There are many things to work out before moving, and one of them is what to do with your car. But how much does it cost to ship a car? How much would it cost if I drive it myself? Would it be better to just sell my car and get a replacement? You would be finding yourself asking these questions a lot. AutoStar Transport Express is an online transport marketplace company, where users can collect quotes for shipping jobs.

But answering these three questions leads to more questions. There are many things to consider before you can arrive at a decision that will be best for you and your family. 

Here are some helpful tips to help you find out whether you should drive your car to your new place, have it shipped, or sell it, then just get another car once you have moved. 

Cost consideration

So how much does it cost to ship a car? The cost of shipping will depend on the actual distance, vehicle size and condition, location, and season. You can choose an open transport type, which can hold eight to ten cars and is much cheaper than an enclosed one which carries two to three vehicles only. Having a 4-door sedan shipped would range anywhere from $600 during the lean months of winter to $1000 during the busy days of summer, that is according to CostHelper. Shipping a larger vehicle such as an SUV or van from California to New York, a distance of around 3000 miles, may cost from $800 to $1070. 

If you choose to drive the same 3000 miles from California to New York, it would cost you around $300 on fuel alone, assuming a gallon of gas costs $3, and your car’s fuel efficiency is 30 miles per gallon. If you drive four to six hours a day, it would be a 10 to 14 days journey. With additional hotel expenses, food consumption, and other costs that could be incurred during the trip, you could end up spending more by the time you reach your destination.

A third option to consider would depend greatly on the model of your vehicle and whether it is on its last legs. Going through the trouble of shipping or driving the distance with an old beaten car would not only be ill-advised cost-wise but, more importantly, in terms of road safety. 

Time consideration

After determining how much it costs to ship a car and how much it costs to drive it, the next factor to consider is time. Car shipping company transporters are experienced and have undergone extensive training to obtain their Commercial Driver's License. A car transported by a shipping company would, in theory, arrive at its destination faster. Most companies would ship cars from California to New York in six to eight days, which is nearly half the time it would take a non-professional driver. Shipping is definitely a better option if you are short on time. 

Weather conditions

Driving in the winter poses a significant risk to you, your car, and any belongings you are transporting. Shipping your car is the safer and more convenient option if you need to relocate during the winter.

If you choose to drive your car, do it during the warmer season when the cost of shipping is at its peak, but the driving condition is optimal. 

Making the decision

The decision you make will ultimately be based on your personal circumstances and preferences. You may own an old clunker of a car that is of little or no value to others, but you can't bear to part with it. Alternatively, you might be willing to put up with the inconvenience of driving for days if it means you can spend more time with your family. It's your journey to take, and you're the only one who knows how to get there.