Auto Transport is a sample process if you do your homework. Ask a lot of questions to the auto transport company you decide to ship with. Here are some important questions that I try to answer for you base on my research and knowledge of the business.
Q: How does car shipping works?
A: First, get a quote online, then call your chosen company and ask lots of questions, then book your transport, when your order is booked company will contact you when a trucker is available and will call you 4 to 24 hours in advance of your pick up date.
Q: Do I have to be present when you pick up my vehicle?
A: Either you, or a designated person, have to be present upon pick up of your vehicle to sign a contract “bill of lading” which is an inspection that the driver performs with you to review if there is any damage on the car before loading it on the truck, the same is done upon delivery.
Q: How do I pay, and what types of payments do you accept?
A: Auto transport brokers do charge a minimum deposit usually through a major credit card, and the balance is paid to the driver upon delivery of our vehicle, cash, cashier’s check or money order.
Q: What is door-to-door transport?
A: Door-to-door means that the auto transport company arrange for pickup and delivery at the address you specify (subject to accessibility and local laws). You do not have to go to a terminal to pick up or drop off your vehicle, unless you pre-arrange it.
Q: Can you arrange a terminal service?
A: Terminal services can be arranged, however, terminals do charge additional fees and therefore, I recommend door to door service whenever possible to avoid unnecessary charges.
Q: Can you ship inoperable or unusual vehicles?
A: Absolutely. Some auto transport companies specialize in unusual vehicles such as antique, classic and collectible cars and accommodate oversized vehicles. For inoperable vehicles, let them know at the time of booking so they can dispatch a special carrier.
Q: Are Auto Transport Company registered and bonded?
A: Yes, they maintain a surety bond with the federal government pursuant to 49 U.S.C. §13906(b) and are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Q: On what kind of transporter will my vehicle be carried?
A: Most are transported via multiple car carriers, the same type used to transport new vehicles from the manufacturing plant to dealerships.
Q: How many days in advance do I need to arrange for my vehicle to be picked up?
A: I recommend that you book your order 7 to 10 days in advance, however if you need to move your car immediately, some companies will work with you on an individual basis to accommodate your needs.
Q: Is my vehicle insured during shipment?
A: Yes, your vehicle is insured from the time it is picked up until the time it is delivered.
Q: Can I ship personal items in my vehicle?
A: No for many reasons: the department of transportation does not allow the transportation of “personal items” in a vehicle that is being hauled by an auto carrier, items packed in your car are not covered by the motor carrier’s insurance (only your vehicle is).
