AAA Car Transport Across Country? What You Need

Moving can be an exciting, yet daunting experience. One of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to transport your vehicle safely and efficiently. If you're a AAA member, you might be wondering if your membership offers a solution for long-distance car transport. After all, AAA is known for its roadside assistance and wide range of services. This article will dive deep into the question, "Does AAA transport cars across country?" and explore all the options available to you.

The answer, in short, isn't a simple yes or no. While AAA doesn't directly offer a nationwide car transport service, their services and partnerships can be a valuable asset when planning your move. Understanding the specifics is key to making an informed decision and choosing the best car shipping method for your needs and budget. This guide will walk you through the different approaches, costs, and crucial considerations to streamline your car transport process, taking the stress out of relocating your vehicle.

Whether you're moving across state lines for a new job, relocating to be closer to family, or simply embarking on a cross-country adventure, ensuring your car arrives safely at your destination is paramount. Let's unravel the details of AAA's involvement in car transport and explore other options to get your car where it needs to go. This guide provides a comprehensive overview, empowering you with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of car shipping.

AAA's Role: Roadside Assistance vs. Long-Distance Transport

Many people associate AAA with its roadside assistance service, and rightfully so. They provide services like towing, battery boosts, tire changes, and fuel delivery. However, it's crucial to understand the limitations of these services when it comes to long-distance car transport. Roadside assistance typically covers a limited towing distance, usually up to a few miles or a certain distance depending on your membership level and region. This is significantly different from cross-country car shipping.

Understanding Towing Distance Limitations

The free towing distance offered by AAA varies depending on your membership tier and the specific club you belong to (AAA is a federation of regional clubs). Basic memberships usually offer the shortest towing distance, while premium memberships offer more mileage. It is essential to check your specific membership benefits to understand your limitations before assuming AAA will cover the cost of transporting your car across the country. Even with premium memberships, the free towing distance rarely extends to the thousands of miles required for cross-country moves. You will almost certainly need to pay extra for long-distance transport services.

Exploring AAA's Partnerships and Recommendations

While AAA doesn’t directly offer long-distance car shipping, they do often partner with reputable car transport companies. They might recommend specific providers to their members or offer discounts through these partnerships. If you call AAA for information about moving your car across the country, their representatives can often provide a list of affiliated transport companies. It's always a good idea to inquire about these partnerships. However, be aware that you'll still be dealing with a third-party company, and AAA will not directly handle the shipping process.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Method: Open vs. Enclosed Transport

When it comes to transporting your car, you have several options, the primary choices being open and enclosed transport. Understanding the differences between these methods is crucial to making the right decision for your vehicle and budget.

Open Transport: The Standard and Most Affordable Option

Open transport involves shipping your car on a multi-car carrier, similar to the trucks you see regularly on highways. This is the most common and generally the most affordable method. Your car will be exposed to the elements (weather, road debris, etc.) during the journey. While this doesn't pose a significant risk for most vehicles, it can be a concern if your car has a particularly delicate finish or is a high-value item.

Enclosed Transport: Enhanced Protection for Your Vehicle

Enclosed transport provides a greater level of protection for your car. Your vehicle is shipped inside an enclosed trailer, shielding it from the elements and potential damage from road debris. This option is typically more expensive than open transport, but it's a worthwhile investment for classic cars, luxury vehicles, or vehicles with a custom paint job.

Evaluating Your Needs: Factors to Consider

When deciding between open and enclosed transport, consider these factors:

• Vehicle Value: The higher the value of your car, the more beneficial enclosed transport becomes.
• Weather Conditions: If you're shipping during inclement weather, enclosed transport offers superior protection.
• Personal Preference: Some car owners prefer the peace of mind that comes with enclosed transport, regardless of the car's value.
• Budget: Open transport is the budget-friendlier choice.

Finding and Vetting Car Shipping Companies

Regardless of whether you ultimately use a company recommended by AAA, it's vital to thoroughly research and vet any car shipping company you're considering. This process helps ensure a smooth, safe, and reliable transport experience.

Researching Potential Companies: Online Reviews and Ratings

Start your research by checking online reviews and ratings. Websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google Reviews can provide valuable insights into a company's reputation and customer service. Look for companies with a high number of positive reviews and a good track record.

Requesting Quotes and Comparing Pricing

Obtain quotes from multiple car shipping companies. Prices can vary significantly, so it's essential to compare different offers. Be sure to understand what's included in each quote (e.g., insurance, door-to-door service, etc.) and what additional fees might apply (e.g., fuel surcharges, expedited shipping fees).

Verifying Insurance Coverage and Licensing

Before making a decision, verify that the car shipping company has adequate insurance coverage to protect your vehicle in case of damage during transit. Also, ensure the company is properly licensed and insured to operate in your state and the states through which your vehicle will be transported. You can usually verify this information with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Preparing Your Car for Transport: A Checklist

Proper preparation is crucial to ensure a smooth car transport experience. Following these steps will help safeguard your vehicle and prevent potential complications.

Cleaning and Inspecting Your Vehicle

Clean your car inside and out. This allows you to easily identify any existing damage before the transport process. Document any existing scratches, dents, or other imperfections with photographs.

Removing Personal Belongings

Remove all personal belongings from your car, including items in the trunk, glove compartment, and under the seats. Car shipping companies are not responsible for the loss or damage of personal items.

Checking Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure

Ensure all fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.) are at the proper levels. Check your tire pressure and inflate tires to the recommended pressure.

Disabling Alarms and Security Systems

Disable any aftermarket alarms or security systems that might interfere with the transport process. Provide the shipping company with instructions on how to operate your car's security features.

Understanding Costs and Payment Options

The cost of shipping your car across country can vary widely depending on several factors, making it important to understand what influences pricing and how to budget accordingly.

Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs

• Distance: The longer the distance, the higher the cost.
• Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to transport.
• Shipping Method (Open vs. Enclosed): Enclosed transport is more expensive.
• Time of Year: Prices may fluctuate depending on seasonal demand.
• Fuel Costs: Fluctuations in fuel prices can impact shipping costs.
• Location: Shipping to or from remote areas may incur additional fees.

Payment Options and Deposit Requirements

Most car shipping companies require a deposit to secure your booking. Be sure to understand the company's payment terms and accepted methods of payment. Credit cards, checks, and wire transfers are common options. Never pay the full amount upfront before your car is picked up.

What if My Car is Damaged During Transport?

While car shipping companies strive to deliver your car safely, accidents can happen. Understanding the steps to take if your car is damaged during transport is crucial.

Inspecting Your Car Upon Delivery

Carefully inspect your car upon delivery, before signing the bill of lading (proof of delivery). Look for any new damage that may have occurred during transit.

Filing a Claim with the Shipping Company

If you find damage, immediately notify the shipping company and document the damage with photographs. You'll need to file a formal claim with the company, providing supporting documentation.

Understanding the Insurance Claims Process

The car shipping company's insurance policy will cover the damage. The claims process typically involves providing the company with documentation, such as photos, repair estimates, and the bill of lading. Be prepared to work with the insurance adjuster to resolve the claim.

Conclusion

So, does AAA transport cars across country directly? No, not in the traditional sense. While AAA's roadside assistance is invaluable, it's primarily designed for local assistance, not long-distance car shipping. However, AAA membership can still be a valuable asset when planning a cross-country move. AAA often partners with car transport companies and may provide recommendations or discounts, simplifying your search for a reliable shipping provider.

By understanding the nuances of AAA's services, exploring the various car shipping options (open vs. enclosed), thoroughly researching and vetting shipping companies, preparing your car correctly, and understanding the costs and potential claims process, you can successfully navigate the car transport process and get your vehicle safely to its destination. Remember to prioritize thorough research and preparation to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.