Tacoma, WA Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
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Tacoma, WA Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from Tacoma, WA
- Tacoma to Washington, DC with an average cost of $1400 – $1575 and an avg. transit time of 4 to 9 days
- Tacoma to Phoenix, AZ with an average cost of $925 – $1175 and an avg. transit time of 2 to 6 days
- Tacoma to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $850 – $1100 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 4 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our Tacoma customers say about Sherpa:
“Sherpa came across as very sincere and modest while a lot of the other ones were scripted. Sherpa was very personable and I liked their policies, pricing, and how they handle things. Sherpa gave me a quote that was quite good even though it was a lot higher than what I wanted. At this point in time, they were very competitive compared to everybody else. Their price-lock promise was a factor for me too.”
“I had an absolutely amazing experience with Sherpa Auto Transport! The transaction with sherpa was very smooth and they were transparent about any and all shipping costs. In addition my car arrived across the country almost 5 days EARLIER than expected! I would wholeheartedly recommend sherpa auto to anybody that is planning on shipping their car from Tacoma.”
“I want to thank Sherpa for transporting my late father’s Tacoma from Virginia to Alabama. After one of the companies failed to pick up the truck as contracted, I contacted Sherpa and they picked it up the next day and it was at my house the day after. The whole process was great and I couldn’t be more pleased.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from Tacoma, Washington
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tacoma to Washington, DC | 2,757 mi | $1400 – $1575 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to Phoenix, AZ | 1,429 mi | $925 – $1175 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to Los Angeles, CA | 1,106 mi | $850 – $1100 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to Atlanta, GA | 2,649 mi | $1325 – $1650 | 4 to 9 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to Dallas, TX | 2,095 mi | $1225 – $1375 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to Tampa, FL | 3,105 mi | $1300 – $1550 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to New York City, NY | 2,850 mi | $1350 – $1525 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to Charlotte, NC | 2,810 mi | $1250 – $1600 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to Miami, FL | 3,311 mi | $1300 – $1525 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| Tacoma to Boston, MA | 3,044 mi | $1400 – $1725 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures reflect the past 12 months of Sherpa Auto Transport’s vehicle shipments to or from Tacoma, WA. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
Factors that affect Tacoma Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey significantly impacts car shipping costs to or from Tacoma, WA. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but the per-mile rate often decreases for longer trips.
- Transport Type: Open trailers are the most common and cost-effective option for auto transport to Tacoma. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection from Tacoma’s frequent rain and occasional snow, but they’re about 50% more expensive and may have longer delivery times.
- Location Accessibility: Tacoma’s proximity to major highways like I-5 and SR 16 can help reduce costs. However, shipping to more remote areas in Washington may increase prices due to additional time and fuel costs.
- Seasonal Factors: Tacoma’s mild climate means less seasonal variation in car shipping prices compared to other regions. However, summer months and January typically see higher demand and prices for auto transport services nationwide.
- Vehicle Size and Condition: Larger or heavier vehicles cost more to ship to Tacoma due to the space they occupy and fuel consumption. Non-running vehicles incur additional charges as they require special equipment for loading and unloading.
- Timing Flexibility: Opting for a wider pickup window can lead to more competitive rates for car shipping to Tacoma. Rush or guaranteed delivery services typically come at a premium.
- Route Popularity: Tacoma’s position as a major port city means it’s well-connected for auto transport. Popular routes to and from other major cities often offer more competitive pricing due to higher carrier availability.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when shipping your car to or from Tacoma, WA. For a more detailed breakdown of car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you’re considering enclosed transport for added protection during Tacoma’s rainy seasons, learn more about open vs. enclosed car shipping options.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book in advance: Schedule your Tacoma car shipping at least two weeks ahead. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundling vehicles along I-5 or I-705.
- Opt for open transport: Choose open car shipping for the most cost-effective option when transporting your vehicle to or from Tacoma, WA.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find locations near major highways like I-5 or SR 16. This can significantly reduce fuel costs for carriers.
- Remove personal items: Empty your vehicle before shipping. This reduces weight and eliminates liability concerns for personal belongings.
- Stay flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can lead to better pricing options. Consider locations slightly outside Tacoma, such as Federal Way or Lakewood, for potential savings.
- Consider off-peak seasons: If possible, schedule your auto transport during less busy times. Avoiding peak moving seasons can result in more competitive rates for shipping your car to or from Tacoma.
- Utilize Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise: While it’s tempting to shop around, remember that Sherpa’s quotes are realistic and guaranteed. Our Price Lock Promise ensures you won’t pay more than the quoted price for your Tacoma car shipping needs.
Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers
What makes Sherpa different?
- Transparency:
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
- Carrier Quality:
We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.
- Customer-First Approach:
Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.
- Nationwide Coverage:
Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.
- Expert Handling:
From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.
How does Tacoma Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from Tacoma, WA, requires careful planning and consideration of local factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a free quote from a reputable auto transport company like Sherpa Auto Transport. Provide details about your vehicle, desired pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
- Book your shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your shipment. Remember, nothing is due upfront with Sherpa.
- Prepare your vehicle: Wash and inspect your car, remove personal items, and perform basic maintenance. For Tacoma car shipping, consider the city’s rainy climate and prepare your vehicle accordingly.
- Consider local factors: Tacoma’s proximity to major highways like I-5 and SR 16 can facilitate easier pickup and delivery. However, be mindful of potential traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.
- Meet the carrier: At pickup, you or an authorized representative will meet the carrier, hand over the keys, and conduct an inspection.
- Track your shipment: While your car is in transit, stay informed about its progress through regular updates provided by your car shipping company.
- Receive your vehicle: Upon delivery, inspect your car thoroughly and pay any remaining balance.
When shipping a car to or from Tacoma, WA, it’s crucial to work with a reliable car transport service that understands the unique challenges of the area. Tacoma’s hilly terrain and occasional inclement weather can impact auto transport logistics. A reputable car shipping service will navigate these challenges efficiently, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on time. For a comprehensive guide on how to ship a car, visit our detailed resource page.
Tacoma Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When planning car shipping to or from Tacoma, WA, it’s essential to understand local vehicle requirements and regulations. For those using auto transport services to move their cars, here are some key points to consider:
Vehicle Registration: Washington state requires new residents to register their vehicles within 30 days of moving. You’ll need to visit a local Department of Licensing office in Tacoma to complete this process. Be prepared with your out-of-state title, driver’s license, and proof of insurance.
Toll Readers: If your vehicle has a Good To Go! pass for Washington state tolls, remember to remove it before shipping your car. This prevents accidental charges during transport. You can easily reactivate it upon arrival in Tacoma.
Emissions Testing: Tacoma is part of Pierce County, which no longer requires emissions testing for vehicle registration. However, it’s always good to ensure your vehicle meets basic safety standards.
Parking Permits: Depending on where you’ll be living in Tacoma, you might need to obtain a residential parking permit. Check with the City of Tacoma’s Parking Services for specific requirements in your neighborhood.
When moving to Tacoma, don’t forget these essential tasks:
- Set up utilities with Tacoma Public Utilities for electricity and water
- Choose an internet provider like Comcast or CenturyLink
- Register to vote at the Pierce County Elections office
- Enroll children in Tacoma Public Schools
- Get a library card from Tacoma Public Library
If you’re moving away from Tacoma, remember to cancel local memberships, forward your mail, and notify important contacts of your address change.
Tacoma’s climate is mild but wet, so when shipping a car here, consider the potential for rain. The city’s proximity to major highways like I-5 and SR 16 makes it easily accessible for car transport companies. With its stunning views of Mount Rainier and vibrant waterfront, Tacoma offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty for new residents arriving with their vehicles.
Tacoma, Washington Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from Tacoma?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from Tacoma. In short, you’ll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, make sure you have a key available to provide the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Is my vehicle insured transporting to or from Tacoma?
Yes, our quotes are all-inclusive. All of our carriers are required to have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. To ship your vehicle, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy is valid and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.
All contracted carriers also add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy.
How far out should I schedule my pickup service from Tacoma?
The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to post your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.
How do I pay for my auto transport to Tacoma?
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Can I pack personal items inside my vehicle?
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Do I need to be present at both pickup and delivery?
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.
What’s the difference between Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport?
Enclosed transport is at least 50% higher than open trailers. The primary reason for choosing enclosed auto transport is when you have a high value vehicle like a classic car or a custom paint job that can’t afford the risk of wayward debris on the road. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.
Do you offer Door-To-Door Auto Transport Service?
Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. At the time of booking your shipment, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address. As long as it is possible, the assigned carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle to the addresses you specify. Of course, if there are transportation restrictions or safety challenges the carrier will work with you to arrange an alternative location, such as a nearby gas station or parking lot.
How are you different from other Car Shipping Companies?
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket. While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
What types of vehicles can you transport?
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
More FAQs about auto transport to or from Tacoma, WA?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more Tacoma, WA Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in Tacoma.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Military Personnel and Families
Information tailored for military service members and their families looking to ship a car.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About Tacoma, WA
General information and facts about Tacoma.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around Tacoma.
What is Car Shipping?
An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.
Benefits of using Car Transport Companies
Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.
Choosing a Company
Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in Tacoma.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in Tacoma
When planning car shipping to or from Tacoma, WA, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique seasonal weather patterns. Tacoma experiences mild summers and cool, wet winters, which can impact your auto transport experience. Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth car shipping process:
Winter Considerations:
- Avoid using snow tire chains, as carriers can’t transport vehicles with them.
- Choose pickup and drop-off locations on level ground to prevent issues with icy surfaces.
- Remove any items that might freeze and potentially damage your vehicle during transport.
Summer Precautions:
- Place a sunshade under your car’s windshield to protect the interior from heat damage.
- Remove any heat-sensitive items from your vehicle before shipping.
Peak Shipping Times:
- University of Washington Tacoma: Expect increased demand for car shipping services in late August and early June.
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord: Military relocations can cause spikes in auto transport needs throughout the year.
- Tourist Season: Summer months see higher demand for car transport services due to increased tourism.
To get the best rates and availability when you ship a car to or from Tacoma, consider booking your auto transport a few weeks before or after these peak times. By planning ahead and taking these factors into account, you’ll ensure a smoother, more efficient car shipping experience with your chosen car shipping company in Tacoma, WA.
Car Shipping for College Students in Tacoma, Washington
When considering car shipping to Tacoma for college, it’s crucial to understand the parking situation at local universities. At the University of Washington Tacoma, students can purchase quarterly or annual parking permits, with limited on-campus parking available. Pacific Lutheran University offers similar options, but residents must register their vehicles. For University of Puget Sound students, parking is generally included with on-campus housing. However, it’s essential to check with your specific dorm or apartment beforehand. During winter breaks, most universities provide designated long-term parking areas, but it’s wise to confirm this in advance. Given Tacoma’s wet winters, ensure your vehicle has appropriate tires and that your auto transport or roadside assistance coverage extends to your new location. By planning ahead and understanding these factors, you can make your transition to college life in Tacoma smoother, whether you’re shipping a car or driving it yourself.
Vehicle Shipping for Military Members in Tacoma, Washington
Tacoma is home to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), a major military installation serving both Army and Air Force personnel. For military members considering car shipping to Tacoma, here’s some practical advice:
- On-base parking: JBLM offers limited on-base parking, so many service members opt for off-base housing with dedicated parking.
- Vehicle registration: Military personnel must register their vehicles with the Washington Department of Licensing within 30 days of arrival.
- Neighborhood parking: Most residential areas near JBLM have ample street parking without strict restrictions.
- Local resources: The base features multiple commissaries, exchanges, and family support centers.
At Sherpa Auto Transport, we’re proud to offer a $50 military discount on our car shipping services to Tacoma. We thank all service members and their families for their dedication and sacrifice.
Reviews from our Washington Customers
We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied Washington customers:
“The guy I talked to was super transparent, easy to talk to, and a great listener. He explained the situation in terms of state taxes and driving better than the other company I talked to. Scheduling the transport was so easy. My daddy just died and I was a wreck. The guy was so kind. The transport was from Washington State to Denton, Texas. My cousin in Washington was there for the pickup and said the process was fine. She was a little scared of the big guy that came but he turned out to be a big teddy bear. My husband was here for delivery. The final cost changed and that was on us because we had the car full of my momma`s moving stuff and her scooter. The scooter weighed a lot. We were totally fine with it. We`re just happy to have her scooter. Sherpa is great and we’d use them again.”
“I called around for quotes, and Sherpa`s online representative was the most helpful. Sherpa was able to explain how it cost and how it works. Sherpa`s was slightly less than other quotes. And I was not convinced that paying more would get me any better service. So, they’re fine. It cost $1,100. It’s about what I expected. I got a better feel for how honest of a business they might be because the rep was very upfront about how the process works. I liked that. From the time the car was picked up, it was six days before it showed up, which was fine, because I was driving down myself. And I took three or four days. So, five or six days. Three days it took the driver himself. That worked out nice for me, because I had to pack up my U-Haul and arrive before I could take delivery.”
“I had selected another transport company. But something just didn`t hit right. I went and looked them up on and they were a complete disaster. Before I canceled with them, I did some searches and started looking at reviews. They weren`t without their issues, but Sherpa was overwhelmingly the favorite in terms of reviews that I saw. I placed a phone call with them. The first gal I talked to completely, a million percent put me at ease. I was very confident at that point. The quote was what I expected. Nothing changed at the time of delivery. It all went without a hitch. The driver was good. He cracked me up, because it was a Russian dude. He was super cool and nice. He reached out to me a couple of days before, and then when he was within 30 minutes, almost to the minute.”
“I rarely leave reviews for things, but I wanted to for Sherpa because it was my first time shipping a vehicle and I chose Sherpa as my broker, and everything went great! They chose West Coast Auto Transport as my carrier (which they assigned very quickly) for shipping my car from WA State to Maryland, and their drivers were so kind and professional. They picked up my car on the first day of the pickup window, and despite a delay in delivery, the carrier gave me an update and the driver for delivery was very communicative about arrival and it truly was door-to-door service! He parked his truck down the road and personally drove my vehicle right to my apartment building door – so awesome! I will absolutely use Sherpa again for any future car shipping needs.”
“I highly recommend Sherpa Auto Transport. This was my first time shipping a vehicle and from my first conversations with Dillano and Clayton, to the final delivery of my vehicle, I couldn`t be more happy with this service. This was a transport from Seattle, WA to Harrisburg, PA. All aspects of transport were explained thoroughly and clearly by Dillano and Clayton before even committing to using Sherpa. The friendly and professional driver also provided great communication via text and phone calls for pickup of vehicle and delivery at its final destination. It couldn`t have gone more smoothly. Thank you so much for making what seemed like an intimidating process an easy option.”
About Tacoma, Washington
🏙️ Tacoma: The City of Destiny
Tacoma, Washington, is a vibrant city with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Known as the “City of Destiny,” Tacoma is home to approximately 217,827 residents as of 2021 [U.S. Census Bureau]. This bustling port city is the third-largest in Washington state and covers an area of about 62 square miles [City of Tacoma].
🌎 Situated on the Puget Sound, Tacoma boasts breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and easy access to outdoor activities. The city’s economy is diverse, with major employers in healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors [Tacoma-Pierce County Economic Development Board].
Tacoma takes pride in its cultural offerings, including the Museum of Glass 🏛️ and the Tacoma Art Museum. The city is also home to the University of Washington Tacoma campus, which enrolls over 5,000 students annually [University of Washington Tacoma].
With a median household income of $62,358 and a median home value of $344,500, Tacoma offers a more affordable alternative to nearby Seattle [U.S. Census Bureau]. The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 [City of Tacoma Climate Action Plan].
Whether you’re moving to Tacoma for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, or economic opportunities, this dynamic city has something for everyone! 🌟
Areas of Tacoma, Washington that we Serve
Looking for car shipping in neighboring cities? We also provide auto transport services in:
Sherpa provides a full service area in and around Tacoma:
Tacoma City Center: 98402, 98403, 98405
North Tacoma: 98403, 98406, 98407
Northeast Tacoma: 98422
South Tacoma: 98404, 98408, 98409
East Tacoma: 98404, 98418
Central Tacoma: 98405, 98406
West Tacoma: 98465, 98466
Parkland: 98444, 98445
Spanaway: 98387
University Place: 98466, 98467
Lakewood: 98439, 98498, 98499
Fircrest: 98466
Puyallup: 98371, 98372, 98373, 98374, 98375
Gig Harbor: 98329, 98332, 98335
Fife: 98424
Milton: 98354
Edgewood: 98372
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Washington and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.
What is Car Shipping?
Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a specialized service provided by car shipping companies to move vehicles from one location to another. Whether you’re buying or selling a car online, relocating to a new home in Tacoma, or needing to transport a vehicle abroad, car shipping companies have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. These companies use specialized carriers and trailers to ensure your vehicle is transported securely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
About the Car Shipping Industry
Car shipping is a fascinating industry. There are Carriers – the businesses that pickup and transport vehicles – and there are Brokers – the businesses that help Carriers source their customers. Carriers are primarily mom & pop small businesses who own and operate their trucks and trailers – many of whom own and operate their businesses out of Washington. This means there are thousands of carriers and this fragmentation creates a need for centralization. That’s why Carriers rely on Brokers – like Sherpa – to help optimize their loads and source business for them. Sherpa vets Carriers and has a strict list of requirements for any Carrier looking to do business with Sherpa Auto Transport.
Fun Facts About Car Shipping
- The first semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton to transport cars from his Cleveland-based Winton Motor Carriage Company. He wanted a way to deliver cars to customers without adding miles to the vehicles. [Source: Institute for Transportation, Iowa State University]
- Modern car carriers can transport up to 12 vehicles at a time. This design, which has evolved over decades, helps reduce the number of trips needed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- Hydraulic systems used in car carriers allow the trailers to be raised or lowered, making it easier and safer to load and unload vehicles. This feature is now standard in many auto transport trucks. [Source: Tempus Logix]
- The “head rack” design—which allows an extra car to be transported above the truck’s cab—was first introduced in the 1960s. This innovation maximized the number of vehicles that could be shipped on a single truck without extending its length. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- During World War II, specialized military transport trucks were developed to haul heavy vehicles like tanks. These trucks, known as “tank transporters,” could carry loads of up to 100 tons, paving the way for modern heavy-duty transport trucks. [Source: National WWII Museum]
- Auto transport trucks can have fuel tanks that hold up to 300 gallons of diesel, allowing them to travel over 2,000 miles without needing to refuel. This is crucial for long-haul routes, ensuring continuous operation with minimal stops. [Source: Diesel Technology Forum]
- Some modern car carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, which reduces the trailer’s weight by up to 3,000 pounds compared to steel. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and payload capacity, meaning carriers can transport more cars with less fuel. [Source: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering]
Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company
Shipping a car to or from Tacoma, WA offers numerous benefits for vehicle owners. Car transport services provide convenience, saving you time and the hassle of driving long distances. Professional auto transport companies ensure your vehicle’s safe delivery, whether you’re relocating to Tacoma’s vibrant waterfront or leaving the Puget Sound area. These services often include insurance coverage, offering peace of mind during transit. By choosing car shipping, you avoid wear and tear on your vehicle and potential road hazards. It’s a cost-effective solution that allows you to focus on other aspects of your move, whether you’re heading to the iconic Museum of Glass or departing from the City of Destiny.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing an auto transport company for your Tacoma car shipping needs, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a strong track record in the Pacific Northwest and positive reviews from local customers. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the FMCSA. Compare quotes from multiple providers, but be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Quality customer service is crucial – look for companies that are responsive and transparent about their processes. Consider whether they offer specialized services, such as enclosed transport for classic cars or flexible pickup and delivery options to accommodate Tacoma’s varied terrain and weather conditions.