Shipping a car to or from college can seem like a daunting task. Whether you’re sending your child off to school or need to bring their car back home for the summer, shipping a vehicle across state lines or even across the country requires careful planning. However, auto transport services can simplify the process, saving time and avoiding the hassle of long drives.Shipping cars to from college campuses
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about shipping cars to and from college campuses, including the best shipping options, key considerations, and how to choose the right transport company.
Why Ship a Car to/from College?
There are several reasons why students and parents choose to ship cars to and from college campuses:
- Long Distance Moves
For students attending college far from home, driving their vehicle may not be practical or feasible. Shipping a car is a convenient and efficient way to get it to their campus without the need for a lengthy and tiring road trip.
- Summer and Winter Breaks
When students head home for summer or winter break, shipping the car back home can be a more convenient option than driving it back themselves. This is particularly useful for students who live in remote areas or for those who don’t have time to drive the car home themselves.
- Campus Parking Restrictions
Many college campuses have limited or expensive parking. For students who don’t need their car on campus, shipping it home during breaks can free up space in campus parking lots and save on parking fees.
Best Shipping Options for College Students
When it comes to shipping a car to or from a college campus, there are several methods available, each with its pros and cons.
- Open Transport
Open transport is the most common and cost-effective option for shipping vehicles. In this method, cars are loaded onto an open trailer, usually with other vehicles. While this method is less expensive than enclosed transport, the vehicle is exposed to the elements during transport, which could be a concern for more expensive or delicate cars.
Pros:
More affordable compared to enclosed transport.
Reliable and widely available.
Can ship multiple cars at once, lowering costs.
Cons:
Exposure to weather conditions, road debris, and other environmental factors.
Less protection for high-end or custom vehicles.
For most students, open transport is a good option, as it offers a balance between affordability and reliability.
- Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transport involves shipping a vehicle inside a fully enclosed trailer, providing extra protection from the elements and road debris. This method is ideal for expensive, custom, or vintage vehicles that require additional care during transit.
Pros:
Maximum protection from weather, road debris, and potential damage.
Better for high-value or delicate vehicles.
Suitable for vehicles that need extra care.
Cons:
More expensive than open transport.
Less availability compared to open transport.
If the car being shipped is a high-end model or has valuable custom features, opting for enclosed transport can provide peace of mind, although it will come at a higher cost.
- Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
In terminal-to-terminal shipping, vehicles are dropped off and picked up at designated terminals instead of being picked up and delivered directly to and from a home or campus. This method is generally more affordable but can be less convenient, as you’ll need to coordinate travel to and from the terminals.
Pros:
More affordable than door-to-door transport.
Reliable service with clear pickup and drop-off locations.
Cons:
Less convenient than door-to-door service.
Potentially more complicated logistics, especially if you’re not close to a terminal.
- Door-to-Door Shipping
Door-to-door shipping is the most convenient method, where the car is picked up from your home or campus and delivered directly to the destination. This option saves time and effort, as you don’t have to travel to a terminal or coordinate pickup from another location.
Pros:
Most convenient shipping option.
No need to transport the vehicle to a terminal.
More flexible scheduling.
Cons:
Slightly more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping.
May require more scheduling flexibility, depending on your location.
Door-to-door shipping is ideal for students and parents who want a hassle-free experience and are willing to pay a bit more for added convenience.
How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Before shipping your car to or from college, it’s important to properly prepare your vehicle for transport. Proper preparation can help ensure that your car arrives safely and without any issues.
- Clean the Vehicle
Make sure to clean the car both inside and out. A clean car makes it easier to inspect for any pre-existing damage, such as scratches or dents. Take detailed photos of the car’s condition before shipping, as this will help resolve any potential claims if the car is damaged during transport.
- Remove Personal Items
Remove all personal belongings from the car, as most auto transport companies do not allow items to be transported inside the vehicle. Additionally, removing personal items reduces the risk of damage and keeps the weight of the car down.
- Check the Fuel Level
Most auto transport companies request that the fuel tank be no more than a quarter full to reduce the weight of the vehicle and minimize safety risks. This also helps with the overall shipping cost, as lighter cars are less expensive to ship.
- Disable Alarms
Make sure to deactivate any car alarms or security systems that might go off during transit. This helps prevent unnecessary disruptions and ensures the vehicle is handled smoothly during loading and unloading.
- Ensure the Vehicle is in Running Condition
If you’re shipping a car that’s inoperable, make sure to notify the transport company. Non-running vehicles may require additional equipment for loading, which could increase the cost.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Company
Selecting the right car shipping company is crucial for ensuring a safe and smooth transport experience. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a shipping company for your car:
Reputation: Read customer reviews and check ratings from trusted platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB). A reputable company will have positive feedback from past customers.
Insurance Coverage: Make sure the company offers adequate insurance coverage in case of damage during transport.
Experience with College Shipments: Some shipping companies specialize in transporting vehicles to and from college campuses. Choose a company with experience in handling the specific needs of students and parents.
Availability: Check the availability of transport services during peak times, such as the start and end of semesters, holidays, and summer break.
Cost and Payment Options: Compare quotes from different companies and understand the pricing structure. Make sure the quote includes all fees and ask about payment options.
Conclusion
Shipping cars to and from college campuses offers a convenient solution for students and parents, but it’s important to choose the right shipping method and company to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether you opt for open transport or enclosed shipping, take the time to prepare your vehicle and research the best auto transport companies to handle the job.
At Car Shipping Center, we specialize in shipping vehicles to and from college campuses. Our team understands the unique needs of students and families, and we offer a range of affordable and reliable shipping options to meet your needs. Contact us today to get a personalized quote and start planning your vehicle’s shipment to or from campus.
