How to Get the Best Rate on Car Shipping for Your Dealership

When it comes to shipping cars, dealerships need to be smart about how they go about getting the best rate. Different factors come into play when trying to negotiate a car shipping rate, but if you know what to look for, you can save yourself a lot of money. Here are a few tips on how to get the best rate on car shipping for your dealership.

1. Get a Few Quotes From Different Shipping Companies

This will give you a good idea of the going rates and allow you to negotiate from a position of strength and knowledge. Make sure to get all of the details in writing to avoid surprises down the road.

Check on the terms and conditions of each quote. Some companies may try to charge hidden fees or add on extra costs for things like fuel surcharges. Be sure to read all of the fine print to know exactly what you’re paying for.

Finally, don’t be afraid to haggle. Try negotiating with the shipping company if you think the quote is too high. They may be willing to lower the price if they know that you’re serious about getting the best deal possible. Especially if you mention plans of working with them exclusively, many companies will jump at the chance to impress you and offer additional incentives to make sure they are your go-to solution.

2. Make Sure Your Vehicles Are Ready to be Shipped

The last thing you want is for your car to be damaged during shipping. Before you even contact a shipping company, make sure that your car is in good condition and that no loose parts or fluids could leak out and cause damage.

If possible, try to ship your car during the off-peak season. This can help you save money since most companies charge higher rates during the busy summer months.

Ensure to inform the shipping company of any special instructions they need to follow when handling your car. For example, if your car has low ground clearance, let them know so they can take the necessary precautions.

3. Choose the Right Shipping Method

There are two main ways to ship a car: by rail or truck. Rail is typically the cheaper option, but it can take longer since your car will need to be loaded onto a train. Trucking is more expensive, but it’s usually faster since your car will be delivered directly to your dealership.

You’ll also need to decide whether you want an open or enclosed carrier. Open carriers are less expensive, but your car will be exposed to the elements during shipping. Enclosed carriers offer more protection for your car, but they cost more money.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you should be able to choose the best shipping method for your needs.

Tips on choosing the right auto shipping method

  • If you’re on a budget, rail transport is typically the cheaper option.
  • If you need your car shipped quickly, trucking is usually the faster option.
  • If you’re concerned about your car being damaged during shipping, an enclosed carrier offers more protection.
  • If you have a low ground clearance vehicle, be sure to let the shipping company know so they can take the necessary precautions.

4. Compare the Different Insurance Options

All shipping companies will offer insurance, but the coverage and cost can vary widely. Be sure to compare the different policies to choose the one that offers the best protection for your car.

It’s also good to check with your auto insurance policy to see if they provide any coverage for car shipping. Some policies will cover damages that occur during shipping, so it’s worth checking into this before purchasing any additional insurance from the shipping company.

5. Ship Alongside Other Dealerships

If you can find other dealerships in your area that are also shipping cars, see if you can group to get a better rate. Most shipping companies offer discounts for large orders, which is a great way to save some money.

Additionally, with a good relationship with other dealerships, they may be willing to give you a referral fee if you use their shipping company. This is another way to save money on your car shipping costs.

These form a few tips to help you get the best rate on car shipping for your dealership. By shopping around, being prepared, and knowing your options, you can ensure that you get the best deal possible. So start planning your car shipment today and save yourself some money.

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