The car shipping industry has grown in recent years and along with the growing industry comes a growing list of scammers. While many car shipping companies are legitimate, unfortunately, there are some that aren’t. Shipping a vehicle can be an expensive undertaking and it’s one that should not be taken lightly. Finding a reliable car shipping company requires thorough research. Here are a few reasons why it is so important to do your research as well as a few things to look out for when choosing a car shipping company. 

Check Customer Reviews

Research is key when it comes to finding a car shipping company that will do the best job at the best prices. Since you won’t be able to physically visit the car shipping company you are interested in, you have to make sure you find out everything you can about it and how well it actually performs. One way to do this is by checking the customer reviews. The way they treat their customers says a lot about a company. Another way to research the company’s credibility is by checking the Better Business Bureau database. The BBB will be able to provide reviews and any complaints that the company may have received. 

Verify Registration

Plenty of companies claim to be able to ship your car long distance but not all of them are who they say they are. It is required by the Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA) that all auto transport companies be registered. The most reliable car shipping companies will have a six-digit  MC Docket number displayed on their website. This is your only guarantee that the company is legitimate so always check to be sure the company is properly registered. 

Compare Shipping Prices

There are thousands of car shipping companies online and the most reliable ones should provide a free online quote and should also compare well with other companies. If you notice a quote that is drastically cheaper than all of the other companies, this should be a red flag. While it might be tempting to go with the cheaper price, a cheap price can often be equated to poor service. Choose a company that is upfront about their prices and offers prices consistent with market rates. 

Make Contact with the Companies

Once you have narrowed down your choices, try to make contact with them by phone. Ask questions about the company’s history, their policies, and their shipping process. You also want to clarify their insurance policy. The shipper should offer insurance coverage on your vehicle during transport. This is a good sign that your car will be delivered in good shape. When you speak to the representative, make sure they thoroughly answer your questions, understand your concerns, and explain their services clearly. 

Read Terms and Conditions

When you are researching car shipping companies you have to read the fine print. You have to make sure you understand their terms and policies and what kind of liability insurance the company has in case your vehicle gets damaged. You should also check with your own insurance company to see if they offer additional coverage. 

Shipping a vehicle can be tricky and it can be overwhelming to wok with a company that you might not get to see in person. That’s why it’s important to take your time and do plenty of research prior to choosing a  shipping company. The more research you do, the less stressed you will be about entrusting this company to handle the transport of your vehicle.