The Safety Benefits of Shipping Your Car

When moving a vehicle, the last thing you want to worry about is if it will get to its destination safely. While accidents and thefts can happen, in many ways shipping a car with a reliable transport service provides more safety benefits than driving it yourself.

Generally, shipping your vehicle is safe, as long as you have taken the time to do the research on the transport company. Still, there are always a few risks to consider. Here is a visual breakdown of some of the possibilities.

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Accidents Happen

This is a hard truth—accidents happen even with experienced transit drivers. According to Move.Org, each year there are between 100,000 and 200,000 accidents with big trucks, including vehicle transports. However, on average there are 6 million car accidents each year in the USA. When researching companies, look into their accident statistics to help you find the best carrier.

While it may feel tempting to drive your vehicle yourself, longer periods of driving lead to fatigue and the risk of accidents rise. Hiring a professional shipper takes the pressure and risk of accidents off of your shoulders. Many insurance companies will cover your car if an accident should happen during shipping. However, if you are the cause of the accident because you chose to drive your own vehicle, then—depending on your policy—you may face some exorbitant costs.

Transport carriers are required to carry insurance. Policies may differ as to what is actually covered, but by asking questions and getting everything in writing, you can be sure that you and your vehicle have the best protection in case of an accident.

Risk of Theft

There are two possible types of theft to consider—theft of your vehicle and theft of your personal items. There have been disreputable companies who take the car and run (or take your deposit instead)—but careful research can protect you from this.

It’s not easy for a thief to steal a vehicle from a transport truck. Selecting enclosed shipping provides more protection for your vehicle (at a higher cost). However, it is challenging for someone to steal a car from an open transport as well.

There is a slightly greater possibility of belongings disappearing from a vehicle carried on open transport—but even that is risky for any thief. They would have to climb the transport truck without being seen. Break the window to get in. Hope they find something valuable. And flee without being caught or crushed between two cars.

Two simple steps will help you avoid this possibility:

• Always check with your transport company regarding their policies about shipping belongings in vehicles.

• Never ship anything valuable in your car.

Risk of Damage to the Vehicle

With a quality transport company that guarantees premium service, your vehicle should be the same at the end of the journey as it is in the beginning. Shippers use special equipment to ensure the safety of your vehicle, and to protect it from the shifts that can happen on the road.

With open transport, vehicles are exposed to weather and road debris, but no more so than they would be if you were to drive yourself. In enclosed shipping, the risks of damage from outside elements drops.

Damage can also occur if there’s anything loose left in your vehicle. Following the guidelines for shipping belongings and removing loose objects before pick up will help minimize this risk.

Ultimately, you should inspect your vehicle both before and after shipping. Most reliable companies will cover minor damage caused by transport, but always be sure you know what they are responsible for and what you are responsible for before you sign.

Choose Safe, Premium Vehicle Transport With ShipLux

Ultimately, while accidents can happen, shipping a vehicle with a reliable auto shipping company like ShipLux is the safest option for a long-distance move. With our guaranteed premium service (white-gloved for all enclosed carriers) we take pride in delivering your vehicles in the same condition as they start the journey.

Of course, the best way to make a decision is to do the research. Compare and contrast several companies. Ask for shipping quotes. Explore services. Ask questions about insurance, accidents, and how the car transport service protects their vehicles.

Then you can make the best, safest choice for your needs.