Shipping a car doesn’t have to be complicated, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. If you own an economy car, you’re in luck: these vehicles are some of the easiest and most affordable to transport. A few smart choices before and during the process can keep your shipment simple, protect your car, and help you avoid surprises along the way.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to shipping your economy car the right way.
What Is an Economy Car?
An economy car is a compact or mid-size vehicle designed for affordability, fuel efficiency, and everyday practicality. Think sedans like the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, hatchbacks, and small crossovers. They’re built to be reliable and cost-effective to own, which is exactly why so many people drive them.
Economy cars are popular for a few reasons. They’re inexpensive to buy and maintain, they’re easy to park and drive in busy cities, and they tend to hold their value well. That popularity also means they are commonly shipped across the country.
Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping Economy Cars
1: Choose the Right Transport Method
For most economy cars, open carrier transport is the best choice. This is the standard multi-car hauler you’ve likely seen on the highway. It’s the most common and most affordable way to ship a car, and it’s perfectly safe for everyday vehicles.
Enclosed carriers offer extra protection from weather and road debris, making them the popular choice for luxury, exotic, or classic vehicles. Unless your economy car is a pristine classic, enclosed transport usually isn’t necessary.
2: Find a Reputable Broker
It’s tempting to pick the cheapest quote you find, but that can backfire. Ultra-low rates often lead to long delays, because no carrier will actually pick up a load priced that low. Some companies also raise prices after you’ve booked, once you’re committed.
Look for a broker with transparent pricing, clear communication about timelines, and a track record you can verify. A fair quote that reflects real market rates is more valuable than just a low price.
3: Prepare Your Car for Transit
A little preparation goes a long way. Before the carrier arrives, take these steps:
- Clean your car. Remove all personal belongings from the car. Personal items in the car aren’t insured, and extra weight can affect your price. Remove toll tags, garage door openers, and loose accessories as well.
- Check your fuel levels. Keep your fuel at about a quarter tank. A full tank adds weight, and an empty tank can leave your car stranded if it needs to be started or moved.
- Document the condition. Take clear photos and video of your vehicle from every angle, including the interior, odometer, and any existing scratches or dings.
- Disable alarms. Before handing over the keys to the drive, turn off any alarm system or provide clear instructions for disabling it.
4: Inspection and Delivery
When your car arrives, don’t rush the handoff. This is your chance to confirm it arrived in the same condition it left.
- Do a full inspection. Carefully inspect the vehicle with the driver before you accept it. Check the body, windshield, wheels, and interior.
- Review the Bill of Lading (BOL). Compare your car’s current condition to the photos you took before shipping. If you spot new damage, note it on the BOL before signing.
Taking these simple steps before pickup and at delivery protects your vehicles, and makes any necessary claim far more straightforward.
Popular Economy Car Brands We Ship
Auto Shipping Group ships a wide range of economy and everyday vehicles from nearly every major brand. Here are some of the most popular economy cars we transport:
Auto Shipping Group’s Focus on Affordability
At Auto Shipping Group, we believe the everyday car deserves the same level of care as any other vehicle. We focus on reasonable prices, responsive customer service, and clear communication, so you know what to expect from the first quote through final delivery.
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, we deliver affordable shipping without compromising on quality. Learn more about how car shipping works or get started with a free estimate.