How to ship a car?
The process of shipping a car is very easy for people who have shipped cars in the past; however it can easily turn into a nightmare for first timers. The first things you must determine before you start to shop around are the dates you are looking to ship. You may not have an exact date; however an idea or approximate time will help determine the price and availability of your transportation. If you are working towards a specific delivery date, make sure you ask your agent how much time is delivery time so you can book your service with enough time in advance. Be aware that you cannot have unrealistic expectations on last minute requests.
Once you have determined the dates, the hectic part starts: looking for the best company. It is no secret that there are hundreds of people pulling scams on customers every day. Technology today has not only facilitated customer to access retailers and services, but it has also allowed scammers to access them. This part may be considered the most stressful for first timers as they have a broad list of companies to choose from, how to know which company is the best.? Here is where the internet works as your strongest research tool, read reviews, check their credibility and their rating with the BBB (Better Business Bureau). Stay away from low prices and smooth talking salesmen, as low prices are always tied to hidden fees and unreliable transporters.
After you have chosen your company, provide as many details as possible to your agent so he can determine the correct price and the best accommodations for a safe and secure transport. Based on the type of car you are shipping he will also make a few recommendations and or requirements in order to ship your car safely. For example sports cars usually have very low clearance that can easily be damaged while loading and unloading from the carrier, therefore these cars are to be shipped via enclosed carrier instead of regular open trailers. Motorcycles such as a Ducati have to be specially cradled by factory to transport due to their unique shape. Regular straps and cradles are not suit for these bikes and carriers require for them to be cradled already before shipping. Details like this can be foreseen as long as you provide as many details as possible; this will help you avoid any last minute surprises and maybe fees.
Prepare your car for transport by washing it thoroughly and taking pictures. This will help you keep record of the state your car is in before pick up, so that in the event damages occur along the way, you will have evidence to show during insurance claims. Also remove any person item inside the car as these are not to be shipped within vehicle, car transport companies ship cars not personal belongings, for this you may hire a moving company. Personal items add weight to vehicles and are an insurance liability.
Arrange payments before hand to avoid last minute hassles that may cause delays or storage fees, as no payment upon delivery means driver will have to leave car at storage in the event he is running a tight schedule. Storage locations are programmed to receive full payment plus their fees; this allows drivers to be covered for their fees as well.
