When shipping a vehicle, it’s easy to get caught up in the auto transport price quote before considering whether there are additional auto transport fees that raise the cost of shipping unexpectedly. Although most transport companies offer you an immediate estimate, knowing all the extra fees will help you make a more informed decision and avoid surprises when your vehicle arrives.
In this article, we will cover some of the most common hidden auto transport fees to keep an eye on. We will also discuss ways to catch them before you book your vehicle shipment. We explain how to recognize and cope with assessment fees, from fuel surcharges to accessorial fees.
Two disruptions- fuel surcharges and commodity price
Often, the price of your auto shipment includes a fuel surcharge, which is one of the common hidden auto transport fees. They change the transport prices when the fuel prices like petrol or diesel change.
Mechanism of Fuel Surcharges
The current cost of fuel is calculated to determine the fuel surcharge, which is then added to the original price. Depending on the route, distance of shipment, and market conditions, the surcharge may vary.
Although this fee is often made known at the beginning, it may take many by surprise if it suddenly spikes or is added at the last minute.
Staying Ahead of Surprises
Always ask if there are any additional charges related to fuel so there are no surprises. A clear explanation of the surcharge and its calculations should be provided by your auto transport company. At Car Shipping Source, we disclose all fees and fuel surcharges upfront, with no hidden fees.
door to door vs terminal to terminal fee
Another important factor to consider is whether your shipment handled on a door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal basis. These two methods usually involve different expenses.
Shipping to Doorstep
- When opting for door-to-door, the vehicle is picked up and delivered to the specifie address only.
- Costs: It’s a more convenient method, but it could also be quite expensive due to its service. For instance, if you live in the city, the goods transport carrier may have to take a longer route to reach your door.
- Inquire if the door-to-door service is an add-on and weigh if it is worth the extra amount.
Terminal to Terminal Transport
- Terminal-to-terminal shipping means you’ll need to drive your car to a prescribed terminal for pickup and drop it off at another terminal at the destination.
- Price: This technique can be cheaper, and you’ll need to spend money and energy as you go on to the terminal to the airport and back again if the terminal isn’t too far away.
- If you want to save on costs, you should opt for terminal-to-terminal shipping. Nonetheless, remember to include the time and transport expenses to reach the terminal.
- At Car Shipping Source, we provide you with both options and can help you choose the one best suited to your needs and budget.
Charges for the Insurance
When transporting a car, insurance for the shipment is one of the most important factors to consider. Hidden auto transport insurance costs can quickly escalate to serious levels.
What is Cover Under The Insurance Fee?
Most car shipping companies embed a basic level of insurance in the quoted cost of transport. Nonetheless, this basic coverage may not be enough for high-value vehicles. The value of your vehicle, the type of transport service, and the shipping company’s policy will often determine the cost of full insurance coverage.
How to Ensure Sufficient Coverage
When getting a quote, ask about what insurance coverage is included. If your vehicle is valued above the standard coverage limit, ask about improving the insurance policy to cover damage to your car. Check if the coverage is comprehensive or if there will be any exclusions.
You can choose the insurance options best suited to your vehicle and rest easy knowing that you fully covered with Car Shipping Source.
Fees due to season and weather
The need for seasonal and climate-based charges can often surprise many. The delays and costs of specific delayed deliveries that affect product shipping can be high due to severe weather.
Reason behind charging seasonal fees
Winter months can elevate risks of accidents, delays, and road closure, especially when driving in snow or ice. Further, during peak season like summer or holidays, more people require transport services, leading to an increase in prices.
Reduce Your Expenses
When possible, plan your vehicle transport during off-season months to avoid extra costs. If you are planning to ship during winter months or peak seasons, be sure to ask if there are any fees you may incur due to the weather. Knowing this will help you prepare as necessary.
We have an extensive network of carriers and a range of route options to counter disruptions from inclement weather. Here at Car Shipping Source, your vehicle’s timely and safe arrival is our priority.
Fees for Special Handling and Additional Services
If your vehicle needs special treatment, extra charges may apply. For instance, insulated carriers, more space, and more workers needed for loading and unloading when ship an oversize, packaged, or non-functional automobile.
Special Handling Fees
- Vehicles that do not start: A vehicle that does not start may require additional equipment and labour to load and unload.
- Luxury or oversized vehicles: Large vehicles or those with special features may require custom transport.
- When you relocate your vehicle, check what customs clearance, paperwork and inspection fees will come into play when shipping internationally.
How to Handle Special Handling Fees
Whenever you obtain a quote, inform us of any special requirement for your car. A more accurate estimate will be provided to the shipping company. And the estimate will not have any unexpected fees later on. In case you are shipping your vehicle that is high-value or oversized then asked for requirements and charges first.
At Car Shipping Source, we customize your transport options for your specialty vehicle and we will accommodate any special handling needs.
To sum up, steer clear of hidden auto transport fees
It’s essential to understand the secret auto transport fees that may come in the vehicle shipping process to keep your costs in check. To have a smooth, transparent and affordable shipping experience, it pays to ask the right questions, fully review your quote and prepare for possible additional costs.
Car Shipping Source is proud to offer transparent pricing without hidden fees or surprise charges. You can, therefore relaxe that you are getting the best bang for your vehicle transport buck as we walk you through the whole process from the first quote to the final delivery.
Reach out to us now for a complimentary quote, free from any obligations. Let’s get your vehicle shipping started right away!
