How to Save on Auto Hauling Rates, Factors that affect rates

With millions of cars sold online, 75% of which are interstate transactions, auto hauling is big business. This high volume has brought shipping rates down a bit. Still, there are some factors that can affect how much you pay to have a car shipped. Rates are primarily based on distance, but they are also affected by the cost of fuel, the weight of the load and the choice of open or closed containers. Seasonality and the route of the truck also play a role.

It is not difficult to understand why these would be factors in the cost of auto hauling rates. The farther the truck goes, the more gas it needs and the more hours to pay the driver. When the cost of fuel goes up, so do shipping rates. If the car you ship is exceptionally heavy, like a classic Chevy, that will cost you more as well. One of the strongest factors affecting rates is whether you choose an open or closed container. That bumps the rate up by about 60%.

Season is a factor too. Less shipping goes on in the winter months, so you may get a better rate as auto transporters try to drum up some more business. You can even save by setting up the route for pickup and drop off at major cities. This brings down the cost and may get you a slot on an auto hauler quicker. You can also plan to have a vehicle shipped opposite the snowbird season. Drivers can bring your car up north after dropping off a retiree's car in Florida. This will get you a quick slot and sometimes a better rate.