When you move, there are many things to think about—packing up your belongings and finding a new place to live, for example. But what about your car? Fortunately, you can do a few things to make the process a bit easier. Keep reading for tips on what to do with your car when you're moving.

1) Ship Your Car

If you're moving across a long distance, shipping your car will be more practical than driving it. This will not only save you money on gas but also keep your car from accumulating unnecessary mileage. Driving your car across thousands of miles will place a lot of stress on its components and could lead to damage, so it's best to avoid that. Shipping your car allows you to stay safe on the road, and you'll be glad you did when you're unpacking in your new place. If you're looking for cheap car shipping, simply go online and check out the various car shipping companies' offerings. Here are some tips for shipping your car:

Wash Your Car

Before shipping your car, give it a good wash to get rid of any dirt or grime. When the vehicle gets to its destination, you'll be able to easily see if there's damage done during shipment without having to deal with any rust.

Disable the Alarm System

Since you won't be around to keep an eye on your car, it's a good idea to disable the alarm system. This way, it will not constantly go off while being transported. It's also essential to remove the car stereo and any other valuables in your car before shipping it.

Make Sure Your Car Has Proper ID Markings

When shipping your car, make sure that it's adequately identified by the car shipping company with your name, phone number, and address. This is so you can be contacted when your car arrives at its destination. Make sure to clearly mark the vehicle's exterior as well, in case it gets damaged or lost during shipment.

2) Drive Your Car

This is the most obvious and simple method for many people transporting automobiles to their new destinations. The movers pack up your stuff in a van and drive it to your new residence while you depart in the same direction in your own vehicle. This is one of the cheapest options, and it doesn't require you to pay extra for car shipping.

However, driving your car can be risky if you're not careful. If you're moving in the summertime, there's an increased risk of heatstroke when driving long distances with your windows up or in heavy traffic. Driving too far can even damage your car's engine. This method will also entail a lot of planning and budgeting. Here are some tips when driving your car to your new home:

Give Your Vehicle a Thorough Checkup

Before you leave, get your car checked out by a mechanic to ensure everything is in working order. If you're taking a long drive and it's been a while since you had your car serviced, stop into a local garage or shop before starting on your trip. They can give your vehicle the once-over and even seal small leaks to prevent further damage.

Plan Your Rest Stops Carefully

If you're driving a long distance—say, from Los Angeles to Illinois—plan your stops carefully. Look for locations that have restrooms and restaurants to make your trip more comfortable. If it's been a few hours since you've eaten, try to eat something small and quickly so you can keep moving forward. Make sure you stop in safe areas and don't leave any valuables in your car.

Prepare for Bad Weather

Storms and other dangerous weather conditions can make driving more difficult. If you plan on moving during winter, spring, or summertime all-inclusive holidays, be sure to have the right supplies with you. You'll want an emergency kit with things like extra warm clothes, water, food, flares, and a flashlight.

3) Don't Drive Your Car

For many people, the best option is to simply leave their car in place. Unfortunately, this can be difficult if you're moving far away or your new housing arrangements don't include a parking space for your vehicle. You'll have to weigh the pros and cons of not driving your car. If you decide not to drive your car, here are some tips to make the transition easier:

Find a Safe Spot

You must park your car in a safe location. If possible, find spots on level ground where it won't be exposed to bad weather or damage. Make sure whoever owns the parking space signs off on your parking arrangement so there won't be any trouble when you return for your car.

Rent Storage Space

If you need an alternative to leaving your car at its current spot, you may want to consider renting storage space for it. This is especially useful if you're moving somewhere that doesn't have an available parking space or garage. You can usually find this facility nearby or even online, and the costs are generally low.

Leave Your Car With a Family Member or Friend

If you know someone who lives nearby, ask them if you can leave your car with them. If they're not interested in keeping your vehicle for an extended period, see if they'll let you park it on their property as long as you need to.

4) Sell Your Car or Donate It

If driving is not an option for your move, you'll need to figure out what to do with your car. If it's still a functional vehicle, you can try to sell my car fort myers.

The Takeaway: Make the Right Decision With Your Car When Moving

There are many options outside of leaving your car or selling it. So, you have to be careful about making the right decision in this type of situation.