Easy Move Quote |
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Auto Transport
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1. How much will it cost to ship my car? Obtain quotes from several car transport companies. Estimates are free, so take advantage of them. To get accurate information, be prepared to provide the following information:
Perform some "due diligence" regarding the Companies you are considering. The cheapest quote you receive may not always be your best bet. If you pay too little, the likelihood that your vehicle will be transported in a timely manner is diminished. Pick a transporter that responds well to your request for information, has a solid track record and can provide you with good value. 2. How do I know if my car is insured? The Companies with whom you contract to transport your vehicle should provide adequate insurance to protect against driver negligence. Ask for a copy of the "certificate of insurance" and familiarize yourself with the types of coverage provided. Most companies specifically exclude road damage, damage or theft of personal items left in the car, small nicks & dents, and glass breakage. If you want to verify or supplement the coverage, call your current automobile insurance agent. Beware of shipping your car with a Companies that is exclusively a "broker." Many of these companies do not own trucks and depend upon the carrier that actually carries your car to provide insurance. If the truck driver's insurance coverage has lapsed for any reason, you will be unprotected. 3. How do I find out when my car will arrive? All reputable companies have customer service representatives who can provide information about where your vehicle is in the transport process. Be aware that most companies use "estimated" dates since it is impossible to schedule vehicle freight precisely. Some companies do offer an optional "guaranteed" or premium service that assures a specific date of delivery While some car transport companies may not require payment in advance, others require a deposit (10-25% of the total cost), or full payment in advance. If a deposit is given, the amount due (C.O.D.) is always required at time of delivery -- oftentimes with a cashiers check or cash. If full payment is required prior to car transport, consider using a credit card so that charges may be reversed if circumstances warrant such actions. 5. What about pick-up and delivery rates? Ask for estimated pick-up and delivery times from your car transport Companies. You should be able to get a 3-day window for pick-up. Once pick-up is made, your car transport or auto driveaway Companies should provide you with a fairly precise estimated delivery date. If you need an exact date for pick-up, most car transport and auto driveaway services can pick-up your car and hold it at a terminal for an additional charge. 6. Where can I get references? While individuals are generally reluctant to act as references because of the "nuisance factor," corporate clients are usually willing to do so. Also, van line companies refer many car transport and auto driveaway companies. Ask for several references, if possible. 7. Releasing your car to the carrier Prior to leaving your car with a driver or car transport Companies, be sure you receive an "Original Inspection Report." This report provides pick-up and delivery information, current mileage, and most importantly, shows the condition of your car at time of pick-up -- pre-existing scratches and dents, cracked glass/mirrors, general paint condition, etc. Keep this report and use it when you receive your vehicle. 8. Accepting your vehicle for delivery At the time of delivery, inspect your vehicle and compare the condition and mileage against the "Original Inspection Report" provided by your car transport Companies at origination (see item above). Many car transport companies also provide a copy of this report at time of delivery. If there are inconsistencies, note them as exceptions and be sure the driver signs it. Never accept your vehicle at night if you cannot verify its condition-- without being viewed and signed by the driver, you have little recourse if damage had occurred during transit. 9. What if damage should occur? The majority of car transport experiences are worry-free, with your damage-free vehicle arriving at the estimated time. On occasion, a vehicle may become damaged in transit. If this should happen, note all damage on your inspection report (see item above), obtain the driver's signature, and contact your car transport Companies. The car transport Companies should then work with you to reimburse you for verifiable damage done to your car. 10. What are the different trailer types? In order to ship your car to your new home most efficiently and cost-effectively, it's important to know about different shipping techniques, such as open and closed trailers. The model of the car you have, and the destination where you will transport it, will help determine whether you need an open or closed trailer. What is an Open Trailer? Advantages: What is a Closed Trailer? Advantages: Tips: Remove all valuables from the car, leave as little gas as possible in the gas tank for weight and safety purposes, and alwaysinsure your car, just in case it gets damaged. 11. Should you choose a moving Companies or an auto transportation Companies? Car carriers generally charge lower rates than movers do. Shop around and compare pricing. If your quote seems extraordinarily low or high, ask the vendor why. Always remember that the lowest price isn't always the best option. A Companies's good reputation often goes a long way.
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