Car transporting of any vintage vehicles is a meticulous undertaking that requires thorough outline and consideration. Whether you are moving your beloved antique car across the country, purchasing a classic car located in another state or need it relocated for repairs or showing events, getting classic car transport services you can rely on is important. Classic cars are unique and precious and transporting them requires special attention so that they reach the desired location without exceeding any added wear and tear.
This guide provides the necessary steps to finding reliable classic car transport services, covering all the critical areas of transport so that the vehicle is treated with extreme precision and care.
Why You Need Special Transport For Classic Cars
Before providing you with steps on how to protect your vintage vehicle, we need to identify the reasons as to why a classic car needs specialized transport dealing with older models of cars. Such cars are often more sensitive than contemporary cars, and their worth, both emotional and monetary, makes them easy targets for theft or damage during shipping.
Why Classic Cars Matter
Varying from a pristine muscle car to a vintage luxury sedan, classic cars showcase the investment and effort put into them. Their semiotic value is described in terms of heritage, which further complements their financial worth. This is precisely why you need a transport company that can handle high-value cars with the diligence they deserve.
Why Specialized Methods Are Needed
Classic transport requires specific equipment that helps avoid damage that might happen during loading and unloading of the vehicle. Straps and cradles are just some of the parts that need to be specially designed for the car. Additionally, transport needs to be done in a completely enclosed vehicle to prevent any damage from the weather, road debris, and dirt.
Steps to Secure Reliable Classic Car Transport Services
Now that you appreciate the diligence put in picking a transport company, let us outline the steps that help obtain reliable classic car transport services.
Step 1: Look For Transport Companies that Specialize in Classic Cars
Not every auto transport companies has the proper technology for classic cars. Transport services offered by many companies include car shipping as a general service, however, proper vintage, high value vehicle shipping is specific. When looking for transport companies pay attention to the following factors:
– Classic Exotic Car Transport Specialization: A company that transports classic cars will certainly have the appropriate equipment and procedures enable safe delivery.
– Closed Transport Methods: Closed or enclosed transport should be used for classic cars because it offers the highest degree of protection from the weather, road debris, and other dangers.
– Transport Insurance: Check whether the transport company has insurance policies, as transport companies dealing with classic cars needs to have greater insurance limits sue to the prevailing policies.
– Customer Reviews: Customers review within the website for the company on transport of their classic cars. Positive client feedback should be centered around issues of timeliness, safety, and handling.
Step 2: Request Quotes and Compare Options
After researching the most reputable companies, make sure to make an estimate call for each of them as the next step is to request quotes. While requesting a quote for classic car transport, be sure to include the following information.
– Vehicle Information: Make, model, year, and condition of your classic car. In addition, mention any unique custom parts or modifications that may require special attention.
– Pickup and Delivery Addresses: As you already know, transport costs increase with distance. Be very specific with pickup and delivery addresses. Please note that remote or difficult-to-access locations may incur extra charges.
– Preferred Transport Method: As noted earlier, classic cars need to be shipped using enclosed transport for maximum protection. Be sure to mention this when requesting a quote.
Exceptional transport companies will outline all of the following:
– Base transport fee
– Insurance costs
– Any additional fees (for expedited shipping, barring special requests, or exclusive handling)
With this information, analyze the various other companies and utilize the quotes to choose the company that meets the desired criteria.
Step 3: Review the Terms and Conditions
Always review the contract terms and conditions before scheduling transport for your classic vehicle. Understanding what is included in the service and possible additional fees is critical for avoiding unexpected costs. Moreover, make sure to pay attention to these details:
– Delivery Windows: Make sure to confirm the estimated delivery date and whether the provided timeframe is satisfactory. Due to the nature of classic cars, clients often have specific deadlines like auctions or car shows.
– Insurance Coverage: Check what is covered in the insurance provided in the quote. Basic coverage is often standard but some companies do offer full coverage for high value vehicles. Additionally, if the insurance needs to reflect the value of the vehicle, make sure to ask about additional policies.
– Pick-up and Delivery Procedures: For added convenience make sure to check whether the company provides door-to-door service as opposed to terminal-to-terminal. While door-to-door is more convenient, expect to pay a little more for a premium service.
Step 4: Prepare Your Classic Car for Transport
After booking your transport, prepare your classic car for the journey ahead. Transport companies take all the proper measures needed to protect your vehicle, however, there are additional measures you can take. These include:
– Cleaning the vehicle: You are able to document any existing damage through a thorough inspection if the vehicle is cleaned before transport.
– Removing personal items: Ensure that the vehicle does not contain any personal items. Transport companies often do not allow personal items to be kept in the vehicle.
– Taking pictures: Pictures allow for disputes to be settled in the case of a vehicle being damaged during transport, and it is best to take clear photos of the vehicle from every angle.
– Ensuring that fluid levels are adjusted: All fluid levels should be filled, however, ensure that the fuel tank remains at around a quarter full to save weight.
Step 5: Monitor and Collect Your Classic Auto
While transporting your vehicle, several companies will allow tracking for their vehicles, so you can monitor your vehicle end-route to the destination. After your classic car reaches the prescribed location, you should cross-check against the takeaway photos for any new damages. If there is new damage, contact the transport company immediately to mitigate and file a claim.
Real-World Example: Successful Transport of a Classic Vehicle
Let’s use as an example Mark. Shipping the classic 1969 Ford Mustang muscle car requires Mark to transport it from Texas to California. Mark decided to use ShippingCars for the classic car transport after performing background check with his peers. He selected enclosed transport for increased protection and ordered for full value insurance for his Mustang.
The transport company provided a detailed quote highlighting the breakdown of cost components such as the basic fee, insurance, and additional charges on fast tracks. Pick-up of the vehicle was executed on schedule and delivery was executed without any complications and the car arrived in excellent condition. The transport also allowed Mark to monitor the vehicle’s journey enroute to the destination. He expected to receive the vehicle before heading to a local car show and they delivered right on the deadline.
Conclusion: Best Transport For Your Classic Car
Like any precious cargo, transporting a classic car involves meticulous preparation, careful selection of a transport company, and in depth research. Following the tips given in this guide ensures that your car is treated and escorted with the utmost respect and guarantee. For the best services in classic car transport, research reputable transport companies, get quotes, and select a company that provides enclosed transport along with comprehensive insurance.
To claim the best classic car transport services, check out ShippingCars today. This platform makes available transport options for your classic car at and ensures that they are safe throughout the journey.