. People also use open carriers to transport their cars from one place to another if they travel by plane, bus, or train.

Open Trailer Types

Wedge Trailer

This trailer shipping cost is very affordable. It can hold up to four cars on it, but wedge trailers transport may not be your best choice to ensure your car safety; although the carrier will secure the vehicles, the damage risk is a bit more than other open carriers type.

Flatbed Trailer

These trailers don’t have a cage to protect the load it carries; it is the best trailer because it is easy to load vehicles into and practical with a reasonable service cost. While this type of trailer transport offers many pros, it also has some cons. The flatbed trailer’s size is limited, requiring clearance for large loads, and it lacks protection from external damage.

Flatbeds Trailers Come with Different Capacity Choices

1. Single Vehicle Flatbed Trailer: It is large enough to load only one car or truck, as you can tell from its name. Companies use it to transport vehicles for short distances, but they can also use it for longer trips.
2. Single-Level Multi-Car Flatbed transport trailers can haul up to four cars; though it’s bigger than the former type, this trailer is still small enough to be driven on narrow roads.
3. Gooseneck Trailer: they are pretty similar to flatbed trailers; the main difference is their open bed is fixed on a backside axle, allowing them to move quickly and provide a much more secure drive. This type of truck transport is suitable for loading larger loads that can’t fit on flatbed trailers, but at the same time, those loads mustn’t be oversized. Due to its large size, no one can drive Gooseneck trailers on narrow streets; it requires going through specific roads to reach their final destination, which results in expensive truck shipping costs. Learn more about Flatbed Trucking.
4. Drop Deck Trailer: shipping companies use these trailers to transport large vehicles and heavy mechanical equipment from one place to another; the trailer bed can drop down to allow more effortless loading and unloading. It also adds more protection from the backside and front for transported cars since the trailer’s end part can be locked upwards to afford a guarding for vehicles rear side. Drop deck truck shipping costs more and doesn’t provide complete protection from external damage.

Both gooseneck trailers and drop deck trailers can be single-level multi-car and multi-level multi-car, the most common trailer type you often see on streets.

Enclosed Trailers

It is the perfect choice if you are looking for reliable trailer transport that protects your car from all elements, so your car trip will be safe and sound. Professionals use this type of carrier to transport unique, luxury, or sports cars that people invest a lot of money on. People prefer enclosed trailers to valuable cars because these vehicles are nearly impossible to repair. Some parts are rare and hard to find; furthermore, fixing if something happens may cost a fortune.

Enclosed Trailers Tome in Several Capacities

• One-Level, One-Vehicle enclosed trailer: is used to haul one unique and valuable car or truck for short distances.
• One-Level, Multi-Car enclosed trailer: this type of carrier allows transporters to load more than one car; the maximum capacity is three cars per trailer, and semi-trucks usually pull it.
• Multi-Level, Multi-Car enclosed trailer: this enclosed transportation carrier can haul up two rows of vehicles, usually between six to eight cars. Semi-trucks pull it, and their back can move down to make it more accessible.

The enclosed auto transport trailer can protect your car from all possible threats. It’ll be safe regardless of weather conditions or other road hazards; it also provides more privacy if you don’t want your car to be looked at or touched by other people. But these pros do come with higher costs for this transport service; using this type of trailer transport costs more than open carriers.

Some car transportation companies have different kinds of open and enclosed trailers. Tempus Logix, for example, has a vast network of over 30K shippers across the US. They ensure covering all clients’ requirements no matter what, when, and where.

Learn more about the Advantages of Enclosed Auto Transport.

Conclusion

Trailers and trucks used for shipping cars come in different shapes and sizes; there are many options if you want to transport your vehicle. Open carriers are economical and easy to find, but they don’t provide 360-degree protection during the shipping process. Meanwhile, enclosed trailers afford total security at a higher cost. No matter what shipping carrier you use, make sure you are aware of all pros and cons of your choice.

Expert Advice on Harley Davidson Motorcycle Shipping

Auto transport companies fulfill many Harley Davidson motorcycle shipping requests daily. Some clients might be relocating to a new home in another state. Others are taking their motorcycles to and from rallies to enjoy the riding experience with motorcycle enthusiasts.

Whatever the shipping reason is, an auto transport service is the best choice to move a motorcycle from point A to B. In this article, we will help motorcycle owners by providing some excellent expert advice about Harley Davidson motorcycle shipping.

Choose the Best Harley Davidson Motorcycle Shipping Company

The first step to achieving a safe transportation process is choosing the most qualified shipping company capable of carrying out motorcycle transportation successfully. 

This step may sound easy, but the significant number of auto transport companies will surely make things extremely difficult for customers to make a confident choice. However, there are some important factors to consider while choosing a trustworthy carrier:

• The company must be licensed by the Department of Transport and has an authorized MC number. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration gives this number to prove that the company is working under safety and insurance regulations. No one should deal with an illegal company and hand in their motorcycle without verifying the company’s legitimacy first.
• An extensive experience in motorcycle shipping is another essential factor in evaluating the company’s efficiency. Bike owners can check whether the service provider has accomplished their previous motorcycle transportation orders successfully or if they are new to performing this type of shipping by looking for the company’s track record.
• Good communication and customer service can’t be compromised when looking for a reliable shipping company. Customer reviews are a great indicator demonstrating the company’s interest in customer satisfaction and their way of dealing with unexpected accidents that may occur during shipping.     

Select the Suitable Harley Davidson Motorcycle Shipping Method

Auto transport companies offer two options to ship a motorcycle:

• Open auto transport: this is an economical option that involves loading bikes on an open trailer with no sides; this means the trailer will not be able to protect the load against outdoor factors such as bad weather conditions and dust. Therefore, this method is preferred to ship bikes for short distances and during good weather seasons only.
• Enclosed auto transport: enclosed box-like trailers are used in this transportation method to provide utmost protection from all road elements; this extra protection comes with a higher cost. It is advised to use this service when shipping unique luxury motorcycles if the bike owner has to send their precious motorbike in bad weather conditions and for long-distance travel. Read more about open vs enclosed car shipping.

Don’t Forget to Set the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Shipping Cost

Motorcycle owners have to decide on the amount of cash they are willing to pay to get their bikes shipped in advance. Luckily, reliable auto transport companies offer a free motorcycle shipping calculator on their websites to estimate the shipping quote. This calculator can help customers get an approximate transport price to compare different quotes and service features easily.

The cost depends on several factors:

• Shipping method: enclosed auto transport is more expensive since it provides complete protection. Most motorcycle owners choose this shipping type since open transport can be pretty harsh on bikes.
• Time of the year: it’s well-known that the demand for shipping services increases at specific times, such as December and August. So, the cost will be higher than any other time. 
• Advanced booking: if the bike owner is in a hurry to get their motorcycle transported, they have to prepare to pay extra costs for a fast shipping service.

Harley Davidson Motorcycle Shipping Preparations

Proper shipping preparation is the motorcycle owner’s responsibility; it helps prevent many risks during the transporting process. Some essential pieces of advice for preparing a motorcycle are: 

–  Remove all personal belongings and additional accessories

The auto transport company’s insurance doesn’t cover personal items lost or damaged. Additionally, the shipping process may take several days and even weeks. Therefore, loose items will risk shaking and falling the whole time.

–  Check the fuel tank.

If the bike is going to be hauled across the states, the motorcycle’s tank has to be only one-quarter full. However, international shipping drains the tank completely; the same goes for all other fluids.

–  Check the tires

Tires play a significant role in motorcycle safety while in transit; the motorcycle owner should ensure the tires are slightly deflated to help absorb road effects and provide additional bike protection.

–  Inspect the motorcycle’s 

A motorcycle’s owner must inspect their bike by documenting its pre-shipping state and taking pictures from different angles. This step will help clients spot any new damage or scratch which might have happened during the shipment.

Read also Answers to All Common Motorcycle Shipping Questions.

Conclusion

There is much to learn about Harley Davidson motorcycle shipping. However, a trustworthy auto transport company and proper pre-shipping preparation can guarantee a trouble-free transporting process.

Tempus Logix can transport all motorcycles, including Harley Davidson and others. The company has already shipped tens of thousands of vehicles across the US.

How Safe is It to Ship a Car on an Open Trailer?

Since most people have limited and humble knowledge about the ins and outs of the world of car shipping, they will face many problems and confusion when deciding to ship their vehicle. The auto transport industry is wide, and many things clients must know before requesting an auto shipping quote. But here, we will introduce you to one of the most popular shipping methods, the open trailer.

So, forget everything you’ve previously heard about this shipping method because we’ll introduce a new perspective of shipping a car on an open trailer. This article will demonstrate everything you must know about the process.

What is Open Car Shipping?

The open carrier is the most popular and affordable means to transport vehicles from point A to point B. This kind of trailer has no roof or walls, fits between 8 and 10 cars at once, and can transport vehicles in multiple pickups and delivery intervals.

But, because an open trailer is inexpensive, most people consider it dangerous; however, that’s not exactly right. The open trailer could be a safe, fast, and cost-effective option in many cases. 

Whenever shipping a car on an open trailer, the shipped vehicles are secured using advanced equipment, keeping them from moving or shaking during the shipment. 

Facts Prove Open Trailer Transport is Safe

Your car is secure

Unlike what most people believe, cars are completely secured and protected on an open trailer. The open trailer’s structure is designed to hold vehicles of sizes and models safely and securely. Drivers use special chains and immobilizing mechanisms to secure cars on the trailer and ensure they don’t move or deflect.  

Insurance covers any damage

If for some reason your car gets damaged on the way, the open transport company’s insurance will cover the repair work cost. The chances of damage are small, but it could happen.

So, when you decide to ship your car on an open trailer, remember to take pictures and videos of your car from many angles. By that, you will document your car’s pre-shipping status and can prove any recent damages, hollows, or dents during shipment. As a result, you can claim insurance coverage!

Read about Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping.

How Can I Keep My Car Safe During Open Transport Shipping?

Find a reliable auto transport company.

Finding the best car shipping company will be tricky with many online options. However, there are many ways you can spot a trustworthy auto shipping company; for example, you can check past clients’ reviews on the company’s website. 

Many positive reviews and positive feedbacks are good signs, but you must also look for any negative comments and notice how the company deals with them. Do they provide an explanation, compensation, or apology? Or do they not care about clients’ reviews? This step will give a clear insight into the company’s reliability. 

Confirm that the company is registered 

Shipping a car from one state to another is a business, and it shouldn’t be going without approval from the government and the parties concerned. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) must license the auto transport company and give it a DOT number, allowing it to distribute its carriers and trucks around the states. 

So, before hiring any auto transport company, ask about their DOT number and ensure they’re registered by searching the number on the FMCSA website. 

Prepare your car for shipping

Your dear vehicle is about to undergo a long trip, so you must prepare it properly. As a first step, you must take out all your precious belonging, car accessories, and anything valuable that road thieves could steal. Remember, if any item was lost, you cannot sue the transport company or claim for coverage; it’s your responsibility.

This step is crucial when shipping a car on an open trailer because it will be exposed to everyone whenever the driver takes a driving break. Furthermore, you have to check for any fluid leaks and get them fixed by an experienced mechanic to avoid fluids covering your car and others on the trailer; if that happens, you will probably pay a fine. Auto-shipping is not only about your car’s safety but also the safety of other cars on the same trailer and the road.

You must also empty your fuel truck and leave ¼ of it only full. Charge your car’s battery and ensure it works properly, as drivers might need to move it from one place to another. And finally, prepare a set of keys to hand to the open carrier driver.

Learn more about How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping.

The Bottom Line

Although utilizing open trailers for any transportation has some hazards, they also provide benefits over other modes of transportation. Tempus Logix offers different auto shipping services depending on your needs, including shipping a car on an open trailer; contact the company for a fast and easy quote based on the distance of your shipping and what kind of car you have.

You can also utilize the online car shipping quotation tool on Tempus Logix’s website. The AI-based tool is developed to provide an instant and accurate auto shipping cost estimation based on various factors you have to input.

How Does Car Shipping Cost Calculator Work? Is it Accurate?

Car transportation has never been easy; many operations and factors are included in the shipping process, making it remarkably complicated. Therefore, it is pretty confusing to calculate the cost without understanding what variables will affect the shipping pricing.

Fortunately, car owners won’t have hard times identifying each variable and estimating the cost themselves. car shipping cost calculator is a great solution that can help both companies and clients save their time and effort, allowing people to find out how much they will pay for shipping service to decide whether they can afford to book the service or not.

What is a Car Shipping Cost Calculator?

It is a tool that generates shipping quotes instantly. Leading auto transport companies offer this tool for free on their websites so customers can get quotes for their vehicle’s transporting process.

All auto transporters request the same information to estimate the shipping cost. However, the estimator collects present data and predetermined values ​​to estimate how much the transporting cost will be. Therefore, it is recommended to use this tool for introductory pricing rather than a binding offer.

How Does the Car Shipping Cost Calculator Work?

Auto transport companies build car shipping cost calculators especially for their customers to use through the company website. The calculator can provide a free quote depending on specific information the customers enter about their vehicles, what type of vehicle shipping services they are looking for, and the shipping time and distance.

The cost calculators differ from one company to another. However, all of them may ask the customers to enter the following information:

• The general customer information, including name, email address, and phone number
• The vehicle pickup and delivery locations.
• Required transport type (open auto transport, enclosed auto transport)
• The vehicle information such as its type, model, year of manufacture, and operational situation.
• The predicted pickup and drop-off dates.

Car shipping cost calculator uses all details provided by the clients and presents data to generate an initial bid; and usually the company will set the price within one hour or day maximum.

The Main Factors that Affect the Shipping Cost

There are some crucial factors to evaluate when someone decides to transport their car; those are variables that will affect the final price:

The shipping method

Auto transport companies offer two shipping methods; open auto transport is an economical type of vehicle moving service; it is operated using open trailers, so the ship. Enclosed auto transport, which provides total protection, is more expensive than open trailers.

Read about When to Choose an Enclosed Auto Transport.

The vehicle type and model

The shipping price varies depending on the car model; large vehicles cost more than small ones because they weigh more and need more space to fit on the trailer; moreover, if the carrier adjusted the car by adding some large tires, it will increase the final transporting cost. 

The car’s current condition

Vehicle operating conditions is essential in calculating the auto shipping price; operable cars mean a better quote. However, if the vehicle is inoperable, the auto transport company will use specific equipment to apply the loading and unloading operations which means the car owner must pay more for this extra service.

Fluids leak and mechanical problems require more attention and special treatment during shipping. Therefore, it is necessary to inform the transport company about any current issue they need to be wary of.

Pickup and drop-off date and location

Pickup and drop-off locations play a significant role in the price estimation process; first, the carrier will determine the distance an auto transport trailer travels, the arrival time, and the fuel cost. Furthermore, driving in rural areas means going far from main routes resulting in more fuel and time consumption.

The predicted delivery time also affects the cost; the shorter the duration, the more it will add to the bill. Add to this, bad weather and holiday seasons significantly impact the shipping quote.

Other complimentary services

Auto transport companies offer many services, and the leading shipping service, such as tracking and delivery options, adds extra cost to the equation.

Is the Car Shipping Cost Calculator accurate?

It is essential to know that a cost calculator is a convenient tool to save time; it can provide an approximate price depending on the car owners’ existing values, data, and information.

Although it requires comprehensive information about the vehicle statute, shipping distance, and date, the calculated quote shouldn’t be accepted as a final price. Many unpredictable events may accrue during the shipping process, making it extremely difficult to determine the exact cost. However, the quote offered by the car shipping cost calculator is not entirely accurate, but it is pretty reliable.

When anyone looks for an auto transport service provider, they consider the cost first; they will decide whether to book the service or search a bit more for other available choices.

This reason prompted companies to think of an easy method to help their customers. Car shipping cost calculator is a great tool offered by shipping companies that generate reliable free quotes within a few hours.

If you are looking for a reasonable and affordable vehicle transport quote, visit Tempus Logix and use the cost estimator on the website.

Everything You Need to Know About Moving a Bulldozer

Heavy equipment shipping stands out from other transportation activities; it requires a professional shipping team and skilled drivers specialized in transporting heavy-duty vehicles.

Bulldozers are often found on construction sites; They have a big, flat blade that can vary from one dozer to another depending on the reason it was made for, these blades are attached to the dozer’s front, and the blade can be moved using hydraulic arms. Sometimes it becomes necessary to transport such equipment from one site to another or even across the states. Moving a bulldozer is not easy; there are many things to worry about in the shipping process.

There are plenty of vehicle transport companies in the United States, but not all are qualified enough to ship a dozer or a heavy-duty vehicle. This puzzle is one of the challenges bulldozer owners may face while trying to move their vehicles from one place to another.

Choosing a reliable auto transport company is essential to ensure the dozer is in good hands and the company can handle all the details of the transportation process.

What is a Qualified Auto Transport Company?

• It should be registered and fully licensed in order to  get all required permits and operate legally across the states
• Must have skilled drivers, professional teams, and all necessary equipment to move a heavy-duty vehicle
• It should offer insurance coverage for damages that might happen during the transportation. Providing the insurance policy and all the details is also a must

What is the Best Way to Move a Bulldozer?

Auto transport companies offer two main shipping methods, enclosed auto transport which is suitable for rare and expensive cars since it provides complete protection. And open auto transport, which is the best to ship heavy-duty vehicles like bulldozers since dozers are large and heavy, so they can’t fit in enclosed trailers.

However, an extremely large dozer needs an oversized permit to be shipped from one place to another; it also can exceed the height limits, so it can’t pass under bridges. Therefore, it is essential to provide the shipping company with the exact details about the dozer’s weight and height to allow them to plan the best transportation routes.

Moving Bulldozer Attachments

Some dozers can be shipped along with their attachment on the same trailer; when loading it on the trailer, the dozer’s blades must be facing backward to prevent any possible damage.

Meanwhile, a few blade types can’t be transported alongside the bulldozer, such as U-blade and ripper; these blades should be detached from the dozer and shipped separately to facilitate transportation.

Trucks Used in Shipping a Bulldozer

Ask the transport provider about the best truck and trailer combination to ship the dozer, considering the convenient service while keeping the cost as proper as possible.

Small bulldozers can fit on a drop-deck trailer designed to carry tall loads that exceed the height limit. On the other hand, giant bulldozers with more than 30,000 pounds can be moved using a Gooseneck trailer with a higher capacity rating than traditional trailers and can carry more than 40.000 pounds of loads.

The Costs of Moving a Bulldozer

The shipping cost can vary from one company to another, and it is not the same for all transport orders; the price is subject to many factors, including:

• The bulldozer size, height, and weight: the heavier the shipped dozer is, the more it will cost in transportation. Moreover, extra-large cargo requires an oversize transportation permit to move legally across the states.
• As for the height, it is necessary to remove the cab so the dozer will maintain a reasonable height that is safer for everyone; if the length is more than 53 feet, then a loading permit is required to operate rightfully.
• The farther the dropping-off destination is, the more shipping will cost, especially for large dozers that must be transported using a Gooseneck trailer; drivers can’t drive this trailer on all roads. Therefore, they should travel through certain routes where the trailer can move safely, increasing travel distance and cost accordingly.

Preparation Before Shipping a Bulldozer

If you want to ensure a safe trip for the dozer, there are a few things to check before sending it to the next site:

• After the dozer is loaded on the trailer, you should disconnect the battery to prevent the charge from being drained. The doors should be locked and appropriately tied, so they won’t open while in transit.
• It is essential to cover the dozer since it will be loaded on an open trailer and exposed to external elements and dirt.
• You must remove all personal stuff and document the dozer’s condition before shipping to guarantee the company will be responsible for any damage that may occur during transportation.

Conclusion

Shipping a bulldozer is rather challenging. However, dozer owners don’t have to worry much since hiring a professional auto transport company can save their day and guarantee a safe journey to their bulldozer.

Tempus Logix has years of experience shipping heavy-duty vehicles across the states. All required trailers and equipment are available along with professional drivers and team members to organize the whole transportation process from pickup to drop off.

Can Someone Else Pick Up My Car in My Name?

It is hardly a minor task to move a vehicle within the city boundaries, much alone across the country, without the assistance of a professional. If you’re looking for someone to manage your car shipping from one location to another, here’s where carriers and car brokers can come into practice. Auto transport is the easiest and the most convenient way to get your car delivered to your desired destination, regardless of whether you are picking it up in person or authorizing someone else to do it for you. It’s a highly flexible service, and Tempus Logix will arrange the delivery to you or the person you’ve designated as the receiver of your possession. Following your decision to employ auto shipping, here are a few things to know once it arrives at its destination.

The Process of Picking Up a Vehicle at Its Final Destination

When shipping a car, an auto transport company provides you a schedule of delivery dates. Nevertheless, it’s essential to know that a delivery schedule is just an estimate based upon many factors, such as traffic and weather, that may impact the auto shipping duration. Plus, the carrier is likely shipping multiple cars, so that the delivery schedule may vary slightly. 

Auto shipping companies might deliver your car to a terminal or their facilities, where you will be requested to come and pick it up. However, you may opt for door-to-door service and get your car delivered directly to your home. Please be informed that if your provided address isn’t safely accessible, a carrier may arrange a new pick-up location nearby. 

Who Can Pick Up My Car at the Drop-Off Location?

There can be several reasons why you cannot pick up your car at the final destination. For instance, you may be unable to leave your place of work, be out of town, or perhaps not reside in the city where your vehicle should arrive. Anyhow, you can assign someone else to pick up your car, but you can arrange it only ahead of time. If you consider another guy to pick up your vehicle at the last minute, likely, a carrier won’t release your car. Be aware that if you assign someone else (other than the legal owner) to pick up your vehicle, he must have a notarized letter (plus any proof of identity) authorizing to take your car in your name. In addition, the letter should include information referring to a booking number, the full name of the assignee, and information about the car, including vehicle identification number (VIN). 

What Happens if I Cannot Pick Up My Car?

If you have a change of plans in the nick of time and cannot arrange to pick up your car, an auto carrier may offer an option of storing your vehicle for additional fees. Storage fees are placed not by the shipper or auto transport broker but by a terminal company. Therefore, you would be able to retrieve your vehicle from a terminal unit only after paying the storage fee. It’s also essential to inspect your car or ask someone who you trust. It’s the only way to get compensation if your vehicle gets damaged during auto transport. Car inspection reports are initially paper-based, but today you can install a car inspection app on your device to perform a comprehensive vehicle inspection.