How can you ensure a smooth long-distance car shipping process?
Whether you’re relocating to another state, purchasing a new vehicle, or moving for a new job, utilizing a car shipping company is a common and reliable method. To guarantee the safe arrival of your vehicle at its destination, it’s crucial to select the right auto transport company. By following these preparation steps, you can safeguard your interests and prevent potential scams.
Our 168 Transport team has compiled a list of 20 essential tips to ensure your car shipping process goes smoothly. If you’re interested, you definitely don’t want to miss this:
Investigate the Shipping Company. Before booking a car shipping service, it’s imperative to verify the company’s professionalism and credibility. You can do this by searching for customer reviews on forums, checking social media (like Google reviews), and visiting the company’s website. Evaluate a company’s trustworthiness based on its years of experience in the industry, licenses, and insurance coverage. Legally, car shipping companies must have a valid business registration and license. You can find this information through a Google search. Additionally, you can search for any customer complaints against an auto transport company on the “BBB” website.
Beware of Low Quotes. Many car shipping companies offer quote estimators on their websites. This is a free tool that provides a car shipping quote based on the information you provide. However, not all car shipping quote calculators are accurate. 168 Car Shipping’s quote service does not require personal information. Once submitted, our specialists will immediately provide you with a customized quote for your car shipping. Beware of companies offering quotes below industry standards. To save money, you may sacrifice service quality and standards, and in the worst-case scenario, your car may be damaged or stolen, resulting in a loss.
Contact the Dispatcher. After requesting a quote, you should contact the company’s dispatcher to answer your questions. If this is your first time shipping a vehicle, you may have many questions about payment, insurance, and the shipping process. The car shipping representative will be happy to assist you. A phone conversation allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the company, their customer service, professionalism, and friendliness. Their employees should be polite and knowledgeable. Call National Transportation Company at 800-321-2051 to learn more about our car shipping services.
Book in Advance. Car shipping can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more. This depends on the location, service, and mode of transportation. There are also some factors we can’t control. No one can accurately predict the weather 100%. We strive to meet your deadlines by providing a pickup window. This depends on which of the three transportation methods you choose. If you need your car by a specific date, be sure to book your car shipping in advance. Preparation is key to a smooth transport.
Consider the Location. When you need to ship your vehicle to or from a specific area, consider the location. Is the area easily accessible by major roads? Is there enough space for the transport truck when it arrives? National Transportation Company offers door-to-door pickup and delivery services for added convenience. We are happy to pick up and deliver your vehicle at your home or workplace. Some locations may be difficult for large transport vehicles. If you live in such an area, please discuss an alternative meeting location with your driver, such as a large parking lot near your home.
Consider the Destination. Consider where you are moving to. If you are moving coast to coast, the climate may be very different from your current home. Therefore, you should take appropriate steps to prepare for the change. Depending on the situation, you may need to protect your car from sunlight and high temperatures, or install snow tires. You may want to find out the best time to move to that area. Try to avoid seasons or times of year with frequent severe weather (such as hurricanes, blizzards, etc.). Additionally, keep in mind moving trends. People move more frequently in the summer, so car shipping companies are busier during this time.
Check Insurance Coverage. Most car shipping companies offer insurance coverage during transportation. Ask the car shipping company what is and is not covered during vehicle transportation. Different companies cover different amounts. National Transportation Company offers insured car shipping services, so no additional insurance is required. However, it is recommended that you check with your own auto insurance provider. Understand what your auto insurance provider covers during transportation.
Understand the Contract Before Signing. When the driver arrives at your home to pick up your vehicle, you must sign a bill of lading. The bill of lading is a legal agreement between you and the car shipping company that outlines the car shipping services provided. You should develop a habit of reading all documents thoroughly before signing. If you have any questions or concerns about the contract, ask the driver for clarification.
Be Realistic About Timelines. We strive to accommodate difficult schedules to deliver your car safely and on time. However, it’s important to be realistic. The transportation process is not like Amazon delivery. The safety of the vehicle and our drivers is our top priority. One way to ensure your car arrives on time is to plan ahead. Our car shipping experts are happy to answer any questions you may have about the car shipping process. It’s also a good idea to understand how weather can affect transportation.
Ask About GPS Tracking. Check if the car shipping company offers tracking services, such as a GPS system. This tracking system allows you to track the location of your vehicle during transit, giving you peace of mind. Our drivers keep in touch with customers during the transportation process, informing them of the approximate pickup and delivery times. We aim to provide the best customer service and make your car shipping experience a positive one. If you have any questions or concerns during the transportation process, feel free to contact our car shipping experts.
Protect Your Vehicle. If you own a classic, luxury, exotic, or other high-value vehicle, you may want to choose a service that protects your vehicle from the weather and road elements. Enclosed car shipping is recommended for these types of vehicles for added protection. However, you can also request that your car be “deck loaded”. Deck loading means placing the car on the second level of a double-decker transport truck. Vehicles in this position are less likely to encounter road elements such as dust, dirt, and other debris. Keep in mind that these services cost more than standard shipping methods.
Inspect the Vehicle Before Pickup. When the driver arrives to pick up your vehicle, they will conduct a vehicle inspection. A report will be written. This is important for insurance purposes in case any accidents occur during transportation. Before the transport truck arrives, take the time to do your own inspection. Record any visible exterior damage, including paint chips, scratches, and dents. Take photos of any discovered exterior damage from all angles. Keep these photos for your records. You can also provide a copy to the shipping company.
Remove All Personal Belongings. For safety and insurance purposes, it is recommended to remove all personal belongings from your vehicle. Extra items in the vehicle may cause damage to the vehicle or the items themselves. Additionally, car shipping companies do not cover damage or loss to these items. These personal items also add weight to the vehicle. Car shipping rates are calculated in part based on the weight of the vehicle. Therefore, these extra items may result in additional charges.
Remove Loose Parts. Just as personal belongings should be removed, any loose parts on the vehicle should also be removed or secured. This includes bike racks and luggage racks. Ensure that all car ornaments, stickers, hubcaps, spoilers, and fog lights are secured and ready for transport. Antennas may need to be removed or retracted. For convertibles, ensure the top is raised and secured. If the convertible top is in poor condition, enclosed car shipping may be a better solution to avoid vehicle damage.
Maintain Vehicle Maintenance. Maintaining your vehicle is important to ensure you have a reliable mode of transportation year-round. Before shipping, ensure all fluids are topped up to the appropriate levels. Check the tires to ensure they are in good condition and properly inflated. Ensure your vehicle has no leaks. If you have any mechanical issues, take it to your local auto mechanic for repair. At National Transportation Company, we can also transport inoperable vehicles. If your car cannot run, please let us know so we can make the appropriate preparations before transportation.
Avoid a Full Tank of Gas. It is not necessary or recommended to fill your tank before shipping your vehicle. Instead, keep the tank about a quarter full. This is to reduce the weight of the vehicle. Failure to do so may result in additional charges. Your vehicle will only be driven when it is being loaded and unloaded, so it doesn’t need a lot of gas. Since your vehicle should only be driven in these situations, we recommend recording the mileage on the odometer. This is for your records.
Confirm Payment Details. Ask the company what payment methods they accept (credit card, bank check, etc.) and how much payment is required before shipping. Each company operates differently. Some car shipping companies require full payment in advance, while others only require a partial payment or deposit. According to the policy of National Transportation Company, a partial payment is required before shipping. When you first get a quote, it is important to verify what is covered. Beware of companies with hidden fees. Therefore, be sure to read the entire contract before signing.
Prepare Operating Instructions for the Driver. You might use your car for commuting daily. This means you’re very familiar with your car and how it operates. To make it easier for the car transport professional to load and unload your car onto the transport truck, please prepare a list of operating instructions. This includes how to start, stop, and drive your car, especially if the vehicle has any unique features. Give these instructions to the driver when they arrive.
Update License Plates . If you’re moving to another state, you’ll need to change your license plates to reflect your new residence. This will require changing the vehicle’s registration and ownership information. This can be done at your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or online. Different states have different time requirements for completing this change after moving, typically Within 30 and 60 days after the move.
168 US Car Shipping offers a variety of services to meet your specific needs, budget, and timeline. Car shipping is simple, safe, and affordable. Leave all the heavy lifting to us. Fly to your destination, and your vehicle will be delivered to your doorstep. There’s no need to drive hundreds or even thousands of miles across the country, preserving the value of your beloved vehicle, because car shipping is that easy. We provide you with peace of mind so you can start enjoying your new home or vacation destination.