When it comes to car shipping, there are a few methods to choose from. It would be best if you considered various things like the cost of shipping, the time it will take to ship your car, and the safety of your car during shipping. There are different methods of shipping a car, each with its unique set of pros and cons.
Containers
Shipping by the container is the most expensive shipping method, but it is also the among the safest. Your car will be shipped in its container and will not be loaded or unloaded with other cars. This ensures your car is at a low risk during shipping. Shipping by container also allows you to ship other items with your cars, such as personal belongings or car parts.
The downside to this shipping method is that it can take weeks for your car to get to its destination. Shipping by the container can take as long as two weeks, but you can be sure that it will arrive in the same state it was shipped.
Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO)
Shipping by roll-on/roll-off is the least expensive and safe auto transport option. Your car will be driven onto a ship’s deck and secured for the journey. During the voyage, your car could be damaged by waves or bad weather. There is also a risk of damage from other cars shifting during the voyage.
The upside to this shipping method is that it is the quickest way to ship your car. It can take as little as five days for your car to reach its destination by roll-on/roll-off. However, it would be best if you prepared your car to arrive in less-than-perfect condition.
Rail
Shipping by rail is a safe and affordable shipping method. The car will be weighted onto a flatbed railcar and secured for transport. The journey by rail is shorter than by container but longer than by roll-on/roll-off.
The upside to this shipping method is that your car will arrive in good condition. The disadvantage is that it can take as long as two weeks for your car to reach its destination.
Air
Shipping by air is the fastest way to ship your car but it is also the most expensive. The airplane will transport your car to its destination in a matter of days. This is the safest way to ship your car, but there is a risk of damage from turbulence or bad weather.
Flatbed
Shipping by flatbed is a middle-of-the-road option in regard to cost and safety. The car will be weighted onto a flatbed truck and secured for transport. This shipping method is less exposed to the elements than roll-on/roll-off, but your car will still be subject to bumps and jostles during the journey.
The upside to this shipping method is that it is faster than shipping by the container. It can take a week for your car to arrive by flatbed.
Sea
Shipping by sea is a slow but affordable option. The car will be weighted onto a cargo ship and travel by sea to its destination. This shipping method is the least safe, as your car will be subject to the elements and could be damaged by waves or bad weather. There is also a risk of damage from other cars shifting during the voyage.
The upside to this shipping method is that it is very affordable. The disadvantage is that it can take up to eight weeks for your car to reach its destination.
There are different shipping methods available for shipping a car. Each method has its own unique set of pros and cons. It is important to choose the right shipping method based on your budget, timeframe and desired level of safety.