How Does Car Shipping Work?
Moving your car can be difficult when relocating to a far-off location or purchasing a vehicle from a remote dealership. Working with reputable auto transport companies makes the process more convenient. Before selecting car movers, familiarize yourself with how vehicle transporters operate so you know what to expect during your car’s trip. Here is more information about how car shipping works:
Select a Moving Company
The first step is choosing reliable car movers. Look for a licensed, insured auto transport company. Check their registration with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and read the terms of the mover’s insurance. Reputable car shipping companies provide options, such as enclosed trailers for luxury cars or open carriers for standard vehicles. Move group deliveries are another option where cars share a trailer, or see if they offer expedited individual shipments with customizable pickup and drop-off dates.
Request a Shipping Quote
Auto transport companies offer shipping estimates based on your vehicle’s weight, size, and pickup and drop-off locations. Providing the correct vehicle information helps the movers plan the best trailer and route. Transport charges depend on mileage, the size of your car, and the need for specialized handling. Requesting a quote can help you get an idea of how much time shipping may take. For convenience, delivery also allows car pickup and drop-off from a home location or another meeting point.
Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Complete vehicle maintenance and inspections before auto transport, such as checking fluid levels and tires and completing any repairs. Remove personal items inside and out, clear garage remotes from visor clips, and deactivate any vehicle alarms. Note any existing dings or scratches in the paint to compare before and after transport. For weight capacity, the car should be empty of all items except standard components. Keeping your gas tank at a lower level may reduce the weight and make it safer for your car to be shipped.
Inspect the Vehicle at Delivery
While damage is rare, if you choose an open-car shipping option, there is the chance that a flying rock or poor weather can impact your vehicle during the transition. Upon your vehicle’s arrival, inspect the exterior under good lighting conditions. Some movers let you drive the vehicle to check for mechanical issues or anomalies, like misaligned wheels, that could have occurred in transit. The driver can document any damage to assess and file a claim.
Sign Off to Complete the Shipment
Once the vehicle arrives in acceptable condition with no damages, sign the final paperwork or bill of lading before the driver leaves. This confirms that the contract for auto transport has been fulfilled. Signing without damage notes means that you are accepting the vehicle as is.
Select Reliable Car Movers Today
With expert auto transporters handling your car’s big move, you have one less thing to worry about during relocation. Leading car movers provide safe, insured, door-to-door vehicle delivery for moves across town or cross-country. Their specialized carriers, licensed drivers, and damage protection safeguards allow shipping a vehicle to be convenient, easy to coordinate, and free from hassles. Contact a reputable car shipping company to learn more about their vehicle transportation services today.