Safety Tips for Long Distance Driving Across the States

A long-distance road trip is a fun and unique way to travel. You won’t have to wait for the train, plane, or bus to pick you up and drop you off; you get in your car wherever you’re ready and head directly to your destination.

But even though a long drive is enjoyable and flexible, you must be highly cautious when you’re on the way. Long-distance driving might last for days or even weeks, so you must know how to prepare yourself and your vehicle for a safe trip and guarantee everything will go according to plan.

Read also Which is the US Longest State to Drive Through.

Here’re the top safety tips for long-distance driving across the states.

1.      Prepare Your Car for the Trip

Long-distance driving isn’t like any other drive. You cannot just start your car and head to your destination across the states. A long-distance drive is demanding; you must ensure your car is a good fit for the trip before you’re already on the highway. Here is a list of essentials:

  • Check the fluid levels
  • Ensure the headlights are working well
  • Check the tires pressure 
  • Confirm the brakes are responsive
  • Clean the windows spotlessly

It’s also advisable to take your car to a professional mechanic to conduct a complete vehicle examination. Hence, you ensure it’s functioning correctly, and no surprise will hit you on the way. 

2.      Bring an Emergency Kit

Planning for the unseen moments isn’t only about inspecting the car and fixing its current problems; you have to bring an emergency kit as well, and it must include the following:

  • Tire changing tools
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Jumper cables
  • Spare water
  • Spare fuel 
  • Safety cone or triangle 
  • Car manual 

Having all these items in your emergency kit will help you handle possible injuries in case you get hurt when you’re in a remote area where you cannot call 911 and ask for assistance. Suppose any minor mechanical issues happen to the car; you might be able to fix them with your tools. 

3.      Keep a Safe Distance Between Your Car and the Car Ahead

One of the essential safety tips for long-distance driving is the safety space between cars. Maintaining enough space between your vehicle and the car in front of you will give you the time and space needed to react in case an accident happens. 

4.      Plan Your Route Thoroughly

Planning the trip’s route isn’t only about the highways you will take or which road to follow; there’re many other things to remember. For example, you have to take notes of all fuel stations and rest stops along your way. Accurate road planning will reduce driving time and fuel consumption.

5.      Pay Attention to Drowsiness Signs

Driving long distances is exhausting, mainly if you’re not used to long drives. So, feeling tired, sleepy, or overwhelmed is normal. But you must pay attention to drowsiness signs so you can pull over, rest for a while, or even get a shut-eye. If you started losing focus, having trouble keeping your head up, having a headache, or yawning constantly, it’s an alarm bell; pull over. 

The best advice in such cases is to stop wherever it’s convenient and do whatever might charge your battery, have a snack or a walk, and if sleeping is the only way, adjust your car seat and take a short nap. 

6.      Prepare Some Snacks and Drinks

It’s tough to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road when your stomach is empty, and you will lose focus and grow stressed and uneasy. And because you cannot stop now and then at rest stops to get something to eat, it’s crucial to have some snacks and drinks in the car.

It’s recommended to avoid heavy or greasy food, as it might make you sleepy and tired, and you might even get into a food coma. Instead, take some light and healthy snacks. For example, you can pack single-serve nuts, peanut butter snacks, protein bars, a bottle of fresh juice, and water. These snacks will do the trick of boosting your energy and filling your empty stomach healthily. 

7.      If Possible, Hire an Auto Transport Company

Long-distance driving is sometimes worth it, especially if you have friends or family. But it’s a fact that long drives are also a lot of stress and weary for you and your car. So, if your budget can afford an auto shipping service, don’t hesitate.

Hiring an auto transport company will ease your mind and deliver your car to the required destination without worrying about any safety tips mentioned above. Instead, you must contact a trustworthy shipping company who will handle the job from A to Z. You will sit back, relax and enjoy your train or plane trip.

Tempus Logix is a reliable auto transport company that can transport all types of vehicles across the United States. The company has years of auto shipping experience and has shipped over 30,000 vehicles successfully.

The Bottom Line

If you decide to make the adventure of the long-distance drive, keep the tips mentioned above in your mind. You don’t know what you might encounter along the road, and safety should be your number one concern.

Choosing a Car Trailer or a Tow Dolly

There’re many ways for you to ship your car to a new settlement. You can hire an auto transport company, drive it yourself, use a tow dolly, or a car trailer. But, among all these options, most people prefer car trailers and car dollies, mainly because they’re DIY car moving methods and are primarily affordable. However, the puzzle always remains, which is better, a car dolly or a trailer?

Since each technique has its advantages and drawbacks, it will be very challenging to decide. We’ve spotlighted both options so you can make a rational decision based on knowledge about both methods. Here’s what you should know about car trailers and tow dollies.

What is a Tow Dolly?       

A tow dolly is a two-wheeled micro trailer. It tows vehicles by attaching your car’s front wheels to a dolly. Then, the dolly will be attached to another vehicle to pull the car to the required destination. A tow dolly doesn’t burn much fuel from the vehicle attached to it because it’s relatively light weighted. But, a car dolly doesn’t handle all types of cars.

What is a Car Trailer?

A car trailer is a four-wheeled vehicle carrier; it holds your vehicle entirely off the ground. Your vehicle will be lucked on the trailer during transportation. Unlike a tow dolly, a car trailer works with all cars of all kinds and weights. It protects your vehicle entirely from wear and tear. Furthermore, a car trailer is a good option for transporting vehicles for long and short distances. 

A Tow Dolly vs Car Trailer, What are the Differences? 

Functionality

When you want to transport your car by a dolly, the two front wheels will be attached to the dolly, and the other rear wheels will remain on the ground. This process puts a lot of wear and tear on the car. However, if you go for a car trailer, your vehicle will be safe and secured. Front and rear wheels will be placed on the trailer, not adding any mileage to the car and protecting it from possible damage.  

Cost

When it comes to costs, a car dolly is more economical than a trailer. The cost of renting a trailer isn’t conclusive as well. However, it varies depending on many factors, including the time you rent the trailer and the distance you drive. 

Flexibility

Using a tow dolly isn’t as easy as it may seem. Instead, it requires a lot of experience and practice. You will have to hook the dolly many times and make many trials until it finally works.

In addition, a car dolly isn’t a very flexible option for moving cars because using it depends on the car’s make, length, weight, and ground clearance. Consequently, a tow dolly isn’t attachable to all kinds of vehicles.

On the other hand, a trailer can handle all kinds of cars, and driving it is easier. A car trailer comes with loading ramps, making loading and unloading a safe process. It’s also worth noting that car trailers have brakes while dollies don’t. 

Weight capacity 

There’s a massive difference in the weight capacity between the tow dolly and the car trailer. The latest can haul large vehicles that weigh up to 5000 pounds safely. On the other hand, the simple and basic design of the tow dolly can’t handle heavy vehicles. Instead, it’s only capable of handling lightweight cars. 

A Tow Dolly or Car Trailer, Which One Should You Choose? 

You must go for a car dolly

If your vehicle is light weighted and the distance between point A and point B is close, a car dolly is the best way to go. In addition, if you’re looking for the most cost-effective option, you will never go wrong with a tow dolly.

You must go for a trailer

If you’re not skilled enough to control a dolly, putting your car at risk of damage isn’t the wisest call. You must go for a car trailer. Furthermore, if your car is heavy and a tow dolly won’t be able to handle it, a trailer can easily handle that. 

Read also Car Towing Questions & Answers.

Other options

Hire an auto transport company 

The auto shipping service comes in handy if you want to ease your mind and ensure your car will have the most secure journey. A transporting trailer can haul up to 8 vehicles at once, and you can either go for an open or enclosed trailer. It’s worth noting that shipping service is more costly than a car dolly and a car trailer. 

Drive it yourself

Suppose your car is drivable and in a good state; driving it yourself to the required destination seems reasonable. It will save you the money spent on all the methods mentioned above, and you will guarantee that your vehicle is in the right hands. 

The Bottom Line 

Both car trailers and tow dolly are suitable methods to move your car to the required destination. But you have to consider each method’s advantages and which is the best fit for you and your car’s situation. 

Tempus Logix is your reliable auto transport partner in the United States. The company offers comprehensive shipping services packages, including all types of transport trailers and methods.

Maryland Auto Transport Companies

When it’s time for a vacation, Maryland should be one of the prime options on your list. Even though Maryland is one of the smallest states in the United States of America, it’s a vibrant state in terms of attractions. So, there will be many places to visit and more activities to enjoy. 

After packing your bag and booking your flight or train ticket to Maryland, it’s time to find a reputable auto transport company and schedule a pickup for your car shipment. 

Find a Reliable Maryland Auto Transport Company

Google has made finding service providers a lot more effortless; there’s no need to run from one auto transport office to another, wasting time and energy. Instead, you can find your Maryland auto transport company just by conducting a little search online. 

Google will provide you with limitless options, which will confuse you. So, it’s better to know how to distinguish the reliable Maryland auto transport company from the untrustworthy one. Here are the signs of a good Maryland auto transport company.

A fair price

The shipping service price can tell a lot about the company. For example, some Maryland auto transport companies provide their services for a meager price, which is suspicious because the whole process of car shipping is costly in all aspects.

The carriers burn considerable fuel with each shipment and need regular checks and mechanical repairs to function correctly. As for the professional drivers, the long drives will make them exhausted, so they will ask for a decent payment.

All these expenses are needed to provide clients with the best and safest trip. So, the company isn’t trustworthy whenever the service price is very low. 

A professional staff

The auto transport process is a complex one, and it requires a team of professional drivers. To ensure that the team is reliable, you can meet with drivers in person, ask them about all the details, and inquire about the car shipping safety precautions.

Good drivers must have long experience driving all kinds of trailers under all circumstances. In addition, they must be able to answer all your questions and eliminate your concerns about the shipping process.

Encouraging clients’ reviews

Good customer reviews prove the Maryland car shipping company’s efficiency. Find the reviews section on the company’s website and read the reviews thoroughly. It will give you a deep insight into the strength and weaknesses of the service so that you can make the compromise. 

Where to Ship Your Car to in Maryland?

Once you find the best Maryland auto transport company, you must agree with them on all the shipping details. These details include the trailer’s type, pickup and delivery times, and places.

Although deciding on the timing and the carrier type might be uncomplicated, many people get puzzled about the delivery place. Because when you’re a tourist, you may not have a fixed plan on where you will stay, and consequently, you won’t be able to decide about a specific delivery place.

In this case, Baltimore is the best city to ship your car to. This city is the largest among all cities in the state; it’s proximate to main routes and has well-connected roads. So, as soon as you arrive in Baltimore, you can pick up your car and use this city’s straightforward routes to reach your destination wherever it is. 

Are You Visiting Maryland? Here’re the Top Cities to Visit

There’s a lot to see and more to do in Maryland; it’s the smallest state in size but one of the greatest in landmarks. And since you have your car with you, you should enjoy the vacation to the max by visiting the most amazing cities in Maryland:

Baltimore

Since you will pick up your car from Baltimore, you must seize the chance and spend quality time there. Baltimore is best known for its National Aquarium, which houses above 20,000 animals of all colors and types of fish.

And if you want to give yourself and your car a break from driving, the Inner Harbor cruise is the way to go. It would be a delightful experience to get to know the city from a different angle.

Annapolis

The capital of Maryland, Annapolis, is the best destination for water lovers and historical enthusiasts. You can take a tour through history by walking around the Maryland state house. You will enjoy observing the 18th architecture and the outstanding view of the city, as Maryland State House sits on the highest point in Annapolis.

And if you’re a foodie and water lover, you will have a delightful time. The city’s location next to the Chesapeake Bay makes it home to many seafood restaurants, and you can enjoy fish, crabs, shrimp, and many more. Also, you shouldn’t miss fishing, kayaking, swimming, and many water activities in the bay.

Conclusion 

Any vacation, no matter where, will be stressful and nervous if you don’t have your car with you. So, it would be better to find an excellent and reputable Maryland auto transportation company to deliver your vehicle and make your vacation calm and stress-free.

Tempus Logix offers door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal auto transport services covering all American states. The company can transport all vehicles from and to Maryland professionally and affordably. You can easily visit their website to check the cost estimator and get a price quote in seconds.

South Dakota Auto Transport Companies

If you’re heading to South Dakota and want to skip the long drive, hotel and gas bills, and weary, hiring a South Dakota auto transport company is the smartest move. 

But before hiring one, there’re many things to keep in mind. Here, we’ve gathered the top dos and don’ts for shipping your car to South Dakota.

Do Ask for Recommendations

Finding the best South Dakota auto transport company, among many others, will be daunting. However, the best shortcut is to ask your acquaintances for recommendations. Someone must have previously hired an auto transport company among your friends and relatives.

So, they might be of help to you and assist you through the journey of finding a trustworthy South Dakota auto transport company. However, if no one of your acquaintances has ever shipped their car with the help of an auto transport company, Google will be of great help. You must search for “South Dakota auto transport companies near me,” which will provide you with many options. To make the best call, read clients’ reviews, talk to carriers’ drivers, and confirm the company’s authorization on the FMCSA’s website

Tempus Logix has over 1000 online reviews from happy clients who shipped their vehicles with the company across the United States, including South Dakota.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions

Having many concerns and a lot of questions about the shipping process is normal, especially if you’re transporting your car for the first time. So, no matter how silly or basic the questions roaming your mind are, don’t hesitate to ask. It’s your right as a client to be fully informed by the drivers or customer service about all the shipping steps and procedures.

So, if the South Dakota auto transport company you want to hire has a local office, go there, and talk to a representative. This visit will not only help you eliminate your concerns but have a clear idea about how knowledgeable and receptive the rep is. Consequently, you will be able to determine whether this South Dakota auto transport company is worth the trust or not. 

Otherwise, utilize the internet and talk to their online agents, check how responsive they are and what level of customer service they offer. It will lead you to choose the best service provider and help eliminate some bad options from the beginning.

Do Schedule Your Shipping Service in Advance. 

No one knows when auto transport companies might get busy. So, make sure you place your shipping order as soon as possible to guarantee that they will pick it up and return it at the exact time you want.

Calling a few weeks in advance will ensure enough time for you and the South Dakota auto transport company. You will have the chance to prepare your car, and the company will be able to fit your order into the schedule in advance.

Read about How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping

Don’t Ship Your Car in Peak Seasons

Between the summer and mid-fall end, witnesses a tremendous demand for the auto shipping service. This increase is attributed to many reasons, including Cyber Monday, Black Friday, Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, back to school, etc. Due to this enormous demand, carriers raise their prices. As a result, the only option you will have is to pay the peak season surcharge (PSS.) 

Moving on from the increased fee, all South Dakota auto transport companies will have a very crowded schedule. So, finding one willing to respond to your shipping order will be “mission impossible.”

So, to avoid such unpleasant experiences, it would be better not to book a transport service at these times, but schedule it a long time in advance.

Do Check the Insurance Coverage

Most auto transport companies insure your car against accidents and thefts. However, the insurance coverage differs from one company to another; it ranges from $50,000 to $1,000,000. So, you must ensure everything regarding insurance before hiring the company. In addition, you must ask the probable company about the insurance certificate to confirm that they’re not scammers.

But you must remember that auto shipping companies don’t cover interior damage to the car; they only cover the damages caused by drivers. So, you must remove all loose items from the car’s interior.

Don’t Forget to Clean Your Car

Some people neglect and underestimate the significance of this step as the car will get dirty during the shipment, so why bother themselves?

But washing your car is one of the essential pre-shipping preparations. Because when you wash your vehicle and remove dirt and dust, all current scratches, dents, and dings will appear. So, suppose new damage occurred, you can spot it and claim for the insurance coverage. 

Do Take Pictures of Existing Damage

Once you clean your car and all the existing damages are noted, it’s time to document them. You must take clear photos of every dent, scratch, or damage. What you’re going to do with these pictures is that you will give them to the driver when they arrive to pick up your car for shipping. The photos will help you check if the pickup inspection matches the drop-off inspection. 

The Bottom Line 

These instructions might seem tedious. But the truth is they’re all critical to guarantee a safe and secure shipping journey for your car. And remember that it’s all about the shipping company; once it’s reliable and trustworthy, you can rest assured and not worry about your car’s safety. So, take your time and choose your South Dakota auto transport company wisely and thoroughly.

Tempus Logix Releases its Modern AI Powered Car Shipping Instant Calculator

Motivated by its continuous passion for delivering the best auto shipping services in the United States, Tempus Logix released its brand new online instant shipping cost calculator. The state-of-the-art online calculator utilizes AI and machine learning to provide an accurate cost calculation for auto transportation.

Tempus Logix Inc. is the first company in the vehicle transportation industry that design a car shipping instant calculator using AI technology.

Clients need to visit the company’s website and enter a few details about their auto transportation requirements, like the pick-up and the drop-off zip codes, in addition to the transportation type- enclosed or open. Besides that, the client will enter some information on the vehicle into the online calculator to determine all the shipping conditions correctly.

“We know that auto shipping clients are always seeking a good deal for transporting their vehicles, and we wanted to offer them an instant service to help them make an informative decision. Our company invests heavily in developing the client’s journey, and the shipping cost calculator is just one part of our continuous effort in that direction.”

CEO of Tempus Logix, USA

Although many other auto shipping service providers offer online cost calculators, Tempus Logix went beyond the standard approach and invested in a modern AI-based car shipping instant calculator to provide its clients with accurate quotations instantly and effortlessly. With over 30,000 vehicles shipped across the United States and more than 1000 online reviews from satisfied clients, Tempus Logix knew precisely how to collaborate with developers to build the best-in-class shipping cost calculator, depending on its long years of experience in the field. 

Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms play a significant role in customizing personalized automobile shipping offers via Tempus Logix’s shipping cost calculator. AI is dependable on complex algorithms utilizing behavioral customer data and historical information to develop a better understanding of customer needs. Our AI-based shipping cost calculator uses all available data; collected and processed to offer an individual client-oriented quotation in real-time. Therefore, all customers visiting the company’s website are a valuable asset and will receive a tailored price offer that matches what they’re looking for.

“We know how sensitive auto transportation is for our clients, and we can definitely tell that straightforwardness is appreciated in our industry. Our AI-based shipping cost calculator was designed to make the process easier, smoother, and more transparent. We’ll develop our services constantly to ensure customer satisfaction and the utmost client experience on our website.”

CEO of Tempus Logix, USA.

Save Money Buying a Car from Out of State and Shipping It

Whether you’re buying a car for the first time or want to upgrade your current vehicle, you will probably break the bank. An automobile, no matter new or used, is an expensive asset. However, there are always clever ways to buy the car of your dreams for a reasonable price. Buying a car from out of state and shipping it is among the most money-saving ways. Here’s everything you should know about the process. 

Why Buy a Car from Out of State?

More cars option

One of the top reasons you must consider buying a car out of state and shipping it is the extensive choices you will have. Being restricted to local dealerships and private sellers will limit your options and decrease your odds of finding the car of your dreams. However, if you expand the search scale to all states, you will find many new and used car selections. 

Cars might be cheaper in other states

Car prices vary dramatically from one state to another, attributed to many reasons, mainly the demand and location. For example, the need for convertible cars is way higher in warm states than in colder ones, which means buying a convertible car from a cold state will cost you less than purchasing it from a warm one where the demand is strong. 

In addition, car manufacturers offer different prices according to clients’ location. The rebate, financing offers, and leasing incentives can dramatically differ by location.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Car Out of State?

Sales tax

There’s a common misconception that most people have about car sales tax. They think that if they purchase a car from another state, they will have to pay the tax rate for the state they bought the car from. So, they look for a state that has a lower tax rate. 

But actually, that’s not the case. If you bought a car from any other state than yours, you would be paying the sales tax rate set by your state, not the car’s homeland. 

Registration 

Once you purchase a car from another state and ship it to yours, you will have a limited time before you’re compelled to register it. The duration differs from one state to another. But, registration is a must in all states. 

When you want to register your new car, you have to go to the Department of Motor Vehicles, where they will ask for proof of residence, driver’s license, and the vehicle’s title. Remember that you will likely pay the taxes when registering the car. 

Emission requirement 

Emission requirements and standards differ from one state to another. For instance, states like New York, Arizona, Maine, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Mexico, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia, have adopted the California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards.

Vehicles there are designed to meet the requirements imposed. As a result, if you live in one of the CARB states and bought a car from a non-CARB one, it will probably not meet the standards, and therefore, you will not be able to register it. There’re many exceptions, and you can check them out on your state’s DMV website.

How to Deliver Your New Car Home?

Car delivery is one of the most significant challenges of buying a car from another state. You can deliver your new vehicle in two ways: travel to another state, pick up your car, and drive back to your residence. Or, hire an auto transportation company, which is the wisest call in such a case. 

Why is Hiring an Auto Transport Company the Best Bet?

Many people believe that traveling to the state where the car is and picking it up themselves is more affordable and stress-free than hiring an auto transport company. However, that’s not at all true.

If you decide to pick up the car, you must pay for the train or plane ticket, fuel the new car, then drive it home. The drive will be exhausting and costly because you will have to fuel the car and book a hotel room. Not to mention the threat you will put on the new car; it might get into an accident on the way home or break down due to the long drive.

However, if you hire an auto transport company, they will take responsibility for the shipping process. They will also ensure your new car has the utmost safety and deliver it without a scratch.

You only have to ensure that the FMCSA licenses the company you will hire, and it has been long in the field to have the required experience and knowledge to handle the transporting process successfully.

You also must remember that a reliable auto transport company provides its services for a fair price corresponding to the quality they guarantee. So, it’s a winning bet. Read more about How to Choose an Auto Transport Company.

Tempus Logix is a trustworthy auto transport company that has shipped over 30,000 vehicles across the United States. The company offers to ship all kinds of vehicles, whether as small as a motorcycle or big as heavy-duty vehicles like a bulldozer or a backhoe.

Read about Everything About Moving a Bulldozer.

The Bottom Line 

Buying a car from out of state and shipping will save you a lot of money. But, to ensure that your new vehicle arrives at your residence safe and sound, you must hire the right auto transport company.

Best Affordable Motorcycles to Buy in America

Motorcycles are very admirable vehicles that outperform cars for many. Driving one will never fail to make you feel powerful and free. But this magnificent feeling isn’t cheap. Best affordable motorcycles to buy could be a big budget and not easy to afford, but if you’ve made up your mind about purchasing a motorcycle without draining your bank account, there’re many ways to do so.

Here’s the complete guide on how to find the best affordable motorcycles to buy in America.

Best Two Places to Find Cheap Motorcycles?

Local dealerships

Local motorcycle dealerships are the most convenient way to find affordable motorcycles to buy. They usually have a variety of used motorcycles to select from, and the purchase is usually less risky than a private seller.

Still, not all dealerships are trustworthy; you have to do your homework and conduct comprehensive research on nearby dealerships. Take your time to research their reputation and reliability, and then you can make a rational decision. 

eBay

If you’re not keen on roaming the streets and going from one dealership to another, you can shop for affordable motorcycles from the comfort of your home. eBay is a great platform to purchase used or new motorcycles.

Start browsing a motorcycle inventory by specifying your preferences for the bike’s model, color, year, etc. Once you know the kind of motorcycle you’re looking for, filter the given options by location, price, condition, etc. 

And because buying from a private seller is risky, you must take precautions. Review the eBay sellers’ profiles thoroughly by reading the feedback and researching them on Google. 

Tips for Buying the Best Affordable Motorcycles 

Buy a used motorcycle

It’s a fact that used motorcycles are more affordable than new ones, and there are many things to ensure before making the purchase. For example, the tires’ age can dramatically affect the bike’s performance. So, ensure they’re worthy of road use by checking the date stamped on them. Driving a motorcycle with aged tires is dangerous to you, the road, and passengers, so make sure they’re strong enough to handle rides.

Another thing you have to examine is the maintenance record. This record will give you an insight into the bike’s state and if its previous owner has taken good care of it or not. It’s a deal breaker; if the motorcycle doesn’t have a maintenance record, you better call off the deal and look for another bike. 

Keep the insurance in mind

Many buyers only focus on the bike’s price; they don’t consider the insurance and even forget to ask how much it costs. However, motorcycle insurance could be a massive budget, occupying a big part of a motorcycle’s overall cost. 

Many things affect your insurance, including age, state, and the motorcycle’s capacity, value, safety, and theft rating. So, you may fall in love with two motorcycles that cost the same, but the insurance of one is more expensive than the other. 

What’s motorcycle insurance?

A motorcycle’s insurance is similar to automobile insurance, and it would cover your liability if you had an accident that caused bodily injuries or property damages. 

Have a road test

The road test is a non-negotiable part of the deal. You must try the motorcycle and ensure it runs properly and smoothly, and you have to ensure that the engine is easy to start and not noisy. 

Consider the bike’s height as well; you must be able to plant both your feet in the ground for a safe and confident drive. Last but not least, the motorcycle’s weight. Even though a bike will be heavy, you must ensure how the weight is distributed. For example, a bike with a low-down weight is certainly lighter and easier to ride than a top-heavy one. 

How to Ship a Motorcycle?

Once you’ve discovered the bike of your dreams and agreed with the seller on all details, it’s time to deliver your dear new vehicle home. Driving to the seller’s accommodation and picking your new motorcycle up could be a good idea if the seller is in the same region as yours.

However, if the bike you went for is in another state, driving your car would cost you a fortune. So, it would be a good decision if you hire a vehicle shipping company to pick up the bike from the dealer in another state and deliver it to your home.

Motorcycle shipping isn’t as expensive as many people believe. You can save by booking an open trailer instead of an enclosed one. It’s economical and safe, especially if your motorcycle is in good condition. But, make sure you request quotes from many shipping companies, make a cost-benefit analysis, and settle for the most affordable and qualified company. 

Tempus Logix is a reputable auto transport company that offers motorcycle shipping across the United States. The company has an online motorcycle shipping cost calculator where clients can get an accurate cost estimation for shipping their vehicles, including motorcycles.

Read also about How to Ship a Vintage Motorcycle.

The Bottom Line

Finding a bike in a good state for a reasonable price won’t be easy; you have to know how to research and whom to trust. The golden advice is to do extensive research and don’t settle for the first deal a seller offers. Yet, take your time, study your options carefully, and always seek the help of a professional.

Hawaii Auto Transport Companies

The islands of Hawaii are an excellent spot for relocation. The beautiful nature, warm tropical climate, and crystal blue ocean are winning factors in picking this state for a permanent settlement. So, if you decide to spend the rest of your life in seclusion and privacy in this tropical paradise, there will be many decisions. 

You will be thinking about what to do with your home, furniture, and car. And that will be a lot to process. So, here, we will help you with the car part. Should you take it to Hawaii or sell it? 

What’s the right decision, and how to implement it? Here’s all that you should know.

Should I Sell or Ship My Car to Hawaii?

Leaving your present state and moving to Hawaii has many implications. You will have to figure out what to do with your current house furniture and car. While selling some of your belongings might seem reasonable to downsize what you will not need there, determining what to do with your current vehicle will be one of the trickiest challenges. To make a wise decision, consider the following:

Is your vehicle in a good state?

An old car operating for over ten years is probably not worth the trouble. And if you’re already planning to replace it in the coming year, taking advantage of this opportunity to sell it will be a wise call. However, if your car is new and has no issues, hiring a Hawaii auto transport company to transport it to your new home is the best option.  

What are your options?

The kind of car that you’ve been driving in your state might not be the best to drive in Hawaii. Maybe you’ve been using it for work only, but when in Hawaii, you will use it to reach Hawaii’s mountains, attractions, and beaches. In such cases, your current car might not serve you well there, and you will need to replace it.

The Most Affordable Way to Ship Your Car to Hawaii

If your vehicle is in a good state and can serve you well in Hawaii, why break the bank and purchase a new one? You can hire a Hawaii auto transport company that will transport your car in the most affordable way possible. Here’re the top two:

Driving to the port

Since Hawaii is an island and reaching it by trailer isn’t possible, Hawaii auto transport companies deliver cars by ships. And since ports are mostly far from residences, you will have two options; ask for a trailer to pick up your car and drop it off at the port, or drive your car by yourself to the port.

Even though requesting a trailer will save you the trouble of driving and exhaustion, it will be very costly. However, if you drive your car to the port by yourself, you will save a great deal of money and enjoy an exceptional drive to the harbor. 

Hiring a driver to deliver the car to the port

If you aren’t keen on driving for a long distance and not planning to break your budget, hiring a driver to deliver your car to the port is the most economical method. Finding a driver won’t be hard since many Hawaii auto transport companies include a special driver in the quote. However, if the Hawaii auto transport company you went for doesn’t offer a driver service, you can look for drivers on Google.

Read also about Top Reasons to Ship Your Car to Hawaii.

How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping

Check the fluids level & any leaks

Leaks are a huge problem because they might harm other shipped cars, even yours. So, whether it’s an oil or battery fluid leak, you must fix it before the shipment. 

And to decrease any leakage possibility throughout the trip, reduce the fluid level in the expansion tank as much as possible. This step will not only prevent leakages but will prevent any implications after you receive your car. 

Your fuel tank has to be only ¼ full, which is more than enough to drive you home after you pick up the car and won’t add to your vehicle’s weight. 

Check the battery charge.

When shipping your car to another state, charging its battery is a must. This step is essential because sometimes, drivers need to move it from one spot to another. So, they will probably charge you an extra fee if it is inoperable.

Remove all personal belongings

No matter how valuable your belongings are in your car, no Hawaii auto transport company will make you up if any of them were stolen by a thief or damaged throughout the trip. So, emptying your car of all items is a crucial step.

Find out the answer to the following frequently asked question – Can I Pack My Car When Shipping It.

The Bottom Line

Hiring a Hawaii auto transport company is the best decision you will thank us for later. Your car will significantly help when you arrive in a state you know nothing about. But, in the middle of all the relocation overloading, don’t rush picking any Hawaii auto transport company.

Tempus Logix is your reliable auto shipping partner in the US. The company ships all kinds of vehicles from and to Hawaii in addition to all other American states.

The Strangest Questions About Vehicles Towing Answered

Vehicle towing is the act of pulling a damaged or inoperable vehicle by a tow truck. It’s an advantageous service that helps car owners move their vehicles to an auto repair shop or any other location. This service is primarily safe and doesn’t cause any additional harm to the towed cars. However, people’s knowledge about the towing service is still modest, and they always have numerous questions about it.

So, in this article, we gathered the top strangest questions people frequently ask about vehicle towing.

What Are the Benefits of Tow-Shipping?

Since towing companies have the professional equipment and knowledge to tow vehicles, they guarantee you and your car the utmost safety. It will also reduce the stress of towing your vehicle alone. In addition, most towing companies have storage facilities where they can store your car for as long as you need. However, this service comes with additional fees.

Read also which option to choose – Car Towing vs. Shipping on a Trailer.

What to Do When My Car Breaks Down?

Calling a tow truck is the wisest decision if your car broke down in the middle of the road and there are no repair shops or stations nearby. A tow truck will immediately show up and pull your car to the nearest repair shop.

What Are the Vehicles that Can Be Towed?

All kinds of cars and vehicles could be towed by a tow truck. So, the service isn’t restricted to cars, unlike many beliefs. However, a tower pulls motorcycles, bikes, and certain vehicles. 

And if you have a bus or a van, you can get heavy-duty towing for them, and it’s completely safe and reliable. 

How Much Do Towing Services Usually Cost?

There’s no conclusive answer to the cost question. However, it depends on many factors, such as the time of the day, vehicle type, additional recovery fees, and distance. But usually, the hook-up price starts at 50$, and the more the mileage, the more the expense.  

When Can I Call to Have a Vehicle Towed?

The tow service comes in handy wherever you’re in a taught situation. For example, you should call a tower if:

  • Your car ran out of fuel
  • Your car was stuck in the mud
  • You had an accident
  • Your car broke down
  • Your car’s tires are flat

Is Car Towing Service Legal?

Yes, car towing is entirely legal. But there are many rules and regulations that a car tower driver must abide by, varying from state to state.

Should I Ask for a Car Towing Service If There’s Smoke Coming from My Car?

Smoke is never a good sign, especially white smoke or vapor. You must stay away from the car and call for help. However, if the smoke is blue, there must be something wrong with the engine, mainly due to debris. And you can quickly solve the issue by getting rid of all the debris in the engine.

What to Do While I’m Waiting for the Vehicle Tower?

When the car tower is in its way and if your vehicle is movable, you have to park it in a safe area—for example, a parking lot. However, if your car broke out in the middle of the street and there’s no way to push it to another side of the road, you must surround it with traffic cones to alert other drivers and wait for help. 

Should I Keep My Belongings in the Car?

Certainly, no. Two services don’t take responsibility for any belonging loss. So, ensure you empty your car of all precious items and belongings because any loss or damage is on you. 

What Happens When the Tow Arrives?

As soon as the tow driver arrives, they will give you some paperwork to fill out. They might also give you some instructions and inform you about the steps of the towing process from A to Z. 

Can a Car Tow Damage My Car?

Most probably, no. Car towing is an entirely safe process. But you must ensure that you’ve hired the best and most experienced towing company in the town. 

How and When to Find the Best Tow Company?

When you’re in the very heart of an unfortunate incident or accident, you will not be able to do research and get matched with a reliable towing company. The research step is something that you have to do as soon as possible, like now!

Use Google to get recommendations for the right towing company. You must also read clients’ reviews on all companies’ websites before settling for any, as they can tell a lot about whether or not a company is reliable. 

Tempus Logix is a reliable auto transport company with years of experience moving all kinds of vehicles. The company offers a comprehensive set of automobile shipping services and has over 1000 online reviews from satisfied customers.

The Bottom Line 

Vehicle towing is a beneficial and economical service that might save you and your car from the most unpleasant situations. However, at the same time, it’s a very complex process that needs the most seasoned and professional driver. 

So, ensure that you’ve picked the most reliable company to guarantee you and your vehicle a safe and stress-free service. And remember, quality is the number one priority; don’t ever compromise it for a cheap fee. 

Can you Make Money Flipping Classic Cars?

Classic car enthusiasts are many, but most are looking for classic cars for a reasonable price. And since this need is constantly increasing, you must take advantage of it. If you have extensive knowledge of classic cars and you know how to repair and fix them, flipping classic cars might be your way to make some good money. 

But you must remember that getting into the marketplace of used cars and making money flipping cars needs patience, and you have to make connections, get right with the law, establish a budget, and much more. So, here, we set the top five steps for making money by flipping classic cars. 

What is Car Flipping?

Classic car flipping is a brilliant and safe way to make money. The idea revolves around buying undervalued cars at a low price, fixing them, adding some value to them, then selling them for a higher price and making a profit. Flipping a classic car could be a very lucrative investment if you have the knowledge, time, and connections.

Read about the Facts About Classic Car Investment.

How to Make Money Flipping Classic Cars?

Get right with the law

The first step if you want to make money flipping classic cars is to get right with the law. You have to check the rules and regulations for car sales in your state because there’s a limited number of vehicles you’re allowed to purchase each year. For example, if you live in California, you cannot sell more than five vehicles yearly. But, if you want to sell more than the allowed number, you must apply for a dealer license, a “new and used motor vehicle dealer license.”

Buy classic cars at a low price

Finding a classic car for a low price is the first and most complicated challenge you will face. However, there are many ways you can discover some. For example, small local auctions have classic cars for sale every now and then. However, you must have the required skill and experience to make the right choice and decide whether the vehicle is worth the trouble. 

Find out the Top 5 Classic Cars for Investment in 2022.

Another way to find classic cars for flipping is Craigslist. This website is an online marketplace for used cars in the United States. It might match you with many undervalued vehicles that would turn into a lucrative investment by some modification and repair work. But no matter how promising the deal may sound, don’t purchase until you make a complete visual inspection.

Read about the Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Classic Car.

Spruce the car to add more value to it

This step is what will make or break your investment. If you do it right, the chances of making money flipping classic cars and finding a buyer will boost. As a first step, inspect the classic vehicle you purchased thoroughly and list all the mechanical repairs needed to make it function properly. You can either collaborate with a mechanic or handle the maintenance yourself if you have enough experience, saving you a lot of money.

There are many things to improve the car’s appearance and make it appealing, but here’re the top three tips to follow:

●       Change the floor mats

Floor mats are a crucial part of the car’s interior, and most probably, any buyer will look at them before anything else. So, replacing the old mats with new ones is a must. 

●       Wash the car 

Even though cleaning the car might seem foolproof, there’re many car parts that you might disregard. 

  • As a first step, wipe down the center console with a glass cleaner
  • Clean the bottom of the dashboard
  • Use a toothbrush to clean the tough spots that a wipe might not access
  • Vacuum the car’s ceiling and floor

●       Fix the headlight

Most old cars’ headlights are foggy or burned out. But a car’s headlight is crucial, not only for functional needs but for the car’s appearance. So, fixing it will make a significant difference. 

The repair works mentioned above won’t break your budget and will dramatically increase the car’s value. So, they’re definitely worth the time and money.

Sell cars at a high price

After you’ve done all the repair works, improvements, and maintenance, the car is now certainly worth more than the initial price you purchased it. So, reassess the value by calculating the repair costs and adding the car’s worth. Add a profit margin of around $1,000 to $1,500, and leave some space for negotiation. For example, if you want to sell a car for $4,500, list it for $5,000, so you can reduce the price to anywhere between 4,500 to 5,000. You will get a reasonable profit margin, and the buyer will feel they got a great deal.

Find a Professional Auto Transport Company

You’ll need to ship vehicles from various states while in the car-flipping business. In fact, you’ll need shipping in two directions; your garage and the new buyer’s garage. Sometimes you’ll buy vehicles from dealers out of state, so you must bring the cars to you. Also, some buyers don’t know how to organize moving vehicles they bought from you online, and you need to recommend a trustworthy auto transport company.

Tempus Logix is your experienced shipping partner with over 30,000 shipped vehicles across the United States. The company can help you organize all sorts of auto shipping operations from point A to point B affordably and easily.

The bottom line

Flipping classic cars is a great way to make big money. But since the profit isn’t always guaranteed, it would be better to consider classic car flipping as a side business and not a full-time job.