How to Ship a Classic or Luxury Car Safely: The Ultimate Guide

Shipping your classic or luxury car can be quite the endeavor. Knowing how to safely ship your vehicle across the country can save you time and heartache. Whether you’re moving, attending a car show, or just sold your vehicle, we’ll walk you through all the steps on how to safely ship your car. So no matter if you’re doing a classic car shipment, luxury auto shipping, or anything in-between, this guide has you covered. We’re here to help you ensure that your prized vehicle arrives safely at its destination. 

Understanding the Importance of Specialized Transport

Classic and luxury vehicles require great care during shipment. These vehicles are more than just modes of transportation, some of them are pieces of automotive history, works of art, or personal investments. It’s crucial to choose a shipping method that meets the needs of your automobile. Standard car shipping services usually cannot provide the level of care and expertise that is needed when shipping classic or luxury cars. 

Why Choose Specialized Classic Car Transport?

1. Expertise: Unlike regular car transportation services, class car transport companies specialize in vintage and luxury vehicles.
2. Equipment: These companies also use specialized equipment that is designed to safely handle these vehicles.
3. Insurance: With classic and luxury car transporters, you usually have the option for more extensive insurance coverage.
4. Peace of Mind: Knowing your car is in expert hands can alleviate stress during the shipping process.

Types of Classic and Luxury Car Shipping Methods

There are a few shipping options you can choose from when deciding to chip your classic or luxury vehicle. 

1. Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport is the ideal way to go for classic car chipping and luxury auto transport. This shipping method fully encloses your vehicle in a trailer. This is the gold standard in transportation as your vehicle remains safe from outside debris and elements. 

Pros:

• Complete protection from weather and road debris
• Ideal for high-value, rare, or delicate vehicles
• High security during transit

Cons:

• More expensive than open transport
• Longer delivery time as there are less enclosed options available

2. Open Transport

Open transport is much less expensive than enclosed transport. This type of transportation is usually reserved for everyday vehicles. However, some people still use this method for their classic or luxury car if there is a short travel distance and if weather conditions are fair. 

Pros:

• Less expensive than enclosed transport
• Faster shipping times due to greater availability
• Suitable for cars that are driven regularly where debris is not a major concern

Cons:

• Exposure to weather and road debris
• Less secure than enclosed transport

3. Door-to-Door Service

Door-to-door service is just as it seems. The transport company delivers your vehicle straight from the starting location to its destination. This means that the company will pick up your car directly at home without the need for you to drive to a terminal. 

Pros:

• Convenience as there is no need to leave home
• Reduces the need to drive your classic or luxury car to a terminal and thus helps prevent any accidental car damage

Cons:

• Usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping
• Not always possible in areas with restricted access

4. Terminal-to-Terminal Service

Unlike door-to-door service, this service requires you to drive or transport your vehicle to a designated terminal for shipping and pick-up. This is less expensive than door-to-door service, however it’s not always ideal for classic and luxury vehicles. 

Pros:

• Generally more affordable than door-to-door service
• Can be faster in some cases

Cons:

• Requires you to drive your car to and from terminals
• Your car may sit in a terminal lot for some time

Choosing the Right Classic Car Shipping Company

Choosing the right company to ship your vehicle is crucial to ensure that your car remains safe. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a company:

1. Experience: Choose a company with extensive experience and clear record in shipping classic and luxury vehicles. Do a deep dive into the  company’s reviews. 
2. Insurance: Insurance is vital for shipping. Make sure the company you choose offers extensive insurance options. 
3. Equipment: Verify that they use appropriate equipment for loading and securing classic and luxury cars.
4. Reviews: Read customer reviews and testimonials to get a good feel for the company’s reputation.
5. Licensing: Confirm that the company is properly licensed and registered with the Department of Transportation.

Preparing Your Classic or Luxury Car for Shipping

Before shipping, it’s important to properly prepare your vehicle. Take a look at these steps to ensure your car is ready to transport:

1. Clean Your Car: A clean vehicle allows you to easily spot any damage that may have occurred during shipping. 
2. Document the Condition: Take detailed photos and notes of your car’s condition before shipping.
3. Remove Personal Items: Clear out all personal belongings from the car.
4. Secure or Remove Loose Parts: If your car has removable parts, it’s best to secure them or remove them altogether to prevent damage.
5. Check Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure: Make sure all fluids are at the correct level and ensure that tires are inflated properly.
6. Disable the Alarm System: If your car has an alarm, disable it to prevent it from going off during transport.
7. Provide Special Instructions: If your classic car has any quirks or special requirements, inform the shipping company in advance.

Understanding Classic Car Shipping Costs

Shipping cost can vary quite a bit depending on several factors:

• Distance of the shipment
• Type of transport (enclosed vs. open)
• Size and weight of the vehicle
• Time of year
• Current fuel prices
• Pickup and delivery locations

On average, you should expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,500 for domestic classic car shipping within the continental United States. For luxury car transport or exotic car shipping, cost will be even higher since additional care and insurance will be required. 

To get the best classic car shipping rates, consider:

• Booking in advance
• Being flexible with pickup and delivery dates
• Choosing terminal-to-terminal service if appropriate for your situation
• Comparing quotes from multiple classic car shipping companies

International Classic Car Shipping

So far we’ve covered shipping domestically. If you need to ship your vehicle internationally, the process is a bit more difficult and costly. Here are some considerations to take when shipping internationally: 

1. Customs Regulations: Research the import regulations of the destination country.
2. Documentation: Prepare all necessary paperwork, including the car’s title, bill of sale, and any required export/import documents.
3. Shipping Method: Choose between air freight (faster but more expensive) and sea freight (slower but more economical).
4. Insurance: Obtain comprehensive international shipping insurance.
5. Preparation: Ensure your car meets the destination country’s emissions and safety standards.

Tips for a Smooth Classic Car Transport Experience

1. Plan Ahead: Consider booking your transport service well in advance, especially during peak seasons. 
2. Ask Questions: Feel comfortable asking the shipping company questions about their services and how they handle classic and luxury vehicles. 
3. Be Present: If possible, be present for both pickup and delivery to oversee the loading and unloading process.
4. Communicate: Keep in touch with the transport company throughout the shipping process for updates.
5. Inspect Upon Delivery: Thoroughly inspect your vehicle immediately upon delivery and before signing any release forms.

The Future of Classic and Luxury Car Transport

As technology continues to advance, transport companies are keeping up and we’re seeing new innovations within the shipping industry:

• GPS Tracking: Real-time tracking of your vehicle during transport.
• Climate-Controlled Trailers: Maintaining optimal temperature and humidity for sensitive classic cars.
• Advanced Security Systems: Enhanced protection against theft and tampering during transit.
• Eco-Friendly Options: Some companies are exploring electric or hybrid transport vehicles for reduced environmental impact.

Conclusion

Shipping a classic or luxury vehicle is no small feat and it requires careful planning and the right transportation company. By understanding the options available, preparing your vehicle properly, and selecting a reputable classic car shipping company, you can ensure that your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.

When it comes to transporting classic and luxury vehicles, the more expensive options are the best. These options can help protect your car from weather and debris and provide added insurance coverage for your peace of mind.

Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or simply the proud owner of a luxury vehicle, proper shipping is an important part of classic car ownership. With the right approach, you can navigate the world of classic car transport with confidence, knowing your cherished automobile is in good hands.