Some people are so sensitive about their car that they don’t see anyone else drive it. It is a valuable possession but sometimes they are compelled to have someone move their car like a breakdown in the middle of the road or during migration to another state or country.
In the latter situation, they hire auto shipping services for the task. In the US, car transport companies are available in lots. Therefore, it becomes necessary for people to take precautionary steps before hiring.
In the US, there are reliable and experienced companies like Ship A Car, Inc. They have been offering premium customer services. It doesn’t matter if you want to ship an antique or classic car or a sports bike or an SUV. SAC has a fleet of carriers and trained truckers. Your car receives good respect and the delivery is safe and hassle-free.
Precautionary steps to consider before hiring a car shipping company
Registration
Every car transportation national or international business must get registered with the DOT or Department of Transport. Check the potential service provider’s DOT number. Interstate company also has a motor carrier number. You can check the carrier number on FMCSA to look for driving history. Companies shipping to foreign lands need to get registered with FMC or Federal Maritime Commission.
Insurance
Scrutinize the insurance coverage to ensure its capability to reimburse for potential damages. Check damage deductibles and get everything in writing. Even ask for their insurance policy Xerox before you finalize the deal. Insurance problems are crucial when you choose open trucks for car transport.
Reputation
Check the potential auto transport company’s reputation. Get familiar with their capabilities to get an idea if they are suitable for your car transport needs. For example, SAC has been in the transport and shipping business for more than 30 years. It has a wide fleet of carriers and offers services like an open carrier, closed carrier, tractor shipping, vintage car shipping, cross country, military, college, seasonal and more.
Research online
- Testimonials on social sites and forums can help you.
- BBB check to look for complaints made.
- Reviews on Yelp and Google cannot be managed, so check for a negative review.
Negative reviews are not all true but if you find a plethora of bad testimonials in comparison to optimistic ones then it is a red flag.
Different delivery options
Different options are available like door-to-door, terminal-to-terminal, enclosed transportation, open carrier, single-level carrier, multi-level trailer, driver delivery, etc. Busy people prefer door-to-door delivery, so look for an auto transport service provider that fulfills your needs.
People choose the enclosed carrier for cross country or classic shipping needs. Therefore, determine your convenience and choose a shipping mode, accordingly.
Ask about car protection
Discuss their general car protection protocol. A reliable shipping company advises its customers to capture images of existing car damage on the inside and outside. Customers get informed when to expect the trucker, who carries their own car checks. The process is repeated when the car gets delivered. This is the proper protocol and if you don’t find this in the potential company move to another one.