Is It Cheaper To Ship Two Cars At Once? A Detailed Analysis
When relocating across states, shipping cars can become a significant expense in addition to other moving costs. Many people wonder if shipping two vehicles together instead of separately can reduce overall expenses. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors influencing auto transport costs and whether bundling two cars into a single shipment actually provides savings.
Comparing Individual vs. Joint Shipping Quotes
To determine whether shipping two cars together is cheaper, start by comparing quotes from auto transport companies for shipping one vehicle versus two together. Most reputable transporters offer free online quotes based on factors such as the origin, destination, vehicle details, and preferred shipping dates.
By comparing individual and joint quotes from the same carrier, you can see if any discounts apply for bundling vehicles. Sometimes, shipping two cars together can be 5-10% cheaper than the cost of shipping them separately. However, these savings aren’t always guaranteed and depend on various factors, including route specifics, vehicle sizes, market demand, and the carrier’s operational logistics.
Factors That Influence Car Shipping Costs
Several variables impact whether joint shipping offers savings, making it essential to understand how these elements affect overall pricing:
1. Vehicle Capacity and Dimensions
Car carriers, especially enclosed ones, have a limited number of vehicle slots. Transporting two full-sized SUVs together may leave less space available compared to shipping two compact cars. Carriers take unused space into account when pricing, and joint shipments of smaller vehicles are more likely to qualify for discounts compared to larger vehicles that occupy more space.
2. Route Length and Terrain
The distance and terrain of the transport route significantly influence costs. Longer distances result in higher fuel costs, which are passed on to customers. Additionally, mountainous or challenging routes that require extra safety measures can drive up costs. On complex routes, the savings from bundling two cars may diminish, as carriers might have to factor in additional operational costs.
3. Drop-Off Locations
If the drop-off locations for both vehicles are close or adjacent, it minimizes the effort needed for loading and unloading. In such cases, shipping two cars together can lead to potential savings. However, if the vehicles are headed to destinations far apart, carriers might need to dedicate extra resources for multiple stops, reducing any discounts available for shipping them together.
4. Timing of the Booking
Booking in advance, especially during off-peak seasons, can increase the chances of securing a discount for shipping two vehicles. During peak periods or for last-minute bookings, transport rates are typically higher regardless of whether one or two vehicles are being shipped. Joint shipping discounts are more likely when booked ahead, giving transport companies flexibility in organizing and bundling loads.
5. Demand and Fleet Utilization
When demand for auto transport services is high, carriers aim to maximize their profits by ensuring full utilization of their fleets. In such cases, joint discounts may not be offered as carriers are already operating at full capacity. Conversely, in off-peak periods when demand is lower, there’s a higher chance that carriers might provide discounts for bundling two vehicles together to optimize their loads.
Why Joint Shipping Savings Vary
Understanding these variables explains why the cost savings from shipping two vehicles together aren’t always straightforward. The calculation is not simply double the single-car rate minus a set percentage. Instead, the potential for savings depends on the specific circumstances of the shipment, including vehicle types, route complexity, timing, and market demand.