Ship-A1 Classic Car shipping services may not be the largest segment of the auto transport industry, but they are important. People who transport classic cars recognize the need to keep them in pristine condition. While most cars lose value quickly, classic cars can appreciate over time. This makes them more valuable and essential to care for during shipping. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of affordable classic car shipping.
Choose open or enclosed transport ASAP:
Choosing between open or enclosed auto transport is usually straightforward. Open shipping is cheaper and more common. It’s easier to find because many open trucks are on the road. Enclosed transportation is pricier and typically for high-end vehicles, like luxury cars.
For classic car shipping, the decision is trickier. If your classic car is valuable, opt for an enclosed delivery truck. This isn’t a strict rule, but it’s a helpful guideline. Many classic cars, such as a 1974 Mercury Comet, may not be worth much—mine cost me $600 in 2013 and is likely worth less now. Such a vehicle is usually fine on an open transport truck. However, if your classic car is pristine and often shown, enclosed transport may be worth the cost. While enclosed shipping is about 50% more expensive, it can be worth it for valuable vehicles.
For a detailed breakdown of enclosed shipping, read our Guide to Shipping a Car with an Enclosed Auto Transport Company.
Get another set of keys:
Many people overlook the importance of having a second set of keys, especially for classic cars. New cars typically come with two keys, but classic cars often don’t. When I bought my Comet, it only had one key. If I had delivered it, I would have wanted a backup key. It can be not easy to get another set, but it's crucial. Things can go wrong, and if the carrier loses your key, having a spare is essential. This advice applies to any vehicle you need to ship, not just classic cars.
Learn more about preparing your car with our Vehicle Shipping Preparation Guide.
Make sure to look at every prospective company’s reviews:
When shipping a car, reviews are crucial as they reveal a lot about the shipping companies. Good shippers focus on maintaining positive ratings and strive to meet customer needs while offering competitive prices. However, some companies may not prioritize customer care. The car shipping industry can be unpredictable, especially with delivery schedules, making it essential to read reviews, particularly for classic car shipping. There aren’t many specialized shippers for classic cars due to their limited numbers, and a company's care for vehicles will be reflected in customer feedback.
We work exclusively with trusted shipping firms to meet customer needs. Although reading reviews can be time-consuming, it's vital for finding the right company to transport your car. For tips on finding cost-effective services, check out How to Save Money on Car Shipping.
Make sure everything is working:
Traditional cars can be unreliable, especially if they’ve been sitting for years. It’s crucial to ensure your classic vehicle is operational before transporting it. If it can’t be driven, a winch may be needed, but not all carriers have one. You don’t need everything to work, but the car should start and drive. Simple fixes, like a new battery (around $50), can save you money on shipping, which can add about $200 for non-running cars. If repairs are cheaper than that, you’ll save!
