Transporting Oversized Loads: Challenges and Solutions

Shipping large or oversized loads can be daunting for many heavy-duty auto transport companies. Vehicles, machinery, or construction equipment are hefty loads that require special handling, transportation expertise, and obtaining the necessary permits since they cannot be transported using average or typical carriers.

Heavy-haul shipping companies have to overcome several challenges to become effective and reliable in the industry. This article will discuss the challenges and solutions companies face when shipping heavy-duty vehicles.

Variety of Auto Shipping Tools

Typically, all heavy-duty machinery is provided with shipping tools tailored to its requirements to avoid damage during shipping and ensure the cargo’s safety.

For example, flatbeds are ideal for transporting large and bulky items that cannot fit in a closed container, while lowboys are suitable for shipping heavy equipment that requires low clearance.

Moreover, multi-axle trailers transport heavy machinery that exceeds the legal weight limit. They can handle an extensive range of weight loads and provide better stability and balance during transit, reducing the risk of damage.

In addition to these specialized trailers, auto-shipping tools include various containers and accessories, such as crates, skids, and pallets. These tools help to secure the machinery and prevent it from shifting or moving during transit, reducing the risk of damage.

An auto shipping company must have access to all types of heavy-duty shipping tools to fulfill client requests.

Infrastructure Limitations

Some machinery can be quite large and difficult to maneuver on the road since many streets can be narrow and unaccommodated to larger vehicles or machines. Sometimes, even bridges or tunnels on the road can become quite an obstacle in shipping large machinery or vehicles. Hence, heavy-duty vehicle shipping companies plan different routes to avoid potential damages and achieve maximum efficiency while transporting different types of oversized cargo.

In order to execute successful shipping plans, a thorough understanding of all the relevant roads, highways, interstates, and local regulations is required. Auto shipping companies possess this knowledge and expertise, allowing them to plan the most efficient routes that minimize driving time and ensure the successful completion of the task.

High Auto Shipping Costs

Transporting large and heavy cargo is not easy, and it requires specialized heavy equipment transportation that can be quite expensive. These tools must also be regularly maintained to ensure their safe and efficient operation; maintaining such equipment requires skilled professionals, who may not always be readily available.

One such tool is the crane, which is crucial in lifting and moving heavy objects. To keep cranes in optimal condition, they must be checked around four times yearly. During these inspections, the electrical circuits, air conditioners, and ventilators are examined and replaced if necessary. Furthermore, the crane’s parts, such as cables and electric rooms, must be inspected to detect any signs of wear and tear or damage.

Another essential tool for moving heavy cargo is trailers. Trailers also require regular inspections to ensure their safe operation, typically twice a year. The brakes, tires, and electric wiring are carefully examined during these inspections for any potential issues. Any worn or damaged components are replaced to prevent accidents or damage during transportation.

While cost is a big issue, there is no way around paying the necessary amounts to ensure the quality of equipment used in heavy-duty shipping.

Legal and regulatory requirements

To comply with legal and regulatory obligations, shipping companies must ensure that all shipments are accompanied by necessary documentation and permits. For instance, wide loads, which are wider than 8.5 feet, may not fit on highways for road travel, while oversized loads typically exceed legal limits. Such shipments require careful handling, appropriate permits, and legal documentation, depending on their type. As a result, reputable shipping companies take steps to shield their clients from the complex legal requirements of the shipping industry.

Failing to meet these requirements can result in severe consequences, such as fines, legal penalties, and reputational damage. Therefore, shipping companies must remain vigilant and keep up-to-date with the latest regulations to ensure compliance and minimize risk.

Theft

A prevalent fear of any client is theft, as this problem isn’t limited to one industry. Heavy-duty shipping companies are always alert and looking to prevent any exploitation of the cargo while shipping. Using high-security rear door locks and air cuff locks on shipping containers is a simple yet effective example of how companies take measures to prevent easy access to their shipments.

Summary

Heavy-duty shipping companies face various issues during the shipping process. Yet, the continuous strive to improve and be the best in the industry motivates them to find solutions to the challenges that arise. Finding the best routes and modes of transport while managing all the legal, environmental, and other aspects is only a glimpse into what these shipping companies do to provide quality services and cater to their customer’s preferences.

Tempus Logix has provided all types of auto transport services for the past eight years. So far, the company has shipped over 45,000 vehicles across the United States, including heavy-duty vehicles of different types. In order to overcome different challenges, Tempus Logix partners with more than 25,000 carriers nationwide to ensure access to professional tools and trailers when needed.

Will AI Replace Human Car Shippers?

Workers in the car shipping industry carry significant burdens while doing their best to ensure a safe and efficient car shipping process. They are the cornerstone of the industry and essential to the effectiveness of all shipping processes.

However, there has recently been a buzz about AI potentials and capabilities, mainly whether AI will replace or assist human car shippers. Several considerations must be addressed when answering this question.

This article explores AI’s capabilities, uses, and types in the car shipping industry and discusses the assumption of AI replacing human car shippers.

Uses of AI in Car Shipping and its Benefits

Integrating AI tools in the car shipping processes has become more prevalent in recent years. AI can simplify tasks and maximize work efficiency in different ways, including:

Increasing Productivity through Tasks Automation

Automating tasks, especially mundane ones, can significantly increase efficiency and productivity in car shipping processes. For example, requesting car shipping quotes through AI-based cost calculators provides clients with instant results. This technology also maximizes responsiveness and allows car shipping companies to reduce distractions coming from minor tasks.

Moreover, AI can enhance other shipping practices, like inspecting cars before and after shipping and monitoring their conditions during shipping. This factor increases cargo safety and avoids disputes resulting from inadequate manual car inspections.

Predicting the Demand for Car Shipping

Car shipping companies can employ AI tools to act proactively and gain an advantage over their competitors, predicting the demand for car shipping services and market trends. Car shipping companies can use this information to appropriately prepare their staff and resources and professionally respond to market demands.

By using AI to analyze the car shipping market, companies can target and reach more clients by adapting their services to meet their expectations.

Scheduling Car Shipments

AI can plan and schedule car shipments, saving time and effort for car shipping workers. AI also ensures timely deliveries since it can accurately analyze the shipping requirements, route availability, and estimated timeframes for carriers to reach their destination. In addition, it provides some helpful tactics that will cut costs and time.

Personalizing Car Shipping Services

In a more innovative level of integrating AI in car shipping processes, AI has the potential to take car owners’ experience with car shipping to a more advanced level by providing them with personalized services.

Car shipping companies can use AI to study clients’ needs, priorities, and preferences after analyzing their shipping history to gain insightful data that will help predict the optimal shipping mode for each client distinctively.

Types of AI for Car Shipping

Different types of AI can be used to maximize car shipping processes and efficiency. Machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing are most commonly used in different industries. In the car shipping industry:

1. Machine learning can predict the demand for car shipping, identify the most efficient routes, and provide real-time data about market status.
2. Computer vision can be used for inspecting cars and monitoring their condition during shipping since it allows the software to understand and analyze images and videos.
3. Natural language processing can be used for optimizing customer service and communication with clients, as well as generating shipping operation reports and being able to read and understand human language.

Will AI Replace Human Car Shippers?

With the accelerating development of AI and the growing number of industries using it to simplify work, the primary concern for many people is whether AI will take their job positions in the future. This is an intensely debated topic in the business world these days.

However, analyses of various markets show that AI, in its current form, is still far from completely undertaking the role of humans in different fields, especially those that require human intervention, like car shipping.

Various considerations make the notion of having AI replace human car shippers inapplicable. Some of these are:

1. Regulatory challenges: The official entities regulating car shipping procedures in the United States mandate car shippers to abide by strict safety laws. Likely, legislating the use of AI in most car shipping processes to the extent that it doesn’t require human aid will not be recognized shortly.
2. Public reception: Depending on AI to handle the entire shipping process from A to Z may not resonate acceptably among car owners, who would be concerned about their cars’ safety and the reliability of AI alone in protecting them. The public’s worries would significantly impact adopting such practices in the car shipping industry.

As a result, AI is still in its initial stages, and it is not quite possible that it will be able to replace humans. Moreover, people should learn how to make the most of these intelligent tools and adapt them to their work practices. AI proves to be a magnificent assistant that can offer business operators incredible growth opportunities.

Conclusion

AI has many practical uses and benefits for the car shipping industry, including improving productivity, predicting demand for car shipping, scheduling shipments, and providing personalized services. However, AI is still far from replacing humans at work despite its significant contributions to the workplace.

Tempus Logix is a professional car shipping company that has already integrated AI into its shipping processes by investing in a cutting-edge smart calculator. Customers can easily and swiftly order car shipping quotes using the company’s AI-based calculator and filling out their shipping information.

The Impact of Auto Transport on Cars

While cars have become an essential need for every individual in the United States and worldwide, no one can go anywhere without a car, whether public or personal. So, even when one travels, many resort to auto transport services to drive themselves anywhere immediately and use their vehicle! These services, however, have different impacts on shipped cars; some are positive, and others are negative. 

So, in this article, we highlight the positive and negative impacts of auto transport services on cars and their owners. 

Positive Impacts

Having one’s car transported to their destination without any worry about the drive, routes, and stops is a great advantage that has allowed many people to enjoy their travels stress-free while keeping their cars safe and secure.

No Added Wear and Tear

While the engine won’t start, the steering wheel won’t spin, and the car’s wheels won’t touch the ground, the chances of damage, regardless of the trailer’s type, are much lower than driving it.

It’s also worth noting that long car drives can cause tire wear, undercarriage damage, and an exhausted system. In addition, the deadly accidents that tens of drivers get involved with, damaging their cars and harming themselves, aren’t there. 

Safe Through All Weather Conditions

By driving long distances, a car can never avoid the weather conditions, whether severe cold or scorching heat. Hot weather, to begin with, can be more detrimental to cars than winter. It can raise a car’s temperature, increasing the possibility of a battery failure, causing the car to burn oil quickly, and so on.

Additionally, cold weather can significantly decrease a car’s battery capacity and performance, not to mention the risks of driving in heavy rain or thick snow. All of these challenges can be mitigated by employing an auto-transport trailer. Even if it’s an open trailer and the car is exposed, the risks are more manageable than driving it on the road.

Insurance 

To get into an accident and damage one’s car, one must have collision or liability coverage, which is a minimum of $290 per year. However, not all car owners can benefit from this insurance, as those with a bad history of violations and accidents must pay a higher insurance fee.

When collaborating with a reputable auto transport company for shipping a car, auto transport insurance is automatically included in the transport deal. Nevertheless, each auto shipping company provides different insurance coverage than another, so confirming this point with the service provider is crucial before the vehicle is on the way. 

Negative Impacts

Even though auto transport services solve many problems and can be life-saving solutions in some cases, there are some negative impacts of these services on the car and its owner.

Risk of Damage

Due to its economical price and relatively safe shipping process, most car owners resort to open auto transport. However, this auto shipping option isn’t 100% safe and guaranteed under severe weather and road conditions.

For example, the car’s paint can fade due to sun exposure; extreme cold can also thicken its oil and freeze its fuel lines. In addition, if the shipping trip is long, dirt and dust can accumulate, a problem that may concern classic and luxury car owners.

High Cost

One can eliminate all the abovementioned problems by opting for the safer auto transport option, enclosed shipping. However, they will encounter a different issue. Renting an enclosed trailer is more expensive than an open one because the privacy and protection levels are higher.

The trailer is fully covered, and external conditions won’t affect a shipped car. Additionally, the enclosed trailer is smaller than the open one, accommodating fewer vehicles resulting in a higher charge.

Vandalism and Theft

During the auto transport process, trailer drivers take regular breaks to ensure the shipment’s safety. During such breaks, and in the worst scenarios, vandals can access the shipped cars—if they are in an open trailer—and cause harm to them. In addition, any personal belongings packed in the car can be stolen if not properly secured.

In fact, in some auto transport companies, it isn’t allowed to pack any personal belongings in the car, and the company doesn’t take responsibility for them. For others, it’s allowed; however, personal belongings are typically not included in the insurance coverage, so if anything is lost or damaged, it’s the client’s responsibility. As for acts of vandalism, most auto transport companies’ insurance policies cover them.

Conclusion

Even though there are some negative impacts of auto transport services, similar to anything in life, one can’t let go of them. The time, energy, and money auto transport services save are great.

Tempus Logix, a long-experienced auto transport company with a long list of shipping achievements, has shipped more than 45,000 vehicles of all types and 67 million miles safely driven.

Shipping Regular Vs. Electric Cars

When relocating from one place to another, arranging for reliable car shipping is critical to minimize relocation hassles. Indeed, car owners will have a pretty easy time preparing their cars for shipping when collaborating with the right company.

However, it is critical to indicate that shipping regular and electric vehicles are two different processes. Therefore, this article explains the process of shipping each vehicle type, highlighting the recommended methods for shipping and explaining the fundamental differences between regular and electric vehicles.

The Difference between Regular and Electric Vehicles

Although both car types, regular and electric, provide drivers with many remarkable features, they have many differences, mainly in powertrain, fuel source, performance, maintenance, and environmental impact.

However, electric cars are distinct from regular ones because they operate with batteries, which calls for taking specific precautions when shipping them across state lines.

The Process of Shipping Electric Cars

Shipping electric cars is, to some level, similar to the general car shipping process, which involves choosing the appropriate shipping method, tools, and labor and preparing the cars for shipping.

They can be shipped with open or enclosed carriers, but opting for enclosed shipping is recommended to protect them from temperature and other natural conditions that could harm their batteries.

Furthermore, electric cars’ battery pack contains hazardous materials like lithium-ion. They are flammable, can produce toxic fumes if damaged, and can set the vehicles on fire if not handled properly. Therefore, car shipping companies take extra precautions to prevent damaging the battery pack. These are mainly:

1. Properly secure the battery pack to prevent movement and damage by using the appropriate straps or tie-downs.
2. Labeling the vehicles as hazardous material ensures they are appropriately handled during shipping.
3. Charging the battery to at least 50% can help prevent it from damage, as well as emptying cars from all fluids to prevent leaks.
4. Covering the cars to protect them from external elements and keeping the battery pack cool and dry to avoid overheating.
5. Using a specialized carrier equipped to transport hazardous materials and hiring a trained driver familiar with shipping such materials.

Not all car shipping companies provide electric car shipping services since the process requires professional equipment and staff who can properly handle shipping cargo with hazardous materials.

The Process of Shipping Regular Cars

Shipping regular cars is less complicated than electric vehicles since shippers won’t be concerned about handling dangerous materials inside the cars. Regular vehicles can also be shipped with open or enclosed trailers, depending on the cars’ value and customers’ priorities and budget.

Open Car Shipping: The Ideal Option for Regular Cars

Regular cars usually don’t require special tools or labor during shipping, minimizing shipping time and costs. Most of the time, regular cars are shipped with open-air carriers for the following reasons:

1. Open car shipping is an economical option for shipping regular cars. Although cars will be exposed to road debris during shipping, that must not be concerning for these vehicles that are on the road daily because they can sustain external elements and factors.
2. This method is commonly used to ship regular cars and is more efficient because its cost matches the vehicles’ value. Indeed, open car shipping can guarantee faster delivery because of open carriers’ greater availability.

Enclosed Car Shipping: Maximizing Security for Cars of Higher Value

Enclosed car shipping is a premium service for shipping high-end cars, such as antique collectibles and more expensive cars. This method is believed to maximize security for these reasons:

1. Enclosed carriers are fully covered on sides and roofs to protect cars from potential damage from external elements, such as weather or road waste. They are designed with safety measures in mind to maximize the loads’ security.
2. Some enclosed carriers have advanced systems and equipment for seamless loading, securing, and unloading processes, such as hydraulic ramps.
3. Owners of expensive cars can have the convenience of using single-car carriers or shipping the car with only one or two other vehicles to maximize safety on the road and their peace of mind.

It is worth noting that enclosed car shipping is more expensive, and the more additional features clients choose, the higher the rates will be.

The Cost of Shipping Regular Vs. Electric Vehicles

Shipping electric cars costs more than regular ones because they need a method with higher safety features and require employing special equipment and professional staff. Moreover, electric vehicles tend to be heavier than regular cars because of the heavy weight of their batteries, which also increases shipping rates.

It is a good idea to visit the car shipping company’s website that will ship your car and use its car shipping cost calculator to obtain an accurate quote for transporting a regular or electric vehicle.

Tempus Logix is a professional, experienced car shipping company that ships all vehicle types nationwide. The company features a state-of-the-art AI-based cost calculator on its website that gives customers instant and accurate car shipping cost estimations for free.

In Conclusion

It is always in customers’ best interest to prepare themselves beforehand and know how to ship a car from A to Z, whether regular or electric, before hiring a car shipping company. Shipping regular cars and electric vehicles are two different processes, each with distinct considerations and requirements.

Driving Electric Vehicles Across the United States

With the frightening consequences of global warming, air, water, and noise pollution, fossil fuel cars are becoming less acceptable and are being replaced by an eco-friendly version, electric vehicles.

Electric vehicles impose many financial and environmental benefits, and they’re the new car trend that will replace fossil fuel cars sooner or later. However, even with their publicity and good reception by many, there are still lots of question marks on how reliable electric vehicles are and if they’re eligible for the long drives that regular fossil-fuel cars undertake without the smallest damage.

So, in this article, we will answer the question that might be roaming all EV owners, “Can I drive an electric car across the United States?”

What is an electric car?

Unlike gasoline or diesel-powered engines, an electric car uses an electric motor powered by batteries. EVs are partially or fully powered by electric power, and they come in many types:

• Battery Electric Vehicles: They only employ a battery, so there’s no fuel consumption; it’s an eco-friendly, safe, and quiet option. Charging this kind of vehicle is possible by plugging it in.
• Hybrid Electric Vehicles: They consist of an engine and a motor; fuel supplies the engine with energy. This type of electric vehicle has a low dependence on fossil fuels and is eco-friendly.
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles: This type of electric vehicle supports both an onboard charger and a gasoline tank. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle emits zero emissions and is fuel efficient.

Can you drive an EV across the United States?

There’s no definite answer on whether or not an electric car can travel across the states. As mentioned above, EV types are many, and some are eligible for long drives on a single charge while others aren’t; range and charge maintenance differ from one electric vehicle to another.  

But no matter which type of electric vehicle one owns, they have to plan for the trip ahead. Many smartphone apps enable car owners for their trips by considering the drive’s length, the passengers’ number, and the luggage weight. These apps also point out available charging points along the trip. 

Tips for driving an electric car for long distances

The precautions required for driving an electric vehicle for long distances aren’t the same as operating a fossil-fuel regular one. Rather, additional proper standards are needed. Here are some:

1.      Take good care of the battery

A battery is the keystone of any electric vehicle; once it’s healthy, a car will operate safely and efficiently. So, a car owner has to take good care of their electric car’s battery, and that by:

• Regularly charge it and never leave it empty,
• Recharge the battery only to 80%,
• Park it in a warm area in cold weather, as low temperatures affect a battery’s health and might even shorten its life span,
• Cool down after a long, enthusiastic drive,
• Don’t push the engine too hard.

2.      Book a charge point

There are many electric vehicles on the road, and they will keep stopping for regular charges. So, charging points might be overcrowded. And since charging an EV’s battery from 20% to 100% takes 25 minutes minimum, the waiting time will be long. So, it’s better to book a charge point in advance; trip planning apps can be very helpful in such cases. 

3.      Watch out for the speed.

With fuel-based cars, the faster a vehicle goes, the more fuel it consumes. And with EVs, the faster a car goes, the more energy it expends. Driving at a very low speed isn’t highly recommended; one has to keep an eye on the speed meter and maintain a balance.

4.      Reduce the car’s weight

The more a car weighs, the more energy is needed to run it. Unnecessary luggage and additional weights will waste energy and compel drivers to charge their vehicles more often. 

5.      Hire a reputable and experienced auto transport company

Not everyone knows about that, but auto transport companies specialize in fossil-fuel cars; they can also transport all types of electric vehicles. So, if a car owner travels long distances using their EV, hiring an auto transport company is recommended, as it will ensure their vehicle’s safety and save them money and time. 

But car owners must remember that transporting an electric car requires more licensing, expertise, and tools than a regular car usually needs. As a result, one should look for a highly experienced and reputable company in transporting electric vehicles.

Tempus Logix is a highly professional and reputable auto transport company that has been a premium name in the industry for over eight years. It has the most seasoned team of drivers and sophisticated auto transport carriers.

The bottom line 

Driving an electric car across the states is possible by taking the proper precautions and efficiently planning for the long trip. However, if possible, the ultimate option that will save car owners trouble, money, and effort is hiring an auto transport company. By that, car owners can rest assured that their electric cars will stay safe and sound for the most affordable price.

Latest Safety Measures in Car Shipping

Every now and then, the car shipping industry regulations are updated by the official departments responsible for law enforcement in the car shipping industry in the United States.

These departments are the US Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and the updates usually aim at encouraging the adoption of the most effective safety measures to protect carrier drivers and other road users.

The most basic regulations enforced by the mentioned parties include defining specific cargo weight and height restrictions, setting legal driving hours for drivers, and determining acceptable vehicle loading, unloading, and distributing practices.

First, the USDOT and FMCSA limit drivers working hours, allowing them to drive no more than 10 hours per day and 60 hours per week and requiring them to take a 30-minute break after every 8 hours of constant driving. This is believed to help drivers avoid driving fatigue, which may ultimately lead to road accidents.

Additionally, car shippers must abide by the rules for safe vehicle loading and unloading, including using the proper equipment, like ramps and dollies. Also, car shippers must proactively prevent vehicles from rolling and tipping during loading and unloading.

The USDOT and FMCSA also enforce car shipping regulations related to vehicle safety requirements and driver qualifications. These include setting safety standards for the vehicles to be shipped, requiring them to have safety chains that prevent them from shifting during transport, brakes to be in good working condition, and tires to have sufficient tread.

Indeed, drivers must be qualified to transport vehicles by motor carriers and be at least 21 years old with a minimum of two years of experience driving commercial vehicles. Drivers must complete a training course about safety, regulations, and vehicle operations before driving a car carrier.

The mentioned regulations are only a part of the rules USDOT and FMCSA enforce. Car shipping companies must follow the rules and maintain legal work practices to demonstrate reliability and safe work practices.

“Car shipping regulations are the cornerstone of effective, efficient, and secure shipping processes. They are key to maximizing carrier, cargo, drivers, and clients’ safety, especially in enabling discerning reliable car shipping companies from counterfeiting ones. Today, legally operating companies are clients’ go-to option because they prove their credibility and sense of accountability. At Tempus Logix, for example, we realize that following rules is critical for saving everyone’s rights. Therefore, our work operations are fully law binding, and we seek to meet every regulatory requirement issued by the official authorities.”

CEO of Tempus Logix, United States

Expectations of Releasing Additional Set of Safety Rules

Car shipping companies are expecting to have new changes with an additional set of rules and regulations for enhancing safety measures during shipping processes. These changes align with the recent innovations in vehicle manufacturing and the incorporation of technological advancements.

Indeed, some of the potentially forthcoming changes the USDOT and FMCSA are believed to be considering are mandating drivers to use electronic logging devices and video cameras in car carriers and equipping carriers with safety features.

First, imposing the use of ELDs, electronic logging devices, is meant to track drivers’ hours of service and prevent driver fatigue. Also, car carriers will require video cameras to record loading and unloading procedures and prevent accidents. Finally, using safety features, like roll bars and safety guards, will help protect vehicles and drivers in accidents.

Overall, rules and regulations in the car shipping industry change from time to time. They are primarily meant to enhance safety and create trustworthiness in the car shipping market.

Self-Driving vs. Renting Trailers

When traveling from one state to another, the need for a car is crucial to have the ultimate freedom to roam the city without needing public transportation or a driver. However, the method for delivering a vehicle to the destination varies; some prefer to drive there, while others hire an auto transport company to rent an open or enclosed trailer.

In this article, we’re exploring these three options, when to choose each, and their pros and cons.

Self-driving

Many people prefer to “kill two birds with one stone” by driving themselves, saving the cost of a flight or train ticket while simultaneously delivering their car to the destination. Self-driving could be a reasonable option; however, it’s advisable primarily when the destination is nearby. The longer the trip, the greater the risks a driver may encounter. Those include car overheating, decreased fluid levels, interior wear, and the list continues. 

Self-driving to the destination requires several preparations. One must conduct a thorough mechanical check to ensure the vehicle can undertake a long drive. Thoroughly planning the route is also essential, including identifying all possible stops, fuel stations, and hotels, especially for long journeys. However, numerous risks are associated with this option, both for the car and the driver.

The advantages of this option include flexibility in terms of timing, as car owners don’t have to adhere to a company’s schedule. It can also be cost-effective if the destination is relatively close.

Renting an Open Trailer

Open auto transport is the most common shipping option among car owners, as it’s a safe and affordable method. An open trailer is a truck with a light trailer; however, as the name implies, it’s without a roof.

By choosing an open trailer, a company will transport the car from point A to point B safely and quickly. When choosing this method, the only source of concern is bad weather and road conditions. Because the shipped cars won’t be shielded, road debris, rocks, dust, and dirt will inevitably find their way to the shipped car.

The damage can be limited to a dirty vehicle in most cases; nevertheless, road debris can cause scratches and damage to the car’s body. There are many reasons why this transport method is the most economical; first, an open trailer accommodates more cars than an enclosed one does. In addition, it’s easier to drive and maneuver than the latter, so it doesn’t require as much effort from the trailer driver.

We recommend using an open trailer for short-distance transport and only for ordinary cars. Putting a luxurious or classic car on an open trailer poses a significant risk, as a driver, no matter how seasoned, can’t control the road’s effects on the shipped vehicles.

Renting an Enclosed Trailer

This type of trailer is the ultimate solution for a safe, stress-free car transport process. An enclosed trailer is a truck with a large box comprising four walls and a roof that fully shields the shipped cargo from potential danger.

The shipped car receives the utmost privacy and protection by renting an enclosed trailer. No road debris can reach the shipped car, surrounded by a steel enclosure. Some enclosed trailers are also temperature-controlled, eliminating concerns about adverse weather affecting the shipped car.

Naturally, all these luxurious advantages come at a higher price than an open trailer, but it’s well worth it. The limited number of vehicles the steel box can contain, which typically ranges from 3 to 7 per shipment, contributes to the transport fee.

Furthermore, as a large trailer pulling a heavy load, this trailer consumes a significant amount of fuel, not to mention the challenges of driving such a trailer. All these factors contribute to the cost of renting an enclosed trailer. This type of trailer is recommended for classic, collectible, and luxurious cars. Additionally, it’s advisable for regular cars if the trip is long and hazardous.

Final Judgement

Each option mentioned above is suitable and beneficial in specific cases; therefore, there’s no definitive answer. However, we recommend always erring on the side of caution. While auto transport services may cost a little more than self-driving, they ensure additional safety and eliminate many accident chances that may cost more than the shipping service itself.

Collaborating with a trustworthy auto transport company should be the top priority if one chooses auto transport services over self-driving. It should be a long-established company with a team of professional drivers. A valid license and a USDOT number are also crucial to confirm that the company complies with United States rules and regulations.

The Bottom Line

After getting to know the three available car transport options, one will know exactly the suitable transport method for their and their car’s case. The key to any success, however, is thorough planning; if it’s self-driving, one must know the route clearly and get their vehicle ready for the trip. If it’s an auto transport, finding the right auto transport company is the best planning for a safe auto transport process.

Tempus Logix Supports College Students

Tempus Logix celebrates International Literacy Day, emphasizing its support for learners worldwide, especially college students in the United States.

The International Literacy Day has been globally celebrated since 1967 on September 8^th every year. The idea behind this event is to remind the public of the importance of literacy and to support people from around the world in literacy programs and agendas.

This day also acknowledges the role of literacy in building more sustainable societies that can participate in the development of different life fields and impact other people to change. Moreover, achieving sustainability in literacy, besides other important life factors, is among World Humanitarian Organizations’ top priorities.

Part of Tempus Logix’s celebration in this event is demonstrating its support for these organizations and their causes and recognizing their efforts to promote fairness and equality through encouraging literacy. The company’s CEO says a word on this occasion, expressing its attitude towards social and humanitarian initiatives and events:

‘On International Literacy Day, time is prime to acknowledge the importance of literacy programs, campaigns, and initiatives in addressing a critical factor for achieving sustainability goals. Literacy and education are keys that can open the doors for development and growth for societies. Nowadays, acquiring literacy in different fields of life, especially technology and new sciences, is essential for achieving personal and business success. On this occasion, we encourage promoting literacy in different fields and acknowledge its importance in sustaining individuals and societies.’

CEO of Tempus Logix, United States

How Is Tempus Logix Supporting College Students?

Tempus Logix has always been eager to demonstrate its belief in the vitality of education and support for college students in the United States. Being a college student usually comes with various responsibilities, burdens, and challenges. Therefore, the company shows its support for college students by offering them these incentives:

Fast and safe car shipping

Tempus Logix offers college students the convenience of shipping any vehicle type from and to any university in the United States. Driving a car to college can be challenging and hazardous, especially when it is in a distant state from their home. That is why collaborating with a reputable car shipper who can handle the process safely and quickly always proves a sound choice.

Delivering Vehicles to Campus

Tempus Logix further maximizes college students’ convenience and peace of mind by offering them door-to-door shipping. This service entails that the company will arrange for the pick-up of students’ cars from their home doorway and the delivery of vehicles to the campus’s parking location. It is a more suitable shipping method for students because it saves them the hassle of driving in a new state, where they are not appropriately familiar with its driving laws and conditions.

Shipping Cars to College Affordably

The most significant incentive for shipping cars to college with Tempus Logix is benefiting from the company’s competitive shipping prices, which are further cut for college students. The company provides very generous discounts for students shipping their cars from and to campus. However, there are some policies regarding these discounts as follows:

1. Students shipping cars to college with Tempus Logix get a special discount for a one-way shipment, which is doubled for students ordering a round-trip shipment.
2. Students organizing their vehicle shipments with others will receive a significant price cut, making for well-deserved discounts.
3. Students must be able to verify they qualify for a discount by providing the company with copies of their college ID and other necessary documents.

Overall, International Literacy Day is an excellent chance to highlight the importance of literacy in sustaining and developing societies. It is also a reminder to support students around the world and promote a non-stop learning mentality.

Green Practices in Auto Shipping

The auto shipping industry joins eco-conscious corporates and organizations in promoting environmental responsibility by adopting green car shipping practices. Maintaining our planet healthy, green, and clean is part of our environmental and social responsibilities as individuals and businesses. Therefore, every small action taken into a greener environment is accounted for and can make a difference.

Personal and Business Contributions

Individuals can demonstrate their environmental responsibility by following several methods, like spreading awareness about environmentally-friendly practices and adopting a sustainable lifestyle. Businesses and organizations also join in promoting a greener future for our planet by acknowledging the factors that harm the environment, mainly fuel emissions.

Impact of Fuel Emissions

The transportation industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, which significantly impact our ecosystem. Although car shipping services are crucial for many people, encouraging green practices in the industry is essential to meet car owners’ needs while minimizing environmental damage.

Tempus Logix’s Commitment to Green Practices

Talking about the impact of fuel emissions on the environment, it is worth mentioning that the transportation industry is a major contributor to producing considerable amounts of greenhouse emissions into our ecosystem.

Having said so, we cannot deny car shipping’s impact on the natural world. Still, car shipping services are important for many people, making encouraging green practices in the industry a must to cover car owners’ needs and eliminate environmental damage.

Therefore, many car shipping companies started to take part in adopting eco-friendly shipping practices and promoting environmental responsibility. Tempus Logix is one of the leading companies in the car shipping industry that takes the initiative to promote healthy and green car shipping practices, and its CEO expresses the company’s concerns about protecting the environment in his speech:

‘Protecting the environment is the responsibility of every individual, being the only contributor whose actions impact the planet. It is time to acknowledge how our actions affect the world and the need to change our attitude towards nature by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Car shipping companies share the responsibility of saving the planet and must start recognizing effective methods to minimize environmental damage to a maximum level.’

CEO of Tempus Logix, USA

Tempus Logix’s Efforts in  Supporting the Environment

Tempus Logix takes many eco-friendly measures to promote a safer and healthier world. Some of the environmentally-friendly practices the company follows involve:

1. Collaborating with modern carriers: Modern carriers are designed to be green and fuel-efficient, which minimizes the amount of greenhouse emissions leaked from these trucks and helps reduce air pollution.
2. Effective route planning: Tempus Logix’s professional team effectively plans shipping routes and makes car shipping trips more direct to reduce the produced emissions.
3. Participating in environmental protection campaigns and events: Environment awareness events are critical in promoting environmental responsibility. People share ideas about effective practices to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which can directly impact our ecosystem.

‘Tempus Logix is doing all within its power to promote healthy practices that contribute to protecting the natural world. From encouraging the adoption of recyclable items to researching fuel-efficient solutions for eco-friendly car shipping, the company is exerting great efforts to promote eco-friendly culture. We are checking the carriers’ fuel efficiency, applying useful vehicle-stacking techniques, and planning the fastest routes to minimize our carbon footprint. Tempus Logix aims to be a role model in following green car shipping practices and leaving a positive ecological impact.’

CEO of Tempus Logix, USA

Conclusion

Overall, protecting the environment is a shared responsibility among all individuals. Environmental organizations and businesses that impact the environment are doing their best to spread awareness and promote eco-friendly practices that can eliminate damage to the planet.

The Potential Dangers of Electric Cars Transport

More than two million electric vehicles are spread all around the US roads; electric vehicles are the environment-friendly replacement for traditional fuel-based cars. This kind of car, lithium ion-based batteries, is witnessing great acceptance by most car owners, and many consider them a safe, affordable option.

However, for this kind of car to be dominant, people need to be educated; they have to get to know this new version of cars; can they rely on them? Are they safe?

So, here we’re eliminating one of the most important concerns that occupy those who have an electric car or are thinking about purchasing one: “What are the potential dangers of transporting electric cars?”

Introduction to lithium-ion batteries, and how do they function?

A lithium-ion battery is the most popular type of rechargeable battery. This type of battery is usually used in mobile phones and laptops. Nonetheless, it has been used recently in electric cars.

A lithium-ion battery comprises a cathode, anode, electrolyte, separator, and two collectors. Each component is responsible for one part of the conversion process; lithium ions and electrons run through the cathode and anode in different directions. The migration of ions and electrons is what creates the electrical current. 

Potential dangers of lithium batteries

Cars with lithium-ion batteries are more prone to fires and explosions than fuel-based vehicles. And that’s due to the batteries’ inflammability, huge capability, and low upkeep. The thermal runaway is one of the most popular causes of lithium battery fires and explosions.

A thermal runaway occurs when one of the battery’s cells experiences an extreme, sudden, rapid rise in temperature. If one of the battery’s cells fails, it can influence another cell, and so on, until a lot of heat is produced, and things might deteriorate, resulting in a fire. A thermal runaway is usually caused by overcharging or a lack of a cooling system.

Is shipping an electric vehicle possible?

Transporting an electric vehicle doesn’t differ much from transporting a fuel-based one; the process is the same, and the fee doesn’t vary much. The lithium battery-based car will be hauled on an open or enclosed trailer, based on a client’s preferences; it will be hauled and shipped exactly the same way followed for transporting a regular car, however, with extra precautions.

How to keep an electric car’s battery safe during shipping?

A client must follow some tips to ensure safety for an electric vehicle and lithium battery. Additional standards are required from an electric vehicle’s owner, as dangers associated with EV shipping are higher. 

1.      Prepare the car

The first and most important step to undertake before sending a car out for shipping is charging it. It was stated before that overcharging a car’s battery might cause a fire or even an explosion

A minimum charge of 20% can achieve the desired result. Having the EV charged will enable carrier drivers to roll the vehicle in and out of the carrier smoothly. 

In the same case as regular fuel-based vehicles, a car owner has to document their car’s pre-shipping state, and that’s after cleaning its exterior and revealing all current issues. Dents, dings, discolorations, etc., must be noted in the Bill of Lading by handwriting, videos, or photos. 

Removing precious personal belongings or car accessories is also recommended if the vehicle is shipped on an open trailer. 

For additional safety and to be rest assured the car’s battery is at its best performance, having a mechanic run a maintenance check on the car’s battery, power inverter, charge module, etc., will prevent potential accidents. 

2.      Hire a reliable auto transport company 

Whether it’s a fuel-based or lithium-ion battery-based vehicle, depending on a fresh, inexperienced auto transport company for such a sensitive task will bring the worst consequences.

A car might be delivered to its owner scratched, dinged, etc. So, a car owner must investigate reliable, reputable auto shipping companies by going through their website, reading their previous clients’ feedback, contacting their customer service agents, and requesting auto transport quotes. If the results of investigating all those are satisfactory, a client can settle and place their auto transport order.

Tempus Logix, a leading auto transport company in the US, has already transported over 35,000 vehicles across the country. Not just that, but over 1000 satisfied clients have left positive comments about the services they received and how happy they were.

3.      Ensure the auto transport company is experienced in electric cars

Even though the chances of a lithium battery’s failure of fire aren’t high during transport, the carrier driver has to be in readiness to react in such scenarios and minimize damages.

As a result, trusting a random, inexperienced auto transport company with one’s EV won’t bring the best outcomes. A trustworthy auto shipping company must know how to operate and ship electric vehicles and have the right tools to do so. 

The bottom line

Transporting an electric car isn’t very common or accepted by car owners yet; they always have questions and exclamation marks on the subject. However, there’s nothing to be afraid of with proper preparation and collaboration with reputable service providers.