Moving or specialized auto shipping company?
1. How much will it cost to ship my car?
Obtain quotes from several car transport companies. Auto mover estimates
are free, so take advantage of them. To get accurate information, be prepared
to provide the following information:
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Origin city/destination city
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Approximate departure date (when your car is available for pick up)
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Type of vehicle(s)
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Special transport requests (e.g., drop off at terminal vs. at your
home)
Perform some "due diligence" regarding the car moving company you are
considering. The cheapest move quote you receive may not always be your
best bet. If you pay too little, the likelihood that your vehicle will
be transported in a timely manner is diminished. Pick a car transporter
that responds well to your request for information, has a solid track
record and can provide you with good value.
2. How do I know if my car is insured?
The company with whom you contract to transport your vehicle should provide
adequate insurance to protect against driver negligence. Ask for a copy
of the "certificate of insurance" and familiarize yourself with the types
of coverage provided. Most car moving companies specifically exclude road
damage, damage or theft of personal items left in the car, small nicks
& dents, and glass breakage. If you want to verify or supplement the
coverage, call your current automobile insurance agent.
Beware of shipping your car with a company that is exclusively a "broker."
Many of these companies do not own auto carriers and depend upon the carrier
that actually carries your car to provide insurance. If the truck driver's
insurance coverage has lapsed for any reason, you will be unprotected.
3. How do I find out when my car will arrive?
All reputable auto moving companies have customer service representatives
who can provide information about where your vehicle is in the transport
process. Be aware that most companies use "estimated" dates since it is
impossible to schedule vehicle freight precisely. Some companies do offer
an optional "guaranteed" or premium service that assures a specific date
of delivery.
4. When and how do I pay?
While some auto transport companies may not require payment in advance,
others require a deposit (10-25% of the total cost), or full payment in
advance. If a deposit is given, the amount due (C.O.D.) is always required
at time of delivery -- oftentimes with a cashiers check or cash. If full
payment is required prior to car transport, consider using a credit card
so that charges may be reversed if circumstances warrant such actions.
5. What about pick-up and drive away car rates?
Ask for estimated pick-up and delivery times from your car transport
company. You should be able to get a 3-day window for pick-up. Once pick-up
is made, your auto transport or auto driveaway company should provide
you with a fairly precise estimated delivery date. If you need an exact
date for pick-up, most car transport and auto driveaway services can pick-up
your car and hold it at a terminal for an additional charge.
6. Where can I get references on auto movers?
While individuals are generally reluctant to act as references because
of the "nuisance factor," corporate clients are usually willing to do
so. Also, van line companies refer many car transport and auto driveaway
companies. Ask for several references of car movers, if possible.
7. Releasing your car to the auto carrier
Prior to leaving your car with a driver or car transport company, be
sure you receive an "Original Inspection Report." This report provides
pick-up and delivery information, current mileage, and most importantly,
shows the condition of your car at time of pick-up -- pre-existing scratches
and dents, cracked glass/mirrors, general paint condition, etc. Keep this
report and use it when you receive your vehicle.
8. Accepting your vehicle for delivery
At the time of delivery, inspect your vehicle and compare the condition
and mileage against the "Original Inspection Report" provided by your
car transport company at origination (see item above). Many car transport
companies also provide a copy of this report at time of delivery. If there
are inconsistencies, note them as exceptions and be sure the driver signs
it. Never accept your vehicle at night if you cannot verify its condition
-- without being viewed and signed by the driver, you have little recourse
if damage had occurred during transit.
9. What if damage should occur to my car?
The majority of car transport experiences are worry-free, with your damage-free
vehicle arriving at the estimated time. On occasion, a vehicle may become
damaged in transit. If this should happen, note all damage on your inspection
report (see item above), obtain the driver's signature, and contact your
car transport company. The car transport company should then work with
you to reimburse you for verifiable damage done to your car.
10. What are the different car trailer or
auto carrier types?
In order to ship your car to your new home most efficiently and cost-effectively,
it's important to know about different shipping and car carrier techniques,
such as open and closed auto trailers. The model of the car you have,
and the destination where you will transport it, will help determine whether
you need an open or closed car trailer.
What is an Open Auto Trailer or Carrier?
An open auto trailer is the more popular and the more frequently used
trailer. They carry anywhere from 10-12 vehicles at a time.
Advantages:
Open car trailers are cheaper than closed trailers. Price is determined
by the weight of the vehicle being shipped.
Disadvantages:
Open car carriers and trailers will be subject to the elements of nature.
(i.e. rain, snow, wind, dirt and dust).
What is a Closed Car Trailer or Carrier?
A closed car trailer or auto carrier is a vehicle that has a covered
freight area. It is most commonly used when shipping an expensive or classic
car that you wish to protect. If your car will be traveling cross-country
and going through some dry and desert territory, you may consider using
a closed trailer to protect it from wind blown sand and heat. If the vehicle
is not being shipped through extreme climates, consider using an open
trailer.
Advantages:
The car is well protected from the elements of nature.
Disadvantages:
Closed auto trailers and car carriers cost more. Remember, price is
determined by the weight of the vehicle being shipped.
Tips: Remove all valuables from the car, leave as little gas as possible
in the gas tank for weight and safety purposes, and always insure
your car, just in case it gets damaged.
11. Should you choose a moving company or
an auto transportation company?
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Car carriers generally charge lower rates than movers do. Shop around
and compare pricing. If your quote seems extraordinarily low or high,
ask the vendor why. Always remember that the lowest price isn't always
the best option. A company's good reputation often goes a long way.
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Always get a written contract with approximate delivery dates and
carefully read the terms and conditions, especially clauses dealing
with insurance. Check to see if there are cancellation fees before
committing to service. There could be a charge of up to $200. Car
or auto carriers generally have shorter delivery times than movers
do.
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Research the auto companies' history before soliciting bids for car
moving services. Some auto moving companies frequently change their
names due to complaints. Others may even go by as many as five different
names. It will be in your best interest to investigate this.
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As of 1990 the Department of Transportation ruled that you may NOT
load any items in a vehicle other than clothing. Auto carriers are
NOT licensed to carry household goods or personal items. Any
damage to your vehicle due to household goods shifting or breaking
will not be covered by insurance.
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Ask to see the facility where your car will be stored before being
loaded on the truck. Many companies claim they have secure storage
for your car, but in actuality, they don't.
Complete Information on Auto Shipping and Car Movers
The most complete selection of car moving and suto shipping guides available
with tons of information on how to prepare for a car move and the different
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