When considering moving a car out of state or switching residences, one of the most popular queries is: is it cheaper to ship or drive your car? In most cases, the answer would vary based on distance, costs involved, time, wear and tear, and personal convenience. There can be many hidden costs when opting to drive, unlike the option of auto transport which can make more financial sense.
We at Car Shipping Instant Quotes help you examine both options so that you can opt for what suits your needs. Pros and cons of driving and shipping a car are applicable for full-time working professionals relocating across the country, as well as for students shifting to a new state. Understanding these factors will equip you to make better decisions.
Analyzing the Costs of Driving a Vehicle and Shipping It
Examining costs, it might seem more economical to drive your vehicle instead. However, considering fuel, meals, lodging, tolls, and any vehicle maintenance and repairs, costs would be much higher than estimated. Below is an example of how much people could spend to drive 1,500 miles:
- Fuel: $150 to $250 depending on vehicle fuel efficiency
- Hotels: $150 to $300 for a mid range hotel for 2 nights
- Meals: At least $75 to $150 while traveling
- Tolls and parking: $20 to $50 depending on the route taken
- Oil change and wear and tear maintenance: $50 to $100
If you drive across the country, your total spending could range from $445 to $850. This estimate most definitely understates the value of the time spent.
Professional carriers will often offer shipping services within the same range or even lower. At Car Shipping Instant Quotes, users can compare real-time quotes for open or enclosed transport, providing competitive pricing. This showcases how driving and shipping have different advantages where professional shipping incurs significant savings over the cost associated with driving yourself.
Factors that affect car shipping prices
There are several factors that will impact the cost of shipping a car. Knowing these many details might help you decide whether it is cheaper to drive your car personally or to have it shipped.
- Distance: While longer distances are costly in total, they are cheaper in comparison to price per mile.
- Vehicle size and weight: Bigger and heavier vehicles usually cost more to ship.
- Type of transport: The open carriers are cheaper than the enclosed trailers.
- Pickup and delivery locations: Remote areas compared to major cities increase costs.
- Seasonality: Demand for services during the summer months and holidays drives prices up.
- Urgency: Expedited services cost more than the normal shipping price.
The above factors and more will impact the final pricing. Customers will have some control over the final price, as booking further in advance or choosing flexible pickup dates tend to have lower pricing. Preferences that match customer needs without hidden charges can be provided through tailored quotes.
Overlooked Expenses of Driving Your Car
While self-driving a car for long distances does come with freedom in terms of control over the journey, it could be costly and have certain risks associated with it. One of the more troubling issues would be depreciation of the car as its value decreases. While driving, both mileage and wear-and-tear are accumulated which in turn leads to depreciation of the car’s overall value.
Self-time is also an important factor that needs consideration. Depending on the specific route, driving could take quite a few days which means there is a substantial amount, or time, that could be utilized working, relaxing, or spending time with family. If the individual is relocating for a job or for studies, then this window of time could decrease the overall personal or financial health.
In addition, there is always the chance of unexpected breakdowns whether it be a flat tire or some sort of mechanical failure. This is especially true if the individual is in an unfamiliar place as it can turn out to be both costly and highly stressful. In addition to that, there is the risk of bad weather conditions, traffic accidents, and fatigue as well.
All of these concerns are mitigated when it comes to shipping a car as it eliminates bearing all of the stresses associated with driving. Once a vehicle is placed into a secure carrier, it can be shipped to any desired location. The owner can then simply board a plane and the car will be waiting for them at their desired destination.
Why Car Shipping Instant Quotes is the smart choice
Car Shipping Instant Quotes has made it easy to find out whether shipping or driving a car is cheaper. With our system, you get instant quotes from a huge database of licensed and insured carriers across the country. You can view the options and select the one that meets your schedule and budget.
Our competitive pricing ensures that there are no hidden charges. Because you do not have to talk to several carriers or fill out long, tedious forms, our platform is simple to navigate. In minutes, you will have the information required to make the best decision.
It does not have to be expensive or hard to ship your vehicle. Our real-time quote engine lets you know what to expect with cost and delivery timelines. We will provide assistance with questions and updates so that you have a professional and smooth experience with the shipping process.
In most scenarios, especially for long distances, shipping is the least expensive, most time efficient, and easiest option. Let the experts deal with the transportation while you preserve your energy.
Check Car Shipping Instant Quotes now to see whether driving or shipping your car is cheaper; you may be surprised at the easy and affordable options available. Shipping quotes are available instantly on the site so you can make an informed decision on your vehicle transport.
