How to Move Your Car Out of State

According to recent data by census.gov, 15 percent of Americans who were moving relocated to a different state.

Moving to a different state is always much more complicated than moving to the next town over. What many people don't consider during a move like this is what to do with their car.

When you're moving out of state with your car, it's crucial to know how far in advance you need to plan.

In any case, you'll need to coordinate your move and car transport at least a month in advance. But, it's much more ideal to do so six to eight weeks out. You'll give yourself a better chance of saving some money and getting the exact dates of service that you want by planning your move further in advance.

So, when it comes to getting your car where it needs to be, what are your options? The good news is there are plenty. However, there are some drawbacks to each of them. Let's break it down.

1. Tow it yourself

One option you have for moving your car to another state is towing it with your moving truck or U-Haul. You can use a tow dolly or single-car vehicle carrier, but this will hurt the maneuverability of the moving truck. Your views out of your mirrors will also be partially blocked, which is less safe. You also won't be able to drive in reverse, and you could suffer some damage to the car.

The trip will take longer when you're towing or hauling your car yourself. But, if you plan ahead don't mind the extra time on the road, this could be the option for you.

2. Drive it yourself

The most popular option is driving your car to your new apartment yourself and hiring a moving company to take all your stuff there. That's likely because it seems like the most convenient and cost-effective. But is it?

First, consider the cost of driving yourself to your destination. You can calculate the cost of fuel for your trip before you go by using a fuel calculator. However, it doesn't take into account the cost of meals, overnight lodging or the cost of the depreciation of your car's value due to driving such a long distance. Driving yourself can get expensive, especially on longer drives.

You should also consider the personal pains of driving your own car during your move like the energy of driving a long distance or having to use vacation days when you might not get paid.

In general, driving yourself is advisable for shorter moves, but not longer ones.

3. Car shipping

Another option for moving your car to another state is shipping it. This is the most convenient option and is usually pretty reasonably priced.

First, you'll need to find an auto transport company online. Once you have found some companies that can handle your shipment, research those companies online. Check each company's reviews on sites like Google and TransportReviews.com.

Next, you should get quotes from each company that you're considering. Then, call each company and discuss the details. This includes shipping dates, insurance coverage and other shipping policies that they might have. One such example might be their policy about shipping personal items with your vehicle, which most companies don't allow.

You'll also need to consider which form of car shipping you'll use. This decision comes down to open-air vs. enclosed.

Open-air vs. enclosed car shipping

Open-air is the most common and you'll often see trucks on the highway where a car carrier has two decks of exposed cars. Enclosed car shipping is when cars get placed inside the back of a trailer that has a roof and walls so that the cars are not exposed to any outdoor elements or road debris. Open auto transport is cheaper and has better availability, but enclosed vehicle shipping offers the greatest amount of protection for your vehicle.

If you choose open-air transport, you'll also need to determine if you want top load or bottom load. Top load refers to a car that's placed on the top deck of the carrier. Top-load is a bit more expensive because it offers protection from fluid leaks from the cars above it as well as from small road debris like pebbles.

Finally, you'ill need to figure out the final cost of your car shipment. Final prices could be different from the original quote you received, especially if weeks have passed since you got your quote. So, be sure that you call the company you plan on shipping with and determine what the final price is.

Preparing for shipment

Once you have booked your car shipment, you need to prepare for the shipment. This will include getting the exterior of the car washed so your auto transport driver can conduct an inspection of the condition of your vehicle on time. You'll also need to make sure that you have a quarter tank of gas when the pickup occurs, not more and not less.

Part of the preparation will also include removing any valuables from your car. Any lost or damaged personal items during shipment are not covered by the auto transport insurance.

You also need to be sure that you or someone eighteen years or older with a valid license will be present for the pickup, as well as the delivery of your car.

4. Hire someone to drive it for you

When you hire someone to drive your car for you, don't trust a random person. Instead, go through a well-reviewed concierge transportation company, where a professional driver will drive your car to your out-of state-destination. However, this is usually the most expensive option you can choose.

You also might even be able to ship your pets with your concierge driver rather than having to bring them on the plane or train with you.

Which should you choose?

Moving your car to another state can complicate your move but there are several great options, including shipping your car or hiring a professional to drive it for you.

The most important thing is to plan ahead, both for your move and moving your car. The more time that you give yourself to prepare, the fewer issues you'll run into.

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