Have you been trying to find out the best method to ship a car from Georgia to California? It usually sounds hard to transport a car midway across the country, be it for a job, moving to a new place, or giving a family member a car to drive. There’s no need to worry! By following a few simple guidelines, you will find that shipping a vehicle does not have to be stressful and can be done efficiently.
In this article, everything you need to know regarding the process of transporting a car from Georgia to California is included, including practical tips to help ensure the journey is smooth for your car and your bank account.
Why Drive When You Can Use The Car Shipping Option Instead?
Now, before analyzing the specifics, let us answer a question that may loom in your mind. Why should you consider transporting your vehicle instead of just driving it to the destination? Well, the answer is:
You’ll Save Time
For one, there are over 2,400 miles between California and Georgia, which would take around 36 hours of driving in total. That in itself is quite an undertaking. For some, this could mean spending almost a week on the road. This would greatly reduce productivity. This is exactly why we recommend shipping your vehicle. This way, you’d only need to focus on setting in at your new location or other activities that need your attention.
Less Wear and Tear
Long car journey trips can cause significant wear and tear. Driving from coast to coast can lead to expensive repairs and, in turn, lowers the value of the vehicle because of the increased usage.
Professionalism and Protection
Accidents or breakdowns are often a problem when driving in new areas. Weather, along with busy highways, can be difficult to navigate. Ensuring to ship your vehicle increases the chances of mechanical issues being reduced in comparison to driving long distances.
Now that we are clear on the reasons clients preferred shipping their cars, let’s break down the process after arriving in Georgia and moving to California.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Shipping Cars from Georgia to California
Step 1: Look for a Shipper
It is necessary to do thorough research as companies vary in services offered. In choosing which company to go with, keep the following in mind:
Cross-country experience: Ensure that the shipper has sufficient experience on routes from Georgia to California and other cross-country routes.
Licenses and Insurance: Always make sure the shipper has a valid license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and that it offers sufficient coverage for your vehicle.
Pro Tip: Avoid overspending by checking at least three quotes and comparing service options.
Step 2: Decide On the Method of Shipment
There are two primary methods of transporting cars:
Open Transport: This is the most cost-effective and popular option. Your vehicle will be moved via an open trailer truck along with other cars. Open transport is the safest option, but your car is more likely to get damaged by weather or road conditions.
Enclosed Transport: Maximum protection because your car will be transported in a fully covered trailer. This is the best option for luxury or classic cars, but it is more expensive.
Choosing the appropriate method largely depends on your estimated budget and the value of your car.
Step 3: Determine Estimated Cost of Services
Items that affect the pricing of shipping include the following:
Distance: Longer routes will cost more, and shorter routes will cost less.
Car Size and Weight: Bigger cars like SUVs are more expensive to ship than smaller cars like sedans.
Shipping Method: Enclosed transport will cost more than open transport.
Time of Year: The summer season, alongside major holidays, is peak season and will cost more for shipping.
On this route, the average cost to ship a standard-size sedan on an open carrier is around $900 to $1,300. For enclosed transport, expect prices higher than $1,500.
To obtain quotes instantly, utilize the cost calculators offered on the websites of various shipping companies.
Step 4: Prepare Your Vehicle Prior to Shipment
A smooth shipping process begins by making sure your car is ready. Here are some tips to help you out:
Clean Your Vehicle – Both inside and out. Prepares you to check for any damage before the shipping process commences.
Take Photos: Photograph the condition of your car before it goes into shipping. Capture any pre-existing damage, such as scratches and dents, as well.
Remove Personal Belongings – During the transportation of the vehicle, personal belongings are not allowed inside. Make sure to remove them.
Check for Leakage: Your vehicle should be leak-free, and all parts should be functional.
Disable Alarms – Switch off any alarms to mitigate disturbances during the shipping process.
Step 5: Finalize and Confirm Shipment Service.
Arrange a time and date with the shipping company for when the car will be picked up in Georgia and to whom the delivery service will go in California. Certain companies will offer these services as part of their package, and the vehicle will be picked up and brought to the address provided. Others will only provide transport between certain points.
Make sure someone is available for car inspections during the pickup and drop-off.
Step 6: Examine After Delivery
Inspecting your car after it arrives in California is crucial. You should review the photos taken before shipment and crosscheck the current state of the vehicle. If anything appears to be amiss:
Contact the shipping provider right away.
Take photos highlighting the issue.
Check with your insurer on what claims can be made.
While most shipments are uneventful, being cautious is always wise.
Ways to Save Money While Still Maintaining Standards
There are ways to ship a car without spending a fortune. Here are some pointers for saving money:
Schedule Ahead of Time: You can incur extra costs by setting things up at the last minute. Schedule your shipping weeks ahead of time for the best rates.
Flexible Dates: Lower-demand days or seasons should be selected to cut costs.
Terminal-to-terminal shipping options: Opting for this option is less convenient, but leaving your vehicle at a terminal would save you a lot of money.
Company Negotiations: Many companies will be willing to adjust their prices or provide discounts, especially if you are new to using their services or if you have many shipments to send at once.
Common Questions Asked on Shipping a Car from Georgia to California
What is the time frame for the delivery of the vehicle?
The typical time for moving a vehicle from Georgia to California is from a week to 10 days, depending on the route and other factors.
Is my car covered while in transit?
Generally, reputable shipping companies do provide liability coverage. Ensure that you read the terms of their coverage before booking your tickets.
Can my shipment be tracked?
Most modern shipping companies do provide GPS tracking for vehicles, so you are able to tell where your car is, as well as when it is expected to arrive.
Are electric vehicles more costly for shipping purposes?
Electric vehicles require a bit more for shipping purposes, as most of them are heavier than the average vehicle.
Start Your Car Shipping Journey Today
Shipping a car from Georgia to California can be daunting, but you are in luck. By taking the time to select the right company, preparing your vehicle accordingly, and following these steps, you are guaranteed a process that is easy and does not consume too much of your time or money.
Now, it is time to hit the road or take a backseat and let your car drive for you.