Recent Alaska Shipping News

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Pros of buying a used car
Cons of buying a used car
 

Pros of buying a used car

Buying a used car can offer numerous advantages for savvy consumers looking to make a practical and economical choice. One of the primary benefits is cost savings. New cars depreciate rapidly within the first few years, losing a significant portion of their value. By purchasing a used car, you avoid the steepest part of this depreciation curve, allowing you to get more value for your money. This also means you can afford a higher-end model or more advanced features that might be out of reach when buying new.

Used cars often have a lower insurance premium than new ones, as the cost to replace and repair older vehicles are generally lower. Furthermore, registration fees and taxes are typically lower for used cars due to their reduced value. This can lead to long-term savings in ownership costs. Additionally, buying a used car provides a broader selection of makes, models, and years, enabling you to find a vehicle that suits your preferences and needs while staying within your budget. This variety also means you’re more likely to find a vehicle with proven reliability, as you can research the history of a particular model’s performance and any recurring issues over time.

Modern cars are built to last longer and require less frequent maintenance, meaning that even a used car can provide reliable transportation for years. Plus, you can use online resources and forums to learn about the common issues associated with a specific model and how to address them. Finally, by purchasing a used car, you may be able to afford additional features, such as upgraded audio systems, premium materials, or advanced safety technologies that might be optional or expensive add-ons in a new car.
 

Cons of buying a used car

While purchasing a used car has advantages, there are also notable downsides that consumers should carefully consider before deciding. One significant drawback is the potential for hidden issues and uncertainties regarding the vehicle’s history. Despite diligent research, it’s often challenging to ascertain the true condition of a used car, as it might have been poorly maintained, involved in accidents, or suffered from wear and tear that isn’t immediately apparent. This can lead to unexpected repair costs and frustrations. Another downside is the absence of the latest features and technologies that come with new cars. Older models can be reliable, but they might lack the advanced safety features, fuel efficiency improvements, and modern infotainment systems in newer vehicles. This can result in a compromise between affordability and having the latest conveniences.

Used cars generally come with fewer warranties compared to new ones. Manufacturer warranties often expire after a certain time or mileage, leaving you responsible for repair costs. Extended warranties can be purchased, but they add to the overall cost of ownership. Depreciation, although less severe in used cars, still affects their value. As the vehicle ages, its resale value will continue to decrease, potentially impacting your ability to recoup your investment when it’s time to sell or trade in the car.

Maintenance costs can also be a concern with used cars. While modern vehicles are built to last, older cars might require more frequent repairs and replacement parts, leading to higher maintenance expenses. Moreover, the availability of parts might become an issue for certain older models, making repairs more difficult and expensive.

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What winter weather typically does to a car’s fuel economy
Why winter weather hurts your gas mileage
How you can prevent winter weather from hurting your fuel economy in Alaska
Final word
 

What winter weather typically does to a car’s fuel economy

Tests have shown that winter weather can significantly reduce a car’s gas mileage. On average, for every eight miles you get in warm weather you will only get seven miles in cold weather. However, this does depend on the type of car. Hybrids, for example, lose an entire third of their fuel economy in winter weather.
 

Why winter weather hurts your gas mileage

There are multiple reasons that winter weather affects your gas mileage this way. One such reason is that it will take your car a considerably longer time to get to its ideal operating temperature which causes the engine to work harder to get to that temperature thus using more gas.

Things like window defrosting and heater fans will burn more gas because the amount of energy and heat they require to work properly. The pressure in your tires slowly but surely decreases in cold weather, this increases the resistance of the tires and subsequently causes the engine to work harder.

Also, when you do things like use four-wheel-drive or idle your car to “warm it up” you decrease the amount of fuel economy that your car has.
 

How you can prevent winter weather from hurting your fuel economy in Alaska

There are actually several steps you can take in order to minimize the effect that winter weather has on your gas mileage:

• Minimize use of seat-warmers and defrosters – The more energy-expending features that you use for longer periods, the more fuel you will end up burning through. So, try to use things like the seat-warmers and defrosters as little as possible.
• Get an oil change – You should be using different oil for warm weather driving and for cold weather driving. Check the manual that came with your car for a recommendation. Alternatively, you can always ask your mechanic what the best choice of oil is for driving in the winter in Alaska.
• Keep an eye on the pressure of the tires – We mentioned earlier that the tire pressure of your vehicle can easily decrease over-time in cold weather. So, be sure you check your tire pressure at least once a week and if the pressure has dipped, fill them back up.
• Keep your car in a garage if possible – If you have the option of keeping your car from getting to cold in the first place, then use it.
• Watch for wind – Wind resistance can cause your car to have to work much harder. So, try to avoid driving when it is particularly windy out. Also, you can minimize wind resistance by removing anything from your car that would affect the way wind passes over it, such as a roof rack.

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How to react to a chip in your windshield
How to avoid chips in your windshield
Conclusion
 

How to react to a chip in your windshield

Some people will choose to ignore a new chip in their windshield and that is a mistake, in Alaska or anywhere else. A chip in your windshield can start to crack which can easily end up getting bigger and bigger. Cracks in your windshield will really weaken its effectiveness in protecting you from debris as well as put you at risk of getting an expensive ticket.

That is why as soon as you get a chip in your windshield, you should take care of it right away. You will have a few options for getting a chip in your windshield repaired. You could choose to take care of it yourself by getting a windshield repair kit. This will be the least expensive but most complicated and time-consuming option. If you go this route, follow the directions that come with the kit carefully. You can also find instructional videos on sites like YouTube as well if you need to see the process in action first.

You also have the option of getting professional glass repair for your chip. There are two types of this service, taking your car to a glass repair shop and mobile glass repair. Taking your car to a shop will take less time but it will be a bit less expensive. Mobile glass repair will cost a bit more but it will be much more convenient because the service will send one of their qualified repair people to your location and they will get the job done while you go about your day within an hour or two in most cases.
 

How to avoid chips in your windshield

If you want to skip the hassle of getting a chip in your windshield repaired, you should try your best to avoid getting one in the first place. Sometimes getting a chip will be unavoidable, however, you should do what you can to minimize the chance of getting one.

Doing so will actually not be that difficult. You can start by driving more slowly. By driving slower there will be less of a chance of debris coming up off of the road and striking your windshield. You can also stay away from larger vehicles like eighteen wheelers and vehicles that are driving very fast and or aggressively. Always try to avoid driving off-road and/or on gravel. Finally, do whatever is in your power to keep your distance from the vehicle driving in front of you.
 

Conclusion

Chips in your car’s windshield can be a definite inconvenience. However, they can turn into a major problem and can even become quite dangerous for you and your passengers. If you get a chip, get it fixed as soon as you can. You can do it yourself with the right repair kit, you can bring your car into the shop, or you can hire a mobile glass repair service. If you drive safely, avoid off-roading and keep your distance from the car that is driving in front of you, it can go a long way in terms of preventing these chips.

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Driving respectfully near a funeral procession
Driving safely near motorcades
 

Driving respectfully near a funeral procession

Funeral processions are typically marked by a line of vehicles with headlights on and hazard lights flashing. Be observant and attentive to spot these signs and identify the procession. Yield the right of way: When you notice a funeral procession approaching, yield the right of way to the procession, regardless of traffic signals or right-of-way rules. Give them the space and time they need to proceed safely.

Keep a safe distance behind the vehicles in the funeral procession. Maintain this distance to avoid disrupting the procession and allow the vehicles to stay together. Avoid passing or cutting through the procession: Do not attempt to pass or cut through the funeral procession, as it disrupts the unity and solemnity of the procession. Wait patiently until the entire procession has passed before resuming your normal driving.

While showing respect to the funeral procession, it is still essential to obey traffic laws and signals. This includes stopping at red lights and stop signs, following speed limits, and using proper turn signals when necessary. The funeral procession is a solemn and emotional event for the grieving family and friends. Exercise patience and empathy, even if it means adjusting your schedule or being delayed momentarily.

Pay extra attention to the movements of the procession, pedestrians, and other vehicles around you. Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions that could compromise your safety or the safety of those in the procession.
 

Driving safely near motorcades

Stay informed about any scheduled motorcades in your area through local news or traffic updates. Be prepared to adjust your route or timings accordingly. When encountering a motorcade on the road, keep a safe distance behind the lead vehicle. It’s crucial not to tailgate or attempt to overtake any motorcade vehicles.

Pay close attention to law enforcement officers, security personnel, or traffic control signals accompanying the motorcade. Follow their instructions promptly and precisely. Understand that motorcades may disrupt traffic flow, causing delays. Remain calm, patient, and avoid sudden maneuvers or aggressive driving behavior.

Abrupt stops or lane changes can pose a significant risk to the motorcade and other road users. Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden maneuvers that may startle or endanger the motorcade. It is imperative to follow all traffic laws and regulations. Do not violate speed limits, run red lights, or ignore stop signs. Maintain proper lane discipline and yield the right-of-way when necessary.

Keep a vigilant eye on the movements of the motorcade vehicles. Anticipate their actions, such as lane changes or turns, and adjust your driving accordingly to provide sufficient space and avoid any collisions. Motorcades often involve the presence of emergency vehicles with lights and sirens. Give them the right-of-way and clear the way promptly, ensuring they have a safe path to navigate.

Refrain from using mobile devices or distracting activities while driving near a motorcade. Stay focused on the road and the motorcade movements. Stay updated with the motorcade’s progress to anticipate any additional traffic disruptions or road closures. This knowledge can help you plan alternate routes or adjust your driving plans as needed.

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Driving behind a snowplow
Safely passing a snowplow
Final word
 

Driving behind a snowplow

Over the winter months in Alaska, there is a good possibility that you will find yourself driving behind a snowplow at some point. When you do, it is extremely important that you stay safe and avoid what could possibly be a dangerous situation. Snowplows will have less focus on the traffic around them as well as less of a field of vision due to the job they are performing as they drive. They will also be moving a lot of snow which can partially move back onto the roadway after being plowed.

That is why you should keep your distance when driving behind a snowplow. In general, the recommendation is that you stay at least fifteen car lengths behind a snowplow when you are driving behind it. This will mean driving the same speed or slower than the plow which will be considerably under the speed limit so, realize your travel time will increase significantly. Finally, you should realize that there will still be patches of snow and ice left on the road after a plow goes over it as it is not possible for a plow to do a completely perfect job in one pass. Thus, you should still expect slippery conditions on the road which has already been plowed.
 

Safely passing a snowplow

It is legal and accepted driving behavior if you need to pass a snowplow. However, it is not the safest thing you can do. Although, we realize you still might need to be somewhere at a certain time even right after a snowstorm. So, if you do pass a snowplow make sure you do so as safely and cautiously as possible.

In order to pass a snowplow correctly and safely you first should only pass when they are not actively plowing snow. You will be able to tell because you will not see snow being thrown off the road to one side or the other of the plow. You should also be sure that the lane next to the snowplow has been cleared of snow before you attempt to pass. Be sure to also give ample signal and that you do not pass too closely or spend too much time in the snowplow’s blind spot when you are passing.
 

Final word

Anytime that you are driving right after inclement winter weather, you need to take it slow and cautiously. This is especially true when you are driving behind a snowplow. You need to allow them to do their job so roads can be cleared in a timely and thorough manner. You should always keep a distance of at least fifteen car lengths behind them. Never pass them when they are actively plowing and if you do pass them when they are not plowing, do so with extra caution.

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Cold weather battery issues
Poor battery connections and other car battery problems
 

Cold weather battery issues

Cold weather in Alaska can cause a range of obstacles for car batteries, leading to various issues that can seriously impede their performance and dependability. In cold weather, several factors contribute to these problems, including decreased battery capacity, heightened internal resistance, and difficulty properly facilitating necessary chemical reactions.

One of the main issues with cold weather and car batteries is reduced capacity. Colder temperatures cause a decrease in the chemical reactions occurring inside the battery, causing in a significant decline in the battery’s overall power output. The electrolyte fluid in the battery expands, slowing down the movement of ions and electrons, which limits the battery’s ability to supply an effective current. As a result, the battery may not be able to provide enough power to start the engine.

Another problem is the rise in internal resistance. Cold weather causes the materials inside the battery to condense, which creates tighter spaces between the components. This tightening raises the internal resistance within the battery, making it harder for electrical current to flow freely. The increased resistance causes a higher voltage drop which reduces the amount of power available to start the car.

In addition, cold weather makes it more challenging for the chemical reactions in the battery to occur efficiently. The chemical reactions required for charging and discharging the battery slow down in cold weather. This lowers the battery’s ability to store and release energy, further impacting its performance.

Moreover, older batteries are particularly prone to frigid weather issues. As a battery gets older, its overall capacity naturally declines, making it more likely that extreme temperatures impact its performance. In the cold, an older battery is more likely to have problems like reduced capacity and increased internal resistance which makes it much more likely the engine will not be able to turn over.

To keep cold weather car battery issues to a minimum, there are actually several things that you can do. Regular battery maintenance is vital, which includes testing the battery’s charge level, keeping the terminals clean, and making sure that the connection is secure. Just prior to starting your car, turn off as many things you can such as the heat, lights or anything else that draws power from the battery. This will reduce the strain on the battery in cold weather. Additionally, using a battery blanket or insulation wrap can help retain heat and protect the battery from extreme cold.
 

Poor battery connections and other car battery problems

Car battery problems can occur for reasons other than cold temperatures. While cold weather is known to significantly worsen battery problems, several other factors can contribute to battery issues at just about any time during the year.

One common issue is battery age and the resulting deterioration. Over time, the chemical reactions inside a battery lower its overall capacity. As a result, the battery may struggle to hold a charge for very long. As a result, it may not be able to deliver sufficient power to start the engine. Regular battery maintenance and replacement when necessary are essential to avoid such problems.

Another potential cause of issues for your car battery is parasitic drains. These drains occur when certain electrical components in the vehicle continue to draw power even when the engine is off. Common culprits include interior lights, infotainment systems, and alarm systems. If left unaddressed, these drains on your battery can gradually deplete the battery’s charge, resulting in an inability to start your engine.

As previously mentioned, extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can negatively impact battery performance. High temperatures speed up chemical reactions within the battery, which causes increased self-discharge and a decreased overall life.

Furthermore, improper battery usage and handling can also lead to problems. For instance, frequently deep-discharging a battery (discharging it to a low level) without fully recharging it can significantly reduce its lifespan. Similarly, overcharging a battery can cause damage. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for battery usage and charging to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

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How to get a wheelchair into a car
Making your passenger safe and comfortable
 

How to get a wheelchair into a car

Some of you may need to drive with someone at some point who usually or always requires the use of a wheelchair. If this is the case, you will need to be able to get their wheelchair into the car without damaging it and/or your vehicle. You also must ensure that the wheelchair will be easy to get out of the vehicle because your passenger will obviously need it again when you arrive at your destination. This is fairly simple but not everyone may know how to do it.

The first thing that you should do is to carefully assist your passenger into the vehicle which we will go further into later in the post. Once you have accomplished that, you will need to get the wheelchair into the car. Even if you are driving a smaller car, that will not be an issue because wheelchairs fold up so that they become essentially flat and compact which will save a ton of space. In order to properly fold up a wheelchair, you should first engage the wheel locks. Once you do that, hold one hand under the back of the seat and the other under the front. Then pull upwards with both hands and the chair will collapse inward AKA fold up. At this point, you can easily fit the wheelchair into your trunk or backseat.
 

Making your passenger safe and comfortable

Making your passenger that uses a wheelchair safe and comfortable in your vehicle will start with how you help them get into the car. This will begin by pushing them in the chair as close as possible to the vehicle passenger seat with the door already open. At this point, some people may be able to get into the car completely unassisted. If they can and that is what they wish to do, your job is done. If they require assistance, ask them what they need help with and then follow their instructions.

If they need full assistance and/or are unable to communicate, you can start assisting them by ensuring the wheelchair is locked in position, the seat in the car is moved back as far as possible and the foot and head rests are moved out of the way. Then, make sure their feet are flat and their legs are bent at a 90-degree angle as this will help you lift them. You should consider using a gait belt as well for this. Do not have them put their arms around you, if possible, ask them to put their hands on the arm rests as you lift and have them push up. Slowly and gently lift and place them in the car. Put their seatbelt on and adjust it and/or the headrest if need be.

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Driving safely and legally through a construction zone
Penalties for unsafe driving in a construction zone
Final word
 

Driving safely and legally through a construction zone

Driving through construction zones in Alaska requires a high level of focus and extra caution to ensure your safety as well as the safety of construction workers nearby. Here are some tips to help you drive safely through a construction zone:

• Reduce your speed: Reduce your speed when you are getting close to a construction zone. Never exceed the posted speed limits and always follow any directions given by construction workers or signs.
• Be ready for anything: Be on the lookout for construction workers and equipment at all times. Pay attention to any changes in road conditions such as uneven pavement or lane shifts.
• Maintain a safe following distance: Leave enough space between your vehicle and the one in front of you to allow for sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.
• Follow instructions: Follow any instructions given by construction workers or flaggers. They may be directing traffic or stopping traffic to allow workers or equipment to cross the road.
• Avoid distractions: Put away your phone and avoid any other distractions that could take your attention away from the road and the construction zone.
• Stay in your lane: Don’t change lanes unless necessary, and only do so when it is safe to do so.

Penalties for unsafe driving in a construction zone

In Alaska, speeding in a construction zone can result in much higher fines and penalties than if you were caught speeding or driving recklessly elsewhere. The penalties for speeding in a construction zone in Alaska are as follows:

1. For a first offense of speeding in a construction zone, the driver may be fined up to $300.
2. For a second or subsequent offense of speeding in a construction zone within five years, the driver may be fined up to $1,000.
3. In addition to the fines, the driver may also face license suspension, community service, and even imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense.

It’s important to note that these punishments may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the offense and the judgement of the court. To ensure the safety of construction workers and other road users, it’s always best to slow down and follow posted speed limits when driving through construction zones.
 

Final word

Driving unsafely is always a selfish and dangerous act, but when you drive recklessly through a construction zone it is even worse. Construction workers are out there risking their safety in order to get roads repaired so that future traffic delays will be minimal as well as to ensure that your ride will be much smoother. If you are caught speeding through a construction zone in Alaska, you will face very high fines, license revocation, and possibly even jail time or community service.

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The potential for a rear-end collision
How icy and snowy conditions complicate things
Final word
 

The potential for a rear-end collision

When you “stop-short” or slam on your brakes without warning, you greatly decrease the amount of reaction time that any drivers behind you will have to react to you stopping which may render them unable to stop themselves in time. This can easily lead to them colliding with the rear-end of your car. You likely will not be at fault (although you could be if the driver has a running dash cam) but it will still be very inconvenient for you to be unable to drive your car for several days while it gets repaired.

You should always do whatever you can to come to a gradual stop rather than slamming on your brakes. Sometimes, this will be unavoidable, especially in Alaska. For example, if you have an animal such as a deer or moose run out into the road in front of you, you might not have any choice but to stop-short. In terms of gradually braking, you can gently ease into your brake pedal instead of pressing it quick and hard when circumstance will allow it. You should also always remain completely focused on the road ahead of you as well as always keep a safe distance between you and any vehicles in front of you.
 

How icy and snowy conditions complicate things

Snowy and icy conditions, which are a possibility the majority of the year on many of Alaska’s roads, can greatly increase how dangerous it is to stop-short with someone driving behind you. Believe it or not, when roads are icy, it will take you between two and eight times the distance than it normally would to come to a complete stop on dry pavement. In these types of conditions, it is even more critically important that you give yourself extra space to stop as well as to travel at lower speeds.
 

Final word

When you stop-short you greatly increase the chance that someone will hit your car from behind you. In most cases, you will not be held liable for the damage to your car or theirs since they had full view of your vehicle the entire time. However, as a result of being hit from behind, you will likely end up without your car for several days as the necessary repairs are made. In order to keep the potential of having to stop-short as low as possible, you should always pay full attention to the road ahead of you, never drive too closely to any cars ahead of you, keep your speeds low and, in icy or snowy conditions, increase your overall caution even more. Learn about the difference that Alaska Car Transport makes when we ship a vehicle for you!

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Public Transportation
Ride-shares and rentals
Final word
 

Public transportation and green options

When you ship your car to Alaska, you will be without your car for a while. The exact timeframe will depend on several things but the distance of your shipment will be the most important. Overall, car shipments to Alaska can take between 5 and 18 days. If you are shipping a vehicle to Alaska from Seattle, it will typically take 5 or 6 days. If you are shipping a car to Alaska from Miami, Florida it will usually take 16 to 18 days.

If you are shipping your car to Alaska and you will be without a car for a few days or more, you can always make use of the various public transportation options that you will have. You can take local buses for an extremely low price, or you can take a train or subway depending on where exactly you are in the country. In certain cases, such as Alaska itself, there are some options for taking ferries in order to get around.

Using public transportation is an environmentally friendly option but there are also a couple of other green options that you can choose from in order to get from point A to B while your car ships to Alaska. If wherever you typically travel is close enough, you can always decide to walk there. You can also ride a bike if you have one or you can rent one for a fairly low cost.
 

Ride-shares and rentals

You will also have the option of taking a ride somewhere using a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft. In many more populated areas in the country including Alaska, you still have the option of taking a yellow cab. If you decide to go with a ride-share in order to get around in Alaska, you should consider using an app like Obi. Apps like these will compare all ride-share prices along with many taxi prices with current pricing accurate to within a couple of minutes. You will also have the option of jumping from the app to whichever more lowly priced ride-share app that you choose.

Finally, you will also have the option of renting a car while your car is in transit to Alaska. Renting a car tends to be the most expensive option unless you are someone who uses their car for several trips each day at which point using ride-shares/taxis will be the most expensive option. Although it can be costly, renting a car will give you the comfort and convenience of having your own car at your disposal at all times.
 

Final word

When you ship your car to Alaska, you will not have that car for a period of about one to two weeks depending on where you are shipping it from. During that period, you will need to be able to get around if you need to go to work or to the store. Thankfully, you will have a bunch of different options to choose from including taking a bus or train, walking or bicycling, taking a ride-share or taxi, or you can even rent a car. Not all of these options will be available everywhere but at least a few will be. Some options also tend to be more expensive than others such as renting a car.