Important Pros and Cons of Flatbed Trucking

If you are not a transportation expert, “Flatbed Trucking” sounds unfamiliar. However, you might come across this term very soon in the future. Whenever you decide to ship your vehicle with a reliable automobile transportation company, this could be one of the shipping suggestions. This article will introduce its concept and demonstrate all the pros and cons of flatbed trucking.

What is Flatbed Trucking?

Flatbed trucks are open carriers, flat with no roofs or sidewalls. So, they are open to the air. Flatbed trucks are usually around 48- 53 feet long and 6 inches wide, and their decks are 60 inches high with a capacity of 48,000 pounds. They are known for their ability to transport different items compared to enclosed carriers, and they stand out as an essential choice within the trucking industry.

Flatbed Trucking Pros

High capacity with various choices

Flatbed trucks are ideal for transporting oversized cargo that can’t be loaded on enclosed trailers. These trucks are the best option since they don’t have any physical walls on the sides, providing more dimensional flexibility for large items to be loaded flatbed on the truck. The cargo includes woods, machines, oversized vehicles such as tow trucks, long pipes, military machinery, highway barriers, etc. They are also used to move shipping containers from factories to seaports.

Easy to load and secure the cargo

While shipping items into an enclosed trailer can be quite challenging due to the door size and the all four sides being covered, the ability to load will be limited. The flatbed trailers are easier to deal with; they allow the operator to load up the items comfortably.

Unlike many beliefs that open carriers are not safe for cargo, flatbed trucks have proved to be one of the safest options for transporting huge items. Everything is secured on the truck board using straps, tie-down, and nets.

Economical

Are you worried about the financial side? Flatbed trucks are the best option; this service cost is very reasonable. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get your vehicle or other items transported from one place to another, unlike enclosed carriers which are more expensive. Flatbed carriers offer considerable protection and efficient transport service for the best price. 

Time-consuming

Although flatbed trucking is time-consuming due to the size of the trucks, the number of trips required to transport all orders is relatively low, resulting in lower production costs. It also doesn’t require a lot of cleaning and maintenance compared to enclosed truck trailers that need to be cleaned from all sides and the inside of the trailer box regularly.

Flatbed Trucking Cons

There are some security-related issues

Flatbed trucking shields load items to some extent, but because they are opened to the air, the cargo is exposed to external factors such as weather conditions, dust, and road hazards. Another safety concern is the item’s weight. Flatbed trucks usually transport heavy and oversized loads; if the latter were poorly secured, it can affect the truck maneuverability and increase the risks.

As for the missing walls, like any other open carrier, flatbed trucks are not secured from stealing. The good news is the cargo is usually heavy and very hard to steal, but when it comes to smaller items, the risk of theft is higher, which requires extra attention.

Strict regulations

Since flatbed trucking can be pretty risky sometimes due to reasons mentioned earlier, the transport department has set some strict rules that are difficult to circumvent regarding the tools used to tie-down cargo, the trailer size, and the weight limits. All transport companies must follow these rules, and they have to ask for a permit for every oversize load, or they will be charged with expensive taxes or even a potential license suspension.  

High driving skills are required

It is not easy to drive a flatbed truck, and drivers must adjust their driving habits to operate these heavy, large, and less flexible trucks. They also should meet some physical demands since they will be driving for very long distances and being able to maneuver oversize loads.

Finding a skillful flatbed truck driver isn’t that easy. It’s recommended to hire an experienced vehicle transportation company with good online reviews. Only reviews will accurately describe how good or bad the business is. Tempus Logix is an automobile shipping company with over 1000 positive reviews from satisfied clients. The company has all kinds of trucks and trailers, including flatbed trailers with professional drivers.

Conclusion

Flatbed trucking is an efficient transport method that has proven its worth for quite a long time. However, like everything in this world, this method has pros and cons.

Flatbed trailers are the ideal transport services to ship large and heavy cargo that can’t fit in enclosed trailers. It is economical and easy to load. On the other hand, it might be a little riskier than different shipment types with more strict laws to guarantee safety.

The Ultimate Guide to Collectible Cars Transportation

Something modern might not interest you as much as something classic and time-honored. Many people worldwide are fond of collecting antiques, classics, and collectible cars, which is true for cars. Many car lovers are fond of looking for collectible vehicles, buying them, and participating in auto shows and auctions.

However, what if the masterpiece that fascinated you to buy is in another state? It needs transportation. But, transporting collectible vehicles is not as easy as transporting any goods. In this article, the reader will find the ultimate guide to collectible car transportation.

Search for a Reliable Classic Car Transport Company

The carrier is the first thing you should think about if you want to transport your classic and collectible car from one state to another. It would help if you searched online for a highly rated and reliable classic car transport company regarding the quality of transportation service, costs, fees, and insurance.

Vehicle Fleet Management Company vs. Classic Car Transport Broker

When you think of moving your car from one place to another, you have to remember there are two types of carriers to communicate with. Either through a broker or a company that owns a fleet. Transporting the car through a broker means the broker acts as a mediator. In addition, brokers are experts in classic car transport logistics and know many fleet-owned classic car transport companies.

Or you communicate from the beginning with one of the best collectible car transport companies that own a transport fleet, meaning that it possesses several transport trailers or a transport vessel with containers. Transportation brokers are excessively available online than car carriers, so you can easily pick up a well-reputed broker to transport your collectible car.

Furthermore, working with a broker can save time since the broker knows a lot of connections with classic car transport companies and knows how to handle things with them. When contacting a broker, you will be comfortable because brokers are responsible for all the details, from picking up your vehicle to the final moment of delivery. For example, Tempus Logix is a top-rated brokerage company in the vehicle shipping industry with a vast network of over 30K shippers and 45 million miles driven.

On the other hand, contacting a fleet-owned company require effort and plenty of time because you will be responsible for looking for the best collectible car transport company, and make a long search on the internet to reach it. In addition, you should understand all documents and regulations related to transportation. The positive side of contacting a fleet-owned company is its low cost compared to the broker. You contact the carrier directly without an intermediary, and the ability to take information directly from the carrier’s dispatcher or even the driver is more accessible.

Types of Car Transportation

There are two common types of transportation to transport a vintage car from one place to another. However, they differ in the classic car shipping cost, method, and protection.

What is Open-Air Transportation?

The open-air or uncovered method of transport means the car is placed on an open trailer and transported to the desired place. This method has low classic car shipping costs but less protection than the enclosed method of transportation because the car is subject to any scratches, abrasion, or damage.

It is also subject to adverse weather conditions that can cause damage to the vehicle, which makes it a less reliable classic car transport method. But, if you want to move your car from one place to another in the same city or state, this method might be appropriate because it will save money, only make sure the weather conditions are in your favor.

What is Enclosed Transportation?

The secure method guarantees a reliable classic car transport. The car is placed within a closed container and transported to the final destination, whether on a box trailer or a marine transport vessel. The container is well closed and made of steel, and its size is usually 40 feet, which will protect your collectible car value.

The enclosed auto transport method is more expensive than the open method of classic car transport, and it is highly protective because the vehicle is completely covered and shielded from bad weather factors. Therefore, if you want to move your car to a distant state, this method is most suitable because it will provide complete protection for the vehicle.

When you transport your vehicle with a reliable classic car transport company, they will advise about the better option to use in your case.

Protect the Collectible Vehicles with a Classic Car Insurance

When someone thinks of moving their car, the first thing that comes to their mind is to protect it from any damage that might occur during transportation. So, before transporting the vehicle, check the car’s condition because if any damage occurs after the transport, the owner can claim the transportation company for compensation under the insurance.

Collectible car insurance is different from typical car insurance. In a classic car contract, the car owner and the insurance company agree on the car’s value, which is how much it is insured. Then, the carrier will base the approved value on the collectible car’s value as determined by the appraiser.

Check Your Car Carefully Before and After Transportation

Before transporting the collectible cars, be aware of all maintenance issues and check the fuel tank status to see if there is any leakage. Check the car, take pictures and videos from different angles, and ensure that the license plate is clear and well-fixed. After transportation, you have to check the vehicle and ensure nothing has happened to it.

Conclusion

Transporting collectible cars is different from transporting ordinary cars, and there are conditions and rules that transport companies follow to preserve the collectible car. Reliable classic car transport companies treat these collectible vehicles as antiques or works of art, so you should be careful in your choice of car transport company.

Top 5 Tips to Safely Transport Your Classic Car

Do you want to travel somewhere with your collectible car effortlessly? Then, you don’t need to stress yourself about driving anymore. Move whenever you want by train, bus, or plane. Your vehicle might arrive there even before you do with the help of a classic car transport service. The latest are numerous nowadays; all are ready to serve you and your collectible car the way you want. But, there’re many things to do before you decide to safely transport your classic and collectible car. Follow these tips, and guarantee that your vehicle will arrive in the best condition.

Know Your Options

Is this the first time you transport your classic car? You need to understand the available options. You can transport your collectible vehicle by an open trailer or an enclosed one. Both options have many advantages but consider the classic car shipping cost.

Your classic and collectible car should be transported in controlled and safe circumstances, protected from all outside elements. If you want our advice, an enclosed car transport costs 50% more than an open carrier, but it’s worth it. So, maybe you should consider a closed carrier.

Open carriers protect your collectible car from getting exposed to dangers as well, they take care of it as much as possible, and it saves you some money. But both weather exposures and street rubble aren’t something to be controlled by the transportation company.

Collaborate with a Trusted Company

One of your dearest treasures is moving away from you, and that’s why you should know who can take responsibility for your classic car. Unfortunately, many people have gotten their cars harmed because of the lousy transportation process.

The best way to decide on a reliable classic car transport company is to look for a license. Every trusted company should have certified permission to ensure they can do their job legally. Another way is to read reviews. Some classic car transport companies are the best; they’re cautious and trustworthy, and their classic car shipping costs are reasonable, while others are not eligible for the job. The practical experiences of other people might help you in your puzzle.

Tempus Logix has been shipping vehicles all over the states with hundreds of positive reviews from satisfied clients. Both open and enclosed trailers are available with fair pricing and professional staff to handle all operations.

Read the Agreement in Detail

The reliable classic car transport company should guarantee your rights and promise to protect the vehicle from possible harm when transporting your car. Some auto transporters might assure you everything will be okay and you don’t have to worry about anything. Although they might be honest, a physical agreement will better guarantee your rights.

There should be an actual agreement from the company. It’s a contract between the customer and the carrier or the broker. So, you should get a copy of that agreement and read it thoroughly because your best collectible car is part of the deal. This paper has everything about the transportation process, what the company is responsible for and what they’re not. Reading the policies will help you understand how things are going to work. It’ll help you know about the company’s insurance, what’s the limit of their insurance, and if it covers any damage that might happen or not. You might ask for another agreement with your terms and policies, which helps both parties.

Prepare Your Car for Transportation

Before transportation, you have to check gas, car oil, and everything about your car. Maybe you don’t know about that, but your car’s gas tank shouldn’t be full. That’s to avoid additional weight. Make sure that you don’t hand your only copy of keys to the driver, keep one set with you.

Another thing you should consider is that you can’t send your car dirty. Cleanse it inside out as much as possible to show any dings. Maybe your collectible vehicle isn’t perfect and has some scars and scratches here and there, and it’s okay, but no one wants more damage to their cars; clean deeply to clear up everything, and take pictures of every part of your car to make sure the carrier does no new damage. Although damage doesn’t occur frequently, there’s no harm in more precautions. However, inside cleaning is essential, and you have to get rid of any unnecessary objects inside your car.

Lock Your Vehicle

You and the carrier are the only responsible people for your car during transportation. You have your keys, and you’ve handed a copy of your car keys to the carrier, and everything is excellent. But leaving the car unlocked is not safe at all, and it won’t save your collectible car value.

No matter how reliable the classic car transport is, there’re many threats; someone might steal items from your vehicle during the transportation. So lock all of the doors and the gas trunk. Some car systems might be sensitive if someone tries to close them when they’re on the carrier, and it alters the theft threat immediately. If your car doesn’t have such a system, ask the carrier to lock its doors when possible.

Find out also which are the Top Mistakes When Buying a Classic Car.

Conclusion

Your car journey won’t be short, and many obstacles might get in the way. So, all five tips above are equally important to ensure your calm car delivery. However, the second tip includes all the rest. A reliable classic car transport company won’t let your car get hurt, it’ll give you an explicit agreement, an affordable classic car shipping cost, and it will fill you up with all available options.

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.

Tips & Tricks About Buying Collectible Cars

Buying a collectible car is a more significant investment than buying a normal one; it requires a lot of research and careful examination to guarantee you have made the best collectible car choice.

First of all, you need to compare different classic and collectible cars available on the market. This comparison is not as simple as it might seem, and it requires conducting comprehensive research and using the services of some professionals. Buying a collectible car is not similar to buying a regular one because the key factors are much different.

This article will provide useful tips and practical tricks you can use to optimize your classic car purchase and maximize your benefit.

1. Determine your goal in buying the car

There are many types of collectible cars, and with the variety of models comes the difference in features. Some cars are there just for the show, and they’re no longer suitable for the roads. On the other hand, some collectible cars are pretty similar to the modern ones, and you can enjoy a little driving from time to time.

2. Choose a car that you love

Newbies are expected to buy their classic and collectible cars depending on other people’s preferences; they start by looking for the most popular vehicles and deciding based on other people’s opinions.

3. Join collectible vehicles owners’ clubs

After deciding on the type of classic car you want to buy, try joining an owner’s club for this car. It will allow you to meet with people who share the same interest and learn from their experiences. Moreover, sometimes you can find good off-market deals at a reasonable price.

4. Do some research online

Online research is beneficial for collecting information and widening your knowledge about collectible cars; many websites sell vehicles nowadays, and you can check clients’ reviews about the service. It is an excellent method to compare different vehicles and prices. Still, you have to be careful about the buying process to ensure the website is trustworthy and provides reliable classic car transport.

5. Set your budget and be aware of the costs

Collectible vehicles’ price range is quite broad; make sure you can afford to pay for them. Choose a car that suits your financial status and be careful of overspending. While setting the budget, there are many expenses to consider; it is not only about the car price. Consider the classic car shipping costs, repairing, and storing. This kind of vehicle needs extra care since its parts are rare and expensive.

6. Shipping your purchase

After buying a collectible car, you might need to move it from one state to another. The recommended procedure is to hire a professional automobile transportation company because shipping classic cars require lots of care and experience.

Tempus Logix is a brokerage company specializing in the vehicle transportation industry, licensed and bonded with FMCSA and USDOT. Collectible cars are not a challenge to Tempus Logix’s team of professional drivers and customer service agents. No matter how rare and expensive your collectible car is, you can rest assured it’ll arrive at the destination point safely and smoothly.

Find out the Ultimate Guide to Collectible Cars Transportation.

7. Restored cars are not always the best choice

It’s not a secret that classic cars are old. Even the best collectible car needs some restoration and repair before it can be used; this process costs a massive amount of money, so most people prefer to buy a restored car with reasonable performance.

It is the best collectible car choice for those who want to enjoy a little driving while keeping the vehicles. But if you are aiming for some profit, it is better to buy a car, restore it and then resell it for a good profit.

8. Car color is essential

It may sound strange, but collectible vehicle owners are fully aware that a vehicle’s color does matter; rare color means double the price. Another thing you should know about is the collectible vehicle paint because everyone prefers the original paint color, and changing it will reduce the collectible car value.

9. Have some professionals help

If it’s your first time buying a classic and collectible car, you may want to ask for advice about different aspects. It is recommended to find a reliable appraiser to check the vehicle and confirm it’s a fair deal regarding the price. Professional mechanic assistance is also required to maintain and repair the classic car. 

10. Check the VIN

Every collectible car has its Vehicle Identification Number. The VIN is often stamped onto the car engine, but you don’t have to look for it anyway. Ask the dealer or the owner about it and check it with car manufacturers and registration agencies. The VIN provides information about the vehicle’s identity and originality, and a missing VIN means something is wrong with the car.

11. Check the mileage

The lower the mileage, the more expensive the car is. After all, the collectible car value is high because it wasn’t used a lot, and the vehicle is still in relatively good shape with less need for maintenance.

Be careful that the mileage can be deceiving because the odometer could have been changed; some sellers try this trick to convince buyers to pay more. The best way to verify whether the mileage is accurate is by checking the wheels, headliner, furniture, carpets, and other parts.

Conclusion

It is not easy to buy the first collectible car and not even the second one; you have to keep learning and use some tips & tricks to help you get the best collectible car deal. Choose the car by your brain, not heart; remember to plan the budget and always ask for experts’ advice when necessary.

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.