Classic Car Shipping

Shipping a Classic Car

When shipping a classic car, it's essential to take extra precautions to ensure it stays safe and sound. Shipping a classic car is a simple procedure that involves the following:

Research and choose a reputable auto transport company:

Look for companies with experience shipping classic cars. Read reviews, check their licensing and insurance information, and compare quotes from different providers.

Decide on the type of shipping:

There are two main options: open transport and enclosed transport. Open transportation is more affordable but exposes the car to potential weather and road debris. Enclosed transport provides better protection but is usually more expensive.

Get several quotes:

Get rates from several car transport businesses. Please provide details about your classic car, including its make, model, dimensions, weight, and pickup and delivery locations.

Schedule the shipment:

Book the shipment well in advance once you've selected a company. Classic car shipping can take time due to the specialized arrangements required for secure transportation.

Prepare the car for shipment:

Clean it inside and out, and document its condition with photographs. Clear the car of any loose things and personal possessions. Consider securing any loose parts or accessories to prevent damage during transit.

Complete a condition report:

Before the carrier takes possession of the car, thoroughly inspect its condition. Note any existing damage, dents, scratches, or mechanical issues on a condition report provided by the shipping company. Both you and the carrier representative should sign it.

Types of Classic Car Shipping Service

There are multiple shipping options for classic cars, and the most suitable one for you will primarily depend on your comfort level and the level of protection your vehicle requires.

Open Car Transport

Open transport is frequently a more cost-effective option because it costs less to transport classic cars. However, it does provide less protection for your vehicle in return. This method of transportation entails loading your car onto an open trailer and securely fastening it.

This implies that even when covered with a tarp, your vehicle can still be vulnerable to scratches, dents, and harm caused by severe weather conditions. This final point should be of particular concern if you reside in an area prone to hail.

When shipping your vehicle over water, you can opt for RORO transport, which stands for roll-on/roll-off transport. This method involves driving your car onto a specially equipped cargo ship, which will be parked and securely fastened alongside other vehicles.

Enclosed Car Transport

Experience a safer method of classic car shipping with our enclosed trailer option. Your vehicle will be carefully loaded into the trailer and securely fastened, and the outer door will be sealed and locked for added protection. Shipping a classic car in a steel container is also viable for transporting it over water.

These containers, which can measure up to 40 feet in length, are fully enclosed, like box trailers, ensuring your car remains securely stored inside. The containers are subsequently loaded onto a ship for transportation.

How to Get Ready to Transport Your Classic Car?

There are several things you can do to prepare your classic car for transportation if you want to take every precaution to guarantee the safe arrival of your vehicle.

• Please remove all personal belongings from the vehicle, excluding standard equipment like the jack and spare tire.
• Please remove any coverings, such as a car, grill, and spare tire cover.
• Please ensure the battery is fully charged and securely placed in its mounting bracket.
• Ensure that the top of your convertible is securely fastened.
• Please repair any leaks or mechanical issues.
• Please remove any aftermarket or custom products, such as spoilers, ground effects, bumpers, fog lights, luggage racks, radio interfaces, garage door openers, toll tags, and parking passes.
• Please disconnect, disable, or turn off all alarm systems.
• Ensure that all fluids in your car are topped off.
• Make sure the tires are correctly filled.
• Ensure you use most of the fuel in your gas tank, leaving it between 1/4 and 1/2 full.
• Please fold down the side car mirrors.
• Please remove or fully retract all antennas.

Why Choose Our Classic Car Shipping Services?

Rapid Auto Shipping is a highly experienced and reputable company specializing in antique and classic car shipping. With decades of experience, we have built a strong reputation in the industry. Our team of experts will ensure that your vehicle is transported safely, securely, and timely.

We provide door-to-door Antique and Classic Car Shipping Services, ensuring convenience and peace of mind. Our rates are competitive and transparent, with no hidden fees or surprises throughout the process. We understand you have numerous options when transporting your antique and classic car.

We are committed to providing exceptional service every day. We aim to earn your trust when you entrust us with your valuable antique or classic car.

You can have peace of mind knowing that our team is dedicated to ensuring a safe arrival at the destination without any damage. In any transportation-related incidents, we will assume responsibility for covering all repair costs up to the vehicle's value.

What is the Cost of Classic Car Shipping?

The cost of classic car shipping will vary based on factors such as the distance of the transport, the timeframe in which it needs to be completed, and the specific transportation service chosen to handle the job.

The average  cost to ship a car  for distances less than 100 miles is $3.38 per mile while transporting a classic vehicle for distances less than 1000 miles is $1.14 per mile.

Factors to Consider When Shipping a Classic Car

Several key factors influence the cost of classic car shipping. The items that are included are:

Time of year: The demand for car shipping increases during the summer and January, resulting in higher shipping costs.

Gas prices: The cost of car shipping increases as fuel costs rise.

Vehicle size: Shipping costs are higher for larger, heavier vehicles such as trucks and SUVs.

Vehicle operability: Loading inoperable cars requires additional time and labor, resulting in higher transportation costs.

Type of transportation: Open auto transport is generally less expensive than enclosed auto transport.

Shipping distance: Long-distance shipments have a lower cost per mile but a higher overall cost.

Pickup and drop off locations: Including rural pickup and delivery locations in auto transport services will increase prices.

How Long Does It Typically Take for Classic Car Shipping?

The pickup windows for most cars vary depending on their location, typically ranging from 24 to 72 hours after the vehicle is ready for pickup. It may take up to five days in remote areas for this window to be delivered.

The turnaround time for classic car shipping to a destination under 1,000 miles is typically 2-3 days.

The transit period between 1,000 and 1750 is predicted to last 4-6 days.

The travel period between 1,750 and 2,500 is predicted to be 7–10 days.