How to Ship Automotive Parts
Is your precious cargo complicated and heavy — say engines, transmissions, or automotive parts? Here are some tips for getting your freight shipped!
How to Ship a Motor
Whether you’re a car enthusiast, mechanic, or restorer, we understand that sometimes you may need to ship an engine or a whole load of automotive parts.
Whether you dabble in rebuilding classic cars or enjoy the deep satisfaction of beautifully refurbished antique or classic wooden boats, we can also help you ship the parts you need to complete your project.
The restoration and repair of cars require specialized equipment, and it can be challenging to get what you need, when & where you need it. Sometimes we must move mountains to get to that perfect ‘69 Camaro SS hood or classic burgundy Flambeau outboard…or at the very least, we must hire someone to do it for us.
When your precious cargo is complicated and heavy—150 pounds or more—LTL or less-than-truckload, shipping will likely be your most practical carrier method.
LTL shipping is reserved for freight that’s too heavy for regular courier delivery but too small to take up a full truckload trailer. Since specialty automotive parts need special preparation and packaging, here are some packing guidelines for optimum protection during shipping.
We provide competitive freight shipping prices and an all-inclusive, easy-to-use shipping experience for our customers. Exceeding our customers’ expectations results in thousands of satisfied customer reviews and repeat business. We believe in the power of our customer relationships. Check out FreightCenter reviews from real customers, and learn what they have to say about their freight shipping experience!
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Why Ship Automotive Parts With FreightCenter?
- Expertise in Handling: FreightCenter has experience shipping a wide range of automotive parts, from small to larger items like engines or body panels. They understand the specific packaging and handling requirements to ensure these parts arrive undamaged.
- Customized Solutions: Automotive parts vary in size, weight, and fragility. FreightCenter provides solutions tailored to specific shipping needs.
- Access to Carrier Network: FreightCenter has access to various carriers, including those with expertise in shipping automotive parts. This ensures that customers have various options when picking a carrier that meets their requirements.
- Cost-Effective Shipping Options: FreightCenter can provide cost-effective shipping options for automotive parts and help you save money on shipping expenses.
Shipping Automotive Parts
Automobile Engine Shipping
Whether your focus is race cars, muscle cars, contemporaries, or the classics—the guidelines for shipping engines are the same.
According to the third-party logistics specialists at FreightCenter, first ensure that all liquids, including water, have been drained to avoid delay, damage, and additional charges.
Then, it’s best to pack your engine properly by crating it and securing it to a standard pallet. If you’re worried about scratches or dents, be sure it’s fully enclosed.
FreightCenter recommends taking your crated, palletized engine directly to the carrier terminal to save on the first and last leg of travel. You can also use terminal-to-terminal services to save on accessorial charges and extra fees.
Transmissions
When it comes to shipping transmissions, they’re handled much the same way as engines. Again, you must drain all fluids—it’s a good idea to flip the transmission bell housing down and let the oil drip into a pan for a few hours;
Clean off the grease and grime, and remove any fragile parts to pack separately. Protect the shipping container from leaks by wrapping the transmission in several plastic bags.
Then, it can be crated, wrapped in blankets or cardboard and shrink-wrapped, or put inside a large plastic tote with foam padding and taped shut. Strap your package securely to a pallet, and you’re good to go.
LTL shipping is a way to transport smaller loads that don't need an entire truck. LTL carriers usually combine several smaller shipments from different customers onto one truck. This sharing of transportation costs helps cut down on overall shipping expenses.
FreightCenter's White Glove Services are designed to provide a premium shipping experience, particularly for items that require extra care and attention. From specialized handling to inside delivery and assembly, they aim to make the shipping process as smooth and stress-free as possible for their customers.
Expedited shipping is a service designed for freight that requires faster delivery. Carriers give priority to expedited shipments, resulting in fewer stops and delays compared to standard shipping.
Specialized is a transportation option for items that require specialized handling, equipment, or shipping conditions. Specialized shipments may include high-value cargo, oversized cargo, or cargo that require temperature-controlled transportation. The most reliable Specialized Freight Services rates from all the top carriers are just a few steps away. From white glove service to international shipping, we've got you covered.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Shipping Car Seats
When shipping seats, carefully consider your transport options and pack accordingly. If they could be exposed to wet weather, make sure the seats are encased in plastic. And if you’re shipping wheels, protect them against scratches and dings by wrapping them in a soft cloth before covering them with cardboard.
Whew! Lots of care and effort goes into some of our favorite hobbies and crafts, doesn’t it?
Luckily, most shippers offer specialized services to make your life easier. It’s indeed more affordable to take your freight directly to the terminal, but it’s also true we don’t all have the money to transport a 400-pound engine.
In the end, remember that your final shipping price ultimately depends on accuracy. To avoid costly surprises:
1. Make sure your listed freight weight includes the pallet and packaging.
2. Ensure the dimensions—height, width, and length—are correct, and remember, the smaller and tighter the package, the greater the savings potential.
3. Consider any necessary accessorial, and get estimates from multiple carriers. Lots of third-party logistics companies can streamline this process for you.
Finally, FreightCenter has experience with shipping various automotive parts. Using the shipping services and tips provided by FreightCenter, you can look forward to the moment you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride by giving us a call or getting a quote.
Shipping Automotive Parts FAQ
Q. How do I ship heavy car parts?
When it comes to shipping heavy car parts, using a freight shipping service is the most economical option. Freight shipping is specifically designed to transport bulky and heavy items over long distances. Compared to parcel shipping services like FedEx or UPS, freight shipping provides a more cost-effective solution for shipping large car parts.
Q. How are automotive parts typically packaged for freight shipping?
Automotive parts are usually packaged in sturdy boxes, crates, or pallets to protect them from damage during transit. Adequate cushioning and padding are used to prevent movement and ensure the parts arrive safely.
Q. What shipping class is auto parts?
Auto parts are typically classified under the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system. The shipping class for auto parts depends on their specific characteristics, such as size, weight, and fragility. It is important to provide accurate information to the shipping carrier to ensure proper classification and avoid any potential issues during transit. Consider consulting the NMFC or contacting your shipping carrier for more specific guidelines.
Q. How are automotive parts typically packaged for freight shipping?
Automotive parts are usually packaged in sturdy boxes, crates, or pallets to protect them from damage during transit. Adequate cushioning and padding are used to prevent movement and ensure the parts arrive safely.
Q. What types of automotive parts can be shipped via freight?
A wide range of automotive parts can be shipped via freight, including engine components, transmission parts, body panels, tires, exhaust systems, batteries, and more.
Why Use FreightCenter?
Exceptional Customer Service
FreightCenter offers shipping experts who are there to help you every step of the way. They blend technology with human support, which makes them stand out from other shipping options.
Convenience and Efficiency
FreightCenter's software lets you quickly check rates, create labels and shipping documents, and track shipments in real-time. It makes shipping easier and saves you time.
Wide Network of Carriers
FreightCenter has a strong network of reliable carriers, allowing you to choose from a variety of shipping options.