Car shipping is a service that many people consider at some point, whether they're moving across the country, buying a car from out of state, or transporting a vehicle to a new location. However, the industry is surrounded by a lot of misconceptions, which can make it difficult for potential customers to make informed decisions. In this blog post, we’ll debunk the top 5 myths about car shipping, separating fact from fiction to help you better understand the process and feel confident in your choice.

Myth 1: Car Shipping Is Too Expensive
Reality: Car shipping can actually be more cost-effective than driving, especially for long distances.

Many people believe that shipping a car is prohibitively expensive, but when you break down the costs, it can actually be a more affordable and convenient option compared to driving the vehicle yourself. Consider the expenses involved in a cross-country drive: gas, meals, lodging, tolls, and potential wear and tear on your car. These costs can add up quickly, and that’s before considering the time and stress involved in a long road trip.

Car shipping companies offer various options to suit different budgets. For instance, open car transport is a widely available and cost-effective solution for most vehicles. While enclosed transport is more expensive, it’s primarily for luxury or classic cars that require extra protection.

Myth 2: Your Car Will Likely Be Damaged During Transport
Reality: Car shipping is a safe and secure process, with very few instances of damage.

One of the most common myths about car shipping is that your car will arrive in poor condition, but this is far from the truth. Reputable car shipping companies take every precaution to protect your vehicle during transport. In fact, less than 5% of vehicles shipped incur any damage, and most of the time, it’s minor cosmetic issues like small scratches or dings.

Carriers also provide insurance coverage during transit. If damage does occur, your vehicle will be covered by the shipping company's insurance. To further protect yourself, make sure to inspect your car for any pre-existing damage before shipping and document it with photos. This will allow you to compare the condition of your vehicle before and after shipping.

Myth 3: It’s Faster (and Better) to Drive Your Car Yourself
Reality: Car shipping can be quicker and more convenient than driving, especially over long distances.

Many people believe driving their vehicle themselves is faster and more efficient, but that’s often not the case. Car shipping companies can handle long-distance transport more efficiently since they have streamlined logistics in place to move multiple vehicles at once. Shipping your car also allows you to focus on other aspects of your move or travel without worrying about a lengthy road trip.

Driving long distances can be physically demanding, stressful, and even dangerous. You’re also putting unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle, which can lead to costly repairs down the road. With car shipping, you can fly to your destination and have your car waiting for you when you arrive, saving both time and effort.

Myth 4: You Can’t Ship a Car That’s Not Running
Reality: Non-operational vehicles can be shipped, but it requires special equipment.

It’s a common misconception that only running vehicles can be shipped. In reality, most car shipping companies offer services for non-operational vehicles, but the process requires special equipment, such as winches or forklifts, to load and unload the vehicle. Because of this, shipping a non-operational car can come with additional costs.

Whether your vehicle is fully functional or not, you can ship it across the country with the help of professional auto transport companies. Just be sure to inform the shipping company about the vehicle's condition so they can make the necessary arrangements.

Myth 5: Car Shipping Is Unreliable and Full of Scams
Reality: Reputable car shipping companies are reliable and regulated, and there are ways to avoid scams.

Some people worry that car shipping is an unregulated industry filled with shady businesses, but this isn’t true. The auto transport industry is governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and legitimate car shipping companies are required to be licensed, bonded, and insured.

While there are scams in any industry, you can avoid them by doing your research. Look for car shipping companies with positive customer reviews, transparent pricing, and FMCSA registration numbers. Avoid companies that ask for a large upfront deposit or offer prices that seem too good to be true.

Here are a few tips to ensure you’re working with a legitimate car shipping company:

Check credentials: Verify the company’s FMCSA license and DOT (Department of Transportation) number.
Read reviews: Check customer reviews on trusted platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or Google.
Get a detailed quote: Ensure that the shipping company provides a clear, itemized quote, and be wary of hidden fees.

Conclusion
Understanding the facts behind these common car shipping myths can help you make an informed decision about transporting your vehicle. Car shipping is often a more convenient, affordable, and reliable option than driving long distances yourself. By choosing a reputable auto transport company and preparing your vehicle properly, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free shipping experience.

​Whether you need to ship your car across the state or across the country, dispelling these myths can give you the peace of mind to move forward with confidence.