Posts Tagged ‘Corporate Relocations’

Shipping A Car For A Corporate Relocation

Businessman with car

If you have ever undergone a move before, you understand how challenging it can be. Corporate relocations, like all moves, require organization and planning. Every detail needs to be addressed for the move to be a success and go as planned. Not only must household goods find their way to your new home, but your car must, as well. Shipping your car does not have to add stress to the moving process.

With the help of a professional car shipping company, a corporate relocation is a breeze. Auto transport services offer a worry-free solution to safely and easily get your vehicle to its destination.

National Dispatch, a leading provider in the car moving industry, has created for you an outline to help aid you in your move. Whether you are moving to a new city in search of a job or already have a position lined up, this guide will help you.

Here is how you can expect your corporate move to go.

  1. Identify your destination.
  2. Create a budget.
  3. Outline your car shipping needs.
  4. Do your research.
  5. Request a car shipping quote.

1. Identify Your Destination.

Pittsburgh Skyline

Maybe, you have already been offered the perfect position. Therefore, your destination has been decided for you. On the other hand, if you are in search of a job, then your options are endless.

When it comes to your job search, finding an employment opportunity is only half the battle. You also must couple this with a location that offers a reasonable cost of living with enjoyable amenities.

You might be surprised what metropolitan areas actually offer job searchers with the best chance to find a job. While many large cities, such as New York City and Los Angeles, often come to mind. Are they really the best places to look for work and settle down?

According to Glassdoor, many mid-sized cities are high on the list for the best cities to find a job. This is likely due to the booming job market, affordable housing, and overall job satisfaction.

Here are some cities that made the list.

How To Choose A Place To Live

The increase in job opportunities in these cities and many others have encouraged families and recent graduates to move to the region. When these cities boast an affordable housing market and a below average commute time, then you can expect a higher quality of life. What should you be looking for in your future city?

  • Affordability. No matter how much your paycheck is, it is important to live comfortably. This means finding a city that is within your price range.
  • Crime rate. You want to feel safe wherever you choose to settle down. Crime happens everywhere, but you can look at a few statistics to study up on particular areas.
  • Commute. This is more than just your commute to and from work. How far will you be from your family and friends?
  • Climate. Not everyone is suited for the cold, and not everyone can handle the heat of the summer. For this reason, it is important to find a city that suits your needs.
  • Culture. The United States is large. Therefore, you will find many different cultures nestled within various regions of the country. Find one that fits well with your lifestyle.

2. Create a budget.

Man Working on Budget

Even if you are not a person who usually plans things out, it is important to create a budget for your moving expenses. Moving will be less stressful if you have an idea of how much it might cost you, ahead of time, instead of going in blindly.

Keeping track of expenses will help you realize what items are essential to buy now and what you can hold off on until a later date. Noting these expenses is also necessary if your corporation will be paying for or reimbursing you for your moving costs.

What To Consider

Creating a moving day budget may seem like a lot of work. It may be a time-consuming project, but it is well-worth the invested time and energy. Here are a few areas that are necessary to include with your moving budget.

  • Travel Expenses: This will vary depending on whether you are moving yourself or having a professional auto shipper do the work for you. When moving yourself, you must consider the cost to rent a truck or trailer, insurance, gas and mileage, lodging, meals, and incidentals. If you choose to have a car shipping company transport your vehicle, insurance is factored into your car transport rate. In addition, you do not have to worry about meals, hotel stays, or gas. However, a plane ticket will be necessary.
  • Packing Expenses: You will need to purchase boxes, bubblewrap, tape, and markers. To save money, you can ask your local stores if they have spare boxes.
  • Home Expenses: When moving to a new home or apartment, you may be required to pay property taxes, utility deposits, pet deposits, or renter’s insurance.

Learn more about How To Save On Moving Costs.

3. Outline your car shipping needs.

Red sports car

The whole idea of relocating to a new city can be daunting. However, you can greatly reduce the stress of a move by using corporate car relocation services. Whether you are moving a single car or multiple cars, it does not matter. National Dispatch offers services that won’t break the bank.

Before choosing car transport services, you must first outline your car shipping needs. Answer the following questions to get a better idea of what you need.

  • How many cars will you be transporting?
  • What types of vehicle(s) do you own?
  • How soon do you need your car(s) delivered?

At National Dispatch, we work with both small businesses and large corporations, not just individuals. We understand the best and safest way to ship your car to its destination. Below, you will find a few of the auto transport services that we offer.

Open Auto Transport

Open auto transport is the standard method of transport for the car moving industry. Due to its popularity, this often means that there are more trucks available to make scheduling easier. This type of carrier is a great option, especially if you drive your car on a daily basis. This means that your car is regularly exposed to common external elements.

Enclosed Auto Transport

Enclosed auto transport is another option when it comes to transporting your vehicle. These carriers are fully-enclosed. This gives greater peace of mind and complete protection from all hazards of the road. If you do not consider yourself to be a daily driver, as with a classic car owner, then enclosed car shipping is the way to go. Some enclosed carriers are even equipped with liftgates for a safer loading experience.

Door-To-Door Auto Shipping

If you are looking to get your vehicle directly to your home or business location, ask an auto transport agent about door-to-door auto transport in your area. This service removes the need for you to drive miles to pickup or deliver your car. Therefore, it offers convenience and alleviates added stress.

Guaranteed Shipping

If you are in need of fast delivery by a specific date, then our guaranteed shipping option is the one for you. This service is recommended when the customer is need of urgent auto transport. Keep in mind that this a more expensive shipping option.

4. Do your research.

Woman hand with mouse and laptop

In the auto transport industry, there are thousands of companies to choose from. You want to be sure that you take the necessary measures so that you have the best car shipping experience, possible.

With the car shipping industry, it is not really necessary to find a business that is local. Therefore, a face-to-face visit with the company may be out of the question. This means you are left to do your homework online.

Here are a few tips for conducting your research.

  • Look up the registration. As required by law, auto transport carriers must be licensed, insured, and bonded. You can look up a company’s DOT number by conducting an online search.
  • Check online reviews. Reliable car shipping companies should have a good rating online from previous customers. You can check out Google Reviews to read what past customers had to say about their experiences. In addition, you can go to the Better Business Bureau.
  • Go to their website. If you are thinking about doing business with a company, they should have a good online presence. This means that their site should look professional and well put together.
  • Speak with a representative. Even bad companies can have a good website. After checking out the company online, you should contact an auto transport representative. Ask questions. The customer service agent should be friendly and helpful.
  • Go with your gut. At the end of the day, you should choose a company that will be the best fit for you. If something feels off about a company, then it probably is. Leave it in search of another. If you feel uncomfortable after your search, how will you feel after handing over your keys?

We hope that these points lead you in the right direction. Finding the right car shipper can be a challenge. However, you will feel better knowing that your car is in good hands. Learn more about How To Choose An Auto Transport Company.

5. Request a car shipping quote.

If competitive car transport rates is what you are looking for, then you have come to the right place. The easiest way to receive a quote is by using our online quote calculator. It requires some general information to determine the cost to ship your vehicle. What will be required of you?

  • Vehicle Make
  • Vehicle Model
  • Pickup Location
  • Delivery Location

As you can see, only four simple fields are required to get an instant car shipping quote. Unlike other companies, we do not require personal information, such as an email or phone number. This is because we want to make the process as easy and quick as possible.

Upon filling out this information, you will be instantly redirected to your car transport rate. On this screen, you can select other services, as needed. What services do we offer?

  • Non-Running Vehicle Shipping
  • Running Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Carrier Shipping
  • Enclosed Carrier Shipping

How Is The Price Determined?

The price of your quote is determined by a number of factors. Each quote is customized to our customer’s specific situation. Here are a few variables that affect the cost of shipping.

  • Distance. This is the state to state rate, or how far the driver must travel from pickup location to delivery location. Cross-country moves will cost more than relocating statewide.
  • Location. This refers to how close your destination is to the main highways. Is it an easily accessible location? If the driver has to drop the vehicle off at the top of a mountain, the cost of shipping may be higher.
  • Season. The busiest season for auto transporters tends to be the summer. Rates may be reflective of this increase in demand.
  • Carrier Option. As we have already discussed, there are two carrier options. Enclosed carrier shipping is the more expensive of the two.
  • Urgency. How soon do you need your car? In general, it is a good idea to give the auto transport company plenty of time to arrange transport services.

National Dispatch

National Dispatch is a nationwide car shipping company with a company-owned fleet. Our corporate car relocation services are ideal for individuals relocating to a a new city, as well as businesses moving a portion or their entire corporation. Whether you need a single car or a fleet of cars transported, we have got you covered by offering several type of carrier options.

Our professional and experienced staff coordinate all the details of your car shipment, from start to finish. This makes for a hassle-free car shipping experience. Call us today at 800-321-2051 or go online for a free, instant car shipping quote. No personal information is required. You can also chat with us online.

How To Ship A Car To Another State

Los Angeles City Skyline

Do you need to ship a car to another state? Moving to a new state can be difficult. The challenge results from the long To-Do list of tasks that must be accomplished before the move. However, auto shipping services serve to make your life easier with convenience and peace of mind.

The first step in the auto transport process is choosing a reliable auto transport company, one which you can trust with the shipment of your vehicle. It may seem like the process ends there. However, there are many additional steps that must be completed to ship your vehicle to another state.

Choosing An Auto Transport Company

When moving to another state, it is crucial to find a reliable auto transport company. You want to find a company you feel comfortable leaving your car with. You do not want to worry about damages, late deliveries, or overcharges. Paying a professional to handle the shipment of your vehicle means just that. An experienced auto transport expert will have the necessary knowledge and training to get the job done right.

These companies do exist. All you must do is find them. National Dispatch is a top-rated car shipping company for the following reasons:

  • Experience. Experience is a good indicator that your car transport will go smoothly, from start to finish. National Dispatch has years of experience in the car shipping industry, transporting vehicles all over the country for both individuals and businesses.
  • Professional Staff. You want to do business with someone who is professional, friendly, and honest. We seek to provide the best customer service by answering all your questions and ensuring that you remain informed every step of the way.
  • Affordable Rates. Our car transport rates are competitive with the industry. We aim to provide high quality services at an affordable price. Use our free online quote calculator, located on our website, to receive an instant quote.
  • Trustworthiness. Honesty and integrity are key characteristics of any company. They should be upheld to the highest standards. Trust in us to transport your car to its destination in a safe and timely manner.

Read more information on How To Choose an Auto Transport Company.

Cost To Ship A Car

One of the most commonly asked questions in auto shipping is, “How much will it cost to ship my car?” This will depend on a variety of factors. Many companies offer a quote calculator on their website. This can be used to determine an estimated cost of auto transport services from one state to another. If you have an idea of how much it will cost to ship your vehicle ahead of time, then you can properly prepare a moving budget.

Requesting A Quote

Not all quote calculators are created equal. These vary across the industry, from simple to more complex. National Dispatch has an easy-to-use quote form on the website, which makes the process of getting car transport rates very simple. Here are some perks of using the quote calculator located on National Dispatch’s website:

  • Instant. Upon entering in the required information, you will be instantly redirected to the car transport quote results page. It only takes a matter of seconds. This saves time in comparison to other sites that require you to wait around for email results.
  • No Personal Information. Only four fields of information are required to receive an auto transport quote. You must enter the vehicle make, vehicle model, pickup location, and delivery location. However, no email, phone number, or other personal information is requested of you.
  • Available 24/7. The quote form is always available on our website for use, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. This means that even when our office is closed, you can receive a free, instant car shipping quote.
  • Free. There is no cost to get an auto transport quote. If you need to ship your car, why not check out the services that we offer?
  • User-Friendly. We created the quote calculator with our customers, in mind. Therefore, we want to make it as easy as possible to get a quote. On the quote results page, you can easily choose between different shipping options and services without switching screens.

Factors Affecting A Car Transport Rate

You may be wondering how the car shipping company calculates the number that you see on your estimated car transport rate. Well, many components must be taken into consideration to reach a price point. Here are a few of the factors that affect your quote:

  • Distance. The distance between your current home and your destination point is a major consideration factor. The cost of shipping will vary if you are transporting city to city, state to state, or coast to coast.
  • Location. This may seem very similar to distance, but it is different in some respects. This variable has more to do with your geographical location and setting. Moving to a major city versus a small town could vary in costs.
  • Vehicle Type. All aspects of the vehicle must be taken into consideration. This would include the size, make, and model. Larger vehicles weigh more which will have an impact on how much you will pay to transport.

Keep in mind that not all car shipping companies are the same. Car shippers charge differently based on their policies and their general way of conducting business. The best advice is to go for value over price. Although it may seem like a good idea to save money and go for the cheapest option, you often get what you pay for.

Learn more information on Car Transport Rates.

Father and son washing car

Preparing A Car For Shipping

Preparing a car for transport is necessary to minimize any risks associated with transporting a car. To ship a car, you must:

  • Gather all needed documentation
  • Perform an inspection
  • Remove personal belongings
  • Perform a maintenance check

What Documents Do You Need To Transport A Car?

A reputable car transport company will require documentation before the car is able to be shipped to its destination. This documentation may vary from company to company. However, below, you will find the most popular documents required:

  • Vehicle registration and title. This proves that you are the rightful owner of the car that you are about to ship.
  • Photo identification. Acceptable forms of photo identification include a driver’s license or passport.
  • Car insurance. Although most auto transport companies offer insured services, proof of insurance may also be required.

Perform An Inspection For Pre-Existing Damages

It is important to check for any pre-existing damages prior to transporting your vehicle. This ensures that you know the current condition of your car for insurance purposes, in case any unforeseen circumstances were to occur. An inspection can be completed by doing the following:

  1. Wash the exterior of the car. A clean car will help you to spot any cosmetic damages on the vehicle.
  2. Record any chips, dents, or scratches. Write down if there are any cosmetic damages for your records.
  3. Take pictures. Go around the outside of the vehicle, taking close-up photographs of any of the damages that you noticed. Take the pictures from various angles, and include a date stamp.
  4. Make a copy. An inspection will also be completed when the driver arrives to transport the vehicle. Make sure that the driver also makes note of these pre-existing damages, or provide the transporter with a copy.

Remove All Personal Belongings

Do not pack personal items in your car. It is best to transport these items, yourself. This reduces the risk of theft and damages. It is also important for insurance purposes, as an auto shipping company will not be liable for damages caused by these items. Packing more items in your car also adds more weight to the vehicle, which will have an impact on the price.

It is the driver’s job to transport your vehicle. Make his job easier by removing all personal belongings, such as GPS systems and unmounted radios. You should also be sure to remove all luggage, bike, and ski racks, unless they are permanent. It is not necessary to remove vehicle items, such as the jack and spare tire.

Lastly, you should remove or deactivate toll tags and parking passes. You do not want to run the risk of accumulating charges as your vehicle travels to its destination.

Read more on Preparing A Car For Shipping.

Perform A Maintenance Check

Although the vehicle will not be driven much during transport, except for loading and unloading purposes, it is important that the vehicle is in a safe, working condition. If you are looking to ship a non-running vehicle, National Dispatch also provides those services. However, special equipment is required. Right now, we will focus on operable vehicles. Here is what you should do prior to shipping your operable car:

  • Check the tires. Ensure that the tires are properly inflated at the appropriate tire pressure. Also, check the condition of the tires.
  • Refill fluids, if necessary. Your car runs off a variety of fluids, including brake fluid, washer fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, oil, power steering fluid, and more. Make sure the levels are where they should be.
  • Keep gas tank at ¼ to ½ full. This is the recommended amount to reduce weight and ensure a smooth transport.
  • Be watchful of leaks. The driver should be notified of any issues with your vehicle. If your car is leaking, it should not be placed on the upper level. It may leak on the cars below it.
  • Notify the driver of quirks. You know your car better than anyone. You understand how it runs and performs daily. Let the transporter know of a special concerns with the vehicle prior to shipping.

Learn more about Car Maintenance.

Car number plates

What Should You Do After Shipping A Car?

Your car has been delivered at your new home in a new state. What is there left to do? Upon the delivery of your car, you will need to complete another inspection with the driver. This is to ensure that the vehicle is in the same condition that it was shipped in. If you do notice any damages, notify the auto transport company immediately. You will also be required to sign the Bill of Lading.

After relocating to the new state, you should contact the local DMV to update some important information concerning your vehicle. This information includes:

  • Driver’s license. You must update your driver’s license to reflect your new state of residence. States vary in the length of time given to complete this task, typically between 10 to 30 days.
  • License plates. Similar to your driver’s license, the vehicle must be registered in the new state within a certain number of days. This is typically longer, between 30 and 60 days. Check to see if the old plates need to be surrendered.
  • Inspections. Depending on the state to which you are moving to, there may be certain requirements. For example, California requires that most vehicles pass a smog check.
  • Car Insurance. Notify your auto insurance company of your move. It may be necessary to adjust your coverage.

Contact National Dispatch Today!

National Dispatch is a nationwide car shipping company with a company-owned fleet. We have years of experience in the industry, shipping cars all over the country for both individuals and businesses. We transport vehicles for residential moves, extended vacations, corporate relocations, military moves, and more.

Whatever your reason for moving to another state, we can handle the shipment of your vehicle. We transport all types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and motorcycles. We even ship classic, luxury, and exotic models, as well. By offering both open and enclosed auto transport, our services cater to meet your specific needs. If you are in need of a faster delivery time, then we offer a guaranteed shipping option.

Request a free, instant car shipping quote using our online quote calculator. Fill out four fields of information to get a quote in seconds. No personal information is required. If you prefer to speak with an auto transport representative by phone, call us at 800-321-2051.