Choosing a Company for Your Auto Shipping Needs
Over the course of the last 40 years the auto shipping industry has experienced rapid growth due to technological advances providing safer transport and better tracking methods. No matter the distance, companies are able to move vehicles nationally and internationally. There are many factors to consider when choosing an auto shipping company including cost, length of transport and method of shipping.
Auto shipping and moving services are utilized for a variety of reasons. A new job may require a relocation where driving a vehicle is inconvenient. Other reasons to use an auto shipping company include after a purchase or sale of a vehicle, an extended vacation, or military deployment.
Vehicles that can be shipped through an auto shipping company include cars, motorcycles, trucks, SUVs and most recreational vehicles. To determine the shipping method that is best for your type of vehicle, do your research and ask for references. Shipping methods range from open truck to enclosed shipping, and from door-to-door services to terminal-to-terminal shipping.
Trailers which are either partly or completely exposed to the elements are used for open truck shipping and come in a variety of sizes. If you prefer your vehicle is entirely secluded, enclosed trailers are the way to go. Keep in mind that the cost to ship your vehicle in an enclosed trailer will cost a significant amount more than open truck shipping.
Having a vehicle dropped off at your doorstep is most times impossible even though the term door-to-door shipping is used. The term can be misleading since many large cities limit large transport vehicles from driving into residential areas. Drivers will get as close as they can but to avoid narrow streets, speed bumps and tight turns it is usually best to meet your shipment in a large parking lot.
If damage or theft occurs while your vehicle is being shipped you should be covered by your auto shipping company. Do your research ahead of time to see what kind of a deductible, if any, you would be responsible for. Get all particulars in writing to better protect yourself and don’t hesitate to contact your personal insurance agent to see if they will also cover the vehicle being shipped.
Depending on the company, some small items may remain in the trunk but it is recommended that you remove all personal items from the vehicle. If an item is lost or damaged it is likely that insurance will not cover you to replace the item. The amount of gas that can remain in a vehicle varies, but it is recommended that little remain.
It is recommended that you allow plenty of time to arrange transport of your vehicle as some companies can take up to 3 to 4 weeks to make arrangements. Once verified there are several factors that will determine how long it will take to ship your vehicle. Distance between pick-up and drop-off, weather conditions, traffic, and unexpected delays should all be considered.
