A Complete Guide to Shipping Your Vintage Car

Like most car enthusiasts, you probably have a vintage car, or two tucked away in your garage. Maybe it's been passed down through the family, or you just fell in love with it at first sight.

Whatever the reason, shipping your vintage car is a big decision that should not be taken lightly.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about car shipping companies, the vintage car shipment process, and shipping tips for your treasured car. By the end, you'll be an expert on car shipping and ready to make the best decision for your vehicle.

Why Should I Ship Instead of Drive?

Shipping your vintage car can be a great way to protect the vehicle from the wear and tear of a long road trip. Driving cross-country can be tough on any vehicle, but it can be tough on an older model. The bumps and potholes of the open road can cause severe damage, and the constant exposure to the elements can take its toll.

Shipping your vintage car instead will ensure that it arrives in pristine condition. Plus, it'll save you the hassle of having to drive for days on end. If you're planning to travel by your classic car, shipping is the way. Frequently, the reason someone decides to ship their car is because they’re downsizing, and chose their beloved car as on fo the few things they keep in the move.

How to Ship Your Car

Shipping your car can be a daunting task. But with some planning and the right shipping company, it can be a relatively smooth process. Here are the basics of shipping your car and some shipping options to consider.

Pick a Reputable Shipping Company

Get quotes from several companies and read online reviews. Once you've settled on a company, you'll need to prepare your car for shipping. This usually involves cleaning it inside and out and removing all personal items.

You may also need to disable any alarm systems. Then, on the day of shipping, the car is loaded onto the truck and secured for transport. The shipping company will provide you with a tracking number so you can follow the progress of your car's journey.

You'll need to find a reputable car shipping company to handle the job and safely transport your history capsule on wheels. Not all car shipping companies are created equal, so be sure to do your research before making a decision.

Choosing Shipping Details

There are two factors to consider. The pickup and delivery method and the transport method are both important considerations.

Pick-up and Drop Off

Door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal. Door-to-door shipping is more convenient, as the car is picked up from your home or office and delivered to your destination.

Terminal-to-terminal shipping is often cheaper, but it requires you to drop off and pick up your car at the shipping company's terminal. Whichever option you choose, ensure you understand the terms of service before signing any contracts.

Roll-on-Roll-Off Vs. Shipping Container

Suppose you're looking to ship your classic car overseas. You'll need to decide between a roll-on-roll-off (RORO) shipment or a shipping container. RORO is the most common method of car shipping and is typically the cheapest option. Your car is driven onto the RORO vessel and secured in place for the journey. Once the ship arrives at its destination, your vehicle is driven off and delivered to you.

Shipping containers are a bit more expensive but offer a few advantages.

• First, the shipping container will protect your car from the elements during transit.

• Second, you can ship other items with your vehicle in the container, which can be helpful if you're moving abroad.

• Finally, you can reuse containers to sell or donate after your move.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to budget and personal preference. If you're on a tight budget, RORO is probably your best bet. But a container is the way to go if you want peace of mind knowing that your car is well-protected during shipping.

When it comes time for shipping, communicate your expectations and needs to the car shipping company. This way, they can ensure your car is shipped precisely how you want it.

Inspection at Your Destination

Finally, once your car has arrived at its destination, do a thorough inspection to make sure everything went according to plan. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact the car shipping company right away.

By following these tips, you can ensure that shipping your vintage car will go off without a hitch.

Congratulations! You've successfully shipped your car. Now you can enjoy the open road without worrying about your car's safety. Happy travels!