Classic Car Transport
If you have an antique car or a classic vehicle that you need to have transported, consider hiring a classic car transport service to move it for you. Classic auto shipping services are, by definition, specialists at moving antiques and rare cars from one point to another. Unlike generic auto shippers, a classic car transport company is usually experienced at handling expensive cars and knows what kind of precautions need to be taken to ensure the vehicles are transported in a secure fashion.
What are Classic Cars
Until relatively recently, all cars that were built between 1925 and 1945 and were maintained to the manufacturer’s original standards were considered to be classic cars. These days, classic cars are formally defined as any American or foreign-made car that is 45 years old or older. That means cars from the 1960s are considered to be classics these days. In some cases, cars are also deemed to be ‘classic’ based on factors such as engine displacement, the availability of luxury accessories, and how rare it is to find a comparable model. Some examples of classic American cars include Ford Mustang models from the 1960s, the Chevy Bel-Air, the Ford T-Bird and the Dodge Charger.
Shipping a Classic
If you are the owner of such a vehicle, or have just purchased one, your primary interest likely will be to ensure that it remains in its original pristine condition for as long as possible. So, if you need to transport the car for any reason, such as attending a vintage car rally or because you are relocating, the last thing you probably want is to add more miles or wear and tear to the vehicle.
In such situations, a classic car transport company can help you safely move your vehicle to where you want it to go. Typically, a classic car transport service will use an enclosed carrier to transport your vehicle. If preferred, you could have your car shipped in a container as well, though that will cost you more than the other options.
Often, the car transport company will come to your doorstep to pick up the car and drop it off there as well. Once it is loaded onto the trailer, your car will be carefully strapped in place and blocks placed under the wheels to minimize movement during transit. Some classic car transport services may be wiling to cover your car with shrink wrap, padding or other protective material for an additional cost.
Tips for Shipping a Classic Car
When using a classic car transport company, keep the following tips in mind:
- Carefully inspect your vehicle before it is handed over to the shipping company. Check for dings, dents, scratches or other damage. Make a video or photographic record of the condition of your vehicle and have the transporter sign off on it as well. This will minimize the potential for dispute if any damage occurs during transit.
- Make sure that the shipping company has the insurance coverage needed to transport your car. Classic cars are expensive to maintain and to repair. If any damage occurs to your vehicle during transport, your transport company needs to have the insurance needed to pay for the damage.
- Find out from your insurance company if you can secure additional coverage for the vehicle while it is being transported. Sometimes, the insurance coverage provided by even the best transporters may not be adequate.
- Before transporting your vehicle, make sure to remove all the accessories that you can. Side mirrors, horns and other accessories from classic vehicles can easily be damaged while the car is transported. The best way to mitigate the risk is to remove them from the vehicle. Also, make sure that you don’t stow any luggage or cargo in the vehicle while it is being shipped, as that can damage your vehicle as well.
Your classic car is an expensive asset, so always make sure that the company you hand it over to is a reliable one. While moving companies and generic shippers may claim to be moving a car for less, it is better to go with a classic car transport company if you really want your vintage car handled with the care it deserves.
