DIY Car Shipping: Tips to Make Moving Your Ride a Breeze!

1. Start with the Basics: Open or Enclosed Transport?

Before anything else, figure out what kind of transport is right for your car. If you’re shipping a regular sedan or SUV, open transport is your most budget-friendly option. Think of it like your car hitching a ride on a double-decker flatbed—fun, right? Prices usually hover between $600 and $1,200 depending on the distance.

Got a luxury car or something you’d cry over if it got a scratch? Go for enclosed transport. It’s like a cozy cocoon for your car, protecting it from weather and road debris. It’s a bit pricier, though—expect to pay around $1,200 to $2,500.

• Alternatives: Check out companies like Easy Auto Ship or AmeriFreight. They offer both options and often run discounts, so it’s worth getting a quote!

2. Philam Transport vs. uShip: The Big Players

Alright, let’s dive into two of my favorites: Philam Transport and uShip. Here’s the scoop:

• Philam Transport: If you want a no-nonsense, straightforward experience, Philam is a fantastic choice. They handle all the logistics, so you just hand over the keys and relax. The pricing is competitive, usually around $850 to $1,300 for coast-to-coast, and they’re known for their great customer service.

• uShip: Feeling adventurous? Try uShip! It’s like Uber, but for car shipping. You list your job, and carriers bid on it, which can sometimes save you money. Plus, you can check reviews for added peace of mind. Pricing can vary widely, but you can expect to see bids in the range of $700 to $1,200 for cross-country moves.

• Other Cool Companies to Consider: Don’t overlook smaller players like Budget Auto Transport or Ship Your Car Now. They might not be as well-known, but they often provide personalized service and competitive rates.

3. Get Quotes Like a Pro

The next step is to gather quotes. I recommend getting at least three to five quotes from different companies to get a sense of the market rate. Most companies have easy-to-use online quote tools, so you won’t even have to make a call (because who likes doing that?).

• Hot Tip: Check out seasonal discounts! Prices can change based on the time of year, so if you’re flexible, you might save a few bucks.

Mini Storytime!

Last winter, I needed to ship my trusty SUV from Seattle to Miami. I thought I’d be clever and use uShip, and it turned out to be an awesome experience. I posted my shipment and got a bunch of bids—ended up going with a smaller company called Red Carpet Auto Transport. They charged me $900, and my SUV arrived ahead of schedule. Plus, I got to chat with the driver, who had some great travel stories!

4. What About Insurance?

Most shipping companies include basic insurance, but make sure you check the coverage details. You don’t want any surprises! If you’re shipping something super valuable, you might want to consider purchasing extra coverage for peace of mind.

• Pro Tip: Double-check if your regular auto insurance covers shipping too. Sometimes it does!

Wrap-Up: Planning Your Budget

So, what's the damage? For a standard car or SUV, you’re looking at about $700 to $1,200 for open transport or $1,200 to $2,500 for enclosed. Make sure to compare multiple quotes, consider smaller companies, and maybe even try your luck on uShip.

Final Thoughts: Make It Easy!

Take a deep breath and know that shipping your car doesn’t have to be stressful. Choose a reputable company, get your quotes, and make your move! 🚗💨 Who knows, you might even enjoy the break from driving. Safe travels, friends!

Want to know the difference between open and enclosed transport? Head over to our "Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport: Which Is Right for You?" blog.