Classic car shows are a staple of American culture. They provide a glimpse into the past, celebrating creativity, innovation, and love for all things automotive. Events are held all over the US, particularly during the summer months. If you’re looking to participate in an auto show, but aren’t sure about how to get your ride safely and securely from point A to B, you’ve come to the right page! Below, you’ll learn the steps necessary to shipping a classic automobile to a car show, as well as the five most popular classic car shows in the nation.
Shipping a Classic Car to Car Show
Start off on the right foot to ensure that your classic auto is properly shipped to and from anywhere in the United States.
Select the Right Auto Shipping Company
Obviously, you don’t want to pick just any outfit for your cherished vehicle.
1. Research, research, research
Without the right information, you’re basically shooting in the dark when it comes to booking a car shipping company. Read reviews from verified customers. Reach out to companies and check out their websites. Make sure they ship from your vehicle’s current location to the event, and vice versa.
2. Select the proper services
When transporting a classic or vintage car, there are several unique considerations.
- First, you want to go with enclosed carrier transport. This will ensure that your treasured vehicle is fully safeguarded from the elements.
- Second, many autos of this type are lower, requiring a hydraulic lift to protect from scraping and other damage.
- Third, you’ll want the added security of climate control, cloth covers, nylon saddle tie-downs, and so on. These precautions will help ensure drama-free transport.
3. Booking a broker vs. carrier
A broker helps you find an auto shipping company, while a carrier has its own fleet. The advantage of choosing a broker is that they can make the process much smoother, helping with shipping routes, times, trailer options, and more. Dealing with a carrier can be a lot more stressful than dealing with a broker.
Prepare Your Classic Car for Shipping
Whether you’re hauling it yourself or hiring a company, you’ll want to take the proper steps for seamless (and damage-free) transport.
1. Thoroughly clean
Since you’re attending a car show, this seems like a no-brainer. You want it to arrive at its destination in tiptop condition. There’s another reason, however, to clean your car prior to loading up on a trailer. This step will allow you to spot any previous issues. Once your vehicle is shipped and cleaned again, you have a baseline in order to spot any problems that might have occurred during transportation.
2. Remove all unnecessary items
This helps in several cases. One, you don’t want to leave anything in your car that you might need during transit. Two, if you’re driving your vehicle to a car show, you probably don’t want anything that can weigh it down and lower gas mileage. Three, you don’t want to lose anything important!
3. Take care of the battery and gas
It can be a big headache if your auto doesn’t run. To ensure that you won’t deal with an inoperable car (as well as any extra charges that can be incurred), test your battery and recharge/replace it accordingly. Also, make sure you have approximately a quarter tank of gasoline in your vehicle.
4. Check AC system
This is especially important if you’re riding through super cold or hot climates. Make sure your antifreeze is all set to handle colder temperatures, while your AC system is ready to handle hotter temperatures (including inspection of AC compressor and recharge of AC system with pressurized coolant).
5. Provide instructions to the driver
Clear communication is key. This is especially crucial if you’re not handling the vehicle personally. Classic cars can have a number of special considerations – ride height, steering, suspension, size, weight, and so on – that can make or break a smooth unloading and unloading process. Mention any and all quirks and special needs of your classic ride.
Other Considerations
Along with the preparation and booking tips previously mentioned, you’ll also want to cover your bases with the following:
1. Plan ahead and give ample time
Simply put, brokers and carriers can’t guarantee drop-off times. That’s why it’s suggested you transport a week in advance. Of course, this adds to the cost of everything, but it’s much better than arriving at a car show without your car. Always account for possible delays (for transport to and from the event).
2. Don’t choose just based on price
This may be handy for run-of-the-mill vehicles, but you don’t want to take your chances just to save a bit of money. Generally speaking, if a rate seems too good, it probably is. Spend the right amount for your prized auto.
3. Uncovered vs. enclosed shipping
We already brought up the importance of an enclosed transport option. This provides full protection, but it does cost more than an uncovered option. If your vehicle is in pristine condition, go with covered transport.
4. Utilize proper equipment
Whether you’re hauling it yourself or handing your classic car over to a professional, the proper equipment is paramount. From trailers to hydraulic lifts to proper straps and wheel nets, make sure that your vehicle is fully safeguarded.
5. Running car vs. non-running car
Some vintage cars are either works-in-progress or simply don’t run. When this is the case, you’ll need to find a transporter that can cater to your requirements. This can result in more labor, so be prepared to pay more.
Five Biggest Classic Car Show in the US
From Detroit muscle to Italian speed, America is home to some of the most awesome examples of automotive excellence in the world. Of course, we need places to share the beauty of these rides with other enthusiasts and novices alike. In every state, there’s a long heritage of showcasing our cars with pride. But what are the best classic car shows?
Without further ado, here are the top five classic car shows in the US.
1. Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance
Held in the seaside town of Monterey – it’s home of the world-famous golf course of the same name – Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance is a nearly two-week extravaganza. From Little Car Show to Concorso Italiano to Pebble Beach Tour D’Elegance, there are myriad events that highlight the most amazing (and sometimes quirky) classic vehicles on the planet. And it’s not uncommon to literally bump into celebrities here. The Concours, which is French for the ‘parade of vintage vehicles,’ takes place during the month of August and showcases approximately 200 vehicles. If you’re a car aficionado, this premier event is definitely a bucket list item!
2. Charlotte Auto Fair
Nestled in the most populous city in North Carolina, the Charlotte Auto Fair is another world-renowned event. Drawing folks from all over the globe, it is dedicated to the promotion of factory-restored classic rides that are at least 25 years or older. Typically held twice a year – two 4-day events held in April and September – the semi-annual event attracts no less than an average of 150,000 attendees combined. And if you’re into NASCAR, NHRA, and World of Outlaws, you’ll love the fact that it takes place at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Plus, there’s an auto parts flea market for those looking for that one last part to complete a build.
3. Iola Classic Car Show
Held during the second week of July, the Iola Classic Car Show has been running for almost 50 years. Showcasing MOPAR, Chevy, and everything in between, this is one of America’s biggest car shows. Here are the stats: more than 100,000 attendees, 2,500+ show cars, 4,000 swap spaces, and 1,000 car corral spaces. On top of that, the event serves up some of the best food and giveaways around! In 2021, the theme is “The 70s Show Re-Run” and will highlight everything from muscular Ford Mach 1s to colorful Rancheros. Fun for the whole family, the Iola Classic Car Show is an event that will keep you smiling at every turn.
4. Back to the 50s Weekend
Another long-running favorite – it’s been around for nearly 50 years – Back to the 50s Weekend is exactly what it sounds like. Held in St. Paul at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, this massive gathering showcases more than 12,000 classic rides from street rods to drag cars to fully restored gems. It’s held in June over the course of three days, offering a ton of amazing rides, live performances, food, and more. This event is so good, it has been named USA Today’s Best Car Show not once, not twice, but three times in a row!
5. Woodward Dream Cruise
Unmatched in size and attendance – over 40,000 muscle cars, hot rods, and other classic cars, along with 1 million attendees – Woodward Dream Cruise certainly lives up to its name. With those stats, you can see why the event is touted as the world’s largest cruise (as well as the globe’s biggest one-day auto event). It’s also fitting that it takes place in Detroit aka Motor City, the automotive powerhouse for many decades. If you want to be part of history, Woodward Dream Cruise is the place to be!
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