Your Essential Checklist for Moving to Another State
Moving to another state is a huge undertaking in one’s life; it’s stressful, energy, and time-consuming. You will be looking for a new home, emptying your current one, packing your possessions, and much more.
However, with thorough planning and comprehensive preparations, your move will be a walk in the park. So, the first step after you decide to move to another state is establishing a checklist, making a move smooth, easy, and stress-free. Here is your essential checklist for moving to another state.
Create a Realistic Budget
Moving to another state is never cheap; there are many expenses involved. So, you better plan and establish a detailed budget to be on the right track. Your move to another state isn’t only about booking the flight and renting a house; instead, there will be many other expenses you have to consider.
For example, you will need to hire a moving company and auto transport company, pay for moving supplies, book a hotel room, etc. So, prepare your moving checklist ASAP, and remember to set around 10% of the budget as side money to cover any unplanned or surprising expenses.
Read also Things to Know Before Moving Out of State for College.
Find a House
Spending long days in hotels before finding proper accommodation will break your budget and make your first days in the new state unpleasant. So, never leave your current house until you’re 100% sure your new accommodation is ready.
We’re telling you that finding a house that fits your needs and budget won’t be easy. However, this is one of the most crucial steps for planning your move, so don’t feel pressured if it takes a long time.
You must utilize all resources possible to get matched with the best house. For example, you can look online, talk with a real estate broker, and ask your acquaintances. By that, they will have many options, expanding your search scale and varying your options.
It’s recommended to rent a place that’s close to your kids’ schools and not far from the city. It would also help to visit the place and get to know the neighborhood completely before saying yes to the house.
And if you get fortunate and find the perfect house, we advise you to rent it for no more than six months. This time is long enough for you to figure out your situation in the new state and decide whether you should stand your ground or move back.
Research the Job Market
You are about to start a whole new journey in the state you’re moving to, and having a job is necessary to live a decent and comfortable life. The truth is, you might not get lucky to find a job before actually moving.
So, you must do your homework and study the job market there. Are there many available jobs for your specialty and work experience? How much is the salary range in the state? Will it cover your expenses, or do you have to use your side income?
Consider all these questions and find an answer before booking the flight because they are deal breakers.
Hire a Reputable Moving Company
If you’re not planning on breaking the budget and purchasing a whole new set of furniture and home necessities, you better start looking for a trustworthy moving company to deliver your current belongings to the new home
Options are many, and the time is tight, so researching moving companies online will save you a great deal of time. Research moving companies’ websites and look for the one with the best report with past clients and a long experience in successfully transporting all kinds of furniture and belongings.
Arrange Your Vehicle’s Transport
Moving to another state without having a car will be tense, and buying a new vehicle will be budget-breaking and time-consuming. Driving your car to the new accommodation isn’t the best idea, either. You will wear and tear your vehicle and expose it, yourself, and your family to dangers.
Consequently, the safest bet is to keep your old buddy, your current car. Hiring an auto transport company is very economical and money-saving in the case of moving to another state, unlike many beliefs. So, start by finding a professional auto shipping company to get your car to the new home safe and fast.
Visit auto shipping companies’ websites, contact customer service to get answers to all your questions, and request a quote. It’s advisable to order as many quotes as possible from different auto shipping companies and compare them. By that, you can compromise and hire the company that offers the professional service you want for the expenses you’re willing to pay.
Read about How to Choose an Auto Transport Company.
Tempus Logix has handled the move of over 30,000 vehicles across the United States since its network of shippers includes over 25,000 connections. In addition, happy clients have rated the company more than 1000 times positively. So, it will definitely be worthy of your trust.
The Bottom Line
No matter how stressful moving to another state might seem, thorough planning will make everything easy. Considering the tips mentioned above for setting a moving checklist will guarantee you a successful and smooth move.
Texas Auto Transport Companies
Texas, the Lone Star State, where the BBQ, Tex-Mex food, rich history, ranch culture, and world-class cities gather, is a unique place to spend a vacation. It’s the second largest state in the United States of America, with lots of activities to do and places to visit. So, you will need your car there.
Driving to Texas will add wear and tear to your car, expose it to different threats, and exhaust you; transporting your vehicle to the vacation destination with the help of a Texas auto transport company is the best option. Hiring a shipping company is always the safest, most convenient, and most affordable option. But before hiring any transporting company, there are many things to remember. Here are the top tips for shipping a car to Texas.
Go for an Enclosed Trailer
The climate in Texas is mostly humid and muggy, and if you’re shipping your car in June, July, or August, you have to be extra careful. Humidity and heat affect your car’s interiors and exterior dramatically. Some issues that might affect your car if driven under extreme heat for long distances are tire over-inflation and pressure, engine failure, and oil decrease.
So, going for an open trailer will greatly threaten your car’s safety, exposing your vehicle to harsh weather conditions. So, an enclosed trailer is the safest option when shipping a car to Texas because it’s shielded and temperature controlled.
Read about Top Advantages of Enclosed Auto Transport.
Look for a Company that has a Local Office in Texas
Hiring an auto shipping company with an office in Texas will save you money and time. Local Texas auto transport companies can fulfill the emergence of same-day and late shipping orders as they have an organized and well-distributed network of carriers to meet clients’ demands anywhere, anytime. In addition, hiring a local Texas auto transport company is money-saving and economical because of the logistics cost being cut out.
You can also go for an auto transport broker because they’ll have a vast knowledge of all shipping carriers across the states and can arrange your Texas car shipping order with a suitable and reputable carrier, in addition to negotiating the best price for you. Tempus Logix offers the opportunity to get an instant vehicle shipping quote online via the company’s website, and that would save you time and effort.
Book in Advance
Whether you hire a local or outsider Texas auto transport company, placing the order at least a week before will guarantee your car will arrive at the exact time of your vacation.
Booking in advance is a must with an outsider shipping company because making the arrangements usually takes longer than a local company. In addition, if you book your shipping service as early as possible, it’s more likely to receive the lowest prices, unlike last-minute shipping orders, which are more costly.
Take Precautions
Whether you hire an enclosed or open carrier, you cannot blindly trust any Texas auto transport company. Accidents happen, and your car’s exterior might get damaged due to collisions with other cars or floods.
So, you must take a video, and many pictures of your car showcasing all the current scratches, dents, and hollows on its exterior and file it with the bill of Lading. This video will be proof of your car’s pre-shipping condition. So, if any new damage occurred during shipping, you can prove it and claim insurance coverage.
It’s worth noting that no Texas auto transport company takes responsibility for possessions lost during the shipment. So, no matter how many pictures and videos you take of your belongings in the car, the company won’t cover them if they’re lost. Rather, it’s your responsibility to empty your vehicle from all precious belongings and car accessories.
Know Your Options
All Texas auto transport companies give their clients a choice for the shipping service they prefer, door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal. So, knowing the benefits and drawbacks of both is essential before placing your order.
Door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal?
Door-to-door shipping service
This shipping service is convenient and stress-free. The Texas auto transport company picks up your car right from your house and drops it off at your house or hotel’s door in Texas. So, you won’t need to go to the terminal to pick it up.
Logically, this convenient service isn’t cheap; rather, it’s more expensive than the other shipment service, terminal-to-terminal. So, if your budget is generous and you don’t want to waste precious vacation time running from your accommodation to the terminal and vice versa, door-to-door shipping service is for you.
Terminal-to-terminal shipping service
As for the terminal-to-terminal shipping service, it’s a bit demanding and stressful. You must drive your car to the terminal, which will be hauled on a trailer and shipped to Texas’s terminal. You should also pick it up in person when it arrives in Texas.
Not all Texas auto transport companies are still offering this service. But, if the company you hired uses terminals, it will save you some money. But you have to be ready to deal with many inconveniences along the way.
The Bottom Line
Your vacation in Texas will be free and easy if you hire a reputable Texas auto transport company. You will be able to explore all of Texas’ attractions without stressing over transportation, and you will have your car with you!
Remember our tips for shipping a car to Texas and enjoy your vacation.
Car Shipping Cost in the USA: How to Negotiate the Best Deal?
Whether you’re a college student relocating to a new state, an employee moving to a distant office outside the city, or someone seeking a vacation, understanding car shipping cost in the USA is essential. Having your car wherever you go avoids wasting time and money on public transportation. However, many people view car shipping costs as overpriced and budget-breaking.
Auto shipping services are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to driving long distances. If you’re one of those looking for ways to ship your car affordably, this article will provide all the information about car shipping costs in the United States.
How to Get the Best Car Shipping Deal?
Get multiple quotes
Since car shipping costs differ from company to company, you should never hire any before entertaining at least two different offers. There are many ways you can get a car shipping quote. For example, you can use the online car shipping cost calculator, call customer service, or visit the auto shipping company in person. The best part is that you can request as many quotes as possible; it’s a free service.
Once you have quotes from different auto shipping companies, you can compare the quality of their services and eliminate the ones not fulfilling your requirements. Remember that you must balance benefits with costs and not fall for the low-price offers because, as the saying goes, the devil hides in the details.
Make an Early Reservation
Auto shipping companies usually have a very crowded schedule for car shipments around the states. So, to guarantee your car arrives at its destination when you want for the price you can afford, it’s better to place the transport order ASAP. You also must remember that auto shipping companies impose additional fees on last-minute or late car shipping orders.
Use an Open Trailer
The most popular and affordable shipping method is the open trailer. This shipping carrier is less expensive than others because it doesn’t consume a lot of fuel, fits up to 8 cars of different sizes and models, and is relatively easy to drive.
The open trailer is a safe way to transport vehicles as it secures them completely using the most advanced equipment and strategies. Its only drawback is being open, and cars on it are exposed to road hazards and weather conditions. So, if your vehicle isn’t luxurious or classical, the open car transport is a safe and money-saving option.
Don’t Ship Your Car in the Peak Seasons
Most auto transport companies increase their car shipping cost during summer and springtime as the demand for the service boosts. So, avoid shipping your car at these times and place your shipping order during off-seasons only, as it will dramatically decrease the car shipping cost.
Have Flexible Pick Up and Delivery Locations
Car shipping companies provide clients two options for dropping off and picking up their vehicles. They can either choose the terminal-to-terminal or the door-to-door shipping service.
Go for the terminal-to-terminal shipping service. You will have to drive your car to the company’s terminal, where all vehicles heading to the same location gather to be hauled and transported by professional drivers. However, the door-to-door shipping service is more convenient; the trailer picks up and drops off your car at the nearest point to your house without needing to drive it anywhere.
Reasonably, the most convenient service will cost more, so to negotiate the best car shipping cost, it’s advisable to choose the terminal-to-terminal shipping service.
Prepare Your Car Properly
Because the shipping cost heavily depends on the vehicle’s weight, you must do everything to confirm your car is as light as possible. So, you must empty your fuel tank and leave only a quarter of it full.
Moving on from your car’s weight, an inoperable vehicle with a dead battery will cost additional fees, as it requires special handling. So, ensure your car is working, and its battery is fully charged.
Also, remember to look for leaks and fix them because auto shipping companies oblige an extra fee for transporting cars with such issues. Some auto transport companies don’t ship leaking cars, so this step is critical.
Read more about How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping.
Consider Using the Services of a Broker
Finding the best carrier to ship your car can be tense and challenging, especially with the increased number of auto shipping companies in the industry. So, if you want to save yourself the headache and find a reputable shipping company simultaneously, use the service of an auto transport broker.
Auto transport brokers have considerable and extensive knowledge about the ins and outs of auto shipping. So, they can recommend you to the best companies and get you great deals.
The Bottom Line
Hiring an auto transport company won’t break your budget if you follow the tips mentioned above. And if you’re looking for the most professional and affordable auto shipping service, contact Tempus Logix, as it has moved over 30,000 vehicles safely and successfully across the United States.
Massachusetts Auto Transport Companies
The diverse economy, rich history, and business districts make Massachusetts a dreamland to relocate to. However, relocating, in general, is very demanding and costly; you will be moving your furniture and possessions, renting a new house, and booking a trip. So, you would appreciate any way to save your money.
After reading this article, you can ship your car to Massachusetts in the most economical way; thus, you’ll save yourself the burden of driving your vehicle along the way and the unexpected costs. How do you transport your car to Massachusetts lowest price? Find a trustworthy Massachusetts auto transport company and go for an open auto transport trailer.
What is an Open Trailer?
An open trailer is the most common means of auto transport. It’s a truck with a trailer and has no walls and no roof. An open trailer usually has two levels and fits up to eight cars.
Pros of Open Auto Trailer
Affordability
Relocating is expensive in all aspects, and it always breaks the budget. So, you will not be keen on spending any penny in vain. Open trailers are economical and affordable; they guarantee that your vehicle arrives in Massachusetts safely and without breaking the bank.
But it would be best to remember that the auto shipping cost is affected by many factors, including the distance, your car’s pick-up state, and the shipment type you go for (door-to-door or terminal to terminal.)
To make the best of the open trailer and save more money, make all the maintenance to ensure that your car is in a good state, and go for the terminal-to-terminal service.
Availability
More than 90% of trailers on roads are open trailers. So, all Massachusetts auto transport companies must have many open trailers in their fleet. It means that no matter whether you placed your auto shipping order late or early, many open trailers will be ready to serve you. The case is not the same regarding enclosed trailers, as most Massachusetts auto transport companies have only a limited number.
Safety
Unlike what most people believe, an open trailer is an entirely safe transport means. The only difference between an open and an enclosed trailer is that the enclosed one will shield your car’s body and protect it from external elements such as dirt, dust, and debris, in addition to weather factors such as rain or sun. However, if the weather is good, an open trailer will secure your car and deliver it to the drop-off location safe and secure.
Read about Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping.
Cons of Open Auto Trailer
Not shielded
As mentioned before, an open trailer will expose your car’s body to all threatening and dangerous elements. So, it won’t be your safest bet if the weather is rainy or snowy.
Your car’s body might get damaged, the engine might stop working, and the battery might die, particularly if the distance from point A to point B is long. The longer the distance, the more the threats. In addition, having your car unsheltered on an open trailer will increase the possibility of theft.
Not suitable for all cars types
Suppose you have a luxurious or classical car; an open trailer is never an option. High-end vehicles require special care and complete protection, as a little stone might cause dramatic harm to your car. But an open trailer doesn’t grant this advantage, as it has no roofs, walls, or temperature control.
The insurance doesn’t cover road hazards
Many people are encouraged to hire an open trailer believing that the insurance Massachusetts auto transport companies pay out will cover any damages. But the truth is that auto shipping insurances don’t cover any damage caused by debris, road hazards, or weather conditions.
Best Massachusetts Auto Transport Companies
Shipping your car on an open trailer could be a successful and stress-free experience only if you hire the right, reputable, and experienced Massachusetts auto transport company. Here’s how to find the company you can trust your car with blindly.
Test the customer service
Customer service is the first contact between a Massachusetts auto transport company and clients like yourself. That’s why the quality of customer service is as important as the shipping service. Good employees mirror the company’s standards and rules. If they collaborated with you efficiently and professionally, the company is probably worth a shot.
Check customers reviews
Excellent customer service is a good sign for a trustworthy auto transport company but isn’t the only one. Next, you must visit the company’s website and read previous clients’ reviews and feedback on the service quality.
Clients never lie and are always willing to share a good or bad experience with a Massachusetts auto transport company. So, the reviews section will give you a clear insight into the service quality and if it’s trustworthy or not.
Visit the company’s website
Usually, auto shipping companies have comprehensive websites full of information about the shipping process and all relevant instructions. You can find out more about the company by checking its blog, recent news, and the quality of its website content.
Tempus Logix offers an online AI-based auto transport quotation tool. It will ask you a couple of questions about your auto shipping request and provide an instant quote.
Conclusion
An open trailer is a safe, inexpensive, and time-saving shipping service. So, if your car isn’t luxurious or classical and the trip is relatively short, an open trailer is the wisest call. Ensure you hire a good Massachusetts auto transport company by following our tips.
Buying a Car on eBay and Shipping it Explained in Detail
eBay is a popular online auction platform where many car dealers can list their new and used cars for sale easily and quickly. The most helpful feature of eBay is allowing dealers and customers to negotiate good terms that may not be available in land-based auto shops. Therefore, close good deals in a win-win situation.
So, if you’re about to look for a car on eBay, you have to remember that it will be a long process. There will be many cars to choose from, and you must be extremely cautious when selecting one. In this article, we listed the steps of buying a car on eBay in detail.
Important Things to Bear in Mind Before Buying a Car on eBay
- What type of vehicles to purchase: as mentioned earlier, car choices on eBay are numerous. So, you will get lost and puzzled if you don’t know the type of car you want to purchase. Decide everything about your future car: size, color, performance, number of doors, etc.
- Setting the budget: you must follow two basic rules when Buying A Car On eBay. Firstly, don’t spend more than half of your annual earnings on a new car.
Secondly, when buying a car on loan, the down payment should be 20% of the car’s price. Also, you should choose a loan period of no more than four years, and the monthly payments can’t exceed 10% of the salary.
- Registration document: you should also familiarize yourself with the documents needed to transfer the registration. And that is by inquiring about the details from the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state, as it differs from one state to another.
How Does Buying a Car on eBay Work?
The process is quite simple; the sellers will list their vehicles up for sale on the platform and provide all necessary details. As a buyer, you can use eBay search functionality to filter the results by selecting the manufacturer, model, price range, year, and car condition.
After finding a suitable vehicle, the site will offer two purchasing options:
Place a bid
This option allows you to set your bidding limits. Which is the maximum amount you’re willing to pay to get the car. During the bidding period, the bids will slowly increase until it reaches the limits set by the buyer. If you still insist on purchasing the vehicle, they can choose to exceed the bid limit at any time.
Finally, when the buyer wins the bid, they have to send the money to the seller, get ready to ship the car, and complete all the required paperwork.
Use the buy it now button
Suppose you have set your mind on a particular vehicle and are not interested in getting in the bidding process and competing with other buyers. You can always purchase the car directly by paying the seller the price they asked for.
Ship the new car from eBay
Unlike what many people think, eBay does not offer any auto shipping options. Therefore, you must request and book all car transportation arrangements separately when buying a car on eBay.
Arrange the shipping process with a reliable auto transport company
Car transportation is no less important than buying it. Choosing a trustworthy carrier that meets the following criteria is a must:
- The company has to be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA.) It should also have a valid MC number to prove it is operating legally
- The auto shipping company must have a professional team and all required equipment to carry out the shipping process safely
- The company must have a good reputation among its customers and a proven track record
Choose the Suitable Shipping Method
There are two available carrier options to choose from when transporting a vehicle. An open trailer is the most used method because of its economic cost.
On the other hand, enclosed trailers are preferred when shipping new and valuable cars because this kind of trailer provides complete protection against external factors.
Read about Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping.
How Much Does It Cost to Transport an Automobile?
Transportation cost is affected by several factors, and it differs from one car to another. Therefore, no company can provide a fixed cost until it knows all details, including the car’s state, carrier type, and delivery time. So, to make the cost estimation easier for clients, reliable auto transport companies offer a free car transport cost calculator on their website. This tool generates the cost estimation depending on the details mentioned above and many more, including:
- The car model and size
- The travel distance
- Pick-up and drop-off dates
- Pick-up and drop-off services, terminal-to-terminal or door-to-door
Tempus Logix covers all of the United States with professional auto transport services. The company has an online AI-powered shipping cost calculator available for free on its website. Besides having all types of shipping carriers, the company has an experienced team to organize the shipping process from pick-up to drop-off.
Conclusion
Buying a car on eBay and hiring an auto transport company to get it shipped requires a lot of planning and research. However, following the steps and tips mentioned above, you can find a good car and hire a reliable auto transport company to deliver it to your desired destination.
Georgia Auto Transport Companies
Whatever the reason that encouraged you to go and visit the Empire State of the South, Georgia, there will be a lot to do and even more to see there. And, to be able to do all that and more, a transportation method is required. Your car should travel to Georgia, enabling you to explore every part of the state and make your trip calmer and more enjoyable. The question arises, should you drive your car to Georgia or hire a Georgia auto transport company?
To help you have a clearer idea and make a wise decision, we have put together the top advantages and disadvantages of hiring a Georgia auto transport company.
Advantages
Save time & effort
Driving your car to another state requires you a great deal of effort and time. You will need to thoroughly inspect your car to ensure it can reach its destination without mechanical issues, leaks, or engine damage.
In addition, you will need extensive research on the available auto repair shops on your way to the journey’s end in case of any incident. Let alone the weariness of driving for at least four hours; it would be mere suffering.
On the other hand, a Georgia auto transport company will carry all that burden off your shoulder by picking up your car and unloading it at the final destination without you bothering about mechanical issues and weariness.
Benefit from an insurance
When you are the one driving your car, you are responsible for its safety throughout the trip. As a result, you’re the one who will suffer the consequences and pay to make up for any damage that might be inflicted on the car. Especially that roads outside the city of Georgia are of poor quality. You have to be incredibly cautious and attentive as it’s your budget that will pay for any kind of damage.
Alternatively, a Georgia auto transport company will completely take responsibility for your car. It will cover any damage the carrier driver causes or any damage that might happen while the car is in transit. You won’t have to bother about anything; all you have to do is get on your flight, arrive at your destination, and finally pick up your car from the terminal.
Less wear on the car
The long drive always has negative effects on the car; they’re unavoidable, especially in a state like Georgia, where summers are baking. So, the car might overheat, harming the engine, and stop working. High temperatures might also lower the fluids, including engine oil and coolant. As a result, you will be forced to take regular stops, wasting more time.
And as mentioned earlier, Georgia has poorly maintained roads, which will put more risk on your car’s tires. For example, the rough edges of the road might severely tear the tires’ tread. In addition, rocks, gravel, debris, and many others might dramatically damage the car’s body. But, hiring the right Georgia auto transport company will avoid all these risks.
Disadvantages
Hard to find
Since the number of Georgia auto transport companies is dramatically increasing, finding the most trustworthy among all will be a real challenge. Cars might get easily damaged if it is not loaded and unloaded with the utmost attention.
Drivers have to be hard-bitten and have long years of experience in the car transportation field. And these kinds of people aren’t easy to get matched with. You should conduct comprehensive research online, ask your acquaintances for recommendations, meet the trailer drivers in person, etc. So, it’s going to be a long, overwhelming journey.
Tempus Logix is an experienced auto transportation company with long years of experience in the US market. The company offers Georgia auto transport services for all kinds of vehicles.
Read about How to Choose Auto Transport Companies.
High expenses
One main reason that scares people away from transportation companies is the expensive fee. The reason why auto transport services are costly is attributed to the complicated process involved. Shipping a car requires long preparations, many specialists, tools, and different kinds of carriers.
Not to mention the fuel these enormous carriers consume when going from one state to another. And since the very cheap Georgia auto transport company services aren’t trustworthy, the high expense is unavoidable.
Read also the Tips to Save Money When Shipping Your Car.
Crowded schedule
It’s well known about auto transport companies that their schedule is always busy. After you complete all the steps from requesting a quote, settling for a carrier’s type, and a door-to-door or a terminal-to-terminal service, you will have two options. Either wait until there’s a free appointment, which could be a week or more. Or, you will have to go for a fast-shipping service which will cost you a fortune.
Conclusion
Hiring a Georgia auto transport company is always a safe and reasonable decision. Your car isn’t some object that you can replace whenever you feel like it. Instead, it’s an expensive and cherished belonging, and that’s why it’s always worth both the time and money.
Make sure you hire the most trustworthy and experienced Georgia auto transport company to guarantee that drivers will haul your car with the utmost consideration.
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.
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.
