Unlike in the past, it is now a lot easier to shop for a new vehicle out of state. Internet technology and handheld devices are enhancing the car shopping experience to a great end. Typically, it is now possible to travel further in pursuit of the perfect vehicle model without border restrictions.
The average distance people travel to land their favorite SUV, sports car, or truck is rising steadily and is not expected to go down any time soon.
But despite the ability to buy cars long distances, you still need knowledge on shipping the vehicle. So how do you bring it home?
Where You Can Shop Long Distance for Cars
Shopping out of state is now not very different from shopping from a long distant dealer. With a couple of mouse clicks, you can get all the information you need about your favorite model and make the purchase. Visit the sites of various dealers, such as AutoTrader.com from other states, and pick the model that seems fun or fulfills your needs.
The Benefits of Buying a Vehicle Out-Of-State
Shopping long distance gives you a wider variety of automobiles to choose from. Your locale may not have the specific make you want, such as those with a rare configuration. There are also good options that have never been exposed to road salt in other states.
With just a few taps, you pull out various options of the vehicle you are after. Well, the price difference between states is another thing. Cars are pretty expensive in particular cities, and it makes a lot of sense to shop in cheaper cities.
Regional trends make particular SUVs, hatchbacks, or trucks popular in states or cities, and therefore you have to dig a lot deeper into your savings to afford them. The same vehicles are, however, cheaper in some other states or places.
Among the various reasons, most people shy away from sampling the inventory of out-of-state vehicles to perceive that it’s more expensive to ship them. But the advantages outweigh any shortcomings. Besides, some local dealerships have a higher price tag, sometimes even more than what you get from some out-of-state dealerships. Financing is sometimes even at a better rate than your local.
You don’t need a small fortune at hand to ship your dream car. No doubt every financing institution will have a handful of rules, but it’s rare they’d restrict buying and shipping of vehicles.
Here is how you ship a vehicle you recently acquired:
Shipping a Car You Bought Long Distant
Select the Auto Shipping Company
Your first obligation is to find an auto transport company that is not exorbitant in its pricing. Check the services offered and determine if they have the unique characteristics for your needs and budget.
Check several car haulers and do a bit of background research before deciding on a particular one. The shipping prices vary according to the size of the vehicle, shipment method, seasonality, and the delivery route taken by the driver. Keep this in mind when requesting a car transportation quote.
Decide on the Shipment Method
Open transport and closed transport are the two most popular car shipping methods. Generally, open transport trailers do not have walls or roofs to protect the vehicles on transit. They usually have metal shelves that hold between eight and nine cars.
Open transport is cheaper than closed transport and an excellent option for the latest commuter vehicles. Shortcomings of open transport trailers include exposure of the cars to the elements.
Closed transport, on the other hand, provides better protection from the elements.
Be in Constant Contact with the Dealer
After choosing a shipper, coordinate with the party that sold you the car for the handover process. The driver of the delivery trailer will need a copy of your driver’s license, car keys, proof of car insurance, and the car’s title and registration.
The dealer will hand over the documents to the delivery driver, so you must coordinate with them. Inform the dealer ahead of time when the trailer driver will come to pick the vehicle. The process should be as smooth as possible.
Examine the Bill of Lading
The dealer will sign a bill of lading. A bill lading is a contract that details essential information such as the vehicle’s condition and the shipping destination. This document provides legal protection if something were to happen.
Ensure the seller understands that they should first get a bill of lading before they can hand over the vehicle to the car transportation companies. If the transport driver doesn’t bother to have the bill of lading signed, that is a red flag. The company is out to scam you.
The dealership of the person that sold you the car can then send you a picture or fax or the bill of lading. File it and wait for the delivery of your vehicle.