Are you moving to another city and don't know how to transport your vehicle? Do you need to transport your car or motorcycle?
Whether you are about to move to another address, your vehicle is not working or you need to take it to another country, there are several reasons why you might need to hire a vehicle transportation service.
Therefore, in this article we want to give you the information you need and the facts you should consider when hiring a company that transports vehicles over long distances; as well as give you some tips and recommendations to prepare your car or motorcycle before the transfer.
Types of trailers to protect the vehicle
Professional services characterized by using specific forms of transportation for vehicles. They work with the main types of trailers, which have advantages and disadvantages that we will explain below.
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Car Carrier Trailer This transportation model can carry several vehicles at the same time, thus spreading the costs among those who are using the service. Take into account that with this type of transportation you will probably have to take the vehicle to the loading point and receive it at the indicated destination; you should also know that these trucks usually start their journey until they are filled to their maximum capacity. There are car carriers with a closed box and open platform, which are usually cheaper because they leave the vehicles in the open air. |
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Enclosed Car Trailer The characteristic aspect of the enclosed trailer is that it completely covers the load, which offers greater protection to your vehicle from any external element, such as the weather. It’s recommended for new or high-value vehicles and long distances. Its cost is higher than that of the car carrier trailers since the total cost is not divided among the parties involved. Normally, hiring an individual closed truck implies a door-to-door service where the car or motorcycle is picked up and delivered to the indicated address. |
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Open Trailer This type of open trailer leaves the vehicles vulnerable to the sun, wind, dirt, among other elements, so it’s recommended for short distances. For the same reason this service is usually more economical and, therefore, the most requested. ✔ When hiring an open trailer, it’s a good idea to protect the vehicle with tarps. |
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Transporte marítimo If you plan to move from one country or continent to another, it’s advisable to move your car or motorcycle by sea. This is a slower service and even somewhat unpredictable in terms of delivery time, but its costs are much cheaper than air transport. An advantage of hiring this service would be that your vehicle travels completely covered and safely protected inside a metallic container. |
Recommendations to prepare your vehicle before the trip
Remember that preparing your car or motorcycle can help reduce the damage it may suffer during the move.
✔ First of all: wash your vehicle (inside and out)
This will make it easier for you to notice any scratches or bumps it may have suffered during the trip.
✔ Perform a careful inspection
This will be indispensable to claim the service if the vehicle has suffered any damage and ensure that you receive the insurance compensation.
✔ Take photographs
As a tip, take photographs of your vehicle from different angles before, during the load and when it is delivered to you, so you can remember and review it better when you receive it.
You must check the interior of the vehicle (if it is a car) to remove any belongings or accessories, such as documents, ornaments, personal items, or even a sound, video, or GPS system. Check from the glove compartment or trunk to under the seats, as your personal belongings will probably not be covered by the insurance company.
✔ Evaluate the operation of the vehicle
In some cases it is recommended to give the vehicle the proper maintenance service to deliver it to the hired company in good condition.
Write down everything that you detect that is not working properly and make sure that the transport company does so as well and is aware of any problems that the car or motorcycle may have (such as leaks or drips).
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- Check every detail before delivering the vehicle so that the service personnel can do their job correctly (many times they will have to drive the vehicle for logistical reasons):
- Make sure the battery is charged.
- Check tire pressure.
- Top off brake fluid, oils or antifreeze.
- Keep your gas tank at one-quarter (1/4).
- You can leave a spare tire and jack.
- Check every detail before delivering the vehicle so that the service personnel can do their job correctly (many times they will have to drive the vehicle for logistical reasons):
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- If the vehicle has any mechanical failure that you are not able to repair in time before the transfer, notify the company you hire, you may need to pay an extra fee.
- If the vehicle has any mechanical failure that you are not able to repair in time before the transfer, notify the company you hire, you may need to pay an extra fee.
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- Remove any loose parts from the vehicle.
- Fold the mirrors and lower the antenna (if you have one).
- Remember to deactivate the alarm.
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Choose and hire the right company
Before deciding on one, make sure that the company is official and has the necessary experience. You can also ask all your questions to see how the carrier works.
Hiring a professional service can have several advantages, such as the following:
The service has qualified personnel and the appropriate equipment
A car or motorcycle is one of the most valuable assets and requires careful and professional transportation. The companies that offer this service have the necessary means to ensure that your vehicle, alongside your trust, is not damaged in transit. The experts will know how to take care of this task, knowing the proper procedures and using the right material, like straps, pallets, and the transport you need.
They offer transport and cargo insurance
One of the great advantages of hiring a professional service is insurance coverage. It's important to request this information and check what type of insurance the carrier offers. Also, before the transport, make sure you have all your documents updated and contact your current car or motorcycle insurance to know how much it would cover, in case of any accident during the transport.
They can advise you on international formalities (if required)
Companies with experience in the transportation of cars or motorcycles will have the updated information you need about the documents or paperwork you may need to request the entrance of your vehicle into another country.
Door-to-door delivery
Most companies make door-to-door deliveries. That is, they will pick up your vehicle and deliver it to the address you indicate, or in any case, as close as possible, since some trucks or trailers for transportation may have problems entering some areas or residences.
How much does it cost to transport your car or motorcycle?
As it’s a specific sector, there is no average price or standardized costs for moving vehicles. It will depend on your particular needs, the type of transportation you require, the distance between the addresses indicated, the weight and even the size of the unit you wish to move.
Remember that choosing a transportation company or carrier guarantees that your vehicle will travel safely and arrive at its destination correctly.
