Earth is dying, and it’s because of you. Yes, you and every other human being on this planet. Everything from the perfumes you use to the vehicles you drive has an impact on the environment. Although using day-to-day necessities can’t be avoided, you can always do something to minimize the detrimental effects.
It’s not too late to save the planet and future generations. Your choices can make a difference even when shipping a car to New York City. Considering this, here are some ways to think green on your next auto transport booking.
Hire an Environment-Conscious Shipping Company
Eco-friendly transport begins from the carrier itself. Many shipping companies are only in it for the money and do not care if their methods add more pollution. You’ll want to avoid working with these people as much as possible. Make sure you enlist the help of haulers who share your vision to preserve the environment.
But how do you find a reliable green shipping company? By asking the right questions, of course! While requesting a quote, you might as well ask your potential company:
- What type of fuel do your trucks use?
- How often do you perform maintenance on your vehicles to make sure they consistently produce lower emissions?
- How do you map out the shortest route to your destination?
After asking, try to observe their response. You’ll know that they’re the right company if they can confidently answer these questions while providing you a sensible explanation. It’s also important to check their certifications and see if they’re authorized to run a shipping business.
Choose a Consolidated Delivery Option
Why? Assuming they’re headed to the same destination, an open trailer carrying four automobiles is more fuel-effective than two trucks containing a single car each. This means fewer emissions for the ozone layer. Plus, you’re also reducing the cost since fuel charges are divided among other cars in the transport batch.
One little misconception that some people make is that open-air deliveries aren’t safe. Well, it’s obviously riskier than enclosed private trailers, but this doesn’t mean the company won’t handle the cars properly. You shouldn’t have to worry as long as you hire a trusted carrier.
Opt for Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
Somewhat relative to consolidated delivery, terminal-to-terminal shipping works by taking your car to a designated warehouse. You’ll then have to pick it up from there and drive it home yourself. Sounds like a hassle, right? But if you want the car delivered to your doorstep, think about the congestion in NYC. It has some of the worst traffic in the country.
The trailer carrying your auto will have to compete with terrible traffic to reach its destination. Keep in mind that the longer it stays on the road, the more harmful gases it will release into the atmosphere. Not to mention your shipping company will probably charge extra for this extended service. Driving your car is more affordable since it consumes less fuel. Looking at the bright side, it’s also a good opportunity for you to get used to the NYC road experience.
Avoid Air Freight if You Can
You don’t necessarily need to ship your car via air. Not unless you’re transporting a luxury car. Besides the absurd costs, planes generate far more carbon dioxide than trucks.
Check out this data by the European Environment Agency (EEA) on vehicle emissions:
- 14 g of CO2 / passenger/km for the train
- 42 g CO2 / passenger/km for a small car
- 55 g of CO2 / passenger/km for an average car
- 68 g CO2 /passenger/km for a bus
- 72 g CO2 /passenger/km for a two-wheel motor
- 285 g CO2 /passenger/km for a plane
If you substitute the bus for a truck (since they’re the closest in size), you’ll see a considerable 217g difference in emission compared to a plane! So, even if you can afford it, think about how your choice can reduce Earth’s already thinning ozone layer.
Choose a Company That Drives Biodiesel Trucks
Although planes are a no-go, on-road vehicle transport still contributes to more than one-third of the air pollution that causes smog. On top of that, at least 27% of greenhouse gas emissions that affect the U.S. come from cars. Since most trucks run on conventional diesel, they make a huge impact as well. However, times have changed. A lot of trailers can now utilize biodiesel, a type of fuel that comes from vegetable oil and natural gas. Studies show that blending it with petroleum diesel results in a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Of course, you won’t be the one doing the science work and creating the mixtures. But you could always ensure that you hire a company that makes use of biodiesel trucks.
Conclusion
Shipping a car to NY without compromising the environment shouldn’t be a problem. It might cost you a little more, but in return, you contribute to the survival of future generations. That alone should make it worth it. Hope your car arrives safely!