When you need to move a car from one location to another, whether across the country or internationally, a professional car transportation service can make the process far easier and safer. Car transportation services are essential for individuals and businesses who need to move vehicles over long distances—whether for relocation, car sales, or fleet management. In this article, we’ll explore what car transportation is as a business service, what’s involved in the process, and why companies like SAS Business Group have been trusted for over 15 years to move over 3,000 vehicles safely.
What is Car Transportation?
Car transportation refers to the process of shipping or moving a car from one place to another. This could be within the UK or internationally, and it can involve a variety of methods depending on the distance, type of car, and customer preference. It’s commonly used when driving a car across long distances isn’t practical or desirable. Whether it’s a family moving home, a dealership selling cars to customers, or an individual buying a car from another part of the country, car transport services help get vehicles to their destination without the owner needing to drive them there themselves.
The car transportation process typically involves loading a car onto a transport vehicle, such as a specialised car carrier, and safely delivering it to the requested location. Along the way, transport companies handle logistics, insurance, and paperwork to ensure the car arrives safely and on time.
Types of Car Transportation Services
There are several methods for transporting cars, each offering different levels of protection, convenience, and cost. Here are the most common options available:
1. Open Transport
Open transport is the most commonly used and affordable method for transporting cars. In this service, vehicles are loaded onto an open-air carrier—often a large, multi-car trailer—that is designed to carry several vehicles at once. While open transport is cost-effective, it does expose the cars to the elements during transit, which may be a concern if the vehicle is a high-end model or classic car. However, it is still a very safe and reliable method.
2. Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transport offers a higher level of protection. In this case, cars are loaded into a fully enclosed trailer, offering shelter from the weather, dirt, debris, and other environmental factors. This method is often used for transporting luxury cars, sports cars, or classic vehicles that require extra care. While more expensive than open transport, it provides added peace of mind, particularly for valuable or rare cars.
3. Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal
Car transportation services typically offer two options for delivery: door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal.
- Door-to-Door Transport: With door-to-door service, the car is picked up directly from your location and delivered to your specified destination. This is the most convenient option but may come with a higher price tag due to the added effort involved in coordinating the transport.
- Terminal-to-Terminal Transport: In this option, the car is dropped off at a transport terminal at the origin and picked up at another terminal at the destination. It’s generally a cheaper option but less convenient, as you’ll need to manage the pickup and drop-off at the terminals.
4. International Car Shipping
When cars need to be transported overseas, international car shipping services are required. This typically involves placing the car in a shipping container or using a Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) ship, designed specifically for transporting cars. International car transport can take several weeks depending on the destination, and it involves customs, taxes, and import/export paperwork.
What’s Involved in Car Transportation?
The car transportation process is straightforward, but it does involve several key steps to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Here’s what you can expect when you choose a professional car transport service:
1. Booking the Service
The first step in the car transportation process is getting in touch with a reputable transport company to discuss your needs. This includes providing details like the type of car, pick-up and delivery locations, preferred transport method (open or enclosed), and any special requirements. Based on this information, you’ll receive a quote, and the company will schedule the transport.
2. Vehicle Inspection
Before the car is loaded onto the transport vehicle, a thorough inspection is carried out. This involves documenting the current condition of the car, including noting any pre-existing scratches, dents, or other damage. The inspection is usually documented with photos or a written report. This step is crucial for ensuring that the car’s condition is accurately recorded before transport begins.
3. Loading the Vehicle
Once the car has been inspected, it is carefully loaded onto the transport vehicle. In open transport, several vehicles may be loaded onto a large trailer, while in enclosed transport, the car is placed inside a smaller, fully enclosed trailer. In both cases, the car will be securely fastened to prevent any movement or potential damage during transit.
4. Transport and Delivery
Once the car is loaded, the transport process begins. Depending on the distance, the car may be transported by road (in the case of domestic shipping) or by sea (for international shipments). The car transportation company will monitor the progress of the transport and handle any logistical issues that may arise. If you’ve chosen door-to-door service, the car will be delivered directly to your specified address. If terminal-to-terminal service was selected, you’ll need to arrange for pick-up from the terminal.
5. Unloading and Final Inspection
Once the car reaches its destination, it is carefully unloaded and another inspection is performed to check for any damage that may have occurred during transport. If there’s no damage, the vehicle is handed over to you, and the process is complete.
Why Use Car Transportation Services?
There are several advantages to using a professional car transport service instead of driving the car yourself. Here are some of the most common reasons why people and businesses opt for car transportation:
1. Convenience
Transporting a car over long distances can be time-consuming, especially when the vehicle needs to be driven across multiple states or countries. By using a professional service, you save time and avoid the hassle of driving the car yourself, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
2. Safety and Security
Car transportation companies have the expertise to ensure that your vehicle is safely loaded, transported, and unloaded. They also offer insurance coverage to protect your vehicle during transit, providing peace of mind in case of any accidents or damage.
3. Cost-Effective
While it may seem cheaper to drive the car yourself, the costs of fuel, lodging, food, and the added wear and tear on the vehicle can quickly add up. Car transport services, particularly for long-distance moves, can often be more cost-effective, especially when factoring in the time and stress you save.
4. No Wear and Tear
Long journeys can put unnecessary strain on your car, increasing mileage and contributing to engine wear and tear. By using a car transport service, you avoid these issues and ensure that your car remains in top condition.
SAS Business Group: Over 15 Years of Trusted Car Transport Services
At SAS Business Group, we’ve been providing car transportation services for over 15 years, having safely transported more than 3,000 cars to destinations across the UK and abroad. Our experience, professionalism, and commitment to customer satisfaction have earned us a strong reputation in the industry.
Whether you need to move a single car across the country or transport a fleet of vehicles, we have the expertise and resources to handle the job. We offer a variety of car transport services, including open and enclosed transport, door-to-door service, and international shipping, so you can choose the solution that best meets your needs and budget.
Our team of experts ensures that every car is carefully loaded, securely transported, and delivered on time. With SAS Business Group, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in safe hands from start to finish.
Conclusion
Car transportation is a vital service for individuals and businesses needing to move vehicles across long distances, whether domestically or internationally. With options such as open and enclosed transport, as well as door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal delivery, there’s a solution to meet every need and budget. At SAS Business Group, we’ve been offering reliable and efficient car transportation services for over 15 years, with more than 3,000 cars successfully transported.
If you need to move a car and want a trusted, experienced transport provider, get in touch with us today. Let us take care of the logistics, so you don’t have to.