Tips for Transporting Your Car During a Move

You’re making a long-distance move, and all of your household belongings are loaded up in the moving truck. But, how exactly are you going to transport your car to your new home at the same time? Towing your vehicle to a new state can be a great option. Whether you’re towing the car yourself or hiring a company to help, keep these helpful tips in mind as you transport your car during your move.

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Towing Your Own Vehicle

You may decide that you’d like to tow your own vehicle during a cross-country move. If so, there are two types of trailers commonly used to transport a vehicle: a tow dolly or car carrier. A tow dolly lifts your car’s front wheels off the road and pulls the vehicle by its rear wheels, says Angie’s List. A car carrier lifts your vehicle completely off the ground and has its own wheels.

While towing your own car may be a cost-friendly option, remember that it may not be the best option depending on the weight and size of your car, says Moving.com. For example, if your car has a low front end, you may have some trouble getting it up the loading ramp. Tow dollies and carriers may also limit the mobility of your moving truck, especially when it comes to backing up, adds Moving.com.

When hooking up a tow dolly or car carrier to your moving truck, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to help you ensure it’s safely installed.

Hiring a Vehicle Transport Company

If you choose to hire a transport company to move your vehicle, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, know your options. Most vehicle transport companies offer open or enclosed car carriers, says Move.org. An open carrier is exposed to the outdoor elements, and your car is usually one of many being transported at the same time. Enclosed transporters protect your car from the elements but can cost up to 80 percent more than an open car carrier, according to Move.org. Typically, enclosed carriers are ideal if you’re transporting a high-end or classic car.

As you research car carrier services, be sure to check their reviews and pricing. According to Edmunds, some factors that might affect how much you pay include:

• Your current location
• How far you are moving
• Size and weight of your vehicle
• Time of year

You should also ask each transport company if they’re insured — and call your insurance agent to see if your auto insurance covers your car while it’s being transported by a third party. And remember, auto transport brokers (someone who arranges the transportation service for you) and car carrier companies are required to be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, says the Department of Transportation.

When you’ve hired a vehicle transport company and are ready for the move, Angie’s List recommends taking the following precautions:

• Inspect your car before it’s loaded onto the carrier and document any imperfections (such as dents or scratches). It may be a good idea to take photos as well.
• Remove all personal belongings from the vehicle.
• Confirm if the carrier needs your car’s alarm deactivated or a certain amount of gas in the tank.

Whether you decide to tow your vehicle or hire a company to ship your car, doing some research can help you be better prepared when moving day arrives. Choose the option that you’re confident in so you can get on the road to enjoy your new adventure.

Originally published on April 4, 2013.

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Moving to a New State? Here’s How to Update Your Vehicle Information

Moving to a different state can be an exciting time in your life. But, while you’re getting ready to explore all that your new state has to offer, don’t forget that there are some important tasks you need to take care of to help ensure the entire transition goes smoothly. Some of those tasks are car-related and include updating your driver’s license and vehicle registration to your new home state. Not sure where to start? This moving checklist for your car can help:

1. Update Your Auto Insurance Policy

First, start thinking about securing an auto insurance policy in your new state. While each state’s deadline for completing this task varies, you should try to complete it as soon as possible. It may be helpful to start looking into this prior to your move, so you’re aware of any potential deadlines or implications relating to the switch.

A good place to start may be with your current insurance provider. You should alert your agent of your move and consider asking if they are licensed to sell insurance in your new state. If they are, and you decide to remain with that company, they should be able to help update your policy. If your insurance provider is not licensed in your new state, you may want to start requesting and comparing auto insurance quotes from other companies. You should aim to have a new policy prior to canceling your existing one to help you avoid a potential lapse in coverage.

Whether you need to update your current policy or find a new insurance provider, get prepared by gathering some documents, such as your current policy’s declaration page and driver’s licenses for those within your household that drive the vehicle. This may help the process go more smoothly.

2. Get a New Driver’s License

The process and deadline for acquiring a new driver’s license varies by state, so first and foremost, be sure to check your state’s requirements. Some may require you to obtain a new driver’s license immediately upon establishing residency in the state, while others may offer a grace period. For example, Michigan’s Department of State says new residents are required to update their driver’s license immediately after moving into the state. On the other hand, Tennessee’s Department of Safety and Homeland Security states that new residents have a 30-day window to complete the process.

When you’re ready to update your license, you’ll need to bring some identification and documents to your local department of motor vehicles (DMV):

• A form of identification: This may include your current driver’s license or a state-issued ID.
• Proof of state residency: A copy of a lease or mortgage agreement, current pay stub or utility bill all qualify in Tennessee, for example, as long as it lists the resident’s home address in the state.
• Social Security number: Bringing a physical copy of your Social Security card may be a good idea.

Keep in mind that your new state may require other documents to get a new license. They may also require that you to retake a written or vision test, or even a driving test, to obtain your new license. It’d be a good idea to confirm this process, along with any needed documents, with your local DMV.

3. Transfer Your Car’s Title

Some states might require you to update your vehicle’s title with your state’s transportation authority. After getting a new driver’s license, you’ll need to visit a titling office to update your car’s title, which proves ownership of the vehicle, notes The Balance.

When you’re ready to transfer the title, verify the paperwork needed to do so. Some states, such as Ohio, may also require that your car passes an emissions test prior to titling and registering your vehicle, according to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. While requirements vary by state, Georgia’s Department of Revenue states the following documents are needed to transfer a car’s title:

• Driver’s license: It needs to be issued in your new state, so be sure to update your license first.
• Current vehicle title: Or, if your car is not paid off, information for the lienholder may suffice.
• Vehicle registration certificate: Bring a copy of your vehicle’s registration from your old state. You will likely need this for the next step as well (updating your vehicle’s registration).

4. Complete License Plate Registration

Lastly, you’ll likely need to get a new license plate for your vehicle. Be sure to check with your new state on their specific process and fees to complete the vehicle registration task. For example, Illinois gives new residents 30 days to apply for a new vehicle title and registration, according to CyberDriveIllinois.com. You may also want to confirm local disposal rules for old license plates, as you may be required to return them.

Researching and planning ahead for these car-related tasks may help alleviate some stress that comes with a big move. Be sure to check your state-specific requirements before completing these tasks to help ensure you have everything you need for a smooth vehicle transition.

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