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Get to Know the Basics of Yacht Chartering

A yacht charter is a temporary lease contract between a ship owner and their customer, enabling the latter to use one of the owner’s sailing yachts, motor yachts, catamarans, or megayachts. The ship owner, or charterer, rents out their boat for a charter charge. A charter contract’s purpose is to regulate both parties’ rights and obligations.

Yacht charters are frequently used for leisure, business, and vacation-related activities. Chartering yachts is an easy way to spend a sailing holiday with family and friends if you don’t own a boat.

Steps In Chartering a Yacht

A charter yacht may sound expensive, but there are choices to suit all budgets. Goodwill Car Donations lists the basic steps in chartering a yacht.

1. Choose a trusted yacht charter broker.

A good broker can help you find the ideal yacht that fits your needs and budget requirements. Choose a trusted broker who can provide you with many options and one who values your preferences.

2. Pick a yacht and destination.

Decide on a yacht that meets your requirements and pick a destination you want to visit. A broker can help you with any questions you have.

3. Sign the contract.

After you’ve decided on the main aspects of your yacht charter, you can sign the contract and pay the deposit.

4. Fill out a preference form.

Fill out the charterer’s preference form. This sheet contains general information about you, guest details, travel arrangements, requirements for children, charter activities, and food and drink preferences. The more information you can provide, the better equipped the crew is to ensure all your wishes are attended to.

 

3 Types of Yacht Charters

The three main types of yacht charters are bareboat, cabin, and skippered.

1. Bareboat charters

A bareboat charter is where you captain the boat yourself, although you do have the option of hiring a skipper to come with you. If you are chartering a bareboat, you need to have the relevant license and sailing experience. In this type of charter, you will be in charge of everything from sailing to navigation, mooring, and safety.

2. Cabin charters

A cabin charter is a sailing vacation where you buy yourself a place on the boat’s crew. You’re provided with a cabin and meals, and you’ll be part of the sailing process as part of the crew.

3. Skippered charters

With a skippered charter, the boat comes with a crew and a captain. A skippered yacht tends to be more about the vacation rather than the sailing. Having a skipper at the helm lets you make the most of everything a yachting holiday can offer.

Use Your Old Yacht to Bring Hope to Those Losing It

If you have an old yacht that you’re no longer using or one that has become too expensive to maintain, you’re probably thinking of having it disposed of in the easiest and most rewarding way possible. You’ll achieve that when you donate it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use your donation to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged and struggling members of your community. At the same time, you’ll get to receive outstanding rewards for your generous act of charity.

We’ll have your yacht auctioned off, with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having prison records and welfare mentality. These disadvantages prevent them from finding decent sources of income that can free them from a life of poverty.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other essential support services. These services will enable the underprivileged residents of your community to eventually attain financial stability and live productive and fulfilling lives.

You’ll also benefit from your charitable contribution since this will entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. Moreover, we’ll provide you with our free towing service at a date and place most convenient to you anywhere in the country.

Your gift will also allow you to savor the satisfaction of serving your community by helping empower your less fortunate neighbors.

Aside from yachts, we accept nearly all vehicle types, even those that are no longer working.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions or concerns, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community?

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Why hold on to a vehicle you no longer use when you can use it to make a difference in your community? Donate that unwanted boat or whatever type of vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations by filling out our secure online donation form or calling us at 866-233-8586 now!

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Save on Cost By Choosing the Right Car Insurance Policy

Did you see your car insurance go up because of premium rate increases? You’re not the only person who’s looking to save money on your car insurance. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to reduce your insurance cost if you’re clueless about choosing the right auto insurance policy for you.

To get the best price, you need to understand what makes a car insurance premium higher or lower. Before you make your decision, you should have a clear snapshot of your specific needs and preferences versus costs.

What Are the Steps to Choosing the Right Car Insurance Policy?

Do you have a clear idea of what you need when shopping for a car insurance policy? Since this type of insurance is comprised of moving parts, you’d want to know what you’ll be getting out of it. To help you get started, Goodwill Car Donations shares these steps to choosing the right car insurance policy for you.

• STEP 1: Determine the kind of insurance coverage you need.

You need to know what kind of coverage you need before you try to contact an insurance company to get a quote. Your guidelines here would be your state’s required policy limits. Although you need to use the state’s minimum car insurance requirements as guidelines, you can also choose to take the higher limits to protect yourself.

In most cases, the basic coverage includes liability insurance or one-way insurance. Some vehicle owners add comprehensive coverage or collision coverage, or both. Ultimately, the total cost of insurance coverage depends on your choice. You may also be interested in other coverages such as gap insurance and emergency roadside service.

• STEP 2: Select an insurance provider.

When it comes to choosing an insurance company, careful thought and research are a must. To end up with the best provider for price, satisfaction, and claims, you’d want to know more about your prospective insurance company’s financial strength. Keep in mind that they may also use your credit score to come up with your price.

• STEP 3: Make the call.

You can start making calls once you’ve done your research and shortlisted your selected car insurance companies. While you’re at it, be sure to get your driver’s license number ready and the details of claims you previously had.

To save you some money, try asking about car insurance discounts including low mileage, good driver discounts, winter storage discounts, retiree discounts, alarm or tracking device discounts, green car discounts, telematics discounts, as well as professional, university degree, association or occupational discounts.

Ensure Your Safety and Peace of Mind This Way

Having an auto insurance policy with all the coverages you need will give you peace of mind. However, you can’t have peace of mind if you’re driving a car that has lately become prone to breakdowns on the road.

To ensure your safety and that of your passengers as well as others on the road, you either have to get all your car issues fixed or, better still, simply buy a new one if the cost of repairs will be too much for you to bear.

Don’t worry, you can still make good use of your old car by handing it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use your donation to help unlock the full potential of the disadvantaged members of your community, enabling them to live productive and fulfilling lives.

We’ll have your donated vehicle fixed before auctioning it to generate funds for the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having police records or a welfare mentality.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other support services.

You won’t be going home empty-handed after making your donation. It’s a win-win for you because your gift will entitle you to claim the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax season. You will also benefit from the free pickup and towing service that we will provide you wherever you are in the country.

More importantly, your act of charity will bring you an immense sense of satisfaction, knowing that you’ll be contributing to the growth and development of your community by empowering your disadvantaged fellow residents through work and learning.

Nearly all vehicle types can be donated to us. We accept even damaged or non-working vehicles.

Want to know more about Goodwill Car Donations? Get to know our convenient vehicle donation process on our FAQs page. You can also call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here for your inquiries or concerns.

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Turn Your Old Car into a Life-Changer Today!

Allow us to convert your old car into a mighty tool for transforming the lives of the underprivileged members of your community. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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Know Before You Go!

No matter how brawny your engine is, how strong your brakes are, or how advanced your anti-skid system is, everything in your vehicle is at the mercy of your tires’ grip on the road. Each move you make with your steering wheel, gas, or brake pedal gets transmitted to the pavement through your tires’ four contact patches. If your tires are under-inflated, worn, or not appropriate for the season or the environment, they can put your life and those of your passengers at risk.

While some people purchase tires based on reputation or appearance, others do so based on availability and price. Perhaps you’re not confident about your ability to make an educated purchase because of your limited knowledge about tires. The good news is that you don’t have to head down to the nearest tire shop without knowing how to select the right tires for your trusty ride.

 

Trying to Make the Right Choice for Your Tires? Follow These Tips!

Besides contributing to fuel economy, good tires ensure your safety on the road. Goodwill Car Donations gives you a few tips for making the right tire choice for your vehicle.

1. Follow the manufacturer’s specifications.

When you’re trying to determine the right tire size to buy, it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s specifications. Heavier vehicles such as SUVs and trucks usually require tires that are larger and more expensive than standard passenger tires. Although large tires offer a greater rolling radius and enhance your vehicle’s gas efficiency, they will take a longer distance before they can come to a complete stop.

However, purchasing a smaller set of tires for a larger vehicle can lead to inaccurate information from your odometer and speedometer. Additionally, it can cause your anti-lock brakes to malfunction, trip your check engine light, and create transmission shifting issues.

2. Consider the weather conditions you drive in.

High heat, rain, snow, and ice can significantly impact tire performance. If you want to ensure your safety on the road, you need to purchase tires that can handle the most common climate conditions, as well as the extreme ones that you drive in. If you’re living in an area where the climate is relatively warm, your best options are summer tires or all-season tires. However, if your region experiences heavy snow or ice, you’d want a set of winter tires.

3. Think about where you drive in.

Did you know that long highways, city streets, and forest paths require different tire performance characteristics? If you mainly do city driving, it’s best to use tires that offer the optimum braking distance on dry and wet roads. You’d also want to purchase tires with increased longevity since city driving involves numerous stops and starts that can be very demanding on your tires. Lastly, you should choose tires with low rolling resistance to help you save fuel.

On the other hand, if you mainly do highway driving, you’d want to look for tires that provide you with optimum braking distance at high speeds for both dry and wet roads. Since comfort is important during long trips, it’s best to choose tires that can help reduce noise levels and vibrations while giving you outstanding grip and stability. However, if you usually drive on unpaved forest paths, you need tires that can provide you with maximum durability and off-road traction.

4. Think about your driving style.

Unless you use tires that match your driving style, you can’t expect to enjoy your trips. If you’re looking to experience a quiet and comfortable ride, do yourself a favor by choosing tires that are specifically designed to ensure a smooth ride and low road noise. While tires that come with aggressive tread designs may look good, they generate plenty of road noise.

In most cases, touring tires with lower speed ratings are designed to offer more comfort instead of more speed. However, it’s important to note that you shouldn’t go below the speed rating as specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

Moreover, you should choose high-performance tires that offer excellent handling or steering precision if you’re someone who likes to feel every curve. Since high-performance tires usually have higher speed ratings, they’re optimized to give you better control, as well as a stiffer and more precise driving experience.

Do You Have a Vehicle You No Longer Need?

Perhaps your car needs more than a brand-new set of tires to become roadworthy. If your auto has mechanical issues that will cost you a fortune to repair, better let it go and simply buy a new one. You can then donate your old car to a charity to give it a worthy purpose. When you hand over that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations, we’ll use it to improve the lives of your disadvantaged neighbors and bring progress to your community.

We’ll have your car fixed before auctioning it off. We’ll then turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. Just like us, these IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping individuals who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having police records or a welfare mentality. These disadvantages prevent these folks from finding decent jobs and other sources of income that can free them from a life of poverty.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, vocational services, scholarships, financial aid, disability benefits, family support, and other essential support services.

To thank you for your charitable contribution, we’ll promptly mail to you the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your car after its auction. This will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

We’ll also provide you with a free professional towing service anywhere in the country.

Moreover, nothing compares to the joy and satisfaction you’d feel, knowing that your donation will greatly benefit your community in terms of the jobs that it will help create for the empowerment of your underprivileged fellow residents. Thanks to your donation, your community will be seeing more productive individuals and contented families. You’ll be amazed to discover how your seemingly worthless car can transform so many lives.

Since we accept nearly all vehicle donations, feel free to donate a car, truck, van, motorcycle, or any specialty vehicle.

Got a question for us? Call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here. You may also want to check out our FAQs page to learn more about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process.

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Turn Your Unwanted Vehicle Into a Beacon of Hope Today!

Your old gas-guzzler may no longer be valuable to you, but to your underprivileged neighbors, it’s a beacon of hope for a better future. If you’re ready to process your donation today, call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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Save Money By Fixing Them Yourself in 5 Easy Steps

Losing the light from one or both of your headlights can be frustrating, especially when you’re out on the road at night. It’s also a safety hazard, as you won’t be able to see what’s in front of your vehicle anymore. Incoming vehicles won’t be able to see you that well either.

Luckily, replacing your headlights is pretty simple and something that you can do on your own. Unless the damage is something with the wiring itself or the connectors, you don’t need to head down to the car shop to get it fixed by a mechanic. In 9 out of 10 cases, the problem is caused by a bulb that has burned out or got broken. All you need to do is know how to replace the bulb. Of course, you need to have a replacement bulb ready.

Goodwill Car Donations has compiled these 5 simple steps to replace your broken headlights:

1. Open your car’s hood.

If your car’s headlights start dimming while driving at night, pull over on the side of the road where there’s good illumination. Take the keys out of the ignition. If you’ve been on the road for a while, you might want to open the hood and let things cool down for a few minutes before you attempt to fix your lights.

2. Locate the headlight holders.

They should have a circular handle or cap that you can twist to pry them open. Pop them out. You should be able to pull out the defective headlight. Do note, however, that every car is different. While this may be the case for some vehicles, other models might require different methods for getting the bulb.

3. Unscrew the old bulb.

You might need to use some force if the bulb has been attached there for a long time. Check for any damage to wirings or any frayed wires, if there’s none, you can then screw in the replacement bulb. Your owner’s manual should have the exact specifications on what kind of headlight bulb you need.

4. Turn on your vehicle and test your lights.

They should be good as new. Test them out for a few minutes by driving around, alternate using low and high beams to make sure everything’s working smoothly. You can now resume your night drive safely.

5. Have your headlights checked by a professional if they’re still not working.

If you did everything correctly with your bulb replacement but your lights still aren’t working, you might have to bring your auto to the shop. The issue might be with your headlight wiring or your car’s fuses.

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Your Old Vehicle Can Be a Life-Changer

If having busted headlights is just one of several pesky car issues that are causing you endless headaches, if having them repaired would drain your bank account, perhaps it’s time to give up that old car. Consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll give your old auto a new and meaningful purpose that will make you proud.

We’ll have your vehicle auctioned off to generate funds for the community-based life improvement programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having police records or being welfare-dependent.

Your local Goodwill nonprofits use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other essential support services.

You’ll also benefit from your generous donation since it will enable you to receive substantial rewards. These include your entitlement to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. You’ll also get a professional pickup and towing service from us at no cost to you and wherever you are located in the country.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community as once disadvantaged members secure decent jobs and sustainable livelihoods that will eventually enable them to attain financial stability and live productive and fulfilling lives.

We accept nearly all vehicle types. We even accept damaged or non-working vehicles as donations.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You can also leave us your message here.

Be Your Community’s Hero Today!

Champion the cause of the impoverished residents of your community. Be their hero with your car donation. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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Here Are the Trucks Best-Loved by Americans

Since its inception more than a hundred years ago, the pickup truck has gained a strong foothold in our culture. As a quintessential American multi-purpose vehicle, a pickup truck represents a heady mix of practicality, consistency, innovation, luxury, strength, durability, and rugged masculinity. On top of its intangible appeal, this type of motor vehicle also meets a wide range of practical needs, tastes, and budgets. It’s no surprise that the pickup truck has earned a loyal following across the country.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a good pickup truck or just curious about the most popular models this year, Goodwill Car Donations gives you a lowdown on the pickup trucks that dominate the list of America’s best-selling vehicles.

1. Ford F-Series

The Ford F-Series is hands-down the most popular pickup truck in the United States. It has topped U.S. sales for an astonishing 43 straight years despite the ongoing shortage of semiconductor chips. When it comes to value and durability, the Ford F-Series consistently delivers.

Besides having a wide variety of trim levels to fit the budget, the Ford F-Series also offers excellent towing and hauling capacity, superior handling, outstanding build quality, and a comfortable interior. Moreover, the interior gets even more luxurious at higher trim levels.

2. Chevrolet Silverado

The Chevy Silverado ranks number 2 on America’s list of best-selling pickup trucks. Sitting at the intersection of performance, power, and reliability, this light-duty full-size vehicle offers plenty of variety. Eight trim levels and six powertrains are available, including off-road-ready Trail Boss versions and both a turbocharged 4-cylinder gas and turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel engine.

Although it isn’t as luxurious as its counterpart, the GMC Sierra, people buy it for its accessibility. Besides being almost three times more popular than its higher-brow twin, the Silverado also holds its resale value better.

3. Ram 1500

If you’re looking for a truck that features technological sophistication and comes with a standard mild-hybrid powertrain system, you can’t go wrong with the Ram 1500. With six trim levels that range from basic to luxurious, this light pickup truck is also known for its quiet and smooth ride. Best of all, the NHTSA awarded the Ram 1500 five out of five stars for crashworthiness and rollover safety.

Use Your Unwanted Vehicle to Transform Lives!

If you’re looking to dispose of an old and unwanted pickup truck that’s just clogging up your garage or driveway, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use your donation to improve the lives of the disadvantaged residents of your community.

Our team will sell your donated vehicle through an auction and hand over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to empowering disadvantaged Americans — those men and women who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as being a former inmate or having a welfare mentality.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, vocational services, scholarships, financial aid, disability benefits, family support, and other types of vital support services.

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll enjoy our fast and free towing service anywhere in the United States. Your donation will also entitle you to claim the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax season.

Moreover, knowing that you’ll be helping the less fortunate folks in your community achieve financial stability and a much better quality of life will bring you an extraordinary sense of joy.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, even those that are no longer working properly.

If you want more information about Goodwill Car Donations, including our quick and easy donation process, head over to our FAQs page. For your questions or concerns, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also contact us here.

 

Make a Difference Today!

Are you ready to turn your unwanted vehicle into a powerful tool that can help transform lives and bring growth and progress to your community? If you are, don’t hesitate to call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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Looking for the Best Recreational Vessel to Enjoy with Your Family?

Did you know that registered recreational boating vessels in the United States numbered approximately 12 million as of 2020, with Florida being the state reporting the most recreational boat registrations?

Indeed, boating is one of the favorite social pastimes among Americans who like to take refuge on the water.

 

What Are the Most Popular Boats in America?

If you’re one of the numerous fans of boating, you probably have had your fair share of beautiful sunset views while enjoying quality time with your family and friends. However, if you’re someone who’s looking to embark on your first boating adventure, you’re probably looking for the right vessel to purchase or rent. Goodwill Car Donations has pulled together the most popular boats in the country to help you narrow down your choices.

1. Boston Whaler 270 Dauntless Boat

Since the 270 Dauntless was launched in 2012, it has proven to be a fast-rising star that’s ideal for fishing offshore, nearshore, and inshore. Its roomy cockpit consists of a leaning post with 4-rod holders as well as a 94-quart cooler. Fishing options include a luxurious helm station that comes with a 30-gallon live well, an integrated hardtop, and 3 drawers.

Moreover, its large storage garage ahead of the console can accommodate your required fishing and safety equipment. On top of this storage area is a creative aft bench seating that can seamlessly transform from a large casting platform into a comfortable place to kick back and relax on the water.

2. Lagoon 380 Boat

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If your idea of a good time involves the ultimate luxury sailing experience, you can never go wrong with a catamaran — a multi-hulled watercraft that derives its stability from its wide beam.

The most famous charter catamaran is a Lagoon 380. Besides offering enhanced stability and ease of handling, it features large living areas with vibrant interiors that make this vessel ideal for great cruising pleasures. Since the Lagoon 380 is excellent for both sailing and motor boating, it gives sailors of all levels the experience of riding in style and comfort.

3. Bavaria Cruiser 46 Boat

The Bavaria Cruiser 46’s outstanding efficiency, spacious living spaces, and luxurious interior design make it a popular choice among water-loving Americans. This boat model was designed and built by the brand Bavaria in collaboration with award-winning BMW Design Works USA and Farr Yacht Design. As such, it boasts comfort, style, and outstanding sailing performance.

Thanks to its twin rudders and a beam that’s carried well aft, this Cruiser makes for a solid yacht with plenty of rooms below deck. Moreover, this vessel has a generator, air conditioning, in-mast furling, and a large swim platform that comes with all the amenities required for a fun and relaxing cruising experience.

 

Tired of Maintaining Your Old Boat or Any Other Vehicle?

If you’ve lost interest in your old boat or any other type of vehicle you have that has turned into a money pit, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use your donation to help empower the disadvantaged residents of your community so they can live productive and fulfilling lives.

Our team will auction off your donated vehicle and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as being a former inmate or having a welfare mentality.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the extra funding we give them to provide more disadvantaged individuals with job and skills training, vocational services, scholarships, financial aid, mentoring and internship assistance, disability benefits, family support, and other types of support services. These are all meant to equip these folks with the tools that will help them attain economic independence and a better quality of life.

We’ll pick up and tow your vehicle for free anywhere in the country.

Your donation will also entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction when you file your income tax return in the next tax season.

What’s more, you can count on us to provide you with a highly satisfying donating experience, knowing that your act of charity will help generate new jobs in your community. These are new opportunities for growth and progress that will benefit all residents.

We accept almost all types of vehicles, whether they’re still in good condition or no longer.

To find out the details of our easy and convenient vehicle donation process and other relevant information, head over to our FAQs page. For your questions and concerns, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here.

 

Make an Impact in Your Community Today!

You don’t have to sink more of your hard-earned money on a boat or any other vehicle that you no longer want or need. If you’re ready to use it to make a positive impact in your community, call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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4 Expert Tips to Help You Diagnose Auto Problems

At some point, your beloved car may develop a few problems here and there. If your busy schedule keeps you from heading down to the car shop, don’t worry. You can easily learn how to diagnose car issues even when you don’t know anything about cars.

Automotive maintenance may look like a no-brainer for mechanics, but for people outside the industry, a simple problem may appear complex. That’s why if you’re a car owner, it’s always better to have an idea about car maintenance or diagnostics. Goodwill Car Donations has pulled together some tips to help new vehicle owners diagnose potential car problems:

1. Check your warning lights.

Warning lights are there for a reason. It warns you when your car is running out of fuel, needs an oil change, or if there’s a problem with your engine. No matter what the reason is, never ignore the warning lights on your dashboard to avoid a simple car issue from getting worse.

2. Mind the smell.

The smell is the most unnatural thing you can sense if there’s something wrong with your vehicle. Here are some unusual smells to look out for:

• Mold and mildew – Mold and mildew usually form in damp environments. Check your car’s mats or seats if they’re wet.
• Exhaust and fuel – Inhaling either of the two is dangerous for you and the other people inside the car. Exhaust, for one, is carbon monoxide, which can cause loss of consciousness or even death.

• Burning smell – If something is burning, there must be fire. It could also be that you’re pressing on your brakes too hard causing your brakes to overheat and release a burning smell.
• Sulfur – If your car smells like rotten eggs, it can indicate problems associated with the car’s battery or catalytic converter.

3. Feel for vibrations and shaking.

If you notice your vehicle vibrating, pull over and check for possible flat tires or misaligned wheels. If they look fine, try pressing the brakes. If they create vibrations, it could mean that your brake rotors are worn out. A failing suspension can also cause your vehicle to vibrate when you drive it.

Other times, you may also notice your car shaking. It could mean that there’s a problem with your engine and you need to have it checked. If you continue to drive your car in that condition, the shaking will only get worse and you’ll face bigger and more expensive problems with your car’s engine.

4. Listen to unusual sounds.

Another important thing to look out for is unusual car sounds. Here are some abnormal car sounds and what they may indicate:

• Clunking sounds may indicate worn-out suspensions.
• A creaking sound may mean that your car’s ball joints and bushings need to be lubricated.
• Clicking sounds may indicate loose drive belts, imbalanced tires, or low engine oil.
• Grinding sounds could indicate damaged brake rotors or you’re running low on transmission fluid.
• Popping sounds may indicate damaged spark plugs or a dirty air filter.

Wondering What to Do with Your Troublesome Car?

If your car problems are causing you endless headaches and even jeopardizing your safety on the road, consider if it’s financially wiser for you to buy a new car instead of having your old ride undergo major repairs. In case you decide to let go of your old sedan, you can still make good use of it by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

We’ll use your donation to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged people in your community. Our team will place your vehicle up for auction, with the generated funds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are committed to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having prison records or a welfare mentality.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give to provide their beneficiaries with skills and job training, livelihood assistance, scholarships, youth employment, internship programs, disability benefits, financial assistance, and other essential support services.

We offer you the easiest way to dispose of an unwanted vehicle. Your donation will also entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. We’ll also provide you with a free pickup and towing service wherever you’re located in the country.

Best of all, your act of charity will bring you an immense sense of personal satisfaction, knowing that you’ll be helping the less fortunate folks in your area find opportunities for using their potential to improve the quality of their lives.

We accept a wide range of vehicle types. We take in even damaged or non-working vehicle donations.

To get to know our simple and convenient vehicle donation process and other relevant information, visit our FAQs page. For other questions and concerns, get in touch with us at Goodwill Car Donations anytime by calling our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or writing to us here.

Turn Your Unwanted Car Into a Vehicle of Hope Today!

Let’s turn your unwanted car into a vehicle of hope for your less fortunate neighbors. Your car donation can help turn their lives around. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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Photo by Khunkorn Laowisit under Pexels License

Get Scratches Taken Care of Right Away!

Perhaps you had a run-in with an aggressive driver who hit your bumper or someone side-swiped your vehicle with a shopping cart. Now, your much-treasured car is left with a noticeable scratch. Besides ruining the overall appearance of an otherwise flawless paint job, a scratch can also wreak havoc on the bare metal underneath the paint.

Ignoring this problem can lead to rust and corrosion that can spread to other areas of your vehicle. If you don’t want to lower your car’s resale value, you need to get that scratch fixed right away.

Find Out How Much It Costs to Fix a Car Scratch

The cost of fixing scratches on a car depends largely on how deep and numerous they are. Goodwill Car Donations gives you a rundown of what you need to know about the types of car paint scratches and the estimated costs of fixing them.

1. Scuffs and Clear Coat Scratches

Although a clear coat scratch is deeper and longer than a scuff, both types of scratches stay on the top layer of your car’s paint. These blemishes usually occur when your car hits road debris or when another vehicle causes pebbles and stones to hit your car.

Since scuffs and clear coat scratches are typically light and superficial, they’re extremely easy to fix. Just use a DIY touchup kit or rubbing compounds from the nearest auto parts store and you’re all set. If you prefer to get the scratch fixed by an expert, expect to spend less than $100 at an auto body shop.

2. Primer Scratch

Auto manufacturers add a primer to a vehicle’s body to give it a shiny and smooth appearance. You’re looking at a primer scratch if the damage is a little deeper than a clear coat scratch. Since the scratch hasn’t penetrated your car’s bare metal, it’s not that bad. The cost of fixing it depends on its size and depth. Be prepared to pay $500 to $1,000 for repairs of this type.

3. Deep Paint Scratch

Scratches caused by hard collisions that expose the naked metal of your car are the most expensive ones to fix. Auto body shops typically charge $800 to $1,500 for a perfect repair.

How Best to Dispose of an Unwanted Vehicle

If your car spends more time in the repair shop than on the road, it’s probably time to part ways with it. Consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. In doing this, you’ll free yourself from the stress of maintaining an unwanted vehicle while helping the disadvantaged individuals in your community.

Our team will put your auto donation up for auction and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping Americans burdened with disabilities, lack of education, essential skills, or job experience, and other limiting personal issues, such as being a former inmate or having a welfare mentality. These disadvantages prevent them from finding decent sources of income that can enable them to escape from the grip of poverty.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, vocational services, scholarships, financial aid, disability benefits, family support, and other essential support services.

A Goodwill donor always reaps meaningful rewards. These include the free towing of your vehicle wherever it’s parked or stored in the country.

Your donation will also entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

However, the best part about making a charitable contribution to us is the joy and satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping people achieve a better quality of life.

Nearly all types of vehicles are acceptable for donation to us, whether they’re still in good condition or otherwise.

For more details on our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to visit our FAQs page. You can also call us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here for your questions or concerns.

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Use Your Old Ride to Uplift Lives Today!

Instead of letting your old sedan rot away in your garage, turn it into a powerful tool that can do much good to the impoverished individuals and families in your community. To process your vehicle donation, call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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Learn How to Decode the Words in Your Car Insurance Policy

When you’re purchasing a new car and shopping around for insurance, you need to understand your options for the types of insurance coverages you want. While some of them protect you, your passengers, and your vehicle, others offer protection if you cause damages or injuries to another driver.

If you’re not familiar with the machinations of the insurance industry, you’ll encounter different terminologies that may sound like gibberish as you read through your car insurance policy. Taking the time to understand them is extremely important.

Car Insurance Terms You Should Know

Getting into an accident without auto insurance can leave you paying for hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages and injuries. Understanding what’s covered and what’s not in case you or another driver using your car causes an accident that damages another party’s car or injures its driver or passengers is of utmost importance. To help you decode the mystifying language in your car insurance policy, Goodwill Car Donations outlines the basic terms you need to know.

1. Principal Driver

The person who drives the insured vehicle the most is called the principal driver.

2. Name Insured

The name insured is who the policy covers. Moreover, it’s the primary person the insurance is issued to.

3. Primary Use

Primary use pertains to what you primarily use your car for, whether you use it to commute to work, run errands, or drive around town. When purchasing auto insurance for a car used for your business, you’ll have to talk to your agent to ensure proper coverage for a business vehicle.

4. Fault

Fault refers to how responsible an individual is for an accident. Furthermore, this term determines whose auto insurance is going to pay out for what part of the damage. The person at fault is the one who caused the accident.

5. Covered Loss

Covered loss is what your insurance provider will pay for if the accident caused damage to you, your vehicle, the other driver, or their vehicle. Since what’s covered depends on the coverages you purchased, keep in mind that your car insurance may not cover everything. For this reason, you need to pay attention to the covered losses or causes of damage that are outlined in your policy.

6. Declaration Page

The declaration page gives you a clear snapshot of what your insurance policy is all about. In other words, it’s a high-level overview of the types of coverages you have for the vehicle on your policy. In most cases, the declaration page summarizes the coverages you purchased, the limits for these coverages, and how much these coverages cost.

7. Deductible

The deductible refers to the amount you agreed to pay out of pocket in the event of a claim. You have your portion of the claim and your insurance provider has theirs. Their portion is way more than yours.

8. Limit of Coverage

The limit of coverage determines the maximum amount that your insurance provider pays for specific coverages.

9. MVR (Motor Vehicle Report)

An MVR refers to a record that the state holds, which outlines your driving history from the past years. Furthermore, this report details your license status, license suspensions, traffic violations, and accidents.

10. Car Insurance Premium

Your car insurance premium refers to the amount of money you pay for your auto insurance. The price tag of your policy depends on several factors, such as your driving history, address, age, the vehicle you drive, what you’re using the vehicle for, the deductible and coverages you chose, and your credit score.

 

Has Your Car Become Prone to Breakdowns? Here’s What You Can Do

Your auto insurance protects you against financial loss in the event of a road accident or theft. However, that may not give you total peace of mind if the old car you’re driving has become prone to breakdowns. If fixing all issues bugging your vehicle would cost you a fortune that’s too much for you, consider letting go of that auto by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll give it a new and worthy purpose by using it to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged people in your community.

Our team will have your vehicle fixed before auctioning it off. We’ll then turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are suffering from disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as being a former inmate or having a welfare mentality.

Your local Goodwill organizations will use the funding sourced from the sale of your donated vehicle to sustain their delivery of life enhancement services to deserving residents of your community. Thanks to your donation, more disadvantaged folks in your area will be able to benefit from free Goodwill job and skills training, vocational services, and scholarships, as well as financial assistance, disability benefits, family support, and other vital support services.

You’ll also benefit from your charitable contribution since this will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. Moreover, we’ll provide you with our free professional pickup and towing service at your convenience anywhere in the country.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community, with once idle members getting great opportunities to harness their full potential, leading to their attainment of financial security.

Don’t hesitate to donate any type of vehicle regardless of its year, make, model, mileage, or working condition. We’ll take your car, truck, van, RV, motorcycle, or riding lawnmower as it is.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

Help Your Disadvantaged Neighbors Today!

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Help your less fortunate neighbors achieve a better quality of life even as you help spur growth and progress in your community. Your car donation will see to that. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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Find the Right RV That Suits Your Family’s Taste, Style, and Needs

Going on an epic road trip is one of the most exciting things you can do with your family. However, if you’re looking to take the experience to the next level, you’d want to end up with the right RV before you hit the road. If renting one isn’t in the cards, perhaps buying one is.

However, finding the best RV that suits your family’s taste, style, and needs can be a daunting task. You’ll have to consider several factors including your budget, frequency of use, kitchen space, and more. You may even have to look for an RV that comes equipped with an office if you’re a digital nomad who needs a quiet space to work.

What Are the Best RV Types for Families?

When it comes to RV shopping, you need to take your time. Since this type of vehicle is a huge investment, you’d want to make sure that you pick the best one for you and your family. Goodwill Car Donations gives you the lowdown on the best family-friendly RV types on the market.

1. Travel Trailer

What could be better than getting an RV that has multiple rooms, bathrooms, and amenities at an affordable price? A travel trailer is essentially a box on top of a frame that rolls. Thanks to its completely hard sides and a roof you can walk on, this easy-to-tow package provides an added layer of security if you’re looking to tow a bit more load.

Although a travel trailer doesn’t offer much storage capacity by weight and volume, this towable classic RV weighs the least compared to other RV types. This means that it doesn’t require a large vehicle to haul it.

2. Fifth Wheel

If you’re looking for a second home away from home that features high ceilings, massive space, and multiple amenities, you can’t go wrong with a fifth wheel. Since this large unit needs to latch onto a tow vehicle, it’s the best option for a family that has a truck or another type of heavy-duty tow vehicle.

Unfortunately, a smaller tow vehicle won’t be able to handle a higher payload for this type of RV with a higher towing capacity. Although a fifth wheel is typically more expensive than a travel trailer, it costs less than a Class C motorhome, which has its own engine.

3. Class C Motorhome

Unlike the previously mentioned towable options, a Class C motorhome is a motorized RV that provides you with a natural driving feel. This vehicle won’t require you to hook up a trailer or mess with a hitch, airbags, or sway bars. Plus, it allows you to get to your destination faster because it requires a lot less time to set up and tear down.

Moreover, a Class C RV features large slide-outs, multiple sleeping areas, either basic or luxurious amenities, and more than enough room for nearly anything you’d want to bring along. It can also tow a small vehicle, making it an excellent choice for family vacations.

Planning to Replace Your Old Vehicle with a New One?

If you have an old RV or any other vehicle that no longer has enough space for your growing family or you simply want to replace it with a newer and better vehicle, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use it to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged residents of your community.

Our team will put your vehicle up for auction and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who have disabilities, lack education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having criminal records or a welfare mentality.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, vocational services, scholarships, financial aid, disability benefits, family support, and other types of vital support services.

While helping the underprivileged members of your community with your car donation, you’ll also get outstanding rewards yourself. These include getting our fast and professional towing service at no cost to you and at a date and place of your choice anywhere in the country.

Your gift will also entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

Moreover, your donation will allow you to savor the satisfaction of serving your community by helping empower your less fortunate neighbors through work and learning.

We take nearly all types of vehicles, including those that are no longer in good shape. You may head over to this page to get a list of the types of vehicles acceptable to us.

To learn more about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to visit our FAQs page. Call us anytime and any day at 866-233-8586 or message us here if you have any questions or concerns.

 

Give Your Community a Boost Today!

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Why hold on to an unwanted vehicle when you can use it to transform lives? When you donate such a vehicle to us, you’ll give your community a boost as you become a life-changer for your disadvantaged fellow residents. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form to make your donation now!