Whether moving to another state or buying a new car online, hiring a professional auto shipping service can make the process easier. Several factors, including distance and season, determine vehicle shipping rates. For example, winter traffic and road conditions will increase the cost of transporting your car.
Safety
When it comes to shipping a car, safety is of the utmost importance. This is particularly true when transporting an antique or luxury vehicle, as it is a significant investment and should be treated with the utmost care. Luckily, you can consider plenty of factors before getting a car shipping service to help ensure your vehicle arrives safely at its destination. The following are some of the most important: First, check to see if the company you plan to work with has a valid license and insurance. This can be verified by looking at the company’s MC (motor carrier) number on the FMCSA website. Then, check the company’s accident and customer complaint records. This can give you a good idea of how reliable and professional a company is.
Additionally, it is essential to check the tire pressure of your car. This is necessary for safety and to prevent damage during transportation. Also, make sure to empty your gas tank. This is to avoid a flammable fuel leakage that could cause your vehicle to catch fire during transport. Finally, be sure to communicate with the car shipping company about all of your concerns promptly. This can reduce any confusion or anxiety that you might have during the journey, and it will help ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination in pristine condition.
Insurance
Insurance is one of the most important factors before getting a car shipping service. Having the right insurance coverage is essential because your car is a significant investment and could cost a lot if damaged or stolen.
The best auto transport companies offer full-coverage insurance protection for your vehicle during transportation. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to concentrate on the rest of your life. Whether shipping your new baby to your grandparents or transporting your prized collectible car, the right insurance can give you peace of mind and make you feel confident that your vehicle will arrive safely at its destination. A reputable car shipping company will provide you with a contract that includes the details of their insurance policy and any additional terms. Ask about the terms and conditions, such as paying a deductible if your car gets damaged during transport.
You should also check to see if the shipping company has cargo insurance, which covers damage to your car in transit. While your car insurance may cover the damage to your vehicle, it won’t cover damages that occur during transit.
Reputation
A good car shipping company will have an excellent reputation among its customers. You should check out their reviews before making a decision. You can also ask a friend or family member who has recently used the company’s services for advice. Choosing the right vehicle shipping company is essential because it will impact the price you pay for shipping your car. You should be able to get a quote as soon as possible. Car shipping companies can specialize in door-to-door transport or terminal-to-terminal transport. They may also provide additional services, such as insurance or a warranty. You should also consider the type of carrier used by the car shipping company. These carriers are designed to protect the vehicle during transport and ensure that your car arrives safely at its destination. If you choose a company with high-quality service, it should have a dedicated customer service team to answer your questions. This is essential because shipping can be a stressful process. The best auto shippers have positive reviews from past clients and provide guarantees for pickup and drop-off dates. They also offer discounts and extras to attract new customers. However, checking their license and insurance before committing to them is essential.
Also read: A guide to container shipping using terminals
Cost
When comparing car shipping companies, the cost is an essential factor. It’s not just about the price per mile but also other factors like size and distance, and the route taken, and the time of year. Seasons affect prices: Shipping during January and the summer is more expensive because there’s a higher demand for car shipping services. Likewise, shipping during periods of bad weather (snow and rain) costs more than other times of the year because trucks are more scarce. Size plays a role, too: Larger cars and trucks cost more to ship because they take up more space in the truck. These larger vehicles also require more fuel to transport them. Modifications to the car can also increase shipping costs:
- Lifting or lowering a car.
- Changing its geometry.
- Installing a camper top can increase the vehicle’s weight.
Some carriers charge a small premium for this added weight, so it’s worth considering before getting a company quote. Timing is essential; the sooner you book your shipping, the more likely you’ll pay less. Make sure you request quotes as early as possible and with several delivery dates in mind. Your shipping type is also a consideration; open auto transport is the cheapest option and usually suitable for most vehicles, while enclosed transport is better if you’re shipping a luxury or classic car.