Moving Your Car to Another State

Moving across state lines or the country can be exciting but comes with its fair share of challenges. 

One task often overlooked while planning a big move is relocating your vehicle. Whether you’re moving for a new job opportunity or a change of scenery, moving your car to another state or across the country can be complex. 

In this blog, Nelson Markesbery explains vehicle relocation and provides tips to make the process smoother and more manageable.

Planning Ahead

The key to a successful vehicle relocation is careful planning. Start the process before your move, ideally at least a month or two before. 

Here are some crucial steps to consider during the planning phase:

Research your options: Begin by researching different vehicle relocation methods. You can choose to drive your car yourself, Allied Van Line’s professional auto transport service, or even consider a combination of both. 

Related Post: Why Allied Moving Company and Its Affiliates are the Top National Movers

Each option has pros and cons, so weighing them based on your specific needs and budget is important.

Budgeting: Determine your budget for vehicle relocation. Driving the car yourself may seem cost-effective, but it can include expenses such as fuel, accommodations, food, and potential wear and tear on your vehicle. 

Professional auto transport services provide upfront pricing, which can help you budget more accurately.

Vehicle inspection: Before handing over your vehicle for relocation, inspect it thoroughly. Document any existing damage, take photos, and make note of the car’s current condition. This documentation will be crucial in case of any issues during the process.

Choosing the Right Service

If you choose a professional auto transport service, selecting the right company is essential. 

Here are some factors to consider when making your choice:

Reputation: Research different auto transport companies and read reviews from previous customers. Look for companies with a positive reputation for reliability and customer service.

Insurance coverage: Verify the insurance coverage provided by the company. Your vehicle should be insured during transit, protecting you from accidents or damages.

Quotes and estimates: Get quotes from different companies and compare prices and services. Ensure that the quote includes all potential fees and charges. Keep in mind that transporting vehicles over hundreds of miles means you should look for a company with certified professionals.  

Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport

Preparing your car for transport is crucial in ensuring its safe arrival at your new location. 

Here’s a checklist to help you get your vehicle ready:

1. Clean the vehicle: Clean your car thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. This will make it easier to inspect for any damage later on.

2. Remove personal items: Take out all personal belongings from your car. 

3. Document existing damage: As mentioned, document any pre-existing damage to your vehicle. Make sure the transporter is aware of these issues as well.

4. Disable alarms: Deactivate car alarms to prevent them from going off during transit.

5. Fuel level: Keep your fuel tank at around a quarter full. This is sufficient for loading and unloading but minimizes extra weight.

6. Mechanical check: Ensure your car is in good working condition. If there are any mechanical issues, address them before transport.

7. Provide contact information: Give the transporter accurate contact information, including your phone number and email address, so that they can reach you during transit.

Receiving Your Car at the Destination

Once your car arrives at your new location, further steps must be taken to ensure a smooth delivery. 

First, examine your car carefully for any damage or issues. Compare its condition to the initial inspection. Once everything looks good with your vehicle, confirm the safe delivery by signing the bill of lading. If you notice any issues during your review, this is the time to note them on the document. 

Finally, take your car for a short test drive to ensure everything is in working order.

Specialized Moving Services With Nelson Markesbery 

Moving your car to another state or across the country requires careful planning and consideration. 

Nelson Markesbery understands what’s needed to keep your personal or corporate vehicles safe and secure during long-distance moves. Contact us for more information or give us a call at (859) 371-8111.