Vehicle auctions are a thrilling avenue to sell or buy vehicles, however, after the bidding is done, the question of the car getting to its new place of stay usually becomes the biggest concern. It really doesn’t matter if you are a bidder, seller, or dealer, the knowledge of the car shipping logistics for vehicle auctions is vital in order to achieve the delivery that is smooth, safe, and on time. This article is all about the top ways to get a car at an auction shipped, how to pick the right way of shipping, and how to go through the process with the least amount of cost and risk.
Why Car Shipping is Necessary for Vehicle Auctions
On-site and online auctions are a great platform to buy and sell cars. However, in many cases, the auction vehicles are located distant from the buyer or seller. This is the point where car shipping becomes the answer. Transporting auction cars involves the process of ensuring that the vehicles get to their destination unharmed, on time, and in the same state as at the auction.
That is the reason why car shipping is a must for vehicle auctions:
Car deliveries over great distances: Usually auction events are attended by buyers coming from different states or even countries, hence the car has to be shipped to the new owner, which can make the journey quite long.
Ease: Using car shipping one can effortlessly transport his/her car without the necessity of driving it all the way across the country, which saves both time and energy.
Industry-Specific Services: The vehicles at auctions may be rare, historical (antique, luxury, or limited-edition cars) and therefore might require the help of professionals so that these particular cars are not harmed during the delivery process.
Types of Car Shipping for Vehicle Auctions
Several car shipping methods are accessible for vehicles bought through auctions. These methods vary in terms of the degree of protection and price. Below are the main shipping options for auction vehicles:
1. Open Auto Transport
Open auto transport is the simplest and cheapest way to ship a car, even one that has been sold at an auction. In this method, vehicles are loaded on an open carrier, typically next to several other cars.
Why Select Open Transport for Auction Cars?
- Low-Cost: Open auto transport is usually the cheapest option for vehicle shipping, particularly when it is a multi-car shipment.
- Most Accessible: The choice is available in most areas, thus it is easy to take a turn at different auctions.
- Great for Normal Cars: If the vehicle bought at the auction is a regular model (not luxury or classic), open transport is generally the right choice.
Nevertheless, although open transport is economical, cars are kept in open carriers, hence it is not a good idea for luxury, antique, or high-value cars that need extra safety.
2. Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed auto transport is a more secure option that provides the carrier to ship the vehicle in a fully enclosed trailer. This is extremely helpful in shipping a luxurious car or a newly acquired vehicle from a car auction.
Why Use Enclosed Transport for Auction Cars?
- Increased Protection: The car is kept safe from the elements, road dust, and scrapes and scratches caused by other cars in the vehicle compartment during the delivery.
- The Most Suitable Way for High-Value or Old Cars: If it is a luxury car, sports car, or classic car that you are going to buy at an auction, enclosed transport is the only way that leads the vehicle to a flawless arrival.
Additionally, Open carriers have a lower security level compared to the enclosed ones and the chances of theft or hijacking are increased. From this point of view, enclosed carriers are a better option for rare or valuable vehicles.
Though enclosed transport is more expensive because of the extra protection, it is the right decision for non-standard or classic car owners.
3. Expedited Shipping
Sometimes, you may have to ship a vehicle in a hurry, for instance, if a deadline is too tight. Thus, an expedited shipping of your auction vehicle will make sure that your car will be sent as soon as possible, and the waiting time for the delivery will be minimized.
Why Should You Use Expedited Shipping for Auction Cars?
- Fast Delivery: In case of a very urgent need for your car, you are encouraged to use expedited shipping.
- Priority Handling: When there is an expedited shipment, your vehicle becomes special, therefore, it will be taken and delivered faster.
- Perfect for Last-minute Purchases: What if you got a car at an auction and had to take it immediately for a resale, personal use, or a special event? Certainly, in such a case, the best way out would be an expedited shipping.
This is the most costly alternative, but it is the best option for those who want their car at the earliest possible time.
Tips for Shipping Cars from Vehicle Auctions
If you decide to ship a car won at an auction, there are numerous tips and rules of good conduct you can implement to achieve a trouble-free transportation. Here are some helpful recommendations:
1. Verify Auction Terms and Shipping Policies
It is recommended to make sure that the auction house has a clear shipping policy before the vehicle is bought at an auction. There might be some auction houses which are able to provide shipping assistance, however, others may require you to arrange your own shipping. Knowing these will save you time and make your logistics planning easier.
2. Inspect the Vehicle Before Shipping
If the car is to be shipped, make sure you have done a thorough inspection to check for any damages inside or outside the car. Do the minor repairs that are needed in the car and take pictures of the car’s condition from all angles. Taken together these will be very useful if a situation of a shipping damage occurs, as a proof for the insurance claims.
3. Choose a Shipping Company That You Can Trust
If you are a car owner, the best way to guarantee the safety of your vehicle is by choosing a shipping company with a good reputation. Transport whose job is to ship cars from auctions would be your favorite if they have a record with reliability and customer service. Before you make your decision, look at the reviews, ask for recommendations, and check their licenses and insurance.
4. Don’t Forget to Take Into Account the Insurance Coverage
The majority of a car shipping company which provides its clientele with a basic insurance cover, but it is still a good idea for you to purchase a separate insurance for a valuable or delicate car. That piece of mind is what the extra insurance will give you.
5. Track the Shipment
Most auto transport firms provide the facility of tracking the consignment, through which you can be aware of the vehicle’s trip. Such a possibility is very advantageous if the car is shipped to an auction since you have access to the estimated time of arrival as well as any unforeseen postponements.
The Cost of Shipping Auction Cars
The cost of shipping a car from an auction is influenced by a variety of factors, such as the way the car is shipped, how far, the car’s size, and the time of the year. The use of open auto transport is the cheapest, while enclosed transport and expedited shipping are more expensive.
Requesting a quote is the best way to get a real picture of the cost. Give information about the car, its size, and the address of the person who will bring it and the one who will receive it. If your auction car is over the standard size, will need special handling or expedited delivery, be ready to pay more.
Cars bought at auctions and then shipped to another place must be well thought out and taken into consideration. However, using the right shipping method, it can be a simple, trouble-free, and even a success. In short, it all boils down to knowing what your choices are and picking the right one that matches your requirements.
We at 1st Car Shipping are the experts in vehicle auctions car shipping and are the best people to call if you want your new car to be taken off the lot in a safe and efficient manner. Please do not hesitate to send us a message for a price and to find out more about our services for auction vehicles!
