Buying or selling a home is a major life event. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or moving cross-country, there’s a lot to manage—furniture, logistics, timelines, and of course, your car. Instead of driving hundreds of miles or juggling multiple vehicles, smart movers are exploring car transport options for real estate moves to simplify the process.
This practical guide will help you choose the best car shipping solution for your move, offering actionable steps and expert insights to keep your relocation stress-free. Let’s get started—with the support of Fast-Car-Transport, your trusted vehicle shipping partner.
Step 1: Determine If You Should Ship or Drive Your Vehicle
The first decision to make is whether to drive your car yourself or have it shipped. While it might seem convenient to drive, here are a few key reasons why shipping may be the smarter choice:
- Long distances (500+ miles) can be exhausting and time-consuming.
- Multiple vehicles in the household can make it tough to coordinate.
- You’re flying to your new location and don’t want to leave your car behind.
- You’re hiring professional movers and want your move fully outsourced.
If you’re already coordinating a household relocation, adding a long-distance drive only increases stress. Car transport lets you focus on your home and family—not the road.
Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Car Transport
Not all car shipping services are created equal. For real estate-related moves, it’s important to select the right transport method based on your timeline, budget, and vehicle type.
Here are your primary options:
- Open Transport
This is the most affordable and commonly used service. Your vehicle is shipped on an open-air carrier with other vehicles. It’s efficient and ideal for most standard cars.
- Enclosed Transport
Provides extra protection for luxury, antique, or high-value cars. The vehicle is shielded from weather, road debris, and dirt—perfect for long-haul moves or pristine showpieces.
- Expedited Shipping
Need your car fast? This option guarantees quick pickup and delivery, which is crucial when closing dates or lease starts are inflexible.
- Door-to-Door Service
For the smoothest experience, choose this option to have your vehicle picked up at your old home and delivered directly to your new one.
At Fast-Car-Transport, you can easily select the shipping service that fits your relocation timeline and lifestyle. Their experienced team will match you with a carrier that works with your schedule and budget.
Step 3: Book Your Shipment in Sync With Your Real Estate Timeline
Moving often involves juggling dates—closing, inspections, lease starts, utility changes. It’s essential that your car shipping aligns with this carefully coordinated plan.
Here’s how to make that happen:
- Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance to lock in your preferred pickup windows.
- Share your closing or move-in date with your shipping provider to coordinate delivery.
- Use expedited services if your dates are tight or suddenly change.
Fast-Car-Transport offers flexible options, including next-day pickups in select areas and real-time tracking so you can monitor the progress of your shipment and adjust plans as needed.
Step 4: Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport
Even in the middle of a move, don’t forget to get your car ready for transport. A few simple steps will ensure a smooth pickup and delivery:
- Clean your car to help identify any scratches or dings beforehand.
- Remove personal items and valuables, which aren’t covered by the carrier’s insurance.
- Disable alarms and electronic devices that could drain the battery.
- Leave only ¼ tank of gas, which is sufficient for loading and unloading.
- Document your car’s condition with photos and a checklist.
This preparation is quick and will give you peace of mind when your vehicle arrives at your new home in the same condition it left.
Step 5: Receive Your Vehicle and Settle In
Once your car arrives at your new address, the driver will perform a final inspection and ask you to sign the Bill of Lading (BOL). Before you do:
- Inspect the car thoroughly, comparing it to your pre-shipping photos.
- Test basic functions like brakes, lights, and tire pressure.
- Note any issues on the BOL and report them immediately if needed.
Once confirmed, you’re ready to hit the road and start the next chapter of your life with your vehicle right where you need it—no delay, no detour.
Real-Life Example: How a Family Shipped Two Vehicles from Texas to Georgia
The Garcias, a family of five, were relocating from Houston to Atlanta after selling their home and buying a new one in Georgia. With two cars, three kids, and a tight closing date, they decided to ship both vehicles. Fast-Car-Transport arranged for one open transport and one enclosed carrier (for their classic Mustang). Both cars arrived two days after their flight, delivered directly to their new driveway. No hotel stays. No long road trips. Just a stress-free move.
Final Thoughts: Ship Smart and Settle Smoothly
When planning a real estate move, your time and energy should go toward your home—not a cross-country drive. Exploring car transport options for your real estate move helps you focus on unpacking and settling in, while professionals handle the heavy lifting.
Visit Fast-Car-Transport today to get a free quote and expert guidance for your next big move. With the right transportation solution, you’ll arrive at your new home with one less thing to worry about—and one more reason to relax.
