Suppose you plan to transport your car anytime soon, and you are looking for a cheap, fast, convenient way to do it, then you should consider rail car shipping.
Rail car shipping is suitable for all types of cars, regular and extra-sized cars. There are two types of rail carriers used to ship cars across the country; enclosed rail car carriers and open auto rail carriers.
Car Shipping Via Open Auto Rail Carriers And Enclosed Rail Carriers
Like open and enclosed trucks for car shipping, rail car shipping also offers enclosed and open rail carriers. Open rail carriers are often cheaper than enclosed ones because they don’t offer extra protection from fly debris while on transit. As such, you must be prepared to give your car a good wash when it arrives.
On the other hand, enclosed rail carriers offer protection from bad weather and dirt. It’s a suitable means of moving luxurious cars. With enclosed carriers, you don’t have to worry about your car’s paint job or the structural damage of your car. Though enclosed rail carriers can be a little more expensive, the protection it offers is worth it.
How To Prepare Your Car For Rail Shipping.
Although most standard car shipping companies will give you a guide to follow to help get your car ready for the long trip. However, the following are some of the things to do before your car embarks on the journey.
Clear All Valuables Out Of The Car
Though you could be permitted to put some personal belongings in the car when shipping, nevertheless, you shouldn’t leave anything that’s of great value to you in the car to avoid the risk of losing it. Ensure that you don’t ship your car with valuable documents, medical supplies, glasses, aerosol cans, and other personal belongings.
Examine Your Car And Perform Necessary Maintenance
Ensure that your car is in good condition before shipping. Check the tires and gauge them, make sure your car battery is in good condition, and note your car’s mileage at drop off and when it’s delivered to you. In addition, perform necessary checks on your engine oil, coolants, brake oil, and others. It’ll allow easy pick-up or delivery when the car arrives at its destination.
Take Note of Previous Damages On Your Car
You can take pictures of the damaged parts of your car and compare them with the damages when you pick up your vehicle. With this information, you’ll know the extent of damages done while on transit. If the damages are severe, you can prove them with pictures and could make claims for funds to cover your repairs.
Prepare Your Car Documents
Before shipping your car, make sure that you have all the necessary car documents to prove that the car is yours. Most shipping companies will request vehicle registration information, original vehicle title, car insurance, and drivers’ license. Prepare these documents to avoid shipment delays.
Benefits Of Shipping Via Train
Besides the economic benefits of using a train to transport your car, rail car shipping also offers several other benefits.
Proper protection for your car
Most rail car shipping companies use enclosed rail carriers that adequately protect your car from damages caused by bad weather or flying particles. With enclosed rail carriers, you can be sure that your car’s painting will be undamaged.
Prevents Wear and Tear
The engine, tires, and some other movable parts of your car will indeed feel the impact after a long journey. This impact can cause the car to break down or develop faults quickly. With rail car shipping, your car is protected from wear and tear and retains your care value.
Eco-friendly Means of Transportation
Most rail carriers are energy efficient, and they don’t combust as much carbon dioxide as other means of transportation. Therefore by moving your car via rail transport shipping, you’re also doing your part to save the environment.
How does Transporting Via Train work?
Shipping cars via rails is simple; you’ll make a reservation with a rail shipping company, fill in relevant forms, drop your car with your shipping company. You can then go ahead to track the movement of your car online and pick it up at the destination when it arrives.
You should note that if your car is extra large and can occupy a lot of space, you’ll have to pay an extra charge for adequate space. For more detail about shipping your car.