If you are relocating here to Carlsbad from another area you may decide to ship your car rather then driving, especially if the distance is significant.
Or perhaps you will want to ship the second car.
Whatever the reason, here are some things to consider:
- Work with a reputable car shipping company. Understand that a company may outsource to different carriers, as moving companies do, but make sure you know they have the experience and reputation. Check references.
- Some moving companies will also ship your car along with your household goods. Check to see if yours does, it may be less expensive than a separate shipping company. Find out how they are going to ship - in the same truck as your personal stuff or on a separate trailer being towed (car is not protected)
- Obtain several estimates and be sure to compare the same data - costs for insurance or will your auto insurance cover damage, overall costs, is cost by weight or some other factor, time frames (how much of a window will they give you for pick-up and shipping time?), availability, where do they pick up and deliver, and how much lead time do they provide for pick-up and delivery. I have seen estimates vary by hundreds of dollars
- Plan ahead, especially if using a commercial shipper rather than your moving company. These companies pick up and deliver multiple cars and have to coordinate, sometimes over a wide area, and may need substantial notice.
Once you have made the decision I suggest the following:
- Clean out the car completely (unless the shipper allows you to store some stuff in the car - this may be risky, IMO)
- Make a duplicate copy of the registration and insurance card for yourself, the other should remain in the car (but check with the shipper).
- Double-check with your auto insurance provider to make sure of coverage
- Take photos of the car inside and out. The shipper will provide a written damage summary before and after but having your own photos will help
- Make sure you keep a extra set of car keys (you do have them, don't you?!)
- Be prepared for timing glitches - they may pick-up earlier or later than planned; tough driving weather can slow a delivery. Have contingency plans, especially if this is your only car.
Good luck in your planning. If you do your due diligence your car will arrive safely at your new home, just as your house hold goods will.
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ALL ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA RELOCATION DUDE
If I can provide more information about Carlsbad homes and real estate for sale and surrounding areas, the housing market in general (or locally), or otherwise assist you, friends or family in a home search or sale, please contact my mobile office or text me at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JeffDowlerSolutions@gmail.com
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