Five Tips Before Shipping your Sports Car in 2020

A sports car is designed to emphasize handling, performance, or thrill of driving. Sports cars originated in Europe in the early 1900s and are currently produced by many manufacturers around the world. Unfortunately, when shipping sports cars overseas, getting them to their destination can be a time-consuming and challenging process. Whether you are moving to another city and need your vehicle there before you arrive, or are a dealer trying to have cars you bought at auction shipped to a foreign port, finding a reliable shipping company and setting up a safe trip for your vehicle can be a daunting task. Fortunately, with the right knowledge, you can quickly get your car shipped to your destination in no time at all. To help all of our blog readers make informed decisions, we have put together the following list of everything you need to know.

CHOOSING AN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS CAR SHIPPING COMPANY: 

If you are shipping a sports car internationally, take your time finding a reliable international car shipping company. Make sure the company is registered with the department of transportation and has both a Motor Carrier (MC) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT).

RESEARCH BEFORE SHIPPING CARS OVERSEAS:

Before you hire a car, and the shipping company does your research ahead of time. In addition to having the proper registration numbers, you will also want to verify their authenticity. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the company has had any complaints filed and if so, find out how the issues were resolved. You can also research the company online and contact any references listed on their website. By taking a little extra time to find a reliable international auto transporter, you can rest assured that your vehicle will be treated with care.

CHECKING FOR SHIPPING INSURANCE:

Although carriers are required to carry insurance, and it is your responsibility to ask for proof and verify that the information is correct. You can do this by checking Safersys.org or by calling the international auto transporter's insurance company. Make sure to find out if their insurance is enough to cover to the value of your car, and ask about additional insurance options.

DROPPING OFF AND PICK UPPING UP:

Some car shipping companies will pick up your vehicle from your home, or if you are purchasing a new car, then they may even pick the car up directly from the dealership. However, other car shipping companies have a designated drop off spot. Besides, depending on your destination, a reliable international car shipping company maybe able to get your vehicle to its exact destination, or you may need to arrange for the car to be picked up at a terminal. These are questions you want to ask when choosing your international shipping company.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING RATES:

Some to find a range of prices when shipping cars internationally. The most determining cost factor is the type of car(s) you are sending. International car shipping companies generally charge more to ship sport utility vehicles than compact cars or motorcycles. Other factors include your destination and the possible cost of additional insurance.

TIME VARIATIONS:

The  time it takes to ship your car internationally can vary widely depending on where the starting port and the final destination. If you are only shipping your vehicle a short distance, then it might only take a few days. However, if you live in California and are shipping a vehicle to the Middle East, then it will take much longer. With long trips, your vehicle is going to need to go through numerous ports and will have to deal with customs at each location. Because of this, it is advised that you plan your shipping at least a few weeks ahead of time to ensure that your car(s) arrives before you do.

PREPARING YOUR SPORT CAR FOR SHIPPING OVERSEAS:

There are a few things most shipping companies ask of their customers before their cars are picked up. First, you should remove any items in your vehicle that you do not want to be shipped overseas. Also, as a precaution, you should take pictures to document the current condition of your vehicle. That way you will have proof should something happen to your vehicle during shipping.

GASOLINE IN THE VEHICLE:

Most shipping companies recommend that you leave about ¼ of a tank of petrol in your vehicle when you ship your car overseas.

DEALING WITH CUSTOMS:

Most shipping companies have customs brokers who work on your behalf to get your vehicle safely and swiftly through customs. This can be very helpful, as dealing with customs on your own can be confusing, and you want to make sure everything is done correctly.

ADDITIONAL CAR SHIPPING NEEDS:

These are several standard services most international shipping companies provide. However, you may have other needs that are not usually offered. When screening potential carriers, make sure to state your specific needs and ask questions to make sure your requirements will be met. Most reliable international shipping companies will be willing to work with you and will go to great lengths to ensure you are satisfied with your transport experience.

YOU CAN CHOOSE BETWEEN A MULTI-CAR CARRIER AND A SINGLE CAR CARRIER:

 Enclosed multi-car carriers are usually requested for transport across the country. Enclosed transport is typically more expensive. However, multi-car carriers are still less costly than a single car carrier. It all depends on the distance the exclusivity of the service you require. Separate car carriers are booked for the shorter distance or expedited services. Booking an enclosed single-car transport will cost more because of their exclusivity and the protection they provide to your vehicle. This is the reason they are usually reserved for high-end automobiles.

HOW MUCH DOES SPORTS CAR TRANSPORT COST?

Shipping a sports car is more expensive. We say this because when you care about your vehicle, you will choose a more secure, enclosed trailer. Yet, the price to ship a car depends on more than the type of container you want. Several factors affect the cost of shipping a vehicle daily. The sports car makes the model, as well as any modifications, were done to the sports car to affect the cost. We already know you are shipping a sports car. But have you added any changes that would require special accommodations to load/unload your vehicle? You must mention them as it may affect your shipping costs. The distance and the exact pick up and drop off location makes a difference. The longer the length, the more you will pay for shipping. It's not rocket science.

When it gets to pick up/drop off locations, transporting between major metropolitan areas costs less, simply because truckers have more opportunities to find loads fast. Proximity to major highways is also one of the factors that affect the price of shipping. Supply and demand fluctuations in the auto transport industry play a significant role in rates. When the demand is high, the trunk space is limited. Hence, higher-priced vehicles ship first. It's just the way the industry works. Transport type of course also determines your quote. As we've mentioned earlier, you'll have a choice between open and enclosed carriers. Given the high value of your supercar, we highly recommend you opt for an enclosed trailer.