Should I Contact More Than One Company When Shipping a Car?

Transporting your car from one part of the country to another is no small feat. That’s where shipping companies come in handy. They handle all of the logistics of getting your car from Point A to Point B so you can focus on other things, perhaps like moving. That said, your car is one of your most prized possessions so you don’t want to hand it over to just anyone. You want to be sure you are working with an auto shipping company that is reputable, trusted, and reliable. Furthermore, you want to be sure you are getting a fair price for the shipment. For all of these reasons, it is important to do your research and contact more than one shipping company before choosing one for the job. Here are just a few things to consider when looking for an auto transport company.

Reviews

First and foremost you want to check out various companies’ reviews before settling on one. You can browse reviews on the internet, check safety reports through the U.S. Department of Transportation, talk with the Better Business Bureau, and finally, speak with the company themselves and ask for references. The more you research reviews, the more likely you will find yourself worthing with a reputable shipping company.

Rates

As you would with many other services, it is important to shop around and compare prices. Call multiple car shipping companies and request a personalized quote based on your specific vehicle and needs. You also want to make sure this quote includes everything, so you aren’t surprised by unexpected fees and charges.

Compare Insurance

Auto transport companies are required by law to have up-to-date insurance. However, you should never assume they do. Ask for proof and check the details regarding the policy. Compare coverage between companies and find out how each one handles damage claims.

Check for Proper Licensing

While most auto shipping companies are who they say they are, there are unfortunately some scammers out there. Therefore, you want to ask around and make sure each company you speak with can provide you with U.S. Department of Transportation number (DOT) as well as a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) number. It is required by law that auto shippers be properly licensed, and these numbers can be used to check for verification and safety history.

Compare Services

Different car shipping companies might have different services available for shipping. For instance, some companies offer the option to choose between open and enclosed transport. Others may give you the option to choose between door-to-door pickup and delivery versus terminal-to-terminal. Be sure to speak with different companies to find the one that provides the exact services you need.