Auto shipping encompasses the transportation of vehicles through specialized carriers. Customers receive a quote, ready their vehicles, have carriers load them onto transport vehicles, transport them to the destination, unload them, and finally, customers approve the delivery. That’s 6 steps if we break them down.
In case you want to know how a car shipping quote is generated, what are the factors affecting it, and how each and every step of the process goes, here we will describe all of this for you.
The first step as you know starts from getting a quote for your desired shipment. Once you complete our online quote form with key details like pickup and delivery locations, vehicle type, and preferred shipping dates, our advanced algorithm promptly generates a transparent and competitive quote personalized to meet your specific requirements.
After receiving your quote, easily book your shipment on our secure online platform. Pick from various shipping options, such as open or enclosed transport, and select any additional services you require.
How do you calculate an auto-shipping quotation?
In case you’re wondering how we calculate the cost of your shipment, we’ve got you covered on that as well.
At Quickship, we tailor auto transport quotes and car shipment rates to each customer, employing unique considerations for accurate pricing. Your car shipping estimate encompasses various transport factors, including
1. Trip distance
2. Car size (sedan, pickup truck, SUV, etc.)
3. Vehicle condition (operable or inoperable)
4. Transport type (open or enclosed)
5. Location (rural or urban)
6. The time of year for shipping
Now let’s briefly explain each of these factors one by one.
1. Trip distance:
In auto shipping, the "trip distance" significantly impacts the cost. Longer distances usually result in a higher overall cost, although there might be a discounted rate per mile for extended journeys. Quickship carefully considers trip distance when providing accurate and competitive quotes.
2. Car Size
The "car size" is a crucial factor influencing auto shipping costs. Larger vehicles, such as SUVs or pickup trucks, typically incur higher shipping expenses compared to smaller sedans. Quickship takes into account the dimensions of the vehicle when calculating accurate and competitive shipping quotes for our customers.
3. Vehicle condition
"Vehicle condition" plays a key role in determining auto shipping costs. If a car is operable, the shipping cost is generally lower. In contrast, inoperable vehicles, which may require special accommodations like a winch, tend to incur higher shipping expenses. Quickship considers the condition of the vehicle when providing precise and competitive shipping quotes.
4. Transport type (open or enclosed)
The "transport type" (open or enclosed) is crucial in determining auto shipping costs. Open transport is more economical but exposes the vehicle to the elements, while enclosed transport offers greater protection at a higher cost. Quickship considers this choice when calculating accurate and competitive shipping quotes for customers.
5. Location (rural or urban)
The "location" factor, whether rural or urban, influences auto shipping costs. Urban areas tend to be more cost-effective due to better carrier availability, while shipping to or from rural locations may involve additional expenses. Quickship considers location when providing accurate and competitive shipping quotes.
6. The time of year for shipping
"The time of year for shipping" is a significant factor influencing auto shipping costs. Seasonal variations can impact prices, with higher demand during certain periods affecting overall expenses. Quickship takes into consideration the time of year when calculating precise and competitive shipping quotes for our customers.
Once you’re satisfied with the quotations and other facilities provided, you can confirm your order. After confirmation of your order, you’ll receive an email requesting a reservation fee. Keep in mind that this reservation fee is refundable in case you do not want to continue with the service before the shipping date.
Once the reservation fee is paid, your order will be confirmed, a spot on a carrier will be reserved for your car, and the driver’s contact details will be shared with you.
While picking up your vehicle is a very simple process, there are a few easy things you can do to get a better experience.
Be prepared for the pickup process
First of all, ensure that you’ll be the one present while your car is being loaded, or you’ll be assigning a family member or someone else to oversee the process. If it’s someone else, make sure that person and the driver have each other's contact details.
Prepare your car for the pickup process The second thing we recommend is removing personal items from the car and getting its exterior washed properly. This will help you and the driver keep a record of the car’s before and after condition.
Signing the Bill of LadingThe last step of the pickup process is reading, and agreeing with the Bill of Lading. The bill of Lading has all the terms and conditions as well as the condition of the car mentioned. Once you sign it, the driver will load the car and leave for the end destination.
Quickship offers 24/7 tracking via driver as well as our customer support. Both options are provided to our customers. Moreover, we also update our customers via email regarding their car’s location and journey. These are the best and most reliable mediums to track your car’s journey.
Once your vehicle reaches its destination, our professional carriers will safely unload it at your doorstep or a nearby agreed-upon location. Our commitment to timely and secure deliveries ensures that your vehicle arrives in the same condition as when it was picked up.
Once you’re through with the whole shipping process, we would love to get feedback on your experience. Quickship is open to feedback, whether positive or negative. We constantly strive to improve our service.
The bill of lading is an essential document for shipping. The BOL acts as the contract between the shipper and the carrier, specifying terms and conditions of shipment, recording the vehicle condition at pickup and delivery, and serving as a receipt. This important paperwork ensures both parties know their commitments, providing legal protection and smooth, secure transport.
Learn More
The first available pick-up date is the earliest date our carriers can schedule to pick up your vehicle. It is influenced by vehicle availability and shipping requirements. Usually, pickups take place 1-5 business days from this date, thus giving flexibility to transport efficiently. If this timeframe is exceeded, you may be eligible for a refund reflecting our commitment to service.
Learn More
Have questions about our auto shipping company? Drive through our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section for quick answers and insights.