Introduction
Sending your child off to college is a proud and emotional milestone. With so much to prepare — dorm supplies, tuition, schedules — it’s easy to overlook one essential question: How will your child get around campus and beyond?
If you’ve decided that your child will need a car at college, getting it there safely is crucial. This blog will explain everything parents need to know about shipping a car to college, including what the process involves, why it’s a smart choice, how to do it the right way, and where you can find trusted help.
What Does It Mean to Ship a Car to College?
Shipping a car to college means hiring a professional auto transport company to move your child’s vehicle from your home to their university or dorm address. Rather than driving the car across states—which can add mileage, risks, and unnecessary stress—you can rely on a carrier to handle the logistics.
Auto transport companies like Minute By Minute Logistics specialize in making sure vehicles arrive safely, securely, and on time—giving you and your student one less thing to worry about.
Why Parents Choose to Ship Instead of Drive
Here are the major reasons:
- Avoid Wear and Tear: New vehicles or gently used cars can lose value with long-distance driving.
- Safety: Long road trips are tiring and dangerous for inexperienced drivers.
- Convenience: College drop-offs are hectic enough. Letting a professional handle the car allows you to focus on move-in day.
- Time-Saving: Flying to campus while the car is transported saves valuable time.
The Cost of Risk: What Happens If You Drive Instead?
| Risk | Potential Issue | Estimated Cost |
| Roadside Breakdowns | Emergency repairs | $300 – $2,000 |
| Accidents | Insurance claims, medical bills | $500 – $5,000+ |
| Tire Wear & Tear | Replacement cost | $400 – $1,200 |
| Depreciation | Loss of resale value | $500 – $2,000 |
Investing in professional shipping often ends up saving money and stress compared to a risky, long-distance drive.
How to Ship a Car to Your Child’s College Safely
- Book Early: Colleges have fixed move-in dates. Scheduling in advance ensures pickup and delivery align perfectly.
- Choose Between Open and Enclosed Transport: For standard vehicles, open carriers are cost-effective. For luxury or delicate vehicles, opt for enclosed transport.
- Prepare the Vehicle: Remove personal items, leave ¼ tank of gas, and ensure the battery is charged.
- Inspect Before and After Shipping: Document the vehicle’s condition with photos. Share a copy with the transporter.
- Work with a Reputable Company: Read reviews, confirm licensing, and ensure insurance coverage is adequate.
Where to Find Reliable College Car Shipping
At Minute By Minute Logistics, we understand how important your child’s safety and convenience are during this transition. That’s why we offer:
- Nationwide pickup and delivery
- Full insurance coverage
- Tracking and customer support throughout the shipment
- Options for both open and enclosed carriers
You can request a free quote here to start the process today.
For additional tips, check out our Ultimate Pre-Shipping Checklist.
Conclusion
Sending a car to college can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right preparation and the right shipping partner, it’s a smooth and stress-free process. By trusting professionals like Minute By Minute Logistics, you can ensure that your student starts their new adventure with confidence—and with their car safely parked on campus, ready for every journey ahead.
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