Most people think about moving a car across state lines or even to a different part of the country, and it is common practice to simply search for the lowest price option available. Everyone loves saving a few bucks, right?
The truth is, the cheapest option for a car shipping service is likely going to cost you more in the long run. Whether it's late deliveries, surprise charges, damaged vehicles, poor customer service, or many more, you will encounter hidden trade-offs when trying to save a few bucks.
This is why in this post, we will explore the concept of why the “cheapest” option isn’t always the “best” when it comes to car transport services and offer insights on how to achieve a balance between price and quality.
Low Bids Often Mean Low Service Standards
The Real Cost of "Cheap"
If competitively priced shipping services seem to offer an attractive bargain at first glance, there is a catch. They are most likely cutting corners by:
- Hiring poorly rated drivers
- Spraying low-grade insurance on their contracts
- Failing to maintain their equipment
- Not meeting delivery timelines
In this case, even if you save $100 upfront, you are likely to lose that money and more with the risks of weeks' worth of delays, extra costs, or even damage to your vehicle.
Tip:
While researching and checking for quotes, make sure you provide a full set of trusted names because extreme losses and high ends only lead to unreliable numbers. In this case, focus on the ones that are middle-range priced and are well talked about.
Hidden Fees Are Common with Low-Cost Offers
Keep an Eye on the Fine Print
"Too good to be true" rates often come with hidden fees in the form of:
- Last-minute driver assignments
- Fuel surcharges
- Vehicle pickup or delivery
- Non-operating vehicle fees
You may end up paying more than what a standard quote from a well-known company offers, all while lacking their level of service.
Tip:
Ask questions about what’s covered, track costs for the moving checklist, and inquire about inclusions to avoid overlooked expenses.
Inadequate Help and Communication
The Silent Treatment
Providers that incur low costs tend not to have a customer service department. You might find yourself:
- Unable to receive updates
- Out of contact with dispatch
- Without delivery and pickup estimates
Receiving a vehicle for the first time comes with a lot of uncertainties and stress, even more so with poor communication.
Tip:
Select a provider who will update you at every step of the process. Inquire about pre-booking tracking and live customer service options.
High Cancellation Risk
Why You May Get Dropped
Cheap transporters frequently post your shipment on load boards and wait for a driver to claim it. If no driver is willing to accept the low pay, your order could either stagnate or get outright canceled.
Last-minute cancellations can be annoying, especially when you have to scramble and pay rush fees with other companies.
Tip:
If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. A reputable shipping company would not offer lowball prices. These companies rarely attract reliable carriers to ship your vehicle.
Lack of Proper Insurance Coverage
Risk Without Protection
Most budget companies did not bother to update their insurance plan. This means their minimum coverage will not protect high-value cars. For some companies, their policies don’t inform of coverage limits or deductibles at all.
If damage occurs—and it's not covered—you'll end up paying out of pocket.
Tip:
Reputable companies are always willing to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI). Make sure to add this document to your moving checklist before finalizing your booking.
Pickup and Delivery Service is Inconsistent
Time Is Money
The right company can make or break your schedule. A cheap transporter may quote you an attractive rate—but then:
- Miss the vehicle pick-up window
- Delay delivery
- Leave your car sitting on a lot
These delays can affect your relocation, keep you without a vehicle for days, or disrupt job relocations.
Tip:
Get a guarantee for pickup and delivery windows in writing whenever it’s possible.
Injury and Issues
What Should Be Done If Mistakes Are Made?
Loss or damage to property may not be an issue with some budget carriers. Even worse, in the event of loss or damage:
- They may try to absolve themselves by stating that there were already existing problems
- Negate responsibility because the paperwork was not filled out correctly.
- Avoid responsibility and do not contact you anymore.
Car shipping companies that are reliable will perform a thorough inspection on vehicles and aid in the insurance claim process if there is any damage.
Tip:
Photograph your vehicle before the scheduled pickup. Ensure that every step is documented using a moving checklist so that there are no issues during filing claims and everything goes smoothly.
How to Spot a Car Transport Service That Will Not Aid You In Your Search for the Best Prices
Simply cheap does not always mean cost-effective, and does not always mean that the service being offered is bad. Here is how to spot a cheap car transport service:
1. Licensing & insurance
Whenever possible, check if the company is FMCSA registered and carries proper insurance.
2. Reviews and Ratings
Check Google, Trustpilot, and BBB ratings. Look for trends. Multiple negative reviews around delays or damage are a red flag.
3. Clear Communication
Do they answer your calls? Offer written contracts? Provide updates? These simple things can make the difference.
4. Realistic Pricing
When one quote is significantly lower than the rest, it’s time to question it. Gas, driver wages, tolls, and insurance all contribute to a fair price.
- Real-World Example
- Let’s pretend you’re transporting a Toyota Camry from New York to Texas:
- Cheap Quote: $700
- Mid-range, Reputable Company: $950
That $250 difference might:
- Get a reliable pickup within 48 hours
- Include full insurance
- Provide GPS tracking and a dedicated agent
Meanwhile, the $700 quote could mean no support, no protection if damage occurs, and 5-day delays.
Final Thoughts
At first glance, choosing the cheapest quote for car transport services seems appealing, but it can result in added frustration, additional expenses, and unsatisfactory service.
When it is time to Move My Car, remember: spending a little more money upfront can help save you:
- Time
- Stress
- Unwanted costs
- Even damage to your vehicle
Instead of choosing the lowest bid, use your moving checklist to evaluate car shipping services on:
- Reputation
- Insurance
- Communication
- Service quality
Because in car transport, as in life, you get what you pay for.
Ready to Ship?
Get a quote that is affordable and dependable without compromises by comparing trusted car shipping companies, reviewing your moving checklist, and ensuring your quote is reliable.