Posts Tagged ‘Car Shipping Easy’

5 Auto Safety Tips To Follow On The Road

Auto Safety Tips

Auto safety is important for every driver on the road, because automobile accidents are a leading cause of injuries and death in many countries. Vehicle manufacturers have designed and implemented numerous features to ensure the safety of all passengers. This would include the incorporation of the seat belt, air bag, and pre-crash system.

Although car safety features have been improved over the years, collisions still occur. Auto safety is dependent on more than just the safety features a vehicle has. A person’s safety behind the wheel depends on their driving behaviors and techniques, as well. It is important to remain alert, focus on the road, follow traffic laws, and be prepared for any situation.

In your Driver’s Education course, you were taught the traffic laws and rules of the road. This way, as a new driver, you could be prepared to drive and share the road. Sometimes, we need a refresher of the importance of auto safety. In this post, you will also learn some things that you did not learn in Driver’s Ed, such as how to pack an emergency car kit.

At National Dispatch, car safety is our top priority. We want you to stay safe while behind the wheel. Therefore, we have assembled a list of 5 auto safety tips to follow on the road. Check them out below:

1. Stop Driving Distracted.

Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention or eyes off the road, even for a brief moment. This would include talking or texting on the phone, eating or drinking, applying makeup, or messing with the radio. These activities may take your eyes off the road for only a couple of seconds, but deadly consequences could result.

Driving deserves your full and undivided attention. Many states have put into effect laws prohibiting distracted driving activities, such as texting or talking on the phone while driving, due to the dangers. According to NHTSA, teenage drivers were the largest group reported for being distracted at the time of a collision or crash. However, all ages are susceptible to driving distracted. Furthermore, it is likely that at some point in your life you have done one of the activities listed while driving.

What Can You Do To Avoid Driving Distracted?

  • Avoid eating while driving. Sometimes it may feel like there are not enough hours in the day. Maybe, you are running late for a meeting or to work. Stopping through the drive-thru to get a quick bite to eat on the way may seem like a time-saver. However, it means that you will be less focused on the road. Food or drink spills are both reasons why people take their eyes off the road.
  • Pull over to make a call. Try to schedule calls when you are not behind the wheel. Instead, use your phone for emergency situations only. When you must make a phone call, pull over safely to the side of the road. It is also a good idea to put your phone away, so you will not be tempted to make a call or text. It will be out of reach.
  • Do not multi-task. Get everything taken care of before you hop in the car. This means putting on your makeup at home, instead of while driving. In addition, avoid trying to find your phone charger or favorite CD while focusing on the road at the same time.

2. Avoid Driving Drowsy.

Driver fatigue is one of the major causes of accidents or near-accidents. The statistics might surprise you. A rather large percentage of people have reported driving while feeling tired. They may have even fallen asleep while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle.

The most likely groups of people to drive while feeling drowsy include: shift workers, young adults, and individuals with children. However, driver fatigue can affect anyone. It is important to stay alert. Drowsy driving can have serious consequences. Operating a car under this condition can make it difficult to pay attention on the road and hard to react to your surroundings.

What Can You Do To Avoid Driving Drowsy?

  • Know the signs. You need to monitor yourself, and understand when you may be getting too tired to drive. It is important to keep yourself and others safe on the road. Look for these signs: heavy eyelids, difficulty remembering last few miles driven, yawning, lane drifting, and trouble keeping your head up.
  • Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation is a major cause for driver fatigue. It is recommended that adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. If you have a hard time getting to sleep at night, disconnect from electronic devices, read a book, or try relaxation exercises.
  • Pull over if you feel tired. If you start to feel sleepy, pull over to a safe location and take a short nap or grab some caffeine. If you are driving with another person, you can always switch off driving. In addition, avoid driving when you would usually be sleeping.

3. Drive Safely In Traffic.

Heavy traffic is a part of life for any person who commutes to work in a large city. Even if you work outside of the city, you likely face the daily battle to get to work. Depending on the time of day, traffic can be a total nightmare. Cars are lined up bumper to bumper. Thus, these traffic jams can produce driver anxiety.

Traffic congestion requires drivers to be fully aware of their surroundings at all times. In these conditions, the roads are crowded. This means it is even more important to stay alert. When having to wait in traffic for too long, people start getting impatient. This can result in collisions.

How Can You Drive Safely In Traffic?

  • Avoid aggressive driving. Avoid weaving in and out of lanes, or merging across lanes. You should also be prepared if another driver were to do that to you. Be aware of any unsafe driving behavior on the road.
  • Pay attention. Watch the traffic in front of you. When you see brake lights, it is time to start slowing down. Take your foot off the gas. Looking ahead will help you avoid braking suddenly.
  • Keep a safe distance between cars. It is said that you should allow yourself a three second distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Keeping a safe distance will allow more time for braking and help you avoid rear-end collisions.

4. Be Prepared For An Emergency.

No one ever expects their car to breakdown and leave them stranded. The truth is that a breakdown can occur at any time and any where along the road. It is important to be prepared for a roadside emergency in case it does happen when you are driving.

There are many reasons for a car breakdown. The older the car, the more likely it is to have problems. However, a new car is still capable of developing an issue. The most common issues result from faulty batteries, lost keys, flat tires, and fuel problems. Proper preparation and maintenance can aid in avoiding and dealing with a roadside emergency.

How Can You Prepare For A Roadside Emergency?

  • Have numbers on hand. Consider investing in an AAA membership. There are numerous perks of being a member, including towing, delivery of free gas or new battery when stranded, unlocking car, and discounts. If you are not a member, at least keep the number of a mechanic or tow company on hand.
  • Prepare an emergency kit. Pack your car with a few items that may come in handy in the case of an emergency. Here is what you might you need:
    • Jumper cables – You never know when your battery might die. There are also portable jump starters available, so that you can jump-start without the use of another car.
    • Flashlight – A breakdown can occur at night. It is a good item to keep in your vehicle. Be sure it has working batteries.
    • First aid kit – It contains all the basic items in case you get hurt.
    • Tire jack – Keep it in your car, and make sure you know how to use it if you ever have to.
    • Fix-a-flat – It serves as a temporary fix for holes in your tire.
    • Paper towels/towel – Doing car maintenance can cause your hands to get dirty. You will want something to clean up with.
    • Tools – Keep a small box of tools in the vehicle with an adjustable wrench, pliers, and screwdrivers.
    • Motor oil – Put an extra quart of oil in the back of the car, in case you need it.
  • Keep up with routine maintenance. Many people avoid taking their vehicles in for routine maintenance, but it is crucial for the longevity of the car. A trusted mechanic will ensure that your vehicle is running as it should. This can reduce the chance of a breakdown.

5. Follow Traffic Laws.

It is important to make smart and safe decisions when driving. This is not only for your own safety but for others on the road, as well. Following traffic laws reduces your chances of having an accident. Obeying the rules of the road means going the speed limit, using turn signals, and stopping at traffic lights.

Think about the consequences if you choose to break the law. For one, you could get a ticket. This could lead to court dates and hefty fines. More serious and fatal consequences could also result. It is better to follow all traffic laws and practice safe driving, instead.

How Can You Avoid Speeding?

  • Give yourself plenty of time. One of the primary reasons why people speed is because they are running late for work, an event, or an appointment. To avoid rushing to get somewhere, leave early. Allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
  • Use cruise control. On the highway, it can be easy to speed, especially if there are not many cars around. If your vehicle has a cruise control setting, use this to stay at a constant and safe speed.
  • Watch the speedometer. Many people speed without even realizing that they are doing it. When you are driving, check the speedometer periodically to ensure that you are going the speed limit.

Auto Transport: An Alternative To Driving

Auto transport is a popular option when an individual is relocating to another city or state. However, it is used for more than just residential moves. Auto transport is a fast and safe solution for any type of move, including a corporate relocation, vacation, military move, and more.

It is a great option when moving coast to coast, because a long distance drive is involved. Auto transport can save you time, energy, and stress. When moving far away, drivers must be concerned with sitting hours behind the wheel of a vehicle. Driver fatigue is a risk. There is also the possibility of getting stuck in traffic.

Skip the headaches, and choose the easier alternative. National Dispatch offers nationwide vehicle shipping options. Our auto transport services are insured, licensed, and trackable. Therefore, you will have peace of mind, knowing your car is with a company you can count on.

What Can You Expect With National Dispatch?

  • Fast Service. We will deliver your vehicle to its destination in a timely manner. If you need your car shipped on a short deadline, we have options available. We offer a guaranteed shipping option, which is for individuals needing their car as soon as possible.
  • Convenience. Our door-to-door shipping services provide our customers with convenience. The vehicle is delivered directly to your home, as long as conditions permit.
  • Options. We ship a wide variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and motorcycles. If you own a non-running car, we have the means to transport that vehicle, as well.
  • Hassle-Free Rate. Not all websites offer a free, no obligation quote calculator. For a free, instant car moving quote, go to our website at https://www.nationaldispatch.com/ and enter your vehicle make, vehicle model, pickup location, and delivery location. You will receive a quote in seconds.

Call us at 800-321-2051 to speak with a representative.

Classic Car Guide: Buying And Shipping

Classic Car Collecting

Classic car collecting and restoration is a popular hobby practiced by individuals all across the United States, and even the entire the world. People love classic and antique automobiles for a number of reasons. They may see it as an investment opportunity, a chance to relive childhood memories, or the perfect time to live out their life-long dream.

Many individuals choose to buy a classic car, because it presents an opportunity to invest and resell for a profit. If you are a mechanic or know a lot about cars, then it can be the perfect past time for you. The decision to purchase a classic car can be an emotional one. You can be driven by the desire to own the model you loved as a child or the car your dad drove. Whatever your reason to purchase a classic vehicle, we are here to help guide you.

Not only are we here to assist you in making a smart purchase, but we can help you with transporting your prized possession after you buy. Shipping your car with National Dispatch provides you with peace of mind. You can relax knowing that your classic vehicle will be transported with the utmost care.

Tips: Buying A Classic Car

Purchasing a classic car is exciting, but there are also some items to consider before deciding on the car you want to take home. There is a lot that goes into purchasing a car, old or new. You must decide on the model you like best, search local listings or online classifieds, and transport the vehicle back home. We have assembled a list of tips to help you in making an informed decision.

Decide why you want it.

What are your reasons for buying a classic vehicle? Maybe, you want a classic car for one of the reasons we already mentioned. On the other hand, you might have hopes of entering a classic car show. Think about why you have a strong desire to purchase one of these vintage models. Consider if you are prepared for the time, money, and maintenance that comes with this type of investment. Also, consider a storage location. Most classic car collectors only use their vehicles for occasional drives. Do you have a garage to protect your car when it is not in use?

Do your research.

Make a wish list of features you want in your classic car, such as the desired color, engine, body style, and interior trim. Ask yourself which features you absolutely need. You may already have an idea of the classic vehicle you want, but this will help narrow down the choices. Research the positives and negatives of each model you are interested in. Read as much as you can on the cars you like. Read buyer’s guides or ask people in owner’s clubs for advice on purchasing a particular model. Find out if one model is prone to certain problems. If so, what? And how much would it cost to fix them? If you are not handy or do not know much about cars, it may be a good idea to get the advice of a trusted mechanic on potential models. Plus, if any mechanical issues arise or if repairs are needed, you know where to send your classic.

Budget your money.

One of the most important tips in purchasing a vehicle, no matter the make, model, or year, is budgeting your money. Decide what your budget is and what you can afford to pay for a car. This will be the ultimate decision maker. Set a budget, and stick to it. Make sure you include the cost of insurance, as well as the cost to get the vehicle to your house. It is best to use a reliable car shipping company to transport your vehicle to your home. Your car will be protected during transit, and you can rest easy knowing that your new purchase is being cared for properly. Older cars demand more attention. Meaning, they need more frequent servicing, which can be costly and time-consuming. You should budget for the cost of maintenance and repairs by setting aside a special fund. This is especially important if you intend on buying a fixer-upper.

Contact the seller.

Whether you are looking at a car from a dealer or private seller, make a phone call first. A phone call could save you time going to look at a car that may not be the best fit for you. Ask a lot of questions. It may sway your decision in either direction. You may find out that your dream car is not the right car for you. Arrange a time to look at the vehicle. Conduct a visual inspection to look for signs of rust or poor restoration jobs. Test drive the car. You never know how you will feel behind the wheel.

Get the best deal.

When you are ready to make an offer with the dealer or owner, remember to be courteous. If the vehicle has any obvious problems, discuss your findings with the owner. You can use these to help negotiate to get the best price. Make an educated offer by knowing the car’s value, first. You can check pricing on online sites, in magazines, or with trusted individuals. Whether you are buying a car online or in person, you can conduct your own inspection by running a VIN report and checking the Blue Book value of the vehicle. Always know that you can walk away if the pricing falls outside your budget.

Which Classic Car Should You Buy?

If you are a car enthusiast, you likely have a fantasy involving getting behind the wheel of an iconic, vintage vehicle. There are numerous models that have earned their place in history, from the sophisticated yet sporty Ford Thunderbird to the fun Volkswagen Bug. If you were to survey collectors to see what their favorite model and year would be, you would receive a variety of opinions. Therefore, we have created our own list of makes and models that have been adored by collectors all across the globe.

  • Ford Mustang

    The Ford Mustang is beloved by people all across the world for its iconic history. The sports car has been manufactured for over fifty years, making it the second-longest running sports car in the United States. The car provides a reliable form of transportation, while also offering consumers with variety and the ability to customize. Some of the more memorable models include the 1965 Shelby GT 350, 1967 Shelby GT 500, 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302, and 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1. The Shelby GT 350 served to influence many of the models that came after it.

  • Ford Thunderbird

    The Thunderbird was introduced in 1955, and today, it is a car collector’s dream. It served as a sophisticated, personal luxury car with two seats and a V8 engine. Ford manufactured the vehicle in response to Chevrolet’s creation of the Corvette. When it first debuted, it was only offered in the convertible style. Although the two-seater was doing well in sales, Ford decided to introduce a four-passenger option. In 1967, the four-door sedan was added to the lineup. The most popular model years include, but are not limited to the 1955, 1958, 1965, and 1967 Ford Thunderbird.

  • Chevrolet Corvette

    The first Corvette was introduced to the market in 1953. It is now one of America’s favorite muscle cars, marking almost sixty-five years in the making. It remains an American icon for its horsepower and performance. Newer models can hit the sixty mile per hour mark in 3.6 seconds. Each Corvette model offered something a little bit different, whether that be in the body style, trim work, or under the hood. Some of the more popular models include the 1955 Corvette V8, 1963 Corvette Stingray Split Window, and 1970 Corvette Stingray LT-1.

  • Porsche 911

    The classic Porsche 911 was meant to be a luxury sports car. Porsche began manufacturing the original model design in 1963. It is beloved by collectors for its style, performance, and features. The 911s feature the engine in the back and the trunks in the front. This is not commonly seen in many American vehicles, other than Volkswagen. Some of the favorite Porsche 911s of all time include the 1965 Porsche 911, 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7, and 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera.

  • Mercedes SL 300 Gullwing

    Mercedes introduced this model in 1954 at the New York International Automobile Show. Soon thereafter, it became known as the “Gullwing”, because of its unique upward-opening doors. Approximately 1400 models were made in a three-year time span, some of which having an all-aluminum body. The original Gullwing came in Silver. However, there were other options available per special request. In 1959, the Roadster branched off of the Gullwing. Although it resembled the Gullwing in appearance, many revisions were made. The 300 SL Roadster was produced up until 1963.

  • Volkswagen Beetle

    If you are looking for a fun vintage vehicle, then the Volkswagen Beetle is for you. After all, what other car can you think of that came with its own flower vase? The Volkswagen Beetle, or Bug, has a long production history, starting way back in 1938 until 2003. It became popular for its role as Herbie in Walt Disney’s 1968 film, The Love Bug. Not many major changes occurred in the design of the Beetle until the late 1990s. The rear windows did change over the years, however. The split-rear window design was replaced with a single oval rear window in 1952. Then, again in 1958, Volkswagen made the window even larger for visibility.

  • Chevrolet Camaro

    The Chevrolet Camaro, both classic and otherwise, is a well-sought after vehicle. The first generation Camaro of the 1960s is widely popular, because it includes the very first Camaro models ever produced. Although the generation only lasted a few years, hundreds of thousands were manufactured. Unfortunately, they may be hard to come by. The second generation Camaros lasted from 1970 until 1981. One valuable model of this generation is the Z28 Rally Sport, known as one of the best Camaros ever built in the muscle car era. The third generation introduced a different body style. It was more sleek, rather than rugged. This generation lasted into the 1990s.

  • Vintage Jeep

    If you are looking for a tough vehicle capable of conquering a variety of terrain, then a Jeep may be for you. A classic Jeep is made in either the Willys Jeep model used in war times or branched from that model in style, shape, and overall design. Due to the Jeep’s prior history in the military, it is known for being a long-lasting, reliable four-wheel drive vehicle. A few of the most popular models include Willys MB, Jeep M38A1, Jeep CJ-5, Jeep CJ-7, and J10 Shortbed. The CJ-5 served to later influence other models, including the Jeep Wranglers.

Shipping Your Classic Car

Classic cars are not just another car. To their owners, they hold great sentimental value and importance. This is why it is crucial you take the time to find a reliable car shipping company to ship one of your most prized possessions.

National Dispatch is a leading provider of auto transport services for all types of vehicles, including classic cars. We transport vehicles all across the United States. Therefore, we will deliver your car anywhere in the nation with our licensed, insured, and expedited auto transport services.

Classic car owners choose to ship their vehicles with us, because they know their car will be transported safely to its destination. We offer enclosed auto transport services, in addition to the standard open auto transport method. An enclosed carrier provides added protection by safeguarding the vehicle from the weather and road elements. This gives the owners the peace of mind they need.

Requesting a quote could not be more simple. Go to our website at www.nationaldispatch.com. There you will find our easy-to-use online car shipping quote calculator. No personal information is asked of you, just four simple fields: vehicle make, vehicle model, pickup location, and delivery location. After submitting the form, you will receive your free quote in seconds. You can also call us at 800-321-2051 to speak with one of our representatives.

We hope to hear from you soon!