Along with all your other items and possessions you'll have to plan the moving of your automobile as well. The first thing you'll need to decide is how you're going to transport it - are you going to drive it yourself or hire an auto mover. If the trip is relatively short, you're better off driving yourself as this will be the cheapest way. If you're moving overseas however you won't have a choice but to have it transported by a shipping company. You might also opt to use a professional service if you don't want all the extra mileage on your car.
Choosing the right Auto Mover
Get estimates from at least three companies before hiring anyone. The total cost depends on many factors such as from and to where the car will be shipped, make and model, and when it will be picked and delivered. Some companies may require a deposit or even a full payment in advance. They'll tell you when they'll pick up your car and approximately when they'll deliver it - it usually takes three to five days, and they can store it for you if you're not available to pick it up on the said date for an additional fee.
Inspect and thoroughly clean your car prior to the movers' arrival. Remove or secure any loose objects as they may cause damage during transport. Also remove any personal possessions such as cash and valuables as the car shippers will not be responsible if anything is lost or missing. It's advisable not to fill your trunk with heavy items - that can damage your undercarriage and in addition you'll be charged more for the extra weight. Inform the company if your car has any leaks.
The driver will perform a full inspection of your vehicle on pick-up. Read the report carefully and if everything is correct, sign. Be sure to obtain a copy of it because this is the document you'll refer to if an insurance claim needs to be filed later. The same applies to your contract with the company - go over all the details and if you don't understand something, ask. Don't sign unless everything is clear to you. Consider details like whether they'll cover the expenses for a rental car in case they don't deliver yours on time and what kind of insurance they offer.
When your car arrives, check everything carefully inside and out. Now is the time to point out any damage there is and have the driver sign the report - the company might not acknowledge it at a later time. Don't accept your vehicle if conditions don't allow for proper inspection, i.e. at night.
Selling your car instead of transporting it
Sometimes the smarter thing to do would be to sell your car instead of moving it. Consider the following factors:
- How much would it cost to ship it vs. buying a new car?
- What are the regulations in your new state/country?
- Will your insurance be higher?
- Customs duty and taxes
- Port-handling charges
