How to Calculate Car Shipping Costs for Your Dealership
Shipping a car can seem like a daunting task, but the truth is that it doesn’t have to be. The cost of car shipping is one of the most expensive parts of owning a dealership. It costs you money to buy cars, but it also costs you money to deliver them to your business. Here is how to calculate car shipping costs for your dealership.
Car Shipping Costs in Your Dealership
Car shipping costs in your dealership can be difficult to calculate. There are so many factors that go into your final price, and it changes all the time with fluctuations in gas prices and fluctuating trucking rates. The best place to start is by getting a quote for freight. Fill out the simple form and get an instant estimate of how much freight will cost you. You’ll need this number when you are ready to buy cars from dealerships or car auctions online. Once you have that number, there are several different ways you can calculate it based on how often you ship vehicles.
If you only ship vehicles once or twice a month, your best option is to use the per car price. This means you will be charged based on the size of the car. Trucks are typically more expensive to ship than cars are, so make sure all your quotes are for cars unless you have trucks only. Once you have that quote, check with local truck rental companies in your area. Most truck rentals include free delivery and pick up, which can save you on some car transport cost.
1. Figure Out the Weight of the Vehicle
The first step in calculating car shipping costs is figuring out the vehicle’s weight. You can do this by using a scale or simply estimating the weight. Once you have this number, you will need to multiply it by the cost per pound for shipping. This number can vary depending on the carrier you use, but it is typically around $0.50 per pound.
2. Factor in Any Extra Fees
Next, you will need to factor in any extra fees that may apply. These could include fees for delivery, insurance, and fuel surcharges. To get an accurate estimate, you must contact the carrier and ask for a quote. Be sure to ask about any other fees that may apply, such as taxes or customs fees.
3. Compare Prices and Choose the Best Option
Now that you know how much it will cost to ship a car, it is time to compare prices and choose the best option. There are several different carriers out there, so be sure to compare rates before deciding. Remember that not all carriers are created equal, so be sure to do your research before choosing one.
4. Take Professional Photographs of the Vehicle
Before you load up your vehicle and send it out to a buyer, take professional photographs of it. This is necessary so that the carrier has proof of what they are receiving. If there is an issue with the car when it arrives, everyone will know it was agreed upon beforehand.
5. Prepare the Vehicle for Shipping
Once you have chosen a carrier, it is time to prepare the vehicle for shipping. This includes removing all personal belongings from the car and ensuring that it is in good condition. The carrier may also require that you disable the alarm system and remove the license plates. Be sure to read through the carrier’s requirements before shipping your car.
6. Ship the Car
Now that everything is ready, it is time to ship the car. You can do this by contacting the carrier and arranging a pickup date. Be sure to have all of the necessary paperwork ready, including the bill of sale and proof of insurance. The driver will need to inspect the car before loading it onto the truck, so have everything ready beforehand.
Conclusion
Shipping a car can be a pricey endeavor, but getting the car to its destination is necessary. You can ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible by following these steps. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the carrier you use and the distance the car needs to travel. Be sure to shop around for the best deal before making a decision.
