With over 43 million classic vehicles in the US, the demand for specialty shipping services has never been higher. Whether your prized classic car, truck, motorcycle, or other collectible needs shipping cross country, hauled to an auto show, or safely transported to your new residence, dealing with its journey across country can raise many questions. This writeup aims to answer 7 most common of them:
How Old Does a Car Have to Be to Be Considered a Classic?
Most groups agree that a classic car is between 20 and 40 years old. Some transport vehicle services use this age range when handling these autos.
- 20-30 years: Often considered “modern classics”
- 30-40 years: Generally accepted as true classics
- 40+ years: May be classified as antique or vintage
State laws can affect how old a car must be for classic status.
| Organization | Classic Car Age Requirement |
| Classic Car Club of America | Built between 1915 and 1948 |
| Antique Automobile Club of America | 25 years or older |
| Many State DMVs | 20-25 years old |
| Insurance Companies | Typically 10-25 years old |
Can you Drive a Classic Car Long Distance vs Shipping Them?
Deciding between driving your classic car cross country or using a car auto transport vehicle for shipping depends on the vehicle’s condition, time, and overall costs.
Older cars may struggle with extended trips, risking breakdowns and wear.
If you ship a car, you get peace of mind. Professional transport services protect your vehicle from road hazards and weather, saving time and preventing unnecessary mileage on your vintage automobile.
| Aspect | Driving | Shipping |
| Time | Days to weeks | 3-14 days |
| Cost | Fuel, lodging, meals | $600 – $2,000+ |
| Vehicle Wear | High | Minimal |
| Experience | Personal adventure | Hands-off |
How Much Do Classic Vehicle Transport Services Cost?
A shipping estimate from an auto transport company typically ranges from $0.55 to $1.40 per mile for enclosed transport.
| Distance (miles) | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
| 0-500 | $500 – $700 | $800 – $1,000 |
| 500-1000 | $700 – $900 | $1,000 – $1,300 |
| 1000-2000 | $900 – $1,200 | $1,300 – $1,700 |
| 2000+ | $1,200 – $1,500 | $1,700 – $2,200 |
Factors Affecting Classic Vehicle Transportation Services Costs
- Distance: Longer trips generally cost less per mile but more overall
- Vehicle size and weight: Larger, heavier cars cost more to ship
- Transport type: Enclosed transport offers better protection at a higher price
- Season: Summer months often see higher rates
- Pickup and delivery locations: Rural areas may incur additional fees
How Does an Auto Transport Company Secure a Classic Car?
They use enclosed carriers. These specialized trailers shield vehicles from road debris, weather, and prying eyes. Further security methods used include:
| Securing Method | Benefits | Best For |
| Wheel straps | Prevents rolling, secures grip | Most classic cars |
| Soft tie-downs | Protects paint, gentle on the body | Restored classics |
| Hydraulic lifts | Safe loading, no ramp needed | Low-riding vehicles |
| Air-ride suspension | Smooth ride, reduces shock | Fragile vintage cars |
Should You Hire Cheap Vehicle Transport Services for Classic Automobiles?
Cheap transportation services often cut corners to reduce costs, such as using outdated equipment or inexperienced drivers, increasing the risk of damage to your vehicle. The best vehicle transport services will have the following:
- Experience with classic vehicles
- Over $100k cargo insurance
- Enclosed transport options
- Real-time tracking capabilities
- Thousands of customer reviews
- A+ BBB Rating
When choosing a transportation service, this extra attention can prevent costly damage to your valuable automobile.
| Service Type | Average Cost | Safety Level | Recommended for Classics |
| Budget Open Transport | $500 – $700 | Low | No |
| Standard Enclosed Transport | $1,000 – $1,500 | Medium | Sometimes |
| Premium Enclosed Transport | $1,500 – $2,500 | High | Yes |
How Do I Find Reliable Classic Vehicle Transportation Service Near Me?
Start by asking for recommendations from local classic car clubs or enthusiasts. They often have firsthand experience with transportation services for vintage vehicles.
Research online reviews and ratings for car shipping companies in your area. Look for those with specific experience handling classic cars. Consider these factors when choosing a classic car transport service:
- Experience with vintage vehicles
- Enclosed transport options
- Door-to-door service availability
- FMCSA license & insurance proof
- Tracking and communication systems
Contact multiple shipping companies for quotes and compare their services.
How Safe Are Cross Country Vehicle Transport Services to Auction Sites?
Well-reputed companies with proper licensing are generally safe. However, the coordination between the auto transport company and the auction house is crucial. They work together to:
- Plan optimal routes
- Schedule precise pickup and delivery times
- Arrange secure storage if needed
- Handle any special requirements, such as bringing hydraulic ramps or forklifts to load/unload non-operational classic cars.
Investing in a quality auto transport service can save you from costly headaches down the road.
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