Table of Contents

Introduction

Mistakes to avoid when transporting car to the U.S.

1. Not doing enough research
2. Failing to confirm insurance coverage
3. Overlooking documentation requirements
4. Ignoring U.S. vehicle regulations
5. Not Scheduling Transport Early Enough

Conclusion 

Summary

Canadian snowbirds often make mistakes when transporting cars to the U.S., including inadequate research on transport companies, unclear insurance coverage, missing documentation, and overlooking U.S. vehicle regulations. To avoid delays, choose a reputable service early, ensure complete paperwork, and confirm insurance details for a smooth, stress-free winter getaway.

Introduction

United States is the preferred destination for most Canadian snowbirds when it comes to escaping our harsh winter. To enjoy their vacation to the fullest, most prefer taking their cars with them. However, this can be a complex process, even when you are hiring a company to do your snowbirds car shipping. Here are some common pitfalls many make, and how to avoid them.

Mistakes to avoid when transporting car to the U.S.

Not doing enough research

The first and most common mistake is not researching thoroughly while choosing the car transport company. Not all transport companies do or have the necessary permission for cross-border transport. Hence, if you randomly choose a company, you may not get your car on time or worse still, get stuck at the crossing. 

The best way to avoid this mistake is to look for companies that specialize in snowbirds auto transportation. These companies have the right licenses and experience to transport your car from Canada to the U.S. 

Failing to Confirm Insurance Coverage

When transporting a car, whether by themselves or through a company, many make the mistake of not knowing their insurance coverage. Many assume that their insurance will cover this, which some insurance companies do, or assume that the insurance provided by the transport covers everything, which is often not the case. 

To avoid making this mistake, always be clear about your insurance coverage. Whether you are driving on your own or shipping the car, call your insurance provider and ask for information about their coverage for cars under transit. When taking the insurance provided by the transport company, ask what is included and what is not. Many times, the company will provide basic coverage in their insurance, and you have to buy additional insurance coverage if you want the coverage to be comprehensive. 

Overlooking Documentation Requirements

When crossing the border, you need to have specific documentation, whether you are driving by yourself or opted for snowbirds car shipping. Without these documents your entry may be denied or delayed. 

The chances of making this mistake will be fewer if you go for snowbirds shipping as the shipping company will make sure you submit all the required paperwork. If you are driving on your own, you need to check Canada Border Services Agency as well as the U.S. counterpart to know what documents you will need. Make a list of them, and before living your home, just make sure you have them all. 

Ignoring U.S. Vehicle Regulations

Another mistakes snowbirds often make is overlooking U.S. vehicle regulations. Particularly, they overlook the emissions and safety standards of the state they will be staying in, as it can differ from state to state. 

This is why before transporting, you should first check if your car is allowed in the U.S. or not. If you are transporting your car, the company will guide you. If doing it on your own, you can consult U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Not Scheduling Transport Early Enough

Snowbird season is a busy time for auto transportation companies. There is often limited space in the car carriers that leave around this time. Many snowbirds think that they can wait till the last moment to book, but then end up paying more than they should. Or they have to settle for a not-so-good provider. 

To avoid this mistake, you should be booking at least a month or more to get the best price. When you book early, you also have more options to choose from. Hence you can get the best deals from reputable and experienced car transportation companies.

Conclusion 

So, if you have a need for snowbirds car shipping, then these are the mistakes you should be avoiding. Instead, do proper research and choose a good transportation company as soon as possible and have all the necessary documentation. This way you can end up paying much less and start your winter vacation without any hassle or stress.