Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

Even if for a car enthusiast, everybody knows that shipping a car can be very stressful. It is a highly complicated process that requires many steps and precautions to be taken in order to avoid damage or theft. That being said, if you’re moving your car across the country, you’ll be met with two popular options: open-air and enclosed auto transport. What’s the difference between the two? How does it work? Which one is better? Everything might seem like a blur at first but worry not. All your questions will be answered by the end of this read. First, this article will talk about open-air shipping.

What is Open-Air Auto Transport?

Simply put, open-air auto transport is the transportation of vehicles via a trailer or truck open to the elements. This means no roof or walls – just plain open air.

It works by loading your car onto a truck with other vehicles. The truck then travels to the destination, often taking a predetermined route to reduce cost. In most cases, the carrier will drop your car off at a terminal, and you will have to pick it up.

This type of transport is often used for long-distance moves and can be less expensive than enclosed transport.

Advantages of Open-Air Auto Transport

Open-air is the most cost-effective method to go when it comes to auto transport. It’s also an excellent option for those who need to move their car quickly, as there are fewer restrictions on when and where it can be delivered. These conveniences make it the best go-to option for owners looking to save on shipping their regular sedans.

Disadvantages of Open-Air Auto Transport

Of course, nothing is ever perfect so expect some disadvantages with open-air transport. For one, your car is vulnerable to bad weather conditions and road debris. Additionally, if your vehicle is transported over a long distance, it may experience more wear and tear than if it were transported in an enclosed trailer. Even dust and dirt accumulation over transit can cause minor issues with the paint later on. For a more detailed breakdown, check out this comprehensive article on the Cons of Open-Air Carriers.

Benefits of Enclosed Auto Transport

There are several reasons why you might choose to use enclosed auto transport:

  • Security: An enclosed trailer provides an extra layer of protection for your car, resulting in better peace of mind.
  • Protection from Damage: Cars traveling in open trailers are susceptible to damage from road debris, vandalism, and bad weather conditions. An enclosed trailer will help keep the car safe from these hazards.
  • Privacy: If you’re shipping a luxury car or another high-value item, you may prefer the privacy that enclosed transport provides. This reduces the leakage of info that there’s a high-value cargo inside.
  • Reduced Chance of Theft: Enclosed trailers are harder to break into than open trailers, so there is less chance of your car being stolen during transport.

Disadvantages of Enclosed Auto Transport

The only disadvantage to enclosed car transport is that it tends to be more expensive than open transportation. However, you get added security, protection from weather and debris, and privacy in return for the extra cost. If these factors are important to you, then enclosed transport is definitely the way to go.

Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

Here comes the ultimate question. Is it better to go with an open-air or enclosed carrier when shipping your car? Start by reviewing the basics. Open-air carriers are exactly what they sound like: cars are transported on top of a truck and are exposed to the elements. Enclosed trailers, on the other hand, offer protection from inclement weather and other road conditions.

So which is better for you? It depends on a few factors:

  1. Consider how much you’re willing to spend. Open-air transport is usually cheaper than enclosed transport.
  2. Think about the condition of your vehicle. If it’s not in great shape, you may want to opt for enclosed transport to protect it from wind and rain.
  3. If you’re shipping an expensive car, you might feel more comfortable with enclosed transport for added security.

Tips for Preparing Your Car for Transport

The transport method is just one-half of the equation for a successful car shipment. Preparation is key to a smooth car shipping experience. If you want your car to arrive in one piece, it’s essential to take care of some basic steps before handing it over to an auto transport company. Whether the journey involves open-air or enclosed transport, you’ll want to make sure that your vehicle is ready for its long trip. Here are a few tips you should keep in mind:

  • Remove any personal belongings from the car. This includes items like CDs, DVDs, jewelry, and gadgets. Your carrier will most likely not be held liable for damage and loss of these objects.
  • Wash and wax the car. This will help protect the paint job from scratches and other forms of damage.
  • Check fluid levels, brakes, and tires. Ensure that the car is in good condition before shipping it across the country.
  • Have a recent photo of the car. This will come in handy if you need to make a claim for damages. Document any and all existing damage to the vehicle with this photo.
  • Check and adjust tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce the risk of leakage and blowouts while it is being transported.

Last Advice

Most importantly, make sure that you work with a reliable carrier to ensure your car’s integrity and safety. Don’t hesitate to ask the right questions and scrutinize your potential shipping company’s credentials. It’s all for your own good in the end!

Packing and Moving Checklist When Moving to Another State For College

Before you begin packing, you need to formulate a plan. It’s best to do this about two months before your intended move date. During this time, you need to explore all the responsibilities that come with relocating to another state.

Living Arrangements

You should never just move from one location to another without a place to stay. You can find apartments for rent in your new state by looking up the zip code near your school. Then use that zip code on a website or mobile app to locate your new home.

Employment

Be sure to seek out potential jobs before moving to your new state. If you are a student who will need the finances to cover your rent, then you will want to call places ahead of time to explain your situation. Apply online for places you think you’d enjoy working for or use your school’s online job board to find employment.

Moving Companies Near Me

The best way to find a reliable moving company is by  word of mouth. Ask trusted friends if they could suggest any good companies to use. This makes your chances of satisfaction higher because you are referring to a reliable source. Alternatively, use a reputable online source, like www.kipscrosscountrymovers.com, to find licensed and insured movers. Many cross country moving services offer low-cost shipping services for small load moves. You just want to make sure whichever company you go with is legitimate and not a scam!

Budget

Do a little research on your own. Even if your friend suggests a company, you’ll want to make sure the financial requirements meet your budget. If hiring professionals is too expensive, consider renting a U-Haul or using a storage pod delivery service, like PODS or 1-800-Pack-Rat.

Notify Schools

If you are currently enrolled in a college, then you will want to communicate your move with them before leaving. Likewise, talk to the University you plan to transfer to in your new state. They will likely need transcripts and other documents to proceed.

Packing

Start separating all your items by room, then labeling each cardboard box by said area. Use bubble wrap for fragile items such as glass, photos, and fine dishes that may get damaged in the long journey. Write your new address on the box just in case anything happens.

Documents

You will want to gather any important documents and box them together. Your new school may need transcripts.

Mailing Address

Ensure that you update any contacts, banks, or financial institutions of your new address. You will want to communicate this with your colleges as well. Mailing addresses can be changed by calling businesses individually as well as talking to the post office.

DMV

You will need to go to the DMV to change your address. Your license plate and registration will need to be brought up to date, too. Bring your current license, social, and proof of residency to the office to begin the process. Then be prepared to have your vehicle inspected by your new state’s DMV.

Unpacking

Once you have relocated to your new place, you will need to unpack your belongings. You can have the moving company help you or do it yourself to save money. Wipe down your new place and arrange your belongings in a way that is comfortable for you.

Five Strategies for Moving Your Small Apartment Out-of-State

If you’re planning a move out-of-state, there are different ways to deal with the contents of your small apartment. Since you have so many decisions to consider, it only makes sense to weigh the pros and cons of each option, so you’re able to make an informed decision. Doing so allows you to decide what to do with your belongings as well as how active a role you take in transporting your household goods to another location.

Here are five strategies for moving your small apartment out-of-state:

1. Sell everything

If you’re planning on starting over in a new place, the time is right to let things go. By selling what you already own, you make room for inviting new things into your life. You’re able to choose items that fit your current apartment better. You’re not forced to think about old memories because you’ve got new furnishings, wall art, rugs, and decorations to come home to.

2. Rent a moving truck that you drive yourself

This option is good for people who don’t mind doing things themselves. It’s an economical option that allows you greater freedom to take time moving things from the truck to your new apartment. A moving truck rental typically costs a specific price plus mileage, so it’s the better option only if you’re moving shorter distances versus longer distances.

3. Put everything into a moving container that is shipped to your new residence

You pay one price to have the contents shipped from your old apartment to your new home out-of-state. Doing so affords you the luxury of not needing to travel with the items as it may be more convenient for you to fly. You’re not responsible for driving a rental moving truck or overseeing a moving company who has been tasked with transporting your items safely to your new place.

4. Use a moving company

There are distinct advantages to hiring someone else to do the moving for you. You’re not forced to drive the contents of your household to a new city. You’re not even required to place the items from the truck into the home because the movers will do it for you. Residential moving services come at a greater cost, and there can be liabilities involved because someone else is in charge of handling your valuables.

5. Rent or purchase a cheap trailer that you haul behind your vehicle

Rather than place everything into a moving truck, you opt to rent or buy a small trailer that you pull behind your vehicle. It may be a lot easier to handle the move that way. You won’t need someone to follow behind the moving truck you rented with your vehicle. You’re able to arrive at your destination with your belongings, the trailer, and your vehicle all at once.

There are many ways to approach moving. Knowing which option is right for you is a matter of time, budget, and preference. If you’re looking to start from fresh, perhaps selling everything and using the money that you’ve raised to buy new belongings is ideal.

How to Take Apart and Pack Your Bed Frame for Moving

Moving is already a big hassle, but getting where you are going with missing pieces and parts, is not a happy moment in your move. Bulky items are the worst for packing too. There is a way to disassemble your bed frame and pack it to where when you are ready to set it up again, it will be easy. You can take the hassle out of this part of your move, by taking a few precautionary steps. This will make your move, a lot less stressful.

Step One: Take a Picture

Take a picture to remember. This sounds simple, but it works! Remove the mattress and box springs. Then stand back and take a landscape picture of your bed frame still assembled. You will use this photo when you reassemble your bed frame to remind yourself and your movers how it goes together.

Step Two: Begin Disassembling

As you take the frame apart, take a photo of each step close up. You can reverse the order of the pictures when you go to set your bed back up.

Step Three: Collect Loose Parts

This company moving Seattle, WA recommends gathering all of your loose little parts that normally get lost together. This includes any screws, nuts, and brackets. Place them in a strong baggie. Don’t use a cheap baggie, because they will tear with the metal in them. Mark the baggie with a permanent marker, “bed frame parts,” just in case the baggie gets separated from the bed frame for some strange reason.

Step Four: Gather All Pieces

If your frame has pieces that fold in to make flat, do so now. Gather all the long loose pieces together. Tape the baggie to one of them. Next, you want to tape all the pieces together in a bunch in at least three sections. Duct tape and packaging tape is strong but will leave a residue. Masking tape is too weak. Use painters tape. It typically does not leave a residue when removed.

Step Five: Provide Protection

Next up is to wrap it all up in something, to prevent from scratching other things, and being scratched. By doing this, it is easier to carry too. You could use a blanket, but it would be loose and bulky. Bubble wrap is perfect moving protection for this application. Wrap several times around, and tape it together.

Step Six: Set Up

Now all you have to do is everything in reverse. It is all labeled and photographed ready to help you remember.

Too many times, we rush around packing and tossing things about during a move. When we arrive at the new location, we pay for being unprepared. A little prep work and packing in the right order will make the transition so much more comfortable. Take time to do each of these six steps, and you can be sleeping on your bed the first night in your new home, instead of the floor!

The Cheapest Small Movers Options for Moving Across the Country

Many people who have to relocate across the country for whatever reasons are finding it cheaper to transport their furniture instead of buying new furniture when they reach their new location. If you decide that you would also rather transport your belongings rather than replace them later, there are several options available to you.

Your Small Job Moving Options

There are several ways to move your furniture across the country including hiring professional small job movers, renting a moving truck to drive yourself or hire someone to drive, reserve a pod moving container, shipping services like U-Pack, and partial-load moves. There are also several companies that offer each type of moving solution with several offering to prepare your furniture for shipment themselves, so you don’t have to worry about how to wrap the couch or protect the glass coffee table properly.

Why Cost-Effectiveness is More Than Price For Small Item Moves

You will also find competitive prices with many companies letting you ship furniture across the country for as little as $700. However, to get an accurate idea of a truly cost-effective way to move your furniture across the country, you have to consider the following points.

How Much Space Do You Need?

Consider the furniture items you have and how much space you will need to transport them. Each piece of furniture should be packaged in a way that protects it and other nearby furniture items. Damaged furniture, especially antiques and family heirlooms may require additional money to repair.

Furniture Value

While deciding to move your furniture with you or to replace it, ask yourself if the cost of the furniture, including its sentimental value, is worth paying for a rental car with liability or paying a shipping company. You might choose to take only some of your belongings as opposed to all your furniture to your new location in which case renting a moving crate might be the more cost-effective option.

The Liability Of Moving A Few Things

The option with the least liability for you is driving your truck. There are many competitive moving truck rental companies to choose from making this the most cost-effective option. Find out if your regular car insurance covers the moving vehicle also.

The Terrain

If you rent a vehicle to drive your furniture across the country, you will be liable for any damages done to the truck. Some companies offer you the option of purchasing insurance. Consider the terrain you will have to drive through and if this is truly a safe option for your furniture as well as for the rental vehicle.

Pick-Up Destination

Some shipping companies will offer to ship your items to a pick-up location often at a lower price than door-to-door options. Before choosing this option, consider the cost of driving to the pick-up location and how you will transport your furniture back to your new home.