Are you planning a cross-country move and need to transport the car from the East to the West Coast? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! While moving can be a stressful experience, figuring out how to get your beloved vehicle safely to your new destination doesn’t have to be.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the options for shipping your car, including hiring a professional auto transport company or driving it yourself.
We’ll also provide some tips and tricks for making the journey smooth. So please sit back, relax, and let’s get your wheels rolling on this coast-to-coast adventure!
Types of People Who Need East Coast to West Auto Transport
Job Relocation
One key group requiring East Coast to West Auto Transport services is individuals undergoing job relocation.
According to the U.S. BLS, over 70% of people were displaced for job-related reasons in 2019.
These individuals often need to transport their cars, as they’re essential for commuting in their new locations.
As such, they opt for auto transport services. These services ensure their cars get from the East Coast to the West Coast without enduring the stress and fatigue of a cross-country drive.
College or University
Another significant group that often requires auto transport services is college students. Many students take their cars with them for convenience during their university years.
However, with a tight budget and the desire to avoid the rigors of a long-distance drive, they often turn to auto transport services.
These services ensure the safe delivery of their cars from the east coast to their universities on the west coast.
Vacation
Vacationers are another group that often chooses to use auto transport services. As per the U.S. Travel Association, domestic travel in the U.S. totaled 2.3 billion person trips in 2019.
Many travelers prefer to use their cars during their vacation but dread the long drive from the East Coast to the West Coast.
Auto transport services provide a solution by shipping their cars to their vacation destination, ensuring their vehicles are ready for use upon arrival.
Buying or Selling a Car
The last group of people who often need to transport a car from the East Coast to the West are those involved in buying or selling cars.
According to the Statista, nearly 51.2 million new and used cars exchange hands yearly. (38.6 used and 12.6 new). Many of these transactions involve interstate car shipping.
Auto transport services come in handy in such scenarios, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of the car from the seller on the East Coast to the buyer on the West Coast.
Distinguish Between Auto Transport Types For East Coast to West
Two primary methods dominate the industry: open transport and enclosed transport. Each has its unique process, advantages, and disadvantages, which we’ll delve into below.
Open Transport:
The most popular choice among car owners involves loading the car onto a large, multi-car carrier. Auto manufacturers typically use this type of transport to deliver new vehicles to dealerships. It’s a straightforward process: your car is securely placed on the trailer, typically with other vehicles, and transported across the country.
However, it’s important to remember that your car is exposed to the environmental elements throughout the journey in open transport. This means there’s a possibility of your car getting dirty due to weather conditions or road debris.
On the upside, open transport is generally the more affordable option and offers more flexible scheduling as it’s a standard method of transport.
Enclosed Transport:
This one offers additional protection for your vehicle. In this process, y_our car is placed inside a fully covered trailer, safeguarding it from external factors like weather conditions and road debris._
This type of transport is often preferred by owners of high-end, classic, or other special vehicles that require extra care. Despite offering superior protection, enclosed transport does come with a higher price tag.
It can cost approximately 25-40% more than open transport. Scheduling can also be more challenging due to fewer enclosed carriers.
So, how do you decide which transport to choose for your East to West Coast journey?
It primarily comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Open transport might be your best fit if your primary concern is keeping costs down and you’re less bothered about potential exposure to the elements. However, if your car is a valuable or sentimental asset you want to keep in pristine condition, you might prefer to invest in an enclosed transport.
Let’s look at some numbers to give you a clearer picture. According to the Federal Highway Administration, approximately _ 17 billion tons of cargo was moved via 12 million vessels in 2012 throughout the U.S, and trucks alone made up 65% of that total load _. Out of this, a significant percentage was done through open transport, indicating its popularity due to cost-effectiveness.
However, if we look at our company’s data from the luxury and classic car transportation sector, enclosed transport is preferred for its superior protection and peace of mind.
Ultimately, choosing between open and enclosed transport depends on assessing the value you place on cost savings versus the level of protection you desire for your vehicle during its cross-country journey.
Please remember to research trusted auto transport companies to ensure you have a smooth, hassle-free experience when shipping your car from the East Coast to the West Coast.
9 Factors Influence The Car Shipping Cost For East Coast to West
The ‘Transport Car From East To West Coast’ journey is a standard service our company, Easy Auto Ship, provides. However, the cost of this service can significantly vary depending on several factors. Here is a detailed list of nine factors influencing the cost of shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast.
Car Make and Model
The weight and size of the car can significantly affect the cost of transport. If you’re shipping a compact sedan, it will cost less than shipping an SUV or a truck. This is because larger cars occupy more space on the transport truck and increase fuel consumption, making the transport process more expensive. For instance, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, Class 8 Trucks are 2nd most fuel-consuming vehicles due to their sheer size and the heavy load they carry.
Transport Type
One can choose between enclosed and open-air transport. If you opt for enclosed transport, it provides additional protection to your vehicle but comes with a higher price tag. On the contrary, open-air transport is less expensive but offers a different level of security. On average, enclosed car shipping costs about 40% more than open transport.
Seasonality
The time of year can affect the cost of car shipping. During winter, fewer drivers may be available due to weather conditions, which could increase the price. Fall is typically cheaper for users shipping their vehicles than summer.
Fuel Prices
The cost of car shipping can rise if fuel prices increase. Shipping companies have to cover their costs, and fuel is significant.
Delivery Time Frame
An additional express shipping fee may apply if you need to transport your car faster than standard delivery times. This is due to the extra resources required to ensure your vehicle reaches its destination promptly.
Pickup and Drop-Off Location
The location of pickup and drop-off can also influence the cost. shipping to significant cities is cheaper because of easier access for carriers. Areas that are hard to reach or rural locations may incur additional charges.
Car Condition
The car’s condition is another factor affecting shipping costs. Shipping may cost more if the car isn’t operable or requires special handling due to its age or rarity. This is because special equipment may be needed for loading and unloading, which increases the overall cost.
Current Market Demand
The demand for car shipping services can influence the price. If there is high demand and fewer carriers available, prices generally increase. According to the American Trucking Association, there’s been a shortage of drivers, which has increased the cost of shipping goods, including cars.
Toll Charges
Lastly, depending on the route taken, there might be toll charges, which are usually included in your shipping quote. If the toll fees rise, this could increase the total cost of shipping. According to Wikipedia, toll roads account for about 5,000 miles of the U.S.
Knowing these factors can help you plan better when shipping your car from the East to the West Coast. At Easy Auto Ship, we’re always transparent about our pricing and services and are here to support you through every step of the transport process.
Cost Estimates East Coast to West Car Transport
The per-mile rate is a critical factor that significantly influences the cost of car transport. For distances ranging from 500 to 999 miles, an open carrier’s average per-mile price is between $1 and $0.75. For longer distances, such as 1,000 to 2,500 miles, the rate drops to an average of $0.6 to $0.4 per mile.
However, if you opt for an enclosed carrier to provide additional protection for your car, you can expect to add about 40% more to these rates. It’s important to remember that these figures are averages, and the actual transportation cost may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Now, let’s consider some concrete examples of transport between the East Coast and West Coast states, complete with the distance in miles:
Route | Distance (miles) | Open Carrier Cost ($) | Enclosed Carrier Cost ($) |
---|---|---|---|
New York, NY to Los Angeles, CA | 2,789 | $1,116 | $1,562 |
Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA | 3,097 | $1,239 | $1,734 |
Miami, FL to Seattle, WA | 3,297 | $1,319 | $1,846 |
Washington, DC, to San Diego, CA | 2,660 | $1,064 | $1,490 |
Atlanta, GA to Portland, OR | 2,576 | $1,030 | $1,442 |
Philadelphia, PA to Phoenix, AZ | 2,357 | $1,414 | $1,980 |
Orlando, FL to Las Vegas, NV | 2,329 | $1,397 | $1,956 |
Charlotte, NC to Denver, CO | 1,567 | $784 | $1,097 |
Richmond, VA to Salt Lake City, UT | 2,078 | $1,247 | $1,746 |
Baltimore, MD to Albuquerque, NM | 1,989 | $994 | $1,391 |
Jacksonville, FL to Sacramento, CA | 2,493 | $1,496 | $2,094 |
Virginia Beach, VA to Tucson, AZ | 2,243 | $1,346 | $1,884 |
Raleigh, NC to San Jose, CA | 2,787 | $1,115 | $1,561 |
Tampa, FL to Anaheim, CA | 2,504 | $1,002 | $1,403 |
Pittsburgh, PA, to Fresno, CA | 2,552 | $1,021 | $1,429 |
Cincinnati, OH to Bakersfield, CA | 2,269 | $1,361 | $1,905 |
Newark, NJ to Honolulu, HI | 4,983 | $1,993 | $2,790 |
Buffalo, NY, to Anchorage, AK | 3,733 | $1,493 | $2,090 |
St. Petersburg, FL to Fairbanks, AK | 4,154 | $1,662 | $2,327 |
Greensboro, NC to Maui, HI | 4,769 | $1,908 | $2,671 |
Remember, these distances are provided as a guideline. The actual cost of your car transport will depend on various factors, including the type of carrier, the season, and the specific locations for pickup and drop-off. Consider these factors as you plan your transport and consider your budget. With Easy Auto Ship, you can rest easy knowing that your car is in safe hands, regardless of the distance.
Timeframe for Shipping a Car from the East Coast to the West
The journey of shipping a car can be an adventure in itself. When it comes to the average timeframe for shipping a vehicle from the East to the West Coast, it typically falls within the range of 7 to 14 days.
However, this is a broad estimate, and the timing can vary based on several factors. It’s important to remember that this timeframe starts when the car is picked up, not when the order is placed.
It’s also worth noting that the time of the year can impact the timeframe. For instance, peak season, which usually runs from May to September, may take longer due to high demand.
Factors That Impact Shipping Time
Several factors can affect the timeframe for shipping a car from one coast to another. Weather conditions are a significant factor, as extreme weather can create delays.
Another factor is the route; while most East to West Coast routes are straightforward, detours and road conditions can impact the timeframe.
The size and weight of the car can also influence the shipping time. More significantly, heavier cars may take longer to load and unload, and they may also limit the number of vehicles that can be transported at once.
The type of transport service chosen can also affect the timeframe. For example, door-to-door service might take longer than terminal-to-terminal due to the extra time needed to coordinate pickup and delivery times.
Urgent Shipping Possibilities
While the typical timeframe to transport a car from East to West Coast is about a week or two, there are options for those in a hurry.
Expedited shipping is an option available which, for an additional cost, speeds up the transport process. This service prioritizes your car shipment, often reducing the timeframe to 3 to 5 days.
However, it’s essential to remember that this is still subject to availability and current demand.
Examples of State-to-State Transport from East to West Coast
- Car transportation from New York to California typically takes 7 to 10 days.
- The journey from Florida to Washington averages 6 to 8 days.
- From Georgia to Arizona, expect around 5 to 7 days.
- If you’re moving your car from North Carolina to Oregon, it usually takes 7 to 10 days.
- From Pennsylvania to Nevada, it commonly takes about 6 to 9 days.
- If you’re shipping from Virginia to Colorado, plan for 5 to 7 days.
- The typical timeframe for moving a car from Maryland to Utah is 6 to 8 days.
- The average time from Massachusetts to New Mexico is 7 to 10 days.
- shipping your car from Connecticut to Idaho usually takes about 6 to 9 days.
- Lastly, if you’re shipping from New Jersey to Montana, expect a timeframe of around 7 to 10 days.
At Easy Auto Ship, we aim to make moving your car as simple and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re shipping a classic car, a family SUV, or a compact city car, we have the experience and resources to ensure a smooth, safe, and timely transport from the East to the West.
Step-by-step Guide to Transport Car from East to West Coast with Easy Auto Ship
If you’re considering moving your car from the East Coast to the West Coast but are concerned about the process’s logistics, cost, and safety, then you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the car transportation process with Easy Auto Ship - a reliable and cost-effective solution for your vehicle moving needs.
Let’s start with a brief overview of the Easy Auto Ship process. We provide a step-by-step guide to transport a car from the East to the West Coast, ensuring your concerns are answered. Our approach is efficient, safe, and cost-effective, ideal for those within a tight budget.
- Step 1: Request a Quote – Head to our website to kick-start the process and request a quote. This obligation-free process is designed to provide an accurate estimate of the cost of shipping your car. The quote is based on several factors, including the make and model of your car, the total distance to be covered, the time of year, and the current fuel prices.
- Step 2: Schedule Your Car Pickup – After agreeing to the quoted price, the next step is to schedule the pickup of your car. We offer door-to-door service, meaning we’ll pick up your car from your designated location and deliver it to your specified destination.
- Step 3: Car Inspection – Before loading, a thorough inspection of your car is conducted to document its current condition. This is a crucial step as it records your car’s condition before it’s transported.
- Step 4: Car Loading and Transportation – Your car is carefully loaded onto a specialized car transport carrier. These carriers are meticulously designed to maximize the security of your vehicle during transport. From this point, your car will begin its journey from the East Coast to the West Coast.
- Step 5: Car Delivery – Upon reaching the West Coast, your car will be delivered to your specified location. Another inspection ensures your car arrived in the condition it was picked up in. If everything is in order, a final sign-off completes the process.
One key benefit of using Easy Auto Ship is the peace of mind it offers. According to a 2018 report by the Federal Highway Administration, there were 6.734 million car accidents in the United States. By shipping your car with us, you’re reducing the chances of accidents during long-distance moves, wear and tear, and unnecessary mileage on your vehicle.
4 Tips for Easy Car Transport Process
When shipping car from East to West Coast, it’s crucial to follow a few key guidelines to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process. The task might seem overwhelming, but it can be as easy as a Sunday drive with careful planning and the right assistance.
Preparing your car for shipping:
This step is vital for a successful transport. Start by cleaning your car thoroughly, both inside and out. A clean vehicle will allow for a more accurate inspection.
Removing personal belongings and turning off the alarm system is also important. Additionally, make sure to check the car’s tire pressure, battery charge, and fluid levels.
Selecting the right shipping option:
It’s essential to consider factors such as the type of car you have, your budget, and the urgency of the transport.
Enclosed shipping, which offers enhanced protection, might be a good option if you have a luxury or vintage car.
However, it can cost 40% more than open transport. If you’re on a tight budget or have a tight timeline, you might want to consider open transport or expedited shipping.
Inspection of your car:
Doing this before and after shipment is a critical step in the car transport process. Before shipping, take detailed photos of your car from various angles, noting any existing damage.
This will serve as a record and could be helpful if a dispute arises. Post-shipment, inspect your car thoroughly for any new damage in good lighting conditions, preferably in the presence of the driver.
Dealing with car transport companies requires savvy.
It’s essential to research and compare different companies, considering their reputation, customer reviews, and price.
Ensure to get a written agreement detailing the cost, timeline, insurance coverage, and other important details. Also, be aware of your rights and responsibilities as a customer.
Whether you’re a college student sending your car home for the summer, a family moving across the country, or a car dealer shipping a fleet of vehicles, these guidelines will help you navigate the process confidently and easily.
Parting Words:
Whether you need to move your vehicle from East to West, Nort to South, or anywhere in the U.S, we can help!
We’ll pick up your car in the given window, safely load it onto the carrier, and drop it off at your provided location while you stay completely hands-off. So feel free to contact us now and receive your free, instant quote.