More people are moving to Texas from California every year, in part due to housing prices, as well as many other reasons. In such situations, people find they need to move a lot of their property between states, but it is not easy to ship it all yourself. For example, how would you ship a car from California to Texas if you had more than one vehicle or needed to drive the moving truck?
Below, we elaborate on the steps you need to take when shipping a car across the country to ensure you perform your due diligence. By the end of the article, we will remove a weight from your shoulders and the car will only be another simple thing on your moving checklist.
Run Through Your Shipping Needs and Budget
The first thing you need to think about is if California and Texas car shipping is what you want to do in the first place. Look at the distances involved and think about if you can get the vehicle there yourself, or empower a peer to drive it for you. Because of the price, time, and lack of effort involved, shipping is likely the best option to ensure things go smoothly.
When you investigate the options, decide whether you need open or enclosed shipping. If you are moving a highly-prized or unique vehicle, you are likely to want to use enclosed shipping to protect it and keep it from prying eyes. Though, if you want to save money, go with open shipping instead, though ensure the vehicle has insurance in-case hail or other problems occur.
Compare Quotes
Of course, you should make sure you can afford the options you wish to use. Ask for quotes from different services, and see which ones offer what you need at a reasonable price. This may take some research, depending on the number of companies in your area that might be moving freight or vehicles.
When you get quotes, make sure that the information you provide the company is accurate and relevant. Also, make sure to give detailed information on pickup and delivery locations where necessary. One small detail might alter a quote more than you might think.
As you go through the terms for each company, make sure to look for hidden costs to avoid surprises later. This is especially important when it comes to picking up a vehicle late if you encounter traffic. You want to ensure you have a contingency plan in place if things are going to cost you more due to situations outside your control.
Of course, you should look into online reviews too. Make sure the company has a good reputation, and that it treats its customers with respect. This way, if anything does go wrong, you can have the assurance that you will not need to deal with a negative experience.
Prepare the Car Itself
Make sure to clean both the inside and outside of the car. The company will likely need to inspect the vehicle before they ship it, and making this easier on everyone will be helpful.
At the same time, remove all your belongings, valuables, and documents from the car. The shipping company will likely not bear responsibility for them, and if something falls out you will not be able to claim for it.
Gather the Documents You Need
Get a copy of your vehicle’s registration, title, and any other documents you might need. Remember that moving a vehicle between states, especially if you are not driving it, might mean you need to prepare ahead of time. If the state has specific documentation requirements, such as permits, ensure they are in order and in your possession.
When you work with the shipping company, also make sure you keep hold of the shipping contract and any insurance documentation. Sometimes mistakes happen, and you must have everything ready for such an outcome.
Schedule a Time for Pickup
Work with the shipping company to ensure you schedule a good time for them to pick up the vehicle. If you are not around, such as due to work, get a trusted peer or family member to do this for you.
Make sure the shipping company has everything they need, including any documents you should hand over.
When you discuss the pickup location with the company, ensure they have any specific instructions they might need. An example might be if they require permission to enter a car park or if your home has parking spots that are not close to it.
Learn Where to Retrieve the Vehicle
Similar to planning the pickup, get all the details from the company on where you need to pick up the vehicle. This may be a specific depot, or in some cases might include delivery to an address you specify.
If they deliver the vehicle, ask if they drive it or if they deliver it by car carrier. If the latter, ensure the drop-off location has enough room to accommodate such a vehicle.
Last of all, make sure you are there when they drop the vehicle off, and have all the documents you need to prove ownership. If you neglect this, you may not have the trust of the company and they may refuse to transfer the vehicle to you. This could end up with you paying for extra storage or fines until you collect the documents you require.
Ship a Car From California to Texas
When you plan to ship a car from California to Texas, it can take a lot of effort to get everything organized. This is made even harder as it is likely during a period when you are making other major changes in your life. Lucky for you, we have several articles on how to make this process easier.
Our blog contains advice on moving home and many other lifestyle topics to give you the peace of mind you need no matter how hard things get. So, check out our site for more information and make that move easier.
