If you need to transport your vehicle long distance, using a car relocation service can save you time and money compared to driving it yourself. Car shipping companies like RoadRunner specialize in safely and efficiently moving cars, trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles across the country.

Understanding Car Relocation Services

Car relocation services transport privately owned vehicles long distances using specialized auto transport trucks. They safely move cars door-to-door from one location to another for individuals, auto dealerships, corporate clients, military members, and others in need of vehicle transportation.

These services offer several key benefits:

• Convenience – No need to drive long distances yourself. The service handles all vehicle relocation logistics.
• Efficiency – Transport trucks driven move multiple vehicles in one trip. This is faster than driving independently.
• Affordability – Prices are often cheaper than fuel and expenses to drive cross-country.
• Safety and Security – Professional carriers and their professional drivers are licensed, bonded, insured, and specialize in secured auto transport.

How Vehicle Relocation Companies Work

There are over 5,000 U.S. DOT-registered car shipping companies that arrange vehicle relocation services. They operate carrier trucks themselves or connect customers to independent owner-operators with trucking equipment through brokerage services.

Quality auto transport firms have excellent logistics coordination to optimize routing efficiency. They strategically balance supply and demand for transports through predictive analytics technology. Top car shipping companies also leverage apps and real-time tracking to provide status updates during shipment.

Key Players in the Auto Relocation Industry

The auto relocation industry continues to grow, with increasing demand for interstate used car sales and rising vehicle production. Annual industry revenue exceeds $4 billion in the United States.

As auto transport volume increases, technology-focused startups aim to improve customer experience through digital convenience. But many leading car shipping companies are still mid-sized family-owned businesses operating for decades with excellent safety records and expertise navigating DOT regulations.

Whether working with newer tech-savvy firms or established players, it’s important to validate credentials and choose transporters with excellent customer reviews.

Types of Car Relocation Services

This method uses an enclosed truck trailer fully covering vehicles from road debris and weather. Extra secure with limited capacity. Higher cost but ideal for exotic, classic, custom vehicles.

Enclosed trailers completely seal off vehicles from external elements that could cause paint chipping or body damage. Larger trailers fit 2-4 average-sized cars, while high-cube enclosed trailers offer more height to accommodate lifted trucks or taller vehicles.

Since enclosed car transport protects cars more than open car transport, it meets specialty insurance requirements for rare, valuable, classic vehicles needing white glove handling. Enclosed auto transport is also essential for safe motorcycle relocation.

Open Car Transport

This type of auto transport hauls vehicles stacked on an open, uncovered trailer. It is the most common and affordable for everyday transportation of standard vehicles. While it offers less protection, open car transport still secures cars safely to the trailer.

Open car carriers are the most prevalent transport trucks on highways. They use hydraulic ramps to efficiently load vehicles in layers, typically 4-6 cars on a standard flatbed and up to 10+ SUVs on double-decker trailers. Vehicles are securely chained down to keep them stabilized in transit. Open shipping costs 20-40% less than enclosed transport and easily meets insurance requirements for standard vehicle values under $100k.

With flexible capacity for more cars per load, open transport better handles high-volume vehicle inventory transfers for auto dealers while enclosed service is better suited for individual consumer moves.

Check our blog to learn more about open vs enclosed car shipping methods.

Reasons for Using Car Relocation Services

Common reasons people use an auto relocation company include:

Moving

Transport your car when relocating instead of driving cross-country yourself. Leave your vehicle when flying to your new home and have it delivered once you settle in. Using a car shipping company while moving eliminates mileage wear and tear while not distracting from the stresses of a long-distance move. Auto relocation services provide door-to-door convenience having your car arrive right as your move completes.

College Students

Move your car back and forth from home while you’re at school. Shipping cars to and from college provides independence without needing to store a vehicle on campus long term. Parents can conveniently swap students’ vehicles out semester by semester. This flexibility works perfectly for students attending school out-of-state.

Military PCS moves

Receive government-paid vehicle shipping for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) transfers. Military members receive funded benefits to relocate household goods through the Defense Personal Property Program when transferred to new duty stations. Qualifying moves include shipping one POV (personally owned vehicle).

Seasonal Living

Relocate your car to summer or winter homes depending on the time of year. Car relocations services enable dual residence flexibility without duplicating vehicle ownership. Quickly reposition your vehicles instead of loading up multiple cars during short-term transitional moves.

Classic Car Storage

Use specialized auto transport services for seasonal storage of collectible vehicles in climate-controlled facilities to prevent deterioration during harsh weather months. Enclosed classic car hauling trucks provide gentle handling with air ride suspension and avoid unnecessary mileage accumulation.

Buying/Selling Vehicles

Have a car shipped to interested buyers long distance. Transport newly purchased vehicles home from dealerships out-of-state. Online used auto sales continue rising with expanded e-commerce. State-to-state car shipping conveniently connects sellers nationwide with mobile inventory deliveries.

Cost Factors in Car Relocation

Rates vary, but average long-distance enclosed car transport costs $1.20-$1.50 per mile while open carriers average $0.70-$1.00 per mile. Exact quotes depend on factors like:

Miles

The longer the transport distance, the higher the cost. Cross-country shipments above 1,500 miles tend to offer the best economy of scale savings as fixed base fees get spread further. But even short 200-mile auto relocations can be cost-effective compared to fuel, hotels, and meal costs driving yourself.

Vehicle Type

Size, operating condition, modifications, etc. influence transportability. For example, shipping standard pickup trucks, SUVs, and full-size sedans is typically cheaper than oversized vehicles requiring special permits and routing. Inoperable cars also cost more needing winch loading/unloading labor.

Season and Timing

Peak moving seasons often have higher demand for seasonal auto transport services, impacting availability and rates. Scheduling vehicle relocation in spring/summer yields higher prices due to competition for carrier capacity. Flexible customers avoiding summer moves usually save 10-15%.

Route efficiency

Transporting along high-density trade lanes keeps costs lower. Major interstate highways like I-95 running up the U.S. East Coast provide constant transport volume in both directions enabling carriers to consistently secure loads. This maximizes utilization and minimizes deadhead miles spent repositioning empty trucks.

Insurance Needs

Enclosed car transport inherently costs more partially due to higher insurance requirements transporting higher value cars. Added contingency liability pricing gets built into quotes anticipating vehicles worth over $100k.

Always get binding quotes from multiple licensed vehicle relocation services before booking. Ask what’s included and watch for hidden fees for add-ons, such as extra insurance.

Understanding Auto Transport Pricing Models

Quotes from vehicle relocation services derive from dynamic variables making precise formulas impossible. But rates roughly equate to carriers’ cost per mile operated. These operating costs include:

• Fuel costs
• Truck/trailer lease or finance payments
• Repair & maintenance
• Insurance premiums
• Driver payroll
• Business operating overhead

By charging customers on a per-mile basis, car shipping companies cover these expenses and aim to achieve slim profit margins of around 10-20% after paying all stakeholders. This pay structure also incentivizes carriers to maximize routing efficiency and keep unused miles between loads minimal to improve profitability.

During strong shipping seasons with plenty of loads available, increased competition presses rates down closer to breakeven costs. But when demand exceeds supply, rates inflate allowing for increased margins. This is why large fluctuations in auto transport pricing occur at different times of year.

Choosing a Car Relocation Service

When selecting an auto transport company:

Verify Licenses and Insurance

Interstate transporters must have FMCSA operating authority. Confirm DOT numbers and adequate insurance policies. Never work with unlicensed brokers.

Check Safety Record

Car shipping companies should have clean DOT safety ratings and inspection histories without major crashes or violations. Review carrier SMS results.

Read Online Reviews

Reputation and past customer experiences say a lot. Look for consistent positive customer reviews. But beware review fraud. Sort by low ratings to spot valid complaints.

Get Quotes in Writing

Specify details in writing: locations, timeline, vehicle details. Compare transparent shipping quotes. Breakdowns should clearly define base transport fees, added services charges, extra insurance, taxes, and final price.

Confirm Pickup/Delivery Process

Does the car transport company offer guaranteed prices and timeframes? Who handles vehicle inspections? What if damages occur? Understand contingency plan specifics if trucks break down or cars get delayed.

Ask About Experience

Find out the car transport company’s years in business, average transport volumes, and specialty services like classic car moving, exotic auto relocation, boat shipping, etc. This demonstrates logistics competency.

Customer Service

Buttoned-up logistics are crucial but so are friendly service and transparent communication. Test response times when asking questions. This gives a glimpse into overall attentiveness.

Tips for a Smooth Car Relocation

• Prepare vehicles by removing non-permanent exterior parts, low-hanging spoilers, etc. that could be damaged in transit.
• Disable alarm systems that could accidentally trigger and drain batteries during transport.
• Take detailed dated photos of the car’s condition at origin and destination to properly place accountability for any new damages that may occur.
• Purchase extra insurance coverage if the vehicle relocation service’s standard policies seem insufficient to fully protect vehicles’ worth. Compare plans and check prices across providers.
• For enclosed car transport, measure door and roof openings of storage places to ensure there’s enough height/width clearance to pick up and deliver cars.
• Ensure locations are easily accessible without tight maneuvers or low-hanging obstructions that could contact vehicles.
• Clean vehicles inside and out before shipping so any new damage is easily identified upon inspection vs. blending with existing grime, scrapes, and scratches.
• Outline expectations for communication and receive confirmation on guaranteed pickup dates and delivery timelines.
• Understand payment requirements and any deposit policies needed to secure confirmed transport orders.
• Prepare accurate gate codes if living in gated communities and inform drivers of potential challenges accessing locations.

About RoadRunner Car Relocation Service

RoadRunner stands out as a reliable and customer-centric solution in the auto relocation industry. With a commitment to excellence, RoadRunner offers a range of transportation options, including open and enclosed carriers. Their user-friendly platform simplifies the booking process, ensuring a hassle-free experience for customers.

Known for transparent pricing and timely deliveries, RoadRunner’s services cater to both domestic and international needs. The company’s dedication to vehicle safety, combined with advanced tracking technology, provides clients with peace of mind throughout the relocation journey. RoadRunner exemplifies efficiency and professionalism in the dynamic world of vehicle transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Lead Time Do I Need to Book Car Shipping?

It’s best to book car relocation services 1-2 weeks in advance during normal seasons. Transport demand fluctuates, so allow 3-4 weeks ahead when moving during peak summertime activity. Last-minute arrangements may still succeed but often have higher rates and fewer carrier options as availability tightens up.

Can I Put Personal Items in My Car During Shipping?

Most car shipping companies allow some extra lightweight personal belongings and smaller boxes to be shipped inside cars during relocation. Policies range around 100-200 lbs of cargo capacity as drivers must keep overall vehicle weight within safe limits.

But it’s wise to always check the specific policies of the auto transport company you choose, and remove non-essential valuables just to be safe. If moving long distances, it may be better to use professional movers for personal possessions vs. stuffing your car full on its transport trip.

Will My Car Arrive on the Guaranteed Delivery Date?

Reputable enclosed car transporters meet guaranteed delivery dates over 95% of the time. Open car shipping sees slightly more variability, but high-quality car relocation services still achieve on-time deliveries around 85-90% on average excluding major weather events. Truck breakdowns or poor weather may rarely delay cheaper open carriers, but the best companies proactively communicate ETAs if vehicles get pushed back.

Can Car Relocation Firms Transport My Modified/Classic Vehicle?

Yes, specialty car relocation services have the equipment, techniques, and expertise to move non-standard cars with aftermarket modifications, custom fabrication, lifts, oversized wheels, etc. Many enclosed car transporters offer white glove service with air ride trailers, lift gates, wood flooring, and edge protectors to securely relocate valuable antique, exotic, and vintage vehicles while preventing unnecessary mileage accumulation.

How are Car Relocation Companies Different from Car Shipping Brokers?

Auto transport brokers arrange vehicle shipping by matching customer requests to carriers with available truck capacity. Brokers act as logistics middlemen without owning/operating trucks themselves. An auto transport company brokers transport or operates its own carrier fleet. Blends exist too — some firms maintain small fleets while brokering overflow volume at times. Ask companies about their business model and fleet capabilities when requesting quotes to understand how transports get fulfilled.