Yes, car relocation is often worth it, especially for long moves. It saves you time and prevents wear and tear on your vehicle. If you're already hiring long distance movers for your household goods, you may even be able to add your car as a convenient and cost-effective option.

Follow these tips to help you find a reliable professional for car moving services:

• Verify their license and insurance: Auto carriers should have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and proof of cargo insurance. These requirements can vary by region.

• Get several estimates: A proper estimate should be in writing and clearly outline the total cost, pickup and delivery windows, and the type of transport, like open or enclosed. If you're coordinating the shipment with a household move, you may also want to get quotes from long-distance movers who can handle both.

• Read their reviews: Look for comments that mention clear communication, on-time service, and vehicles arriving safely. Red flags include patterns of surprise fees, major delays, or unresolved damage claims.

• Look at their portfolios: Check for photos of their equipment, such as their transport trucks. Seeing examples of cars they’ve moved can give you confidence in their experience, especially if you have a classic or luxury vehicle.

• Find out if they have warranties: While traditional warranties don't apply, you should ask about their insurance policy. Understand the coverage limit, what types of damage are included, and the process for filing a claim if needed.

• Ask important questions: Before you hire, ask questions like, “Is your quote all-inclusive, or are there any potential extra fees?” and “What’s the process for filing a claim if my vehicle is damaged?”

Things that impact how much it costs to move your car might include:

• Distance and location: The total mileage is a primary cost driver.

• Vehicle size and weight: Larger or heavier vehicles, like trucks and SUVs, take up more space on a carrier and generally cost more to ship than a standard sedan.

• Transport type: You can choose between an open carrier, which is the more common and affordable option, or an enclosed carrier that offers more protection from weather and road debris for a higher price.

• Vehicle condition: An inoperable car that can't be driven onto the transport truck may require a winch for loading and unloading, which can increase the cost.

• Season and flexibility: Prices can be higher during peak moving seasons, like summer. If your timeline is flexible, you might be able to get a better rate than if you need expedited shipping.

Here are some cost-savings tips:

• Book in advance. Scheduling your car shipment several weeks or even months ahead of time can often secure you a lower rate and better availability. Last-minute bookings typically come with premium charges.

• Be flexible with your dates. If you can avoid peak moving seasons, like summer and holidays, you’ll likely find more competitive pricing. Shipping during the middle of the week can also be cheaper than on a weekend.

• Opt for open transport. Unless you have a classic or luxury vehicle, choosing an open carrier instead of an enclosed one is a major cost-saver. Open transport is the industry standard and is perfectly safe for most cars.

• Compare multiple quotes. Don't settle for the first price you get. Reaching out to several car shipping companies, including specialized long distance movers, will give you the leverage to find the best possible deal.

• Consider terminal-to-terminal shipping. While door-to-door service is convenient, you can often save money by dropping your car off and picking it up at a carrier's designated terminal. This reduces the trucker's time and mileage.

Towing is typically cheaper for short distances, like a local breakdown. For cross-country transport, shipping your car is often more cost-effective, and it's a service many long-distance movers offer. The best choice really depends on how far your car needs to go.

Your car typically needs to be cleaned, have about a quarter tank of gas, and have all personal items removed before pickup. You should also check your tire pressure and battery, and disable any car alarms. Many car movers will provide a full checklist, but it’s wise to take photos from all angles to document your vehicle's pre-shipping condition.

Car moving, also called auto transport, involves shipping your vehicle from one location to another using a professional carrier. The process starts by choosing a transport company and selecting pickup and delivery locations.

Your car is usually inspected and documented before being loaded onto a transport truck, either on an open or enclosed carrier. The vehicle is then secured and transported to the destination. Once delivered, the car is inspected again to confirm its condition.