Classic Car Transportation 101 Everything You Need to Know

Classic and collectible cars of all types and models are precious to their owners, and therefore classic car transport requires more attention to guarantee their safety. Whether it is for repair work or to participate in a collectible car show, it is necessary to transport the vehicle. Classic car transportation ensures that these valuable vehicles are moved with the utmost care and protection.

When it comes to moving your classic car, there are only a few choices: either drive it to a distant location or arrange for an auto transport company to handle this mission for you. Regardless of the choice, it is crucial to understand the shipment process to make an informed decision.

There are two main shipment types. The first thing you need to know before calling a classic car transport company is the two available options for shipping your vehicle.

Open Auto Transport

It is easy to get this service since it is an economical method and it is available almost everywhere. This open auto transportation is done using open trailers with no sides. Therefore, the vehicles will be exposed to all outdoor elements and weather conditions, which means your collectible car won’t be completely safe from external damage.

Enclosed Auto Transport

This option is safer than the first one. The classic and collectible cars are loaded into enclosed trailers that look like a box trailer with all vehicles inside, guaranteeing the collectible cars’ value and a safe trip. With the additional safety comes a higher price; the enclosed classic car shipping cost is more expensive and harder to find. Not many companies have enough experience in this field since it requires special tools and a professional team to apply.

Although both methods effectively transport collectible vehicles, many vintage vehicle owners prefer to use enclosed vehicle transport. They don’t want their investment to be harmed by being exposed to unnecessary risks.

Read about the Top Advantages of Enclosed Auto Transport.

Reliable Classic Car Transport Company

There are many collectible car transport companies, and comparing them can be confusing and challenging. To find a suitable one, look for companies that meet specific conditions to be considered reliable.

The transport department must license a reliable classic car transport company; you can’t trust unlicensed companies, check their websites, find the legal information at the bottom of the home page, and contact the transport department to make sure everything is okay.

A professional and experienced team is dealing with the transport process for collectible vehicles. They should also have the necessary equipment like nylon straps instead of chains that might cause some damage to your car.

Check customers’ feedback, comments, and shipment records. All this information is available on the company website.

Tempus Logix is a licensed best-in-class auto shipping company. With 1000+ positive reviews from satisfied customers and a rich portfolio of 30,000+ vehicles delivered. The company offers automobile transportation and pays significant attention to classic car transportation. The professional team and trustworthy drivers and trucks nationwide will facilitate the transportation process.

Transport Companies and Transportation Brokers Are Not the Same

There is a big difference between the two approaches:

• Transportation brokers don’t own the trucks used in the shipment process and can’t manage them directly. They are pretty similar to middlemen, they can handle the shipment process, but they don’t do it themselves. You might face some difficulties since you can’t communicate with the logistics team. Instead, the communication will be only with the broker, who will contact them on your behalf.
• Classic car transport companies own the trucks and have overall control over the transport operation. They allow clients to have a lot of details and more control over your classic car shipping process.

Pre-Shipping Preparation

Many people don’t know much about preparing their classic cars before the transportation process; there are a few things to do to ensure your vehicle’s safety during the shipment.

• Remove all personal belongings: some companies impose a few restrictions on personal items inside the cars; you, too, don’t want to leave your valuable items in the collectible vehicle since companies usually don’t take responsibility for any personal belongings lost.
• The fuel tank: leaving the tank full is not a good idea; companies charge depending on the car weight. The recommended amount of fuel is 1\4 of the tank; it is more than enough to load and unload the car.
• Battery charge: the battery must be fully charged before the transportation process.
• Document the car pre-transport status: the classic car safety responsibility is its owner’s in the first place; companies don’t cover damage costs if the owner doesn’t provide detailed documentation about the car status before the transportation. It is essential to write everything down, take some photos or even record a video and submit it to the company.

Insurance

It is crucial to know everything about classic car insurance. First, you have to call your car insurance company and get all details about shipment insurance. The second step is to ask the transportation company for a copy of the insurance paper they provide as a part of their services.

Conclusion

It is not easy to transport a classic car, and this process requires a lot of preparation and attention from both the owner and the classic car transport company. You have to know everything and find a high-quality service that pays more attention to details. 

How to Protect my Classic Car on an Open Trailer?

Transporting a collectible car is one of the terrible fears of owners. These cars are sensitive to the slightest damage and not easy to deal with. Many collectors try to avoid such an option as much as possible. But, sometimes there’s no chance but to trust a classic car transport company and hand them the car’s keys. However, reaching that decision should go through comprehensive thinking about whether to go for an enclosed or open auto transport method. (Also check out our Classic Car Transportation Guide for help)

Even though the enclosed trailer is the safest choice for collectible vehicles, some circumstances might compel the owners to choose what they think is the less safe option, the open trucks. The truth is, open trucks could be a secure option if the owner knows how to prepare their collectible car well.

Planning to transport your vintage car? Here is everything you need to know:

Prepare the Collectible Vehicle for Shipping

Remove your personal belongings

Empty the car of all unique and valuable items; classic car transport companies don’t take responsibility for lost or damaged items. Don’t forget that open trailers don’t offer the proper protection from any possibility of theft.

Check all fluids levels

Starting with fuel level, some may think that a full tank is better, but it is not. The recommended fuel level is about one quarter only; it is enough for the load and unloads to reach a nearby gas station. A higher fuel level can cause unwanted problems and increase classic car shipping costs. As for the other fluids, you must fill them. 

Tires and battery

The battery should be fully charged before the shipping to ensure that your classic and collectible car will be ready to start when it arrives. It is also essential to check the tires and inflate them to the proper level so you won’t face any troubles if you want to drive the car for a while.

Take care of all custom items

If your car has a convertible top, make sure to secure it as tight as possible, fold the side view mirrors, remove the antennas to prevent it from getting any damage, and disable the alarm to avoid any unnecessary nuisance during transportation.

Document your vehicle condition

The most important thing to do before the shipping is to document the car’s condition and take notes of every single detail; we also recommend taking some pictures or even recording a video and sending it to the classic cars transport company, so they take responsibility for all new damages if something happens.

Don’t cover the car

Even though open trailers don’t provide complete protection from dust, rain, and other external elements, covering your classic and collectible car isn’t the best thing to do if you want to add more protection. The speed will add more force to the cover resulting in some damage to the vehicle paint; that’s why using a car cover is not a wise choice; you can use it only while the collectible vehicle is in the garage.  

Load the Classic Car

After preparing your car for the transportation process, it is essential to load it safely on the trailer by following these steps:

1. The trailer should be parked on the flat and level patched ground, and the emergency brake should be on. The loading team has to extend the rear ramps to the ground, and two ramps usually provide trailers to load cars more safely.
2. As for the collectible car, you have to line it up behind the trailer with its wheels lined up with the ramps and start driving slowly. Make sure to move with your car front facing the trailer, don’t back it up to the carrier. It may cause some swaying problems. But, you don’t have to bother about these details if you choose a reliable classic car transport company, they will do all the work for you.

Secure the Classic Car

Now the vehicle has been loaded safely on the trailer, the next thing to do is secure it; there are a few things you need to learn about:

Secure the tires

Classic car transport companies use tire straps suitable for small vehicles and keep cars steady using the trailers’ weight. The first one to secure is the left front tire. The belt must be opened, warped around the tire, and then pulled tight while paying extra attention, so the traps don’t get in touch with the car body or any crucial parts.

Axle straps

This type of strap is the best option for large vehicles and collectible cars made before 1990; the straps use the vehicle’s weight to keep it in place, unlike the tire straps, which depend on the trailers’ weight.

It may cause some damage to modern and small vehicles. Right to its name, axle straps must be wrapped around cars’ rear axles and then connected to the back sides of the trailer. Make sure the straps aren’t over-tightened to avoid damaging your car axle.

Choose a Trustworthy Company

The essential factor in guaranteeing your vehicle’s safety is to choose a reliable classic car transport company that can make the whole process easier and safer. Good companies have suitable equipment and a professional team to ensure the job is done the best way possible. They also provide insurance to cover all damage caused by the transportation process.

Conclusion

You might have heard that an open trailer is not safe to transport classic cars, which is not the whole truth; even with open trailers, your vehicle is still safe. It needs some preparation and a trustworthy company to perform secured transport operations and give your car all the attention and care required for a safe trip.

Facts You Should Know About Classic Car Investment

The number of people investing in classic cars increases every year. People in the United States and EU consider classic cars as collectibles, and that’s pretty normal in an industry expected to reach 43.4 billion U.S. dollars in 2024. Moreover, for the last decade investing in classic cars has financially done better than many other collectibles like stamps or coins.

The process of buying a classic vehicle isn’t complicated. The first step is finding a vintage car that’s worth the investment, the next step is performing some maintenance, and that is it! You are ready to sell the collectible vehicle for a profit. As simple as it sounds, if you decide to invest your money in collectible cars, there are a few facts you have to know before you dive in. (Read about Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Classic Car)

This article will introduce the top facts about classic cars every interested investor must know about.

Not All Old Cars are Classics

It is essential to determine if the car is classic and collectible or not; there are a few things to look at when examining a car to decide whether it’s worth the investment, vintage, or just an old rusty car that won’t pay off.

How old is the car?

The first factor is the production year. A vehicle can pass the age condition if it’s 40 years old; 25 years are enough in some cases. It varies from one city or state to another, and you have to do your homework and research the local market and interests. Of course, not all 40 years old cars are collectibles since there are other aspects to confirm.

Is it a rare car or available everywhere?

One of the essential features of the best collectible cars is they are entirely out of production. In fact, some might be a limited edition that you don’t commonly see without an occasion.

Manufacturing highlights

Manufacturing highlights play a significant role in deciding about a vintage car. It starts with design, color, and popularity and ends with engineering, safety, and history. All those factors and much more can add the vehicle to the collectible cars list. 

Nostalgia is something to consider

Several cars are considered classics because they have impacted culture. People grew up with these cars around, turning them into movie stars. This emotional connection is worth being counted among classic cars’ features.

Car’s value

Due to all characteristics mentioned above, collectible cars’ value does increase over time, unlike ordinary vehicles, which are likely to lose their value as years go by.

The Return on Investment isn’t Guaranteed

Like any other type of investment, investing in classic cars is a bit risky; to generate a reasonable revenue, you have to buy a vehicle and repair it before reselling it. Problems usually occur during maintenance.

 To bring the vehicle back to its state of origin, you must pay considerable money; additional costs include maintenance, storage, and insurance. The price can differ due to the car model, how old it is, and what kind of repair it needs. There are no ROIs or profits until the car is sold, which is not the case with other types of collectibles that might pay back a dividend-paying.

It is a Passion and an Investment

Most collectible vehicle owners consider their investment a hobby instead of a profit-making method. They don’t make the purchasing decisions depending on what others would like to buy, but what type of cars they want in their collection.

You can’t get your ROI until the vehicle is sold, which means the only advantage is to have fun driving the car safely until sold. Even if it takes some time, you will still have the option of enjoying the ride on all special occasions. How about participating in some local events or car shows? It is essential to buy the car you would like to have so you can enjoy it as much as possible.

Professional Shipping is Required

When buying or selling a classic car, there might be a need to ship it across the states. Sometimes, valuable vehicles should not be driven for long distances. Therefore, hiring the services of a professional classic car shipping company becomes a must.

Tempus Logix is a professional automobile shipping company with thousands of satisfied clients in its portfolio. The company offers to ship classic and valuable cars via multiple available options and prices. A price estimator is available on the company’s website for free.

A Significant Knowledge is Required

Investing in classic and collectible cars isn’t for nonprofessional enthusiasts. Comprehensive knowledge of all aspects is essential for investors. They must be able to tell if a car is valuable enough and if the price is reasonable.

They need to find an expert mechanic or be a skilled one themselves. Investors have to verify the car’s originality, perform the pre-purchasing check and be aware of the required maintenance the collectible vehicle needs.

Even if you decide to hire an expert to help with your investment, it is still very recommended to get as much knowledge as possible about collectible cars yourself to avoid potential risks.

Classic Cars are Depreciating Assets

It is well known that cars do lose their value over time, collectible vehicles are an exception to this rule, but they are still cars. For these collectible cars’ values to grow over the years, investors have to keep the vehicles in good shape, neat, and with excellent performance.

No one wants to purchase a rusty car with broken or worn-out parts, but excessive modifications are not preferred. The vehicles must be as close to origin manufacturing status as possible, and the rarity of the classic car can affect the depreciation rate.

Conclusion

Suppose you decide to invest your money in classic and collectible cars. In that case, there are a few things to learn about your investment. You have to be clever and knowledgeable enough to make the best out of your investment. 

How to Start a Career Investing in Collectible Cars

Many car lovers are interested in starting their collectible car investment careers. They don’t consider vehicles as means of transportation only, but more like a piece of art that deserves admiration. However, getting into this field requires a lot of preparation. You can find out the Pros and Cons of Investing in Classic Cars.

In 2021, the global collectible cars market generated 33.83 billion US dollars. Therefore, it’s not an easy business field to enter, and there are many things to learn about collectible cars. This article will present some of the most important steps, starting with the basics and the journey until you sell your first classic and collectible car.

Learn More About Collectible Cars

If you are already familiar with collectible vehicles, you might know there are many types to choose from. The critical point is to learn the best way to compare those vehicles and find the best collectible car option for you.

Start with thinking about what type of collectible car you are interested in. There are various types to consider:

Antique Cars

Also known as veteran cars, they were made before the First World War to the time it ended, around 1914-1918. These vehicles lack power steering since they weren’t designed for open roads, making them difficult to drive; they are perfect for car shows.

Vintage Cars

They were made in the years following WW1, around 1919-1930. They are very similar to veteran cars but with more features. Still, they are not easy to drive, and it is tough to find parts for them.

Classic Cars

To call a car “a classic car,” it must be older than 25 years old; some say it should be at least 40 years old. These vehicles are pretty similar to modern ones in many features like design, driving, and safety, which allows people to drive them and show them off not only in car shows but on the roads too.

Get to Know the Market

Before starting your career investing in classic and collectible cars, you’ll first need to understand a few things. You have to know which cars are the best-selling, how much it is worth in the market these days, and regularly keep updated about market trends.

Knowing the collectible cars’ values and prices and how much return you’ll get after selling them is essential. Expert assistance is required to build this knowledge, and they can tell if a car deserves its price or not. However, you have to pay the car price, many additional costs to consider. For example, car repair, maintenance, insurance, and storage. With all these things in mind, it is necessary to take a consultation or two about how things go in the market.

Find a Good Car

Now that you have learned about collectible car types and how things go in the market. It is time to choose a suitable car; you can start by attending auctions, diving into related websites, and joining classic vehicle owner clubs and groups. There are many factors to consider before and after the buying process.

Where to Buy a Collectible Car?

The most common ways are buying with the help of dealers or private resellers; while dealer services are more expensive than private resellers, they are safer to work with. They usually offer better legal and insurance conditions and a broader collection.

Pre-purchase checks

Before you make the purchase decision, you have to be fully aware of the car situation and check the VIN to ensure its originality and engine quality.

Repair costs

Many cars are popular regardless of their condition, but you have to calculate the maintenance cost and add it to the vehicle price to make money.

Learn the Tips About Buying Collectible Cars.

Repairing Process

Repairing is as crucial as finding a good car to buy; you can either fix the car yourself or look for a trustworthy mechanic to do the job.

We have good news for you if you have enough knowledge about mechanical engineering, furniture, and electronics! It won’t be challenging to repair the vehicle without any help. If not, it is not too late to start learning; there are many sources to explore, including video guides, online courses, and more.

Seeking help from an expert mechanic is still an option. However, it is not easy to find a mechanic specializing in collectible vehicles all the time. In addition, you should keep in mind the repairing tools needed to do the work; it may cost you a surprisingly large amount of money as a part of your investment.

Look for Your Potential Customers

Once your car is ready for listing on the market, the job is almost done. There are only a few options for finding a place to sell classic and collectible cars

1. E-commerce websites are a good choice for beginners.
2. Creating a personal website to showcase your cars is also possible.
3. Social media marketplaces have become pretty helpful in this field.
4. Trade shows are an excellent chance to show off and get some potential customers who appreciate the collectible car’s value.
5. You can also set up your vehicle as a classic advert; writing the Ad is the only tricky part about this. The advert must be detailed but without too many words and unnecessary descriptions.

Shipping and Moving Collectible Cars

After closing the deal on your collectible vehicle, it’s essential to search for classic car transport companies. Shipping valuable cars across the states requires professional classic car transport services. For example, Tempus Logix is a trusted and fast auto transport company in the USA, and its portfolio has over 30,000 delivered vehicles across the states.

Conclusion

Starting a career investing in collectible vehicles is like turning your hobby into your ideal job; it needs a lot of effort, time, and preparation to build your knowledge about collectible car types, the market situation, and the repairing process to sell your first car successfully. You have to be patient and consistent, and everything will figure out its way to you.

How to Safely Transport Your Classic Car to the Next Auto Show

Classic and collectible cars have always drawn particular attention. Even though it’s known that cars lose their value after being used for an extended period, collectible cars are different. The collectible cars’ value increases over time due to their excellent design, perfect performance, and rare, expensive parts.

So, if you decide to buy a new classic car or you want to transport yours to an auto show, there are some factors to take into consideration. This article will introduce essential points you should consider when selecting a collectible vehicle shipping company.

Choose a Trustworthy Car Shipping Company

Your collectible car is unreplaceable, and moving it to another place will be a source of stress. So, driving the car to the target destination might not be the wisest option since many obstacles and dangers might come in the way. Collaborating with a reliable classic car transport company is the most secure way. But, how do you identify the best collectible car shipping company that is worth your trust among many others? It’s effortless:

1. You have to ensure the transportation department licenses the company. Otherwise, you’ll be shipping your precious collectible vehicle with a non-reliable service provider.
2. Read clients’ reviews on the classic car transport company’s service and how cautious the team is. You can always find reviews on Google, BBB, or social media platforms. Tempus Logix is a trustworthy collectible vehicle shipping company, and reading client reviews about Tempus shipping services says it all.
3. The company should have suitable and safe carriers that will provide your collectible vehicle with the safest journey from all aspects.

What Type of Shipping Suits Your Classic Car the Best?

There are two options for classic car transport; each option has its advantages and suits specific circumstances.

Open Auto Transport

The first option is open auto transport, this type of transport service is more affordable, but it might not be an excellent choice for a classic and collectible vehicle. This method doesn’t provide complete protection from dust, rain, and other weather conditions.

Enclosed Auto Transport

The second option is enclosed auto transport. It offers perfect protection to your automobile from all weather conditions and road hazards. Most collectible car owners often choose enclosed classic car transport trailers to reduce the risk, even though the enclosed classic car shipping costs more than open carriers.

However, there is no absolute right choice between the two; the best transport type is the one that suits your conditions and budget. It depends on the cost, the availability of transport method, the travel distance, and the vehicle model. It would help if you read about how car shipping works and remember the difference between operable and inoperable cars shipment. If you can’t decide what transport type to choose, you can always discuss the details with the reliable classic car transport company you want to deal with.

Prepare Your Car Before Shipping It

You have to prepare your collectible car before the shipment fully; it is a crucial step. The foremost thing you must do is empty your car. Don’t leave any valuable items or personal belongings in it. This step is vital to avoid damage during classic car transport. Furthermore, these items will add more weight to your car, which means more shipping costs.

Read about Shipping a Car with Personal Items

You also should check the fuel level; we recommend draining the fuel up to only a quarter of the tank; it is enough to load and unload the car; because a full tank results in more weight. You also have to check other fluid system levels and make sure to repair any leaks or mechanical issues; you have to inform the shipping company about any malfunctions. One more thing to examine is the battery charge. It is critical to have your classic and collectible car battery fully charged before shipping it.

Insurance and Documents

The team could fully grant nothing, even if you are dealing with a reliable classic car transport company. Having a copy of the agreement is a must. Call the insurer to ensure that everything is okay. Reading the agreement fully and thoroughly will enlighten you on the contract’s insurance. If you don’t feel comfortable with the insurance terms and conditions, don’t hesitate to communicate with the classic car transport company and let them know about your concerns.

Examine Your Car Inside Out

Now that you have chosen to use a shipping service for your dear collectible car, it is essential to document the complete condition before transporting it. You are the one and only person who is responsible for the car documentation. So, take pictures or even videos of your vehicle from all angles, make notes about any existing damage or mechanical issues before handing your keys to the driver and finally submit it to the classic car transport company. Then, when your car arrives at its destination, don’t sign the delivery paper before checking your car’s condition closely and make sure everything is still the same as pre-transit.

Conclusion

There are many factors to consider if you want to have reliable classic car transport from one point to another. However, the most fundamental thing is to choose the best shipping company; a trustworthy classic car transport company with a professional team is the best guarantee for your collectible vehicle’s safety. After all, any damage to your collective car will negatively affect its market value, and no one wants to be in that situation.

Top 5 Classic Cars for Investment in 2022

No one denies how modern cars that have emerged in the last two decades are wheeled cheetahs, most affordable and arresting. But many people are still wallowing in nostalgia for the olden days. Where cars were designed using a pen and paper, and driving was a manual input that required a high level of proficiency. Back then, cars weren’t robbed of their character.

Many people have recognized the collectible cars’ value in addition to the urgent demand for them and made a profitable investment. Classic car investors profit by purchasing classic cars and selling them at higher prices to vintage motoring enthusiasts. Those People have made reliving that exhilarating experience possible.

If you want to start a career investing in collectible cars, you need to find out what’s happening in that booming market. Here are the top five cars for investment in 2022.

Mercedes Benz 230SL

This Mercedes is a two-seater sports car. It first saw the light in 1963 at the Geneva Motor Show, and since then, the manufacturing company hasn’t stopped producing it until the 5th of January 1967, Mercedes Benz 230SL has entirely ceased.

This collectible car’s value and popularity are attributed to its comfortable drive, four-speed manual transmission, 14″ steel wheels, and hardtop. Mercedes Benz 230SL engine is a 2.3-liter inline-six with 150 horsepower.

This car is an attractive option to invest in because Mercedes wasn’t engaged in manufacturing it for more than four years. The prices are heavy and still on the rise, and Mercedes is a big name; it’s worth a shot.

The 1966 Alfa Romeo Spider

In 1966, the sleek Italian car made its way to production lines. Back then, the spider hadn’t won huge popularity. As for 2022, this is the best collectible car that will be very hard to beat.

Why is Alfa Romeo Spider such an excellent investment?

The spider’s curvy edges are a remarkable characteristic to praise. In addition, it’s a reliable car; powered by an aluminum 1.5-liter inline-4 twin-cam engine with 108 horsepower. It’s also noteworthy that Alfa is the protagonist of the famous film The Graduate, released in 1967. Its price ranges between $20,000 and $70,000. The film’s fans, in addition to the unique admirers, won’t hesitate to purchase that masterpiece. 

Even though the 1966 Alfa is known as the ‘Mini-Ferrari,’ It resembles Ferrari in the lightweight and the swift transmission only. So, it’s not as fast as any Ferrari; Alfa is the best collectible car for a short drive in the city.

Mazda MX-5 / Miata

In 1989, this Mazda was first launched at the Chicago Auto Show. And due to the reasonable price, the producing company has shipped many of these cars worldwide. Four hundred thousand copies of the MX-5 have driven their way to lucky owners; this Mazda has become the best-selling two-seater convertible worldwide.

The Alfa Romeo Spider was in intense competition with the MX-5 since the two were the only roadsters in production back then.

Although the MX-5 was very economical thirty years ago, that’s not the case in 2022; The prices have soared, yet they’re still reasonable compared with other collectible cars.

This sports car two-seat roadster retaining the best safety features, weighing 940 kg only, featuring a 1.6-liter straight-four engine, and delivering 114bhp is the classic and collectible car that’s affordable and will make a killing.

Suzuki Samurai 1985

The Samurai, AKA Jimmy, was released by Suzuki in 1981, but it was until 1985 that this car arrived in U.S. territories. The truth is, Suzuki Samurai hasn’t found wide acceptance, even though it was an efficient and low-priced off-road vehicle.

And, here’s the story of success that most classic and collectible cars share; they start as unpopular, then, many years later, they strike the market with a vast welcoming and a price leap.

Samurai’s 4-wheel-drive system, lightness, and 63 horsepower from a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine have made it to the market again. But, now, Suzuki Samurai cars aren’t as obtainable as they were thirty-seven years ago. Aficionados would very much admire a Samurai Suzuki now. So, why not grasp the opportunity?

Chevrolet Corvette C4

Chevrolet Corvette, produced from 1984 to 1996, is the fourth generation of the sports car from Chevrolet that should be appreciated.

The C4 produced in 1984 started with 230 horsepower. Then, in the 90s, Chevrolet updated the car’s performance correctly; and the LT1 and LT4 engines were introduced to generate up to 330 horsepower.

Whether you go for a 4-speed automatic or 4-speed/6-speed manual transmission, the Corvette has excellent handling, a high-performance engine, and an attractive style. Furthermore, it’s noteworthy that Chevrolet used single headlights in C4 for the first time since 1957. This collectible car should be on your list because Chevrolet fans aren’t few, and days will prove that it’s a successful investment.

Conclusion

The value of collectible cars is gradually increasing, and the investors are also growing. As an investor, you should be a step ahead and up to date with all market developments and what cars will be brought to light. These five cars mentioned above will be a profitable investment in the preceding year. Consider the adequate cars to your budget, and start making money.

One last tip you’ll benefit from after you locate an excellent classic vehicle. Don’t try to drive the car across the states on your own. Hire a professional classic car transportation company to do that on your behalf.

Tips to Prepare Your Heavy-Duty Vehicle for Transportation

When you reach the stage of transporting goods in any business, you feel concerned. The process of transportation is not easy and carries many risks. Still, if the shipment is your heavy-duty vehicle, the situation will undoubtedly be more complex, and your concerns will double. Here are the top tips to prepare your heavy-duty vehicle for transportation.

Wash and Clean Your Vehicle

Cleaning is the first step the owner should take before shipping the heavy-duty vehicle, whether it is a trailer, truck, bulldozer, crane, or hauler. Any scratches, dents, dings, paint chips, or paint marks may appear dust-covered when you wash the vehicle. Washing and cleaning before preparing it for shipment uncover the heavy-duty vehicle value and make it easy to see any damage during its condition report.

The person who usually takes the heavy-duty vehicle for shipment prepares a condition report. Hence, it is preferable to prepare this report while the heavy-duty vehicle is in clean condition. Don’t forget to clean it from the inside and remove anything unsecured such as phone holder, charger, DVD/CD Players, GPS device, etc. Latch the doors, fold the mirrors, and remove accessories such as fire extinguishing cylinders, toolbox, and spare tires.

Take Pictures of Your Vehicle

Take multiple photos after cleaning and washing the heavy-duty vehicle. Make sure your photos and videos cover the entire vehicle from different angles to ensure you have what proves the condition before the heavy-duty vehicle transportation. After the vehicle arrives at the final destination, you need to check it and confirm no additional harm happened during the transportation process.

Use One of the Anti-Rust Methods

Heavy-duty vehicle transport is always open to various weather factors such as rain and dust, which will disclose it to rust and corrosion unless you take good care of your vehicle before shipping, so it is better to do one of the following ways to protect it. You can also consult the auto transportation company about the best possible solution for this purpose.

Galvanizing the vehicle

You can protect your vehicle with a layer of pure zinc and steel that can last for years without peeling, and it doesn’t only protect the heavy-duty vehicle from rust and corrosion but reduces jostling because it absorbs shocks. This rust-proofing method is the most recommended one.

Plating the Vehicle

To plate your vehicle means to cover it with a layer of tin and zinc to protect it from corrosion and rust.

Painting the Vehicle

Painting your vehicle means creating a layer covering the vehicle’s top with paint. Oil-based painting is the most used type because it resists severe weather conditions and humidity. However, be careful that oil-based paintings are more challenging to remove than water-based paintings, and it requires a solvent or degreaser to remove them.

Check Battery and Tire Pressure, and Check for Leaks

Before loading your heavy-duty vehicle and preparing it for transport:

1. Ensure the battery is charged and secured, and then disconnect the battery so that it does not drain.
2. In addition, make certain the tires are in good condition before transportation to avoid running into dangers. If the tires are over-inflated or under-inflated, this will cause damage to the vehicle, especially when loading and unloading, so make sure the tires are in an ideal and good condition to avoid any possible damage.
3. Check the state of the heavy-duty vehicle to see if there are any fluid leaks. Inspect the entire undercarriage to ensure there is no leakage. If you find anything, you must repair it immediately before transportation because most heavy-duty transport companies refuse to transport any vehicle that leaks. If you can’t fix the leakage, you must inform the carrier. A reliable heavy-duty car transport company will take appropriate measures.

Check the Fuel Tank

The fuel tank of the heavy-duty vehicle should not be full because it makes it heavier and can be risky too. Provide your tank with little fuel for transport.

Prepare Yourself for the Risks

Transporting heavy-duty vehicles is more complicated than any car or heavy machinery, so you must be aware in advance that the process is risky. Try to communicate with an expert in this field to be present during loading. Ensure that you are dealing with a reliable transport company with good and long experience in transporting heavy-duty vehicles and heavy machinery. Contact an appraiser to evaluate heavy-duty car shipping costs, which will benefit you later in the insurance policy.

Tempus Logix is a trustworthy heavy-duty vehicles transportation company with over 1000 successful and satisfied clients in this field only. In addition to a long record in automobile transportation across the US.

Conclusion

Heavy-duty vehicles include all large-sized and heavy machinery such as bulldozers, trailers, cranes, trucks, haulers, winches, locomotives, and more. Heavy-duty vehicle shipping cost is considered expensive. In addition, the whole process is complicated and dangerous. So, you must be aware of these matters in advance. Hire one of the reliable heavy-duty vehicle transport companies, and follow the safety procedures and tips mentioned above to avoid risks or any damage that may affect the vehicle.

Top Advantages of Enclosed Auto Transport

If you want to transport your car, you must have heard of auto transport companies and their two options to move the vehicles. The first is open auto transport, which involves loading the cars on open trailers, exposing them to external factors like weather conditions and road hazards. The second option is enclosed auto transport. This method has many advantages, especially if the vehicle is unique or a collectible car; these vehicles require more attention and much more care than normal ones.

However, shipping cars requires learning about the ins and outs of the process, and here are the top advantages of enclosed auto transport:

1. Enclosed trailers offer more protection

With enclosed transport, the cars are shipped using a fully-enclosed trailer, ensuring complete protection from all outdoor elements that could cause damage to the transported vehicles.

There are two types of enclosed trailers depending on the materials used to manufacture them; hard-shell trailers are made of rigid materials such as aluminum, tin, and fiberglass. The second form is soft-shell carriers. Those carriers are made of durable materials like the former ones, but the rigid materials are found at the top, back, and front, while the sides are made of durable canvas; due to the different materials, hard-shell carriers afford a higher degree of protection.

2. Enclosed trailers are smaller and don’t fit many cars

The enclosed carriers are usually the same size as the open carriers, but since they are fully enclosed from the sides, they can’t fit to load as many cars as the open ones. At the same time, the latter can ship up to 10 vehicles; the enclosed carriers only load up to 8 vehicles at once.

So covered trucks mean less space inside; this is one significant advantage because the smaller the size and the space inside the carrier, the safer it is for the car since it prevents the vehicle from moving and shaking during the transportation process and clamps it in place.  

3. More security and privacy

Enclosed carriers offer security features that aren’t available in open auto transport methods. They are equipped with a hydraulic lift making them different from the open trailers.

The lift can drop down to the ground to allow a horizontal load for the vehicles—it provides more safety for all cars, especially the low-clearance types. A drip pan is also equipped within the enclosed carriers.

There are different capacities for enclosed trailers:

1. One-level, one-car trailers
2. One-level, multi-car trailers
3. Multi-level, multi-car trailers

The last one can load 7-8 vehicles organized in two rows, one above the other. Here comes the importance of the drip pans to protect the cars on the bottom level from the fluids that might drip from the upper-level cars.

4. Professional drivers

Since enclosed auto transport is better for classic and collectible cars, the carrier’s drivers are highly qualified. They have a rich experience in taking care of precious vehicles; they are well trained to drive carefully on the roads and ensure the safety of the cars during the transportation process.

Tempus Logix is a brokerage company in the vehicle shipping industry with a record of over 45 million miles driven nationwide. The company offers a comprehensive set of services in the automobile transportation industry. Due to its vast network of service providers across the states, the company provides all kinds of enclosed trailers for different purposes in addition to professional drivers.

5. Privacy

One more significant advantage the enclosed carriers offer is privacy. Suppose you have a rare car that requires transportation, and you don’t feel comfortable with people staring at your valuable car or maybe taking a photo of it. In that case, it’s very recommended to go with an enclosed transportation service to ensure the highest level of privacy.

6. White glove transportation option

Since enclosed transportation service is oriented to meet the needs of customers who have rare and expensive vehicles, some companies offer the white glove transport option, a top-rated service with the best transport methods and tools and the best customer service possible.

It is a premium automobile transportation service that you can get for an extra cost to guarantee the vehicle receives all the care and attention it deserves while being moved; the service includes many features such as door to door delivery, all-time tracking, and personalized options to ensure safe car transportation on time.

7. The best choice for expensive cars

You might have figured by now that enclosed auto transport is the best choice when it comes to shipping classic and collectible cars, but here are some additional reasons why you should probably get this service instead of open auto transport:

Various choices: it provides more choices when it comes to booking the service; since it is used by limited cars owners, which allows more flexibility to set pickups and unloading times that are suitable for the customer, still it is crucial to arrange the service time with the company to fit with your schedule a few days or even weeks ahead.

Instant contact: some auto transport companies provide the ability to contact the driver directly, so they keep clients updated about the car situation.

Insurance: auto transport companies provide insurance that covers a specific type of damage caused by the transportation process. Ask about the insurance and all documents required to benefit from this service.

Conclusion

If you are looking for the perfect method to transport your collectible car for any reason, make sure you are fully aware of these methods’ features. Enclosed auto transport is the best safety, security, and privacy option. Shipping companies have a lot of confidence in offering these services to ensure a safe trip for unique vehicles and deliver them to their destination at the best status.

Top 6 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Classic Car

Buying a classic and collectible car for the first time is not easy; people usually get confused and become unsure of what to do next.

Everyone better be careful and get to know about these common mistakes they might face during the process.

So, if you want to buy a collectible car, it’s the perfect time to read this article; it’ll help you avoid those mistakes and purchase the classic car of your dreams.

Mistake #1- Buying without doing comprehensive research

Whenever you want to buy a new car, let alone this car being the classic type, it’s evident that firstly you have to do some research about the vehicle model, fuel consumption, safety, and much more.

Find out more about the car you’re buying.

Look into the collectible vehicle background, the model, and the year of make. Is the car operable or not? Does it have safety equipment? What color is it? It’s important to mention that your vehicle’s paint color may be worth a lot more than expectations; the same model with rare color can be sold for double the amount of a normal one or even more.

Research classic car transport companies.

After choosing the best collectible car worth your investment, it is time to get information about the classic car’s shipping cost and services. It is vital to be aware of all details regarding car transportation until it reaches its final destination. Some people think it’s easy to drive the classic car home across the states. However, the process is much more complicated, and collectible cars are valuable belongings that require special care.

Tempus Logix is an automobile shipping company that has transported more than 30,000 vehicles nationwide. Classic car transport is one of the many services the company offers cost-efficiently and professionally.

Learn about the Tips to Safely Transport Your Classic Car.

Mistake #2- Buying a classic car you can’t sell

Buying collectible cars should be a hobby to enjoy and a revenue-generating business. When you have a passion for classic cars, you can figure out how to purchase good off-market deals and make money selling them.

It is highly recommended to use collectible cars to make a profit. However, it requires lots of research about the classic car and its market demand. The price of a classic and collectible car at a given time is quite difficult to predict; the purchasing is subject to many factors, including the car manufacture, model, condition, repairs, demand, and others.

Mistake #3- Ignoring your passion

Some people tend to buy classic and collectible cars depending on the vehicle’s popularity, whether they like its model or not. That is a huge mistake you don’t want to make when buying your collectible vehicle.

Don’t decide solely based on the collectible car’s value for others; remember that it is your investment, and it is supposed to satisfy your expectations, not anyone else’s. All collectible car owners understand that getting a new vehicle takes a lot of energy, time, and money. No one wants to waste all that effort to buy a popular classic car they aren’t passionate about.

Mistake #4- Miscalculating the costs

Miscalculating the costs is very common since people are used to thinking about the cost as the classic car price only, which is not correct. Before buying a vintage vehicle, you must calculate all charges related to the purchasing process and ensure you can afford it.

The upkeep costs may exceed your expectations, mainly if you are sticking with original parts which require regular repairs from time to time, not to mention the cost of replacing some parts; they are expensive and rare, so you might face some difficulties looking for them if needed.

Mistake #5- Skipping the VIN check

Before buying a collectible vehicle, it is essential to check its VIN (Vehicle’s Identification Number). Usually, you will find it stamped directly onto the engine. If not, try looking for it on the dashboard exterior or under the spare tire.

Ask the car owner or the dealer for the vehicle’s VIN if you still can’t find it. This number allows for verifying whether a car is suspicious or not; it is the best way to find out about the vehicle’s true identity. Checking this number helps identify if the engine has been replaced or something is wrong. Moreover, it’s easy to check the VIN since car manufacturers, and registration agencies have a complete database of VIN information. 

Mistake #6- Forgetting the need for a particular mechanic to help

It is pretty easy to find a mechanic for your car these days. Furthermore, it’s widespread for people not to think of finding a qualified one before buying a vehicle. Classic cars are different; limited models and rare parts are challenging to repair.

You can trust only a few mechanics with pre-purchase checks for a collectible car and other maintenance work. It is vital to research the availability of specialist mechanics who have experience in your area, and you have to get some information about their costs and services.

Conclusion

Buying a classic car needs a lot more attention than you might think. Try to avoid all mistakes mentioned above and remember not to buy a vintage collectible vehicle just because it seemed like a big deal to you because there will be consequences; there always are.

What Cars Will Become Classics in 10 Years from Now?

Ten years from now, the new cars your friends were bragging about will start turning into old classics. Some of them will be outdated and worthless. On the other hand, some senior vehicles will age like fine wine. They will become 2032 collectible cars that will be put up for auctions, and wealthy people will be bidding on them. So, if you want to start making fortunes by getting into the classic and collectible cars market, read till the end.

You Need to Know How to Grab a Collective Vehicle Chance

It would be best to understand that you’re in a good spot because the collectible cars field isn’t very active considering investors. Yet it’s extreme regarding the buyers. So, your competitors are relatively few, but the clients are many. Your wealth is almost guaranteed if you know how to find and invest in the right car.

Investing in classic and collectible cars is all about extensive research. So, it would help if you are looking for outstanding style, exclusivity, and rarity. You also have to ensure the vehicle is in a good state and unharmed. Once you find one of these factors in a car, it’s a green light, go for it and purchase this future collectible vehicle.

But, even though many cars could become classics in the coming years, some vehicles have a higher possibility than others. Here’s a list of the more likely cars to become collectible vehicles in the next ten years:

2009 Nissan GT-R

This car is not a cheap shot, but it’s worth the cost. Nissan sport automobile will be one of the best collectibles cars due to its quick ride. The powerful engine and the distinctive style aren’t something to be affected by time. A driver will be living a video game experience in real life. Nissan GT-R rockets the quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds at 124 mph.

1998 Lotus Esprit

Participating in James Bond movies will increase this collectible car’s value. Even if it’s not the actual car in the film, its mid-engine, twin-turbo v8, in addition to 0-100 mph speed per ~11 seconds, makes it the first choice for speed lovers.

BMW 1 Series M Coupe

This car stands out among many other collectible vehicles because of its rarity. This unique BMW has been in production for one year only, and many collectors will be willing to pay no matter how the cost escalates. Though the car’s uniqueness is more than enough reason for investment, it also uses turbocharging, and its performance is outstanding.

Aston Martin Vantage AMR Manual

This is another unique vehicle that will definitely be on the classic and collectible cars’ upcoming list. With no more than 200 copies, Aston Martin sports cars will grow in demand in the coming years. The manual gearbox is another characteristic that will pave the way for this vehicle to make it to the future collectible cars field.

1984-1991 Ferrari Testarossa

Vintage Ferraris are the investment of all time. Ferrari fans are everywhere, you only have to find a Ferrari with a distinct design and limited edition, and they’ll get the bait. Here comes the Testarossa, “red-head.” Influenced by the 80s style, this car’s design is unique and striking. Testarossa is the last vehicle that used the original Ferrari Flat-12 engine. Unlike the updated releases for Testarossa family 512 and F512 M, where some of their machines were upgraded by the company.

Volvo 850R

All of Volvo’s 850 versions use a 2.3-liter five-cylinder engine, but the engine of 850 R is another story. It has a big turbocharger, and it’s extremely powerful. Even though Volvo hasn’t made a massive prevalence among other cars, the professional collectors will know a Volvo 850R collectible car value. It’s a matter of some years, and this car will prove to be the best collectible car for future investments.

Ford Focus RS

Because the Ford Focus RS numbers are limited worldwide, all collectors view this car as the missed masterpiece of their classic and collectible cars collection. This Ford isn’t only rare and nearly impossible to find but has a set of competitive features such as an all-wheel-drive standard, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, and a six-speed manual transmission.

Alfa Romeo 4C

Alfa Romeo first saw the light in 2014. Since then, everyone has been fascinated by this sleek sports car’s lightweight. Although Alfa’s production has stopped, everyone is still looking for this fast and powerful car, but it’s not available anymore. So, because it hasn’t been a long time since Alfa Romeo ceased production, the demand will be increasing gradually. Seize the chance!

Dodge Viper SRT

To get from 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds and 100mph in 7.6 seconds, the Viper is an absolute monster. The 2008 Dodge viper value is expected to skyrocket in the coming years. This two-seat super sports car engine’s capacity is 8.4 liters, and it’s also equipped with manually adjustable seats. The new wheels’ design is noteworthy as well. 

The Main Takeaways

Many cars will become classic and collectible someday. This day might be soon or far. But, the wisdom is to look beyond the now and think about the future. The demand for these cars will increase, and they’ll be worth a fortune. So, it’s better to start learning how to spot a collectible vehicle now, then dive into the classic vehicles business. Once you locate an excellent deal, don’t think about driving the car on your own to your garage, especially if the seller is in another state. On the contrary, consider hiring a professional classic car shipping service. Tempus Logix has over 30,000 vehicles delivered in their portfolio with 1000+ positive reviews from satisfied clients.