What is door-to-door shipping?
Door-to-door shipping is the most convenient method of auto transport. A carrier picks up and delivers your vehicle from/to a specified address. Whether from your home, office, seller, dealership, or car repair shop, the driver gets as close as possible.
Typically, we pick up and deliver your vehicle from your preferred location. However, carriers may have to consider an alternative nearby location in certain situations. They generally use large trucks and trailers, and in some areas, neighborhood or city restrictions may prohibit the entry of such large vehicles. Low power lines and overhanging trees can also impede a pick-up or delivery.
If this is the case, you can discuss an alternative location nearby. Options include a shopping mall, your place of work, a wider street, or alongside a major highway.
Do you always ship cars door-to-door?
Yes, here at WeShipCars, we always strive to ship door-to-door to ensure maximum customer convenience and satisfaction. By picking up and delivering vehicles directly to the customer's desired location/address, we eliminate the need for additional travel and coordination, providing a seamless and efficient transport experience.
Our car shipping experts always help you find the most convenient way to pick up and deliver your car, depending on the circumstances.
What is terminal-to-terminal auto transport?
In terminal-to-terminal auto transport, owners drop off and pick up their vehicles from a designated terminal. This terminal might be a carrier’s lot or a storage facility. It’s a more expensive option, and customers must coordinate drop-off and pick-up at these locations.
Terminal-to-terminal auto transport is less convenient than door-to-door auto transport. You are responsible for dropping off your vehicle at the nearest terminal to the pick-up location and picking it up from the closest terminal to the delivery location.
This method usually takes at least twice as long as door-to-door car shipping, as the vehicle must wait at one or more terminals until enough vehicles are available to fill a truck. Additionally, your vehicle is more likely to be moved on and off trucks, increasing the risk of damage during loading and unloading.
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The benefits of door-to-door car shipping:
Learn about the benefits of door-to-door auto transport
Saves time Allow us to transport your car from Point A to Point B quickly and safely. You won’t need to waste time driving it to the nearest terminal or hundreds of miles across the country. You only need to wait for your car to arrive at your chosen destination.
Saves travel expenses While a road trip might sound exciting, door-to-door transport avoids long-distance driving and saves on expenses such as gas, accommodation, tolls, and other associated travel costs.
Saves mileage and vehicle wear Door-to-door vehicle shipping prevents unnecessary mileage, reduces the need for oil changes, and minimizes wear and tear on your vehicle, preserving its condition and value.
Reduces stress and risk Entrusting professionals with the transportation of your vehicle removes the stress and risk associated with long-distance driving, such as accidents, adverse weather conditions, and road hazards.
No need for re-registration If you purchase a vehicle out of state, door-to-door auto shipping eliminates the need for re-registration, streamlines the process for buyers, and saves time and administrative hassle.
Accepts non-running vehicles Unlike driving a car, door-to-door auto shipping services accommodate vehicles in various conditions, including those not in pristine running condition, offering flexibility and convenience to customers.
When we recommend door-to-door auto transport
If ultimate convenience is your priority, door-to-door auto transport ticks the box. You don’t have to drive your car to a terminal or pick it up at the other end of its journey. It is recommended in a variety of situations:
- Long-distance moves: When relocating across states or over a significant distance, door-to-door transport simplifies the process by eliminating the need for driving long distances.
- Vehicle purchases: After purchasing a vehicle from out of state, door-to-door vehicle transport ensures safe delivery without the hassle of driving it home.
- Time constraints: For individuals who can’t afford the extra time for a road trip, door-to-door auto transport offers a convenient solution.
- Vehicle protection: Owners of classic, luxury, or high-value vehicles may prefer a door-to-door shipping service to protect them from potential damage during long drives.
- Check for discounts: Inquire about any discounts the shipping companies may offer. Discounts are often available for military personnel and their families, students, snowbirds, multiple car shipments, and return customers.
- Reduced wear and tear: If you want to minimize mileage wear and tear on the vehicle, especially for newer or leased cars, door-to-door transport services provide an alternative to driving.
- Convenience: Simply put, we recommend door-to-door auto transport for anyone wanting a hassle-free and convenient way to move their vehicle from one location to another.
How does door-to-door car shipping work?
Door-to-door shipping is a straightforward process. We ship your vehicle in three easy steps:
- Get a quote and book your order: Start by getting a quote and booking your order. Take advantage of our free, instant online quote calculator and receive your quote in seconds. Alternatively, speak directly with our car shipping experts by calling (708) 300-0063 or using our live chat option.
- We pick up your car: We assign one of our fully vetted and insured carriers. The pick-up is as close as is safe and legal to your chosen location.
- We deliver your car: The carrier contacts you beforehand to inform you they’re almost at the destination. After inspecting your vehicle to ensure everything is in order, you sign to accept delivery of your car.
step 1
Get a free, instant quote and book your order
Start the door-to-door auto transport process by getting a quote. You can use our free instant car shipping cost calculator or speak directly with our car shipping experts by phone or live chat for a more personalized quote.
Our online quote calculator is the quickest and easiest method. You provide a few basic details and receive your quote in seconds. Enter your pick-up and delivery city or ZIP code, the year, make, and model of your vehicle, its condition, how many cars you want to ship, and the type of transport you wish to book.
We’ll also need personal details, but only your email address and telephone number. We use the email address to send a copy of your quote, while we use the phone number to verify that you’re an authentic user.
The quote you receive is all-inclusive. There is nothing else to pay and no hidden charges. At this point, you’re under no obligation to complete the process and make your booking.
Your quote is valid for 14 days, but if you decide to book later, we can recalculate the cost without needing you to input your details again. Our quote system records all your information and keeps it safe.
We offer a price match promise if you’re unhappy with the price. Contact us immediately; we’d appreciate the opportunity to match a direct competitor's price.
When you’re ready to make your booking, the link in your quote email takes you directly to a page where you can complete your booking. Alternatively, you can book your door-to-door service directly by calling (708) 300-0063 or using live chat. At this point in the process, we require $0 upfront payments.
If you change your mind or circumstances, let us know immediately. Cancellation is free before we schedule your shipment. If we’ve already assigned a carrier, we’ll keep any charged amount up to $199 and refund the difference.
We have an extensive network of fully insured and vetted carriers, and we’ll find the best one for your needs. As soon as we’ve assigned a carrier, we’ll contact you to explain the next steps and provide the carrier’s information.
Once we confirm all your shipment details, you decide how to pay. There are two options: cash on Delivery (COD), credit/debit card payment, or Zelle payment in full at the time of booking.
step 2
We pick up your vehicle
Your carrier contacts you the day before your scheduled pick-up time and again a few hours before their arrival. The call is not just out of courtesy. The carrier wants to confirm that someone is available to release the car. You can nominate someone to act on your behalf if you're unavailable. We only ask that they be 18 years or older.
The carrier must also clarify the pick-up location and ensure it’s accessible for large trucks and trailers. If parking or access restrictions exist, or there are low-hanging trees or overhead powerlines, talk to the driver about a more suitable location nearby. You can arrange to meet the driver at a parking lot, your workplace, in a broader street.
When the carrier arrives, you and the driver carefully inspect your vehicle. On the Bill of Lading (BOL), you’ll note any existing damage, such as dents, dings, scratches, or chips. This could be a paper document, but carriers often use an app.
With all the documentation completed, it’s time for you to hand over the keys and wave goodbye to your vehicle. Don’t worry—it’ll just be a few days before you’re reunited.
To put your mind at rest, you can contact our car shipping experts, the carrier, or the driver for regular updates by phone, live chat, or email.
step 3
We deliver your vehicle
Before you know it, the carrier calls you again to let you know they’ll arrive soon. Expect a call the day before and a couple of hours before they arrive. They’ll check that you’ll be available to receive your vehicle and that the delivery location is safe and legal.
If you’re unavailable to receive your vehicle, nominate someone to act on your behalf. It might be a neighbor, relative, friend, or work colleague. We'll be happy with the arrangement if they’re over 18.
When your vehicle arrives, inspect it closely with the driver and compare it with the original Bill of Lading (BOL). Then, sign the Bill of Lading (BOL) to accept delivery and make the necessary payment.
How long does door-to-door car transport take?
The duration of door-to-door car transport can vary based on several factors, including the distance, the specific route, any potential delays (weather or traffic), and a carrier’s schedule and policies.
Generally, shorter distances within the same region might take a few days. It could take up to ten days for longer distances, such as cross-country transport.
While distance is the most obvious factor, others can affect the time it takes to ship your vehicle door-to-door.
- Pick-up and drop-off locations: Shipping from metropolitan areas tends to be faster due to better infrastructure and higher demand. In contrast, rural areas may experience longer transit times due to limited access and fewer service providers.
- Distance: Longer distances naturally take more time, with transit times ranging from 1-2 days for short distances to 7-9 days for cross-country shipments.
- Seasonal demand: Peak moving seasons (late spring to early fall) see higher demand and shorter transit times. At the same time, winter months may experience longer wait times due to reduced demand and holiday breaks for carriers.
- Weather conditions: Severe weather, such as snowstorms or heavy rain, can slow transport, as safety takes precedence. This can lead to slower driving speeds or temporary halts.
- Road conditions and traffic: Road construction, detours, and traffic congestion in urban areas can cause delays, while rural areas may have fewer alternative routes and slower responses to road issues.
- Driver regulations: Strict regulations limit driving hours for truck drivers, ensuring safety but potentially extending transit times.
- Vehicle type: Larger, heavier, or specialized vehicles may require more time for loading, handling, and finding suitable carriers.
- Vehicle condition: Operable vehicles can be shipped more quickly than inoperable ones, which require special handling and preparation.
- Transportation method: Open auto transport is faster due to higher availability and simultaneous shipment of multiple vehicles. In contrast, enclosed car shipping offers greater protection but may take longer due to fewer available carriers and more meticulous handling processes.
- Service level: Expedited auto transport services prioritize faster delivery but come at a higher cost, while terminal-to-terminal shipping may add time due to additional drop-off and pick-up requirements.
How much does door-to-door vehicle shipping cost?
The cost of door-to-door vehicle shipping depends on various factors such as market demand, the distance, the type of vehicle you want to transport, its value and condition, the time of year, the price of fuel, pick-up and delivery locations, and any extra services you require.
Understanding the factors that impact car shipping costs can help you make informed decisions.
- Market demand: Car shipping prices fluctuate based on market demand, which can change cyclically (seasonally) or non-cyclically (due to mass relocations). Urban areas see price fluctuations based on demand, while rural areas generally have higher prices due to lower demand.
- Truck availability: Truck availability correlates with market demand, with fewer trucks leading to increased demand and higher prices.
- Distance: While distance is a pricing factor, market demand often dictates prices. Busy short routes may have high prices, while longer routes might have lower prices.
- Vehicle dimensions: Bulkier and heavier vehicles cost more to transport due to height and weight restrictions, optimizing truckload capacity.
- Vehicle value: Transporting expensive vehicles generally costs more, especially when using enclosed car shipping for added protection.
- Vehicle condition: Non-running vehicles require special equipment and more handling time, affecting shipping costs.
- Seasonality: Shipping during peak seasons like summer and holidays can result in higher costs, while off-peak times may offer savings.
- Fuel prices: Fuel costs influence shipping prices, with higher fuel prices increasing overall costs.
- Expedited/express transport: Priority pick-up and quicker delivery options are more expensive due to the increased service level and faster timelines.
- Guaranteed car pick-up service date: Ensures pick-up within a specified window, incurring additional costs for pre-allocated carriers.
- Transport type: Open car transport is more common and cost-effective, while enclosed car shipping offers added protection but is more expensive.
- Pick-up and delivery locations: Certain locations may incur extra costs due to accessibility issues or additional fees.
- Extra services: Additional services beyond standard shipping may come with extra charges.
- Discounts: Qualifying for military or student discounts can help reduce shipping costs.
Get a free, instant quote today and see how easy and affordable auto transport can be with WeShipCars.
Why choose WeShipCars for your door-to-door shipping?
Let us be your trusted partner in hassle-free vehicle transportation. We pride ourselves in offering door-to-door auto transport services that set us apart. Wondering why?
Here are some reasons you should choose us for your door-to-door shipping services.
Zero upfront payment
With WeShipCar, you won't have to worry about paying anything upfront. We believe in transparency and convenience, ensuring you can trust us.
Price match
We understand the importance of getting the best deal. That's why we offer a price match guarantee, ensuring you receive the most competitive rates available in the market.
Free cancelation
Life can be unpredictable, and plans may change. With WeShipCar, you have the freedom to cancel your booking at no cost, giving you the flexibility you need.
Fully vetted and insured carriers
Your vehicle's safety is our top priority. We work with thoroughly vetted and insured carriers who uphold the highest standards of professionalism and care during transportation.
Full coverage vehicle insurance
Rest assured, your vehicle is fully covered during transit. We provide comprehensive insurance coverage, giving you peace of mind throughout shipping.
Fully customizable services
Every customer has unique needs. With WeShipCar, you can tailor our services to suit your requirements, ensuring a personalized and efficient shipping experience.
Dedicated car shipping experts
Our dedicated car shipping experts are here to guide you through every step of the shipping process. We're committed to providing expert assistance and support from initial booking to delivery.
24/7 customer support
Do you need assistance at any time of the day or night? Our 24/7 customer support team is available to promptly address your queries and concerns, ensuring a smooth and stress-free shipping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, yes. Door-to-door auto shipping is available for most vehicles throughout the United States, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles. However, it’s not an option for Hawaii and other international shipments.
Door-to-door vehicle transport is one of the most convenient options for shipping a car, as it involves picking up the vehicle directly from the specified location and delivering it to the desired destination. However, whether it is the cheapest option depends on various factors.
Additionally, the cost of door-to-door transport can vary based on factors such as the distance, the type of vehicle you want to ship, the time of year, and the specific transport company's pricing policies. Sometimes, if the pick-up or delivery locations are in remote areas or have difficult access, door-to-door transport may incur additional charges, further affecting the overall cost.
It's essential to obtain quotes from multiple transport companies and compare the costs and services offered to determine the most economical option for your needs. While door-to-door transport may provide convenience, some situations have better choices.
Yes, we typically include insurance coverage in door-to-door car shipping services. Full cargo insurance coverage is included in all quotes, providing peace of mind to customers throughout the shipping process.
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Get a free, instant quote today and see how easy and affordable auto transport can be with WeShipCars.