Transport car parts: Your comprehensive guide
Because auto parts can be oddly shaped and heavy, shipping them can come with challenging roadblocks.
Before you begin the shipping process, start with a full assessment of your needs. If your auto parts are not easily palletized or crated, decide in advance what packaging strategy will work.
Wrapping, padding, and sealing are all viable options when it comes to shipping car parts. Use these guidelines to develop a smooth shipping process for your auto parts.
How to ship car parts efficiently
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free process when shipping auto parts to your desired destination:
- Properly package the parts: Bumpers and other auto body parts typically need extra packaging materials so they are not dented or otherwise damaged during transit. Use appropriate packaging materials like bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts to prevent damage.
- Measure and weigh the packaged auto parts correctly: To get accurate shipping quotes and avoid any issues during transportation, measure and weigh the auto parts correctly.
- Choose the right shipping method: Depending on the size, weight, and urgency of your shipment, select the most suitable shipping method in our online quoting tool:
- Parcel shipping: Parcel is best for lighter parts (less than 150 pounds) that can fit in boxes to be crated.
- Less than truckload (LTL) shipping: LTL is ideal for larger or heavier automobile parts that don't require a full truckload.
- Full truckload (FTL) shipping: Great for a large quantity of automotive parts, FTL allows you to reserve an entire truck for your shipment.
- Choose a reputable carrier: Select a reliable and experienced carrier from our vast carrier network that specializes in shipping auto parts. Check LTL carrier ratings from previous customers directly in our online tool to ensure reliability.
- Consider expedited shipping (if needed): If time is crucial, explore expedited shipping options to ensure faster delivery.
- Label the packages clearly: Attach clear and visible shipping labels with accurate delivery and return addresses.
- Insure valuable shipments: If the auto parts are expensive or valuable, consider purchasing shipping insurance to protect against loss or damage.
- Track the shipment: Keep track of your shipment's progress every step of the way using our online tracking system.
Freightquote makes shipping auto parts easier
If you want to ship car parts quickly and efficiently but don't know where to begin, Freightquote by C.H. Robinson can help you master a plan you can rely on.
Common questions when shipping auto parts
What types of auto parts does Freightquote arrange transportation for?
Freightquote assists shippers with a wide variety of automotive parts, including bumpers, hoods, fenders, grills, spoilers, rims, doors and more. Reach out to one of our shipping experts today to see if Freightquote can assist with the automotive parts you would like to ship.
Do certain car parts have specific shipping requirements?
Not all auto parts require the same process. For example:
- Machinery parts like engines need to be drained of all fluids to avoid hazmat fees and delays.
- Most LTL carriers require engines to be fully crated.
- Freight carriers consider refurbished/rebuilt engines a used good with lower limited liability coverage—consider purchasing shippers interest insurance for added protection on these shipments.
Make sure to determine how your auto parts should be wrapped and padded to avoid loss and damage.
How much does it cost to ship auto parts?
The cost of shipping auto parts depends on numerous factors. To get an accurate estimate of the cost to ship your car parts, leverage our online tool to request free quotes from multiple reputable carriers.
What shipping class do auto parts fall into?
Exact freight class for auto parts can vary based on the specific type of part as well as its dimensions, weight, and any unique handling requirements. Providing accurate information about your shipment in our online tool will help ensure you receive the best quotes and proper handling during transit.
Will my auto parts be secure during transit?
Depending on the part, you may have to secure your shipment with extra packaging or filler. Filler can be a variety of materials, from packing peanuts to spray foam. Filler will help ensure your parts reach their final destination without any dents or scratches.
How can I track my auto parts throughout their journey?
Automotive parts, as with any items shipped with Freightquote, can be tracked easily and frequently. Use your bill of lading (BOL) number to track your shipment from the moment it leaves the dock up until when it arrives at its final destination.
Ready to ship your auto parts?
Choosing the right option to ship auto parts doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Freightquote, you discover the ideal shipping solution your auto parts—LTL, FTL, partial truckload, or parcel shipping—all backed by skilled experts and reliable carriers.