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Shipping a car from one destination to another is surprisingly common these days given the lack of time most of us have to just jump in the car and drive it somewhere. The process is fairly simple, but that doesn’t mean issues can pop up. One is insurance and who, specifically, will cover any damage to the car.

Before we discuss this question, one thing should go without saying. When shipping a vehicle, you should only use a transport company that is insured and bonded. If you use one that is not insured and the vehicle is damaged, you are going to have a hard time recovering anything from the shipping company since one without insurance is probably not exactly in good financial standing.

Once you’€™ve found a bonded and insured company, the question of who is covering what is something that needs to be both discussed and put in writing. The company will have an insurance policy that you can bet expressly details what is covered and what is not.  You would expect me to tell you what that is, but there is no standard. Some states require certain things to be covered and others do not. This is one of those areas where you can negotiate with the carrier. Again, just make sure it is in writing.

The second part of this question is what will you cover. The policy that you maintain for the vehicle should have a casualty and damage provision. Again, every states has different requirements. To find out what kind of coverage you have, pick up the phone and call your insurance company. They’€™ll let you know the ins and outs.

The goal, obviously, is to make sure that any possible damage is covered by either of the policies. If not, you might want to consider talking to another transport company or asking your insurance company if they will cover the gap. Only then can you be assured that you’€™ll be protected for the duration of the shipping process.

If you are planning to ship your vehicle, you may be considering how to choose the right auto transporter. When you enquire about auto shipping companies just ask them if they are broker or carrier. Schedule your auto shipping 4 weeks in advance, giving enough time for car mover carrier to pick up your vehicle. If you are not present, ask your friend, relative to transfer the car to the car mover. Most of the auto transport companies offer door to door service. Sometimes it may be difficult to drive in large truck carrying your vehicle in a residential area. So auto shipping companies tell their customers to drop their vehicle in a terminal from where they will pick up the car. See to it that your vehicle is insured. Before shipping your vehicle, truck driver will inspect your car for any scratches or damages and note it down in bill of lading. This document should be signed by both the parties. Same procedure is followed upon delivery.

Do check your vehicle before signing bill of lading. If you find any damages while unloading you can claim for damages now but not at a later stage. Do not keep personal belongings in the car as it may damage the interiors of the car. Some items like spare tires or car jacks can be found in the trunk of the car but do tie it down properly. When working on the total cost of the shipping, provide information for other things also like origin/destination, departure date, type of vehicle, type of car transport service desired and auto shipping requests etc. Some car shipping companies require certain amount of deposit or full payment in advance. If you make full payment prior to auto shipping service, use a credit card so that charges may be disputed if circumstances warrant such actions.

Do check there license certificate. Do contact local Better Business Bureau as well as verify that the shipper’s license is valid and active with the appropriate transportation agency. It is important you take time to check references and get all services agreed to by the company in writing. If any problem arises with the auto shipping company try to settle it. However if you feel you have reached a dead end or you are not treated reasonably you can file a complaint with multiple agencies (BBB, State or Federal Department of Transportation, Interstate Commerce Commission) as well as seeking legal counsel.

1. Does your company have a website?
Before asking too many questions it may be a good idea to ask for the address of the company website. Most auto transporters will include a questions and answers section for you to look through, as well as background information and testimonials.

2. What type of insurance do you offer?
All auto transporters are required to have some type of insurance, but the specific coverage will vary by company. Make sure to find out all of the details about their coverage, and if you are not satisfied with what is provided then be sure to ask if they offer additional insurance for an extra fee.

3. What are your shipping rates?
You will always want to ask a transporter what their rates are for the weight and size of a vehicle. Additionally, make sure you ask about any extra fees, and if you will be responsible for paying import duties and taxes.

4. Are you licensed with Federal Maritime Commission?
You should make sure that a potential auto transporter is licensed with the Federal Maritime Commission. Additionally, the company’s name and FMC number should be listed on the FMC’s website.

5. Can I get a free shipping estimate?
You should be able to get a quote from a shipping company by simply answering a few simple questions, such as what kind of car you drive and where you need it transported. However, in order to give you an estimate the representative is probably also going to collect your name and contact information, so be prepared for them to follow up with you.

6. What documents will I need?
In addition to prepping your car to travel, you may also be required to present documentation that the car is yours, and a copy of you license or passport. Make sure you ask what documents you need early on so that you can prepare early.

7. When will my car arrive?
Depending on how far in advance you call an auto transporter, they should be able to estimate when you car will arrive at its target destination. You should also find out if you will be required to pick up the vehicle at the port or if they can deliver it to a specific address.

8. Are you offering any discounts or promotions?
Thought not always the best question to ask first, if you are seriously considering hiring a car shipping company then you might want to ask if they have any discounts or promotions running. In today’s economy many companies are willing to offer you a discounted price in order to seal the deal, especially if they know you are serious

Maybe you’ve just got a cracking deal on a car bought off eBay or Autotrader, the only hitch being that it is sitting in Mr Jone’s drive over the other side of the country? Or, you need to get your non-runner moved from A to B? Whatever your reasons, finding a car transport company to get your pride and joy delivered is something that most of us encounter at some point. Although the process is fairly straightforward, it does pay to plan ahead. The following advice and tips should help when choosing a reliable and trustworthy car transport firm.

Service Type

There are 3 main service types available to you when transporting your car, each of which carries their own pros and cons, these will be discussed in turn.

1) Have the car driven on trade plates

2) Have the car transported on a single car trailer

3) Have the car transported on a multi-car trailer

Having the car driven on trade plates by a professional can often be the cheapest option for car delivery. However, you are adding mileage onto the car and there is an increase in the chance of damage when compared with the other main methods whereby your vehicle is trailered.

Single car trailers are generally used for the more urgent vehicle deliveries, accordingly, however as only one car is moved at a time it also tends to be the most expensive. There are a wide range of single car trailers on the market, from simple open-tops to those that are enclosed and even climate controlled. You may wish to insist upon an enclosed trailer if your vehicle is of particularly high value or is irreplaceable, but expect to pay a premium.

Multi-car trailers can transport several cars at once, whilst the service will be slower you can expect a lower price. Cars are being transported on multi-car trailers everyday and if there is spare capacity on a route a vehicle transport firm is already travelling you could get a great price. As multi-car trailers are harder to manoeuvre than single-cars, it is often the case that vehicle transport firms will not deliver to the door, but rather to a local hub where the vehicle can then be collected from. So, it is worth checking that out prior to accepting any offer.

Getting Prices

Like any service, you wouldn’t just accept the first price quoted so it pays to shop around. Aim to get at least 5 quotes for your job.

Insurance

One of the most important things to do when choosing a car transport company is to check their insurance documents. If they are not adequately insured you run the risk of not only their transporter being impounded but also your own vehicle. Plus of course, in the event of an accident you will want the peace of mind that your vehicle is adequately covered. Policies can differ from company to company, but the key areas you will want to look for are the value of the level of cover as well as cover for both damage and theft.

Your own car insurance policy may already have cover for your vehicle whilst in transit, so it is certainly worthwhile checking that. Some insurance firms do also allow you to add this option to your insurance for a fee. Having this option available to you as a back-up should the worst happen and the car transport firm fail to claim is worth it for the peace of mind alone.

Establishing the trustworthiness of the car transport company

So, you’ve got a great price & their insurance cover is fine, but how do you know that they are reliable & have adequate experience. It is worth conducting a search on Google for reviews of the company so you can see what previous customers have said about their services. The car transport firm should also be able to offer you testimonials. At the end of the day, it is up to them to prove to you that they are trustworthy. If they find it hard to do that, they probably aren’t the right ones for you.

Payment Terms

Now that you have chosen your car transport firm, it is normal practice to be required to pay a deposit, but this should not exceed 25% of the total cost. Usually cash or check is accepted as payment, however using a credit card is your best option in case you need to dispute charges at a later date.

Go through contract

Verbal promises mean nothing. Make sure that everything is down on paper in black and white. If you are uncertain about any clauses, ask the firm and get them to re-draft it if necessary. There should be a clause whereby you are compensated if they fail to deliver within the specified timeframe.

Preparing car for transport

Once you have agreed dates, signed the paperwork and paid your deposit, you will need to prepare your car for transport. Don’t leave this until the last minute. Your transporter will no doubt offer you tips as well, but be sure to check for and document any pre-existing damage by following these steps:

1) Wash the car thoroughly.

2) Make a written note of any chips, dents or other cosmetic damage whatsoever.

3) Take photos of the car from several angles as well as close-ups of any damage.

4) Date the photographs and written record.

Be certain to remove any personal items from the car (including the boot), these generally won’t be covered by insurance should they go walk about. Also any extra weight could potentially cause damage to the cars undercarriage whilst in transit as well as other vehicles if on a multi-car trailer.

Unless the car you are getting moved is a complete write-off you should check it for any mechanical problems. Although your car will be driven very little (if at all), you should try to ensure that it is running as best it can to help prevent any time delays or damages.

1) Check the battery is fully charged & tyres are fully inflates.

2) Top-up all fluids in the car but try to run down the petrol tank to about ¼ full which will help save on weight.

3) If you have spotted any leaks or mechanical issues, be sure to let car carrier know. If you car is going on a multi-car trailer it should be placed on the bottom rack to prevent spilling on cars below.

Finally, if your car is a soft-top be sure that it is securely down. Fold back your wing mirrors & retract the radio antennae. Remove/hide any items that could catch the eye of thieves such as cd players/sat nav. Also, be sure to disable your car alarm prior to pickup, if that’s not possible be sure to tell your car transport company how to turn it off should it be triggered.

What to expect from the car transport firm on pickup/delivery

Before releasing your vehicle make sure you have made a record of any pre-existing damage including time-stamped photos. When the company arrive, they will inspect the vehicle with you and note this damage on their own records, make sure that any/all damage is recorded there before signing.

Before loading up your car be sure to check the mileage indicator, although your car may be driven a little to load/unload it, there should be no major increase in mileage between pickup and delivery.

When your car is delivered, inspect your car slowly and carefully. Do not rush this step or sign anything yet. Check for any new damage (including roof and bumpers) or increase in mileage. If there are any inconsistencies, you should document these and get the driver to sign it. Only once you are happy and the driver has signed to acknowledge for any new damage should you sign acceptance. If you do not follow these steps it is unlikely you will have recourse at a later date.

In the unlikely event that new damage has been caused in transit, you should file a claim with the car transport company and follow their usual procedures. You should also file a claim with your own insurance company within 24 hours.

Post Delivery

The vast majority of car transport transactions go smoothly, however if there were any problems, first try to iron these out with the firm directly. They usually work on a referral basis and so really do want to resolve any issues that have arisen. If you had tried but feel you are not getting anywhere, you may want to file a complaint with agencies such as trading standards.