We all know how stressful moving can be. It doesn’t matter if you’re relocating across a town, from state to state, or from coast to coast — moving always has the potential to be a series of major headaches.
One way to reduce the stress of relocating is to move your vehicle with the help of a professional transport company.
If you’re transporting a high-value, classic, or luxury car, enclosed car transport services offer the security, efficiency, and overall quality of service you deserve.
In this guide, we’ll lay the groundwork for an intelligent transport plan. We’ll help you pick the best provider, prepare your car for transit, and organize your finances during this transitional stage of your life.
1. Choosing the Right Enclosed Car Transport Service
The only way to ensure your car will arrive safely at your new home is by picking a reliable enclosed car transport company versed in the necessary security and logistical measures.
Enclosed transport protects your vehicle from road hazards like rocks and dust. It also safeguards it from weather and prying eyes.
If your car is over $70,000 in value, depreciation excluded, enclosed shipping is a smart play.
Key tips to keep in mind
- Verify Credentials: Always ensure the car transport company is licensed and registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT).
- You can cross-check their credentials with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Look at Reviews and References: Search for varied, consistently positive feedback on trusted platforms. If you have friends who have shipped cars before, use word-of-mouth.
- Go with Your Instincts: How does the website make you feel when you browse it? Does everything line up? Are you constantly hassled by pushy sales associates? Go with your mind and gut when transporting a car.
- What Equipment Do You Need? Carriers offer soft-sided vs. hard-sided trailers or hydraulic lift gates for low-clearance vehicles. Consider your car, budget, and needs.
- Clarify Pickup and Delivery Windows: Be clear about the expected delivery timeline and keep communication lines open with your driver.
- Opt For Door-to-Door: Terminal-to-terminal shipping might be cheaper overall but much less convenient. Door-to-door enclosed car shipping brings your vehicle from curb to curb, doorstep to doorstep (or as close as possible).
2. Preparing Your Vehicle for Safe Transport
Even though enclosed car transport offers excellent protection, properly preparing your vehicle adds another layer of security and helps avoid potential in-transit issues.
Here’s how to prepare your vehicle for pickup:
- Clean Your Car: A clean vehicle lets you spot and document dents or scratches. Grime can hide damage you may not know is there.
- Document Vehicle Condition: Take time-stamped photos from various angles, both interior and exterior.
- Remove Personal Items: Transport companies generally prohibit personal belongings inside the vehicle due to weight restrictions and insurance limitations. Contact your provider for special considerations.
- Top Off Fluids and Check Tire Pressure: Ensure your car is drivable. Leaking fluids or flat tires can often cause delays.
- Disable Alarms and Provide Spare Keys: To avoid unnecessary disruptions during loading and unloading, disable any security systems and hand over a set of keys.
3. Navigating the Logistics of Relocation
Moving involves coordinating multiple timelines, and your car’s shipment is just one piece of the puzzle.
Understanding how enclosed car transport fits into your overall plan can reduce stress and prevent surprises.
Here are some helpful logistical tips:
- Book Early: Especially during peak seasons (spring and summer), spots for most enclosed car transport companies fill up quickly—book in advance to avoid premium charges for enclosed shipping services.
- Pair Your Move-In and Car Delivery Dates: Make sure someone can receive the car upon arrival, whether you or a trusted contact.
- Have a Backup Plan: In rare cases, weather or mechanical issues can delay transport. Build flexibility into your schedule and stay current with the company’s support team and driver.
- Understand Cancellation Policies: Consider deposit requirements and cancellation fees if your plans change.
4. Managing the Emotional Impact of Moving
Relocation affects your emotions just as much as it affects your body.
Beyond packing boxes and coordinating logistics, you’re also dealing with life changes, new surroundings, and possibly saying goodbye to familiar faces.
Here’s how to manage it:
- Give Yourself Grace: Relocation can trigger anxiety, excitement, and even grief. Acknowledge your feelings and give yourself time to adjust.
- Stay Organized: A structured moving checklist helps you stay in control, reducing overwhelming feelings.
- Connect With Support Systems: Leaning on others during a major life change is healthy and necessary, whether it’s friends, family, or professional counselors.
- Focus on the Positives: Remember why you’re moving—for a new job, family, or a fresh start—and envision the opportunities ahead.
- Trust the Professionals: Using a vetted enclosed car transport provider removes one primary source of stress, letting you focus on settling into your new environment.
5. Budgeting and Financial Tips for a Smooth Transition
Moving isn’t cheap, but careful planning can keep your expenses under control.
While enclosed car transport typically costs more than open transport, you get more for your money when you’re transporting a valuable vehicle.
The added shelter and anonymity help eliminate stress, especially for long-distance shipments.
Here are some financial tips to keep in mind when linking up your relocation and car shipping timelines:
- Request Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first offer. Request estimates from three reputable enclosed car transport companies and compare prices and value-added services. Most companies allow you to save quotes for seven days.
- Watch for Hidden Fees: To avoid surprises, ask about fuel surcharges, storage fees, or expedited delivery costs upfront.
- Factor in Vehicle Protection: If you’re transporting a collectible or luxury car, the added cost of enclosed car transport can prevent expensive repair bills.
- Keep Records: Save all transport-related documents and receipts. If you’re relocating for work, you may be able to claim some moving expenses on your taxes (check eligibility with IRS Moving Expenses).
- Build a Relocation Budget: Include transport costs, moving supplies, travel, lodging, and utility deposits in your total move budget.
Final Thoughts
When relocating, your vehicle is more than just a mode of transportation—it often holds personal and financial value that requires (and deserves) top-tier protection.
Choosing a trusted enclosed car transport provider, properly prepping your car, and planning will ensure a more relaxed relocation and shipping experience.
For additional resources on safe and reliable vehicle transport, consider exploring guidelines provided by organizations such as the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA).
