Auto Transport Tips - from Quotes At Home

These days, the typical household has more than one vehicle. In many households, the number of vehicles outnumbers the number of drivers. Auto transport companies can be extremely helpful in coordinating the relocation of your vehicles. Auto shippers operate fleets of high-tech carriers with satellite tracking that will transport several vehicles at the same time, safely and reliably.

General Tips
Planning & Scheduling
Whenever possible, plan your shipment in advance. Start by contacting auto transport companies at least 4 weeks before you move. Request multiple estimates from companies to compare and get the best rates. Make sure that you have the following information available first:

Specific origin and destination – the more exact, the more accurate your estimate
Approximate date of shipment
Make, model, & year of vehicle
Whether or not the vehicle is in running condition
Special requests & needs (i.e. Exact delivery date)

Check References
Quotes At Home strives to bring you the best service possible and does business only with pre-screened and licensed professionals. Additionally, ask your auto transport company for references from satisfied customers. Other resources to check are the Better Business Bureau (BBB) as well as state and federal agencies such as the DOT (Department of Transportation).

Costs
Before contracting with the auto transport company, make sure that all questions about the cost have been answered. Be sure to inquire about acceptable payment methods and deposits, if any. Is the service door to door? If there is a deposit, make sure that it is refundable if you decide not to use the company for any reason or if they cannot move your vehicle. If your vehicle is oversized or an SUV, be prepared for an “oversize” fee.

Insurance
Inquire about your auto shipper’s insurance coverage and ask to see their Certificate of Insurance. If they are shipping your car with an agent, ask them what agent they are using and ask to see the agent’s insurance info as well. When the vehicle is picked up, you and the driver will inspect the condition of the vehicle and make note of any preexisting damage such as scratches or dents. This vehicle condition report will be completed again when the vehicle is delivered.

Personal Items
Most auto shippers will not accept a vehicle for delivery if it contains personal possessions. Individual restrictions may vary; be sure to check with your car mover. Items such as spare tires, jacks, tool kits, manuals and other standard equipment that come with the vehicle are an exception and are fine for transport.

Delivery
Be sure that you are present when your vehicle is delivered. If for any reason you cannot be present, ask a trusted family member or close friend to be there. You can also have your vehicle stored until you are ready to pick it up for an additional charge. When the vehicle is dropped off, inspect your vehicle thoroughly before signing anything. Never accept your vehicle without adequately inspecting it. If you find damage after you’ve signed for the vehicle and you did not report it first, it will be nearly impossible to file a claim.

Claims and Disputes
Always try to resolve your dispute directly with the car mover or auto shipping company first. Reputable companies will work with you to fix the problem because they depend very much on referrals. Make sure that you keep all documentation to back up your claims. If the company is unreasonable or refuses to resolve the problem, you have further recourse by contacting agencies such as the Better Business Bureau, DOT (Department of Transportation), ICC (Interstate Commerce Commission, or legal counsel.