So you’re moving interstate? That’s exciting! But if you’re like most Australians, you’re probably wondering what it’s going to cost to get your car from point A to point B. Trust me, I get it – moving is stressful enough without having to worry about unexpected transport costs hitting your budget.
Let’s break down what you can actually expect to pay, and more importantly, how to avoid getting ripped off in the process.
Why Some People Pay More (And How to Avoid It)
Your Car Makes a Difference
Got a massive 4WD or a lowered sports car? You’re probably going to pay more. It’s not personal – it’s just that your car takes up more space or needs special handling. My neighbor learned this the hard way when his lifted Hilux cost him an extra $200 because of the height modifications.
If you’ve got a standard sedan or hatchback, you’re in luck – these are the easiest (and cheapest) to transport.
Open vs Covered Transport: The Age-Old Dilemma
Open transport is like taking the bus – it gets the job done and saves you money. Your car will be exposed to the elements, but honestly, most vehicles handle it just fine.
Enclosed transport is like flying first class. Your car gets VIP treatment in a covered trailer, but you’ll pay 30-50% more for the privilege. Unless you’re moving a classic Mustang or your brand-new BMW, open transport is probably fine.
Location, Location, Location
Moving between major cities? Great news – you’ll have plenty of options and competitive pricing. But if you’re heading to somewhere remote (looking at you, folks moving to country towns), expect to pay a premium. Transport companies need to factor in the extra time and fuel for those lonely return trips.
Timing Can Save You Hundreds
Here’s a tip most people don’t know: avoid school holidays and summer if you can. Everyone moves during these times, so prices go up. I saved $300 by moving my car in February instead of December. Sometimes patience really does pay off.
Money-Saving Hacks That Actually Work
Be Flexible with Dates
If you can give the transport company a window of a few days rather than demanding a specific date, you’ll often get a better deal. They can fit your car in when it’s convenient for their schedule.
Don’t Just Go with the First Quote
I know, I know – getting quotes is a pain. But spending 30 minutes getting three different quotes could save you $200-500. That’s pretty good money for half an hour of work.
Clean Out Your Car
This might sound silly, but remove all your personal stuff. Some companies weigh the car, and extra weight can bump up the price. Plus, you really don’t want your belongings rattling around during transport.
Make Sure Your Car Runs
Non-running cars are a nightmare for transport companies. They need special equipment to load them, which means extra costs for you. If your car has issues, get them fixed before transport or be prepared to pay more.
The Sneaky Costs Nobody Tells You About
Storage Fees Are Real
If you’re doing terminal-to-terminal transport (where you drop off and pick up at depots), don’t dawdle. Most places charge around $20-50 per day if your car sits there too long. Set a reminder on your phone!
Fuel Surcharges Pop Up
When petrol prices spike, some companies add fuel surcharges. It’s usually not huge, but it can catch you off guard if you weren’t expecting it.
Remote Delivery Costs Extra
Live somewhere that’s not easy to get to? You might pay extra for the driver to navigate those winding country roads to your front door.
How to Pick a Good Transport Company (Without Getting Burned)
Check Their Reviews (But Read the Bad Ones)
Everyone’s got good reviews somewhere. The real test is reading the complaints. How does the company respond? Do they try to fix problems or just ignore them?
Ask About Insurance
Most companies have insurance, but what exactly does it cover? Get this in writing. Your car insurance might not cover transport damage, so understand what protection you actually have.
Communication Matters
A good company will keep you updated. If they go radio silent after you book, that’s a red flag. You should know when your car will be picked up and when to expect delivery.
Getting Your Car Ready for Transport
The Prep Work
- Give your car a wash (so you can spot any new damage)
- Take photos of any existing scratches or dents
- Remove everything personal (seriously, everything)
- Keep the fuel tank about quarter full
- Make sure the tires aren’t flat
Paperwork You’ll Need
Have your registration and license ready. Some companies are stricter than others, but better to be prepared.
The Bottom Line
Look, transporting your car interstate isn’t cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either. The key is being realistic about what you need and doing your homework on companies.
Don’t just go with the cheapest quote – I’ve heard too many horror stories about cars arriving damaged or weeks late because someone tried to save $100 upfront. Sometimes paying a bit more for peace of mind is worth it.
Most importantly, book early. Good transport companies get booked up, especially during busy periods. Give yourself at least 2-4 weeks if possible.
Planning Your Move
Remember, your car transport is just one piece of your interstate move puzzle. Factor it into your overall budget alongside flights, accommodation, and all the other moving costs that seem to pop up out of nowhere.
Moving interstate is a big deal, but thousands of Australians do it successfully every year. With a bit of planning and the right transport company, your car will arrive safely at your new home, ready for your next adventure.
The key is staying informed, comparing your options, and not rushing into the first deal you see. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you for taking the time to do it right.
