Should You Ship or Drive Your Car When Moving?
- Keisha Thompson
- Jul 8, 2024
- 2 min read
Relocating to a new place can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to deciding whether to ship your car or drive it to your new location. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on various factors such as distance, cost, time, and personal preference.
Cost Comparison
Shipping your car and driving it both come with their respective costs. When you drive, you need to factor in fuel, accommodation, food, and possible maintenance. Shipping your car might seem expensive upfront, but when you add up all driving expenses, it can be more economical.
Shipping Costs: The average cost of shipping a car ranges from $500 to $1500, depending on the distance and the type of transport.
Driving Costs: Fuel, wear and tear, potential overnight stays, and food can quickly add up. For a cross-country move, these costs can easily exceed $1000.
Time Considerations
Driving your car across the country can take several days, especially if you're moving a significant distance. This time includes not just driving but also rest stops, meals, and overnight stays. Shipping your car, on the other hand, frees up your time to focus on other aspects of your move.
Safety and Wear & Tear
Long drives can put a lot of strain on your vehicle, resulting in wear and tear that could lead to expensive repairs down the line. Shipping your car eliminates this risk, as the car is transported safely on a truck. Additionally, driving long distances can be risky due to road conditions, weather, and fatigue.
Convenience
Shipping your car is incredibly convenient, especially if you're moving with a family or have multiple vehicles. It allows you to fly to your new location and have your car delivered to your doorstep. This can be particularly useful if you're moving to a city with a lot of traffic or limited parking.
Environmental Impact
Driving long distances contributes significantly to carbon emissions. By shipping your car, you reduce the environmental impact as car carriers are more fuel-efficient per car transported than individual vehicles.
Making the Decision
When deciding whether to ship your car or drive it, consider the following:
Distance: For moves over 500 miles, shipping is often the more practical choice.
Cost: Calculate the total cost of driving versus shipping.
Time: Consider the time you’ll save by shipping.
Safety: Think about the wear and tear on your vehicle and the safety of a long drive.
Convenience: Weigh the convenience of having your car shipped versus driving it yourself.
Conclusion
In many cases, shipping your car is the smarter choice for long-distance moves. It saves time, reduces wear and tear, and can even be more cost-effective. At Top5CarShipping.com, we’ve reviewed and researched the top auto transport providers to ensure you get the best service possible.
