There are 5,919 auto transport companies in the United States, and finding the right one for your needs is already challenging, let alone negotiating reasonable rates with them for your shipment. But that can also be done without issues if you know how quotes are determined.
So, this guide is designed to give you a behind-the-scenes view of how an auto transport company sets its rates. Let’s get started:
Even The Best Auto Transport Companies Rely on Carriers for Quotes:
Even if you list the best auto transport companies in the US, they’re still the broker or middlemen between you and the actual auto carrier who will move your vehicle. But then two questions arise:
- Why do I need a broker?
- How do the brokers determine shipping quotes when they hire carriers to move vehicles?
The answer to the first question is simple: to get better service and protection. The car shipping brokers are licensed entities with brick-and-mortar institutes and strong online presence. They have their reputation and license at stake should anything go wrong. They keep the carriers in check because these carriers do not have any online reputation, so the end customer cannot know whether they’re any good or not.
Brokers can access multiple platforms, such as Central Dispatch, where they check carriers’ backgrounds, reviews, insurance information, history, and other credentials to vet the best possible candidate for their customers. This ensures maximum protection for the user. These brokers have support systems through live chat, phone calls, email, and an office that can be personally visited. So, the overall experience is much better, and their charge is not that high either.
The second question’s answer is that brokers negotiate with the carriers on costs as they offer multiple loads to the carriers. So they have some degree of control over prices and leverage of further business to carriers. This allows brokers to save a good chunk of money, so the difference between a quote from the carrier and a broker is not that high. It’s typically $150 to $300 per vehicle. However, not all this is taken from customers; brokers negotiate rates to divide their fees between carrier and customer.
7 Key Elements an Auto Transport Company Looks at to Determine the Quotes:
Top rated auto transport companies consider several factors when calculating shipping quotes. Understanding these elements can help you get a better deal and choose the right car transport service for your needs.
Total Distance Between Zip Codes
The distance between your vehicle’s pickup and delivery locations is a primary consideration for auto transport companies. Longer distances have higher shipping costs, as the transport carriers must account for fuel, labor, and other expenses associated with the extended journey. To get an accurate quote, be prepared to provide the zip codes for both the origin and destination points.
| Distance (miles) | Average Cost Per Mile |
|---|---|
| 0-500 | $1 per mile |
| 500-1000 | $0.75 |
| 1000+ | $0.6 |
Vehicle Size and Type
The dimensions and type of your vehicle also play a significant role in determining the car shipping cost. Larger vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, or oversized cars, will need more space on the transport carrier and may incur additional fees. Conversely, compact or lightweight vehicles tend to be less expensive to ship. Here’s an example of 1,000 miles of transport
- Compact cars: $600 - $800
- Sedans: $700 - $900
- SUVs and trucks: $800 - $1,000
- Oversized vehicles: $900 - $1,200
Transport Method (Open vs. Enclosed)
Auto transport companies offer two primary transport methods: open and enclosed. Open transport is the more affordable option, as the vehicles are loaded onto an open-air carrier.
Enclosed transport, which protects your automobile from the elements and potential road hazards, typically costs more but provides added protection.
| Method | Price Range 1,000 Miles | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Open | $600-$1,000 | Standard vehicles |
| Enclosed | $850-$1,500 | Luxury or classic cars |
Time of Year and Seasonal Demand
The time of year can decrease or increase auto transport costs as demand for shipping services fluctuates with the seasons. During peak transport seasons, such as summer and the holidays, hauling rates are higher due to increased shipping volume. Conversely, shipping during the off-season, like the winter months, may result in lower quotes.
Vehicle Condition and Operability
The condition and operability of your vehicle can also influence the shipping quote. Inoperable vehicles that are damaged or have special handling requirements may incur additional fees to ensure secure transport. For instance a forklift might be needed to load and unload an inoperational vehicle onto the trailer, which can cost $150 for just one day in rental.
Rush or Flexible Delivery Options
Expedited shipping costs more, while flexible delivery dates can lead to lower quotes. Top rated auto transport companies offer various options to fit your timeline and budget.
Route Complexity and Accessibility
Remote or hard-to-access regions may incur additional fees. Urban areas with easy highway access often have more competitive rates.
Some auto transport companies offer rush delivery options for those needing quickly transported vehicles. However, this expedited service comes with a higher price tag.
Alternatively, if you’re flexible with your delivery timeline, you may be able to secure a more affordable quote.
Do Auto Transport Companies Factor in Cargo Coverage Costs in a Quote?
Yes, they do. Well, at least the good ones always do. Because they have to pay $400 to $1,800 per year in cargo coverage costs, depending on the size of their policy, they factor in a few bucks of coverage policy in every shipment. And since each carrier working with the auto transport company/broker has to have his own cargo insurance, it’s not just one policy covering every shipment. Each shipment is covered under that specific carrier’s cargo policy.
Now, you may ask, why are they even getting cargo insurance on our behalf? Why should we pay additional costs when the quote can be lower without coverage? Well, it’s because accidents are not rare in large trucks. They travel in the early morning, in scorching noon, and on cold nights, so mistakes can happen.
In fact, as per the National Safety Council (NSC), large trucks with a gross weight rating of over 10,000 pounds have been seeing a sharp rise in crashes since 2008, reaching a whopping 120,200 crashes in 2022 from 66,000 crashes in 2008. Here’s the data:
As per the chart above:
- Large truck crashes are increasing continuously every year, as does the risk to the cargo they carry.
- There has been a 49% increase in large truck crashes in just the past 10 years, from 2012 to 2022.
- Although NHTSA introduced a newer way of recording crashes, crash Report Sampling (CRSS), in 2016, the number of accidents rose even sharper after that.
Seeing the number of large truck crashes is not even close to going down; it’s super important for auto shippers to carry and factor in cargo insurance costs when offering quotes.
Open Vs. Enclosed Auto Transport Companies - Who to Trust?
When choosing an auto transport company, you’ll face a key decision: open or enclosed transport. Each option has its merits, catering to different needs and budgets. Let’s explore the advantages of both to help you make an informed choice.
Open Auto Transport Company Offers Best Price:
Open auto transport is the go-to choice for budget-conscious customers. This method involves shipping vehicles on large, open-air carriers. It’s cost-effective and widely available, making it ideal for standard cars and everyday transport needs.
- Lower costs due to higher capacity carriers
- More frequent shipping schedules
- Suitable for most standard vehicles
Enclosed Auto Transport Companies Offer Best Security:
Enclosed auto transport provides superior protection for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles. These carriers shield cars from road debris, weather, and prying eyes, offering peace of mind for discerning owners.
- Full protection from external elements
- Ideal for expensive or rare vehicles
- Extra care and attention when loading/unloading
| Feature | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Protection | Basic | Premium |
| Availability | High | Limited |
| Best for | Standard vehicles | Luxury/Classic cars |
The best auto transport companies will offer both options, enabling you to select based on your specific needs and budget. Whether you opt for open or enclosed auto transport, ensure you select a reputable provider with positive customer reviews and proper insurance coverage.
5 Quote Differences Between Average & Top Rated Auto Transport Companies:
Understanding quote differences can save you money and headaches when selecting an auto transport company. Top auto transport companies stand out with their pricing practices. Let’s explore five key distinctions when quoting between average and best-rated auto transport companies.
Deposit Requirements
Top-rated auto transport companies typically require a much smaller deposit, often just a fraction of the total cost, compared to the larger upfront payments demanded by average providers. This smaller deposit requirement gives you more financial flexibility and can be especially helpful if you’re on a tight budget.
| Deposit Requirement | Average Auto Transport Companies | Top Rated Auto Transport Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Deposit | 25-50% of total cost | 10-20% of total cost |
Price Breakdown Transparency
Best rated auto transport companies follow a “What You See Is What You Get” policy. They provide detailed breakdowns of costs, including fuel surcharges and insurance.
- Base transport fee
- Insurance coverage
- Fuel surcharges
- Any applicable taxes
Guaranteed vs. Estimated Pricing
While average auto transport companies may offer “guaranteed” pricing, top-rated providers often provide estimated quotes instead.
This approach acknowledges that factors such as fuel costs and market conditions can cause slight fluctuations in the final price. However, you can still expect to pay within a reasonable range of the original estimate.
Cancellation and Refund Policies
Top-rated auto transport companies typically have more flexible cancellation and refund policies than average providers. This means you can often change your shipping schedule or receive a partial refund if you need to cancel your order, providing you with greater peace of mind.
At Easy Auto Ship, you can cancel and get a full refund as long as you do it within the first 24 hours. And if you do it after this time but before a carrier is assigned, you’ll still get the refund minus a small administration fee.
Additional Fees Disclosure
The best rated auto transport companies are upfront about potential additional charges, such as charges for oversized or specialty vehicles like RV transport, that may be applicable to your shipment.
This upfront communication helps you budget accurately and avoid any unpleasant surprises when it’s time to pay the final bill.
Why Top Rated Auto Transport Companies Offer Best Value:
When shipping your vehicle, focusing on the initial quote price is natural. However, the true value of a top-rated auto transport company goes far beyond just the sticker price. These companies often provide exceptional customer service, reliable on-time delivery, and comprehensive insurance coverage that can make the investment well worth it in the long run.
One key advantage of using a top-rated auto transport company is its commitment to customer satisfaction. These companies typically have highly trained and responsive customer service teams that can guide you through the entire shipping process, answer any questions, and address any concerns you may have. This level of personalized attention can give you peace of mind and ensure a stress-free experience.
| Feature | Average Auto Transport Company | Top Rated Auto Transport Company |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Service | Limited support, long wait times | Highly trained, responsive team |
| Delivery Reliability | Inconsistent on-time performance | Commitment to punctual, reliable delivery |
| Insurance Coverage | Minimum required coverage | Comprehensive insurance protection |
Another important factor to consider is the reliability of delivery. Top-rated auto transport companies have a proven track record of delivering vehicles on time, every time. They often have a larger fleet of trucks and experienced drivers, allowing them to navigate the complexities of the shipping process more efficiently. This can be particularly valuable if you have a tight timeline or need your vehicle delivered by a specific date.
Additionally, top-rated auto transport companies typically offer more comprehensive insurance coverage, giving you the peace of mind that your vehicle is protected throughout shipping. While the initial quote may be slightly higher, the added protection and assurance can be well worth the investment.
- Superior customer service and support
- Reliable on-time delivery
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
The best auto transport companies with top ratings often invest in advanced logistics systems. This technology enables efficient route planning and coordination, resulting in faster delivery times and customer cost savings.
| Feature | Top Rated Companies | Average Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance Coverage | Comprehensive | Basic |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Dedicated Team | Limited Hours |
| Tracking | Real-time Updates | Periodic Updates |
| Pricing | Transparent, No Hidden Fees | Variable, Potential Extra Charges |
7 Tips to Make Even the Best Auto Transport Company Lower Quotes:
Looking to save money on auto transport? Try these strategies to lower your quotes from top transport companies.
Compare Multiple Quotes from Different Companies
Get quotes from at least 3-5 auto transport companies. This lets you compare prices and find the best deal.
| Company | Quote | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Company A | $1,200 | - |
| Company B | $1,100 | $100 |
| Company C | $1,000 | $200 |
Be Flexible with Your Shipping Dates
Auto transport companies often offer lower quotes to customers willing to be flexible with their shipping dates.
If your schedule allows, consider adjusting your pickup and delivery timelines to take advantage of the company’s availability and seasonal fluctuations in demand.
Choose Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
Opting for terminal-to-terminal shipping, transporting your vehicle from a designated pickup location to a drop-off terminal, can be significantly more affordable than door-to-door service.
This method reduces the company’s overall transportation and labor costs, which they can pass on to you through lower quotes.
Opt for Open Transport Instead of Enclosed
Open transport, where your vehicle is shipped on an uncovered trailer, is generally more budget-friendly than enclosed transport. It’s suitable for most vehicles unless you have a luxury or classic car.
While enclosed transport provides added protection, the cost difference can be substantial, especially for longer-distance shipments.
Similarly, when shipping your vehicle overseas, opting for RoRo instead of container shipping can save you a good chunk of money.
Consider Seasonal Timing for Better Rates
Auto transport rates vary by season. Book during off-peak times for potential savings.
- Peak season: Summer months
- Off-peak season: Fall and winter
Ask For Discounts
Many transport companies offer discounts for specific groups. Check if you qualify for any of these:
- AAA members
- Military personnel
- Students
- Snowbirds
- Disabled individuals
Disassemble Non-Essential Parts for Compact Shipping
If your vehicle can be disassembled without compromising functionality, consider removing non-essential parts, such as side mirrors or antennas, to reduce the overall size and weight.
Removing items like bike racks or spoilers can reduce your vehicle’s dimensions, potentially lowering shipping costs.
Paying Higher Quotes From Best Rated Auto Transport Companies - Worth It?
When doing auto transport, you might wonder if shelling out extra cash for best rated auto transport companies is a smart move. The answer? It can be, but only up to a point.
Top-tier companies might charge about 10% more than average rates. This premium can translate to better service, reliability, and peace of mind.
These respected auto transport companies typically offer:
- Faster pickup and delivery times
- More experienced and vetted drivers
- Superior customer service and communication
- Better insurance coverage
- Higher success rates in on-time deliveries
Let’s break down the value proposition with a quick comparison:
| Feature | Average Auto Transport Company | Top-Rated Auto Transport Company |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Lower quotes, but may have hidden fees or surcharges | Slightly higher quotes (10% more max), but more transparent pricing and fewer additional fees |
| Vehicle Handling | Standard protocols may have a higher risk of damage | Rigorous quality control and specialized handling procedures to minimize risk |
| Customer Support | Limited communication and responsiveness | Dedicated customer support team, real-time tracking, and proactive updates |
| Delivery Reliability | May have delays or difficulties adhering to the schedule | Proven track record of on-time deliveries and flexible scheduling options |
If you’re shipping a high-value or classic car, the extra cost might be well worth it for the added security and expertise. You might find the sweet spot for standard vehicles with a reputable company that balances cost and quality in the competitive auto transport industry.
Even The Top Auto Transport Companies Can Make Mistakes - Choose Wisely:
Finding the right car transporter for your needs is important, not just choosing the ‘best’ one. Not every shipping company is right for every type of transport need. You need to ensure their reviews regarding the type of shipping you need are good enough. For instance, if you need to ship a car, go to their Google reviews page and search ‘car’ to see all the reviews regarding cars. Do the same for RVs, Golf Carts, motorcycles, etc. You will get to learn relevant things about them.
Similarly, check their BBB complaint history, what the issues were, did they resolve them, and what’s their rating. Etc. These are the things that help you decide if the potential auto shipping company is right for your specific transportation needs or not. At Easy Auto Ship, we have an established BBB profile with an A+ rating and nearly 5,000 reviews on Google, with an average of 4.6 out of 5, which shows how seriously we take our customers’ needs. So call us and get free quotes. If you like our prices, we’ll be more than happy to help.