Hawaiian and Alaskan shipping are deemed to be challenging for some because of these states’ distances from the mainland or central area of the United States. Some auto transport companies will even require a hefty price increase before agreeing to port-to-port shipping with these. But with companies that have the proper connections, port-to-port shipping to Hawaii or Alaska will not be a problem.
There are basically two portions of the move, getting the car to the port and getting the car from port to port. Now instead of auto shipping companies delivering the car to a definite destination, the company will then deliver the vehicle to the port of either Hawaii or Alaska. In order to transport your car as smoothly as possible, there are some requirements that you need to present to your auto shipping company before shipping to Hawaii or Alaska.
Basically all rules that are required of car owners during domestic auto shipping apply to Hawaii or Alaska auto transport. You must surrender all keys including those of the glove box, gas tank, ignition and trunk keys. It may a better idea to make a copy of these keys to provide to your auto shipping company.
Most auto shippers will require copies of your original vehicle title and registration to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. If you own a car that is financed or leased, you will need a notarized statement from the bank noting that they are aware that the car is being shipped. Shipping a car that is not yours will require a letter of authorization from the actual owner plus proof of identification when he is present to pick up the car on the other end.
There are certain procedures to undertake to prepare your car for shipment but these must especially apply to cars being shipped to Hawaii or Alaska. The car’s gas tank must be less than a quarter tank full and all personal items and accessories must be removed from the car. In addition, your car must be in good working condition and have operational breaks, steering and transmission.
Most of these reminders are already ones involved when shipping cars domestically, but shipping cars either to Hawaii or Alaska has special considerations. Shipping to Hawaii and Alaska tends to have higher rates due to its distance and mode of transport. Cars will be placed in an enclosed container before being brought onto a cargo ship to avoid contact with dust, debris and other contaminants.
The climate of Hawaii is known to be typical of the tropics without being frequented by thunderstorms or tornados. Because the weather is fairly warm all year round, it seems that nothing can affect your auto transport to the Hawaiian island. Aside from definite port regulations, the sunny and exotic environment of Hawaii makes it a pleasure to transport cars.
Alaska is the biggest state in the U.S. in terms of area with over 586,412 square meters. While there aren’t any definite borders that define the regions of Alaska, there are six regions that are generally acknowledged, all with their own ports. Alaska is known to be home to ice and snow but its summertime proves to be warm and nice.
With auto shipping services to Alaska, the procedure for shipping cars may slightly vary. One important point revolves around the winter protection of your car as shipping to Alaska will mean that you must protect your battery and radiator from possible freezing conditions. Make sure that you plan ahead when shipping to Alaska during the winter time as the harsh weather is very likely to cause delays in your auto transport.
Transporting to Hawaii and Alaska is very similar to shipping internationally. Regulations, laws and customs are very similar to shipping overseas, which is why stricter rules apply to such auto trasnport services. However, shipping to both states can be convenient and worry-free as long as you’re working with the right people.