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Transporting your vehicle requires special skills, equipment, and insurance that a household
mover might not be able to adequately provide.Seek out a specialized automobile transport mover or
shipping company for all moves that involve a vehicle you will not be driving.
The best source for locating a reputable automobile shipping company is a referral from a
family member or friend. These trustworthy connections will be able to tell you all about their
personal experiences moving a vehicle and can advise you on whether or not to utilize a certain company.
Another option is to compare online reviews, though these sources might be biased or falsified altogether.
Ask around before you call for quotes or additional information.
Be sure to check the Better Business Bureau for any fraudulent activity, customer complaints, or scams
the mover might be associated with.
Before you decide on a company, decide which mode of transportation you would prefer to use.
The choices include the standard auto transport mode, also known as an open trailer which uses an open car carrier
and the closed car transporter, also known as a closed trailer which shields the vehicle from outside weather
conditions. Many prefer the latter as it ensures a greater deal of protection for older, more expensive vehicles
that could be easily damaged from excessive rain, wind, or road debris. The security of the closed carrier costs significantly more than the open trailer option.
Some companies carry the cars themselves. Others utilize auto transport brokers that contract to other truckers or auto drive away services. Decide which services you would prefer to use. Carriers are generally accurate with delivery time estimates because they own their trucks and recognize what factors can potentially delay arrival times. Brokers, on the other hand, do not own trucks but utilize a network of contracted drivers and vehicles. This yields flexible pricing, though schedules may not be as accurate. Finally, auto drive away services provide drivers that pilot your vehicle from the origin to the destination. This service carries the most danger for precious cars as they are exposed to the open road and could potentially be driven by a careless, reckless individual.
Once you decide which options you would like to utilize, find three reputable companies that offer them to customers. Contact at least three transporters in order to compare their prices and services. Check whether each is registered with the Department of Transportation and if it has active MC (Motor Carrier) and USDOT (United States Department of Transportation) numbers. Keep in mind that brokers will only have MC numbers as they do not own transportation vehicles. Also verify whether or not the carrier has active liability and cargo insurance, and see if it covers the value of your vehicle. If the coverage is limited, ask for additional coverage. Secure written proof of such insurance claims, and make sure to keep a paper copy of your policy on-hand.
Once you’ve selected an auto transporter, begin preparing your vehicle for shipment. Make sure there is between 1/8 and 1/4 tank of gasoline in the vehicle. This will ensure that you can drive to a gas station when you arrive at the destination but will not significantly affect your vehicle’s weight. Inflate all tires, secure the roofs of convertibles, and top off all fluids. Disable alarms and fold any mirrors in. Take your vehicle to the carwash and immediately document any dents, scratches, or other superficial damage with photographs. Retract the antenna if possible or at least secure it to the hood of your car. Remove all belongings from the car (including the trunk), which are not covered by insurance and which could be confiscated during a routine roadside check.
Before your move, tell the company about any operational problems the car may have. For example, if the brakes need to be pressed very hard to work properly or if the gear shift gets stuck when changing between modes, you should make it a point to outline these problems to the mover. Also exercise honesty when telling the mover about any fluid leakage. If a leaking car is placed on the top story of a carrier, it can drip oil and other harsh chemicals onto the paint of vehicles below.
Make sure that all terms of shipment and delivery are outlined in writing. Specify an exact delivery date, and make sure the estimate is correct. Dispute any damage that occurs while the vehicle is on the road.
If you follow these tips and practice due diligence, you will be able to enjoy your automobile at your new home for many years to come.
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