Are you Driving or Shipping Your Car for the Winter?

  • Are you Driving or Shipping Your Car for the Winter?

    09

    Dec

    Are you Driving or Shipping Your Car for the Winter?
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    Winter | Pixabay

     

    During winter, the whole place is all cold and covered in pristine snow. It is such a wonderful sight, right? But if you are going out to drive your vehicle on that slippery road, maybe it is not that appealing. Driving in the snow for long distances can be a hassle and prone to dangerous accidents.

     

    If you are not staying home for the holidays, chances are you will be driving or shipping your vehicle to your destination. There is a very high possibility that you will face unexpected situations down the road. And as your trusted auto transport broker, we do not want you driving carelessly to the winter wonderland.

     

    Shipping vs Driving

     

    At this moment, you might already be imagining your holiday vacation and all of the fun things you can do. You might also be weighing out between driving or shipping your car before the winter months hit. Now is actually the most advisable time to plan your road trip or car shipping to your go-to winter escapade.

     

    Driving cross-country is nothing short of an adventure. Surely, you will be up for some unforgettable and regrettable (pun intended) experiences at the same time. Every virtue and wisdom that you own will be tested on a long trip.

     

    If you are going from coast to coast, you can either drive or ship your car. Shipping is an easier way to move your car across the country. But if you decide to drive your car with all your might, we are here to help you decide.

     

    Car Shipping | Pixabay

     

    Let us weigh out the pros and cons of shipping and driving. This is to help you decide on whether to drive or ship your car for the winter. This comparison will include the cost of the travel or service, the distance from the origin and destination, the length of the journey, and the ease of moving. So, let’s get it started.

     

    Travel Time

    Time | Pixabay

     

    This first step is pretty obvious. Before making up your final decision, you must already know the average travel time of your journey. Cross-country trips may take a few days to around a week. If you are driving from one coast to another, the trip maybe a little longer.

     

    You may want to have an alternate driver if you are planning for a long trip. But if you are going alone, you might want to plan your rest stops, as well. This safety measure will enable you to drive defensively and alertly.

     

    However, if your work will not let you have that much time off, you may want to consider having your car transported to your destination a few days before your flight. This will also let you have more time to set up your new home or have fun on your vacation.

     

    Know what matters to you and what is realistic. Driving lets you see more of the country during the trip. On the other hand, flying to your destination and transporting your vehicle will let you have more time to spend on enjoyment and bonding with your family.

     

    Distance from point A to point B

    Distance | Pixabay

     

    When we say distance, it is not just the simple Google maps route from your home to your destination. We are talking about many stuff here. You need to consider the actual driving experience from road to road. You must take a closer glimpse at the road conditions, topography, roadside amenities, and traffic patterns.

     

    Considering the distance or actual mileage of the journey and the conditions that you will face during the trip, you will be able to decide if you are willing to drive or not. It also includes how much fuel you might need to get to point B.

     

    If you are shipping your car, the fuel expenditures are already included in your quotation. All you need to do is pay.

     

    Convenience

    Convenience | Pixabay

     

    This one is a no-brainer. You are going on a vacation for rest, relaxation and enjoyment. Surely, you would not want to face stressful situations during the process. If you want convenience, you might really want to consider car shipping.

     

    All you must do is to give the auto transporters a call, be there for the inspection and then send your payment. They will take care of the rest of the process. The next thing you will do is receive (or have someone receive) your vehicle on the other side of the country.

     

    If you decide to ship your vehicle, you will be freeing yourself from all the possible hassles of driving cross-country. You will have more time to spend and bond with your family.

     

    On the other hand, driving will allow your children and spouse to travel in comfort. You can also have stopovers to visit more places and wander around for new discoveries. You may also bring stuff that is not allowed in a plane. You just need to make sure that your car is well-conditioned before the trip.

     

    Safety of Your Car

    Safety | Pixabay

     

    Next on our list is safety. This one is the most important to consider. You do not want to have your vehicle damaged or wrecked during the whole process of moving.

     

    Driving your vehicle for long mileage puts a lot of strain on it. It contributes to the natural wear and tear of your car. Add into that the road conditions, such as snow, changes in temperature, thunderstorms, slippery roads, car accidents, car failures, the possibility of theft, and traffic jams. These factors can rob you of the joy of moving.

     

    On the other hand, shipping your vehicle keeps it from the external conditions, accidents, and damage. Professional car shippers have years of experience and expertise in the field. They also have the necessary equipment for every possible scenario. In addition to that, they have insurance coverage for your car.

     

    If you have no idea on how to choose the best car shippers, you can contact your trusted auto transport broker like Balch Logistics. They are the ones who know the top-notch and most reliable car carriers.

     

    In dealing with auto transport brokers, all you need to do is call them, give them the necessary information about the car shipment, your contact details, and payment. The next time you call them, your car is already right there at your destination.

     

    Auto shippers also offer different kinds of shipping methods. They can bring your car in an open or enclosed trailer. Open trailers are the standard means of car transport. Enclosed trailers are recommended for those who want to provide extra protection for their vehicles.

     

     

    Total Cost

    Cost | Pixabay

     

    Lastly, you will have to decide on the financial aspect of the move. Which is cheaper, driving or shipping?

     

    • Cost of Driving

     

    Practically, driving is much cheaper. But that is not always the case when you calculate all the extra expenses along the way. Driving across the country primarily entails large fuel costs.

     

    Driving will also include parking fees, toll fees, car maintenance, food, and accommodations. Long drives will make you hungry or thirsty, so packing snacks and bottled water is a good way to save some money.

     

    However, you will basically stop at a restaurant or fast food joint to eat your main meals; and stay in hotels to sleep. That would be a small expenditure if you are not bringing several people with you. But if you are planning to bring your family on your trip, you will need a few more bucks to spend on food and hotel accommodations.

     

    Unexpected car troubles (fingers-crossed) can also add up to your expenses. You may have a flat tire or get into unexpected accidents. This may mean extra expenses for car servicing and towing. Not to mention the strain that will be put into your car by the thousand-mile drive.

     

    • Cost of Shipping

     

    Shipping your car may vary depending on the rates of your chosen auto transport provider. Make sure to look for an affordable but trustworthy auto transport provider. The total amount of shipping will be based on the size and weight of your car, and the insurance coverage that you prefer.

     

    Additional expenses include your train or plane tickets. You might also need to rent a car while your own vehicle is on the way. If you plan to bring the unallowable items along with your car, they may charge you with extra bucks for the additional weight.

     

    Bottom line

     

    Finally, we hope that this article has helped you decide between driving and shipping your car to your winter destination. Whatever your decision is, we hope that you have a great time during the holidays and a safe journey back and forth.

     

    In case you decide to have your car transported, visit us on our website to avail of a free car transport quote. You can also contact us through phone and our social media channels.

     

    Feel free to share this article with your friends and family. Stay informed and make wise decisions. Ciao!

     

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