Transport carriers remove the stress of shipping your car safely from point A to point B.
But with so many transport auto providers on the market, securing a perfect fit may be tougher than you expected. Follow these tips to help you find the best car shipping company for your needs.
1. Verify necessary registration
All car shipping companies must be registered through the United States Department of Transportation. You can verify this by checking if your chosen company has MC and US-DOT numbers.
2. Check for cargo insurance
Legally authorized shipping companies are mandated by law to have insurance for the cars that they transport. This could help you save thousands of dollars should accidents occur during the trip.
3. Don’t settle for the cheapest option
When it comes to auto shipping, cheap isn’t always better. In reality, it costs a lot of money to get your car from one point to another. You need to consider fuel costs, driver’s lodging, and loading fees, among others. A huge portion of your bill will also depend on other things such as trip distance, seasonality, and vehicle type. Read our car transport guide to know more about these cost factors.
Some companies will try to lure clients in with quotes that are too good to be true, only to sneak in extra fees and surcharges at the end. Cheap rates may also equate to poor service. Considering this, never base your decision on price alone. Shopping around and comparing car transport costs will save you from a damaged vehicle or a delayed pickup or delivery.
4. Read customer testimonials
Reading customer reviews will help you gain real insights into the company that better inform your decision. You can usually find honest feedback on the company’s social media pages and other consumer review websites.
5. Review all documents thoroughly
Do not trust a company that will rush you into signing the paperwork. An honest and reliable carrier will make sure you’ve studied all the necessary documents prior to any commitment. Only sign if you are satisfied with every condition. It is also essential to double-check their regulations about delays. While delays are inevitable, make sure the contract states that they do not last up to a week.
6. Tracking system
Choose a car transport company with a tracking system that gives you access to your vehicle’s status throughout its journey. Double-check if the procedures and technologies they use are functional to ensure a safe and efficient delivery.
7. Visit their office
If you want to get a closer look at the company and how they operate, visit the physical address listed on their website. This way, you can also check for physical proof of their certifications and licenses.
Find reliable auto shippers today
No one wants to entrust their vehicles to an inexperienced or negligent company. At All American Trucking & Transport, we’ve completed every auto transport job with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our car transport services in California, available to dealers and private businesses alike, are designed with each client’s unique needs in mind. We are also proud members of the CMSA and are rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau.
Get a free vehicle transport quote here.