The Vehicle Shipping Services industry generated $10.8 billion in revenue in 2022 alone. Shipping a car can be a difficult task, but it doesn’t have to be. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that you choose reputable and dependable car transport.
In this guide, we’ll go over seven questions to ask when selecting automobile transport services for professionalism, reliability, and speed. Let’s dive right in.
1. Is the Company Licensed and Insured?
This is one of the most important questions to ask. It ensures that the company is trustworthy and has the necessary insurance to protect your vehicle in the event of an accident.
To operate a motor carrier business in the United States, a company must be licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees the licensing process and ensures that all licensed carriers meet certain safety standards.
You can check a company’s DOT/FMCSA licensing status by searching the FMCSA’s website. The search tool allows you to search by company name, USDOT number, or MC/MX number.
An auto transport company must also have the necessary insurance to protect your vehicle in the event of an accident. The company should be able to provide you with a copy of their insurance certificate, which will list the amount of coverage they have for your vehicle.
2. What Is the Company’s Experience?
The company’s experience is an important factor to consider when choosing a car transport company. A company that has been in business for many years and has transported a large number of cars is likely to have a good understanding of the industry and the best practices for shipping your vehicle.
Ask questions like:
- How long has the company been in business?
- How many cars have they transported?
- Do they have a good reputation?
3. What Is the Company’s Shipping Method?
There are two main methods of shipping your car: open and enclosed transport. Open transport is less expensive, but your car is more exposed to the elements. Enclosed transport is more expensive, but your car is protected from the elements and other vehicles.
Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing a shipping method:
- Price: Open transport is the most economical option, while enclosed transport is the most expensive
- Protection: Enclosed transport offers greater protection for your car from the elements and other vehicles
- Timeliness: Open transport is typically faster than enclosed transport
- Convenience: Enclosed transport may be more convenient if you are shipping a valuable or rare car
4. What Is the Company’s Pricing Policy?
The pricing policy of a car transport company is important to consider when choosing a company. The cost of shipping a car can vary depending on several factors, including the distance to be traveled, the type of transport, and the make and model of the car.
Some car transport companies charge a flat rate for shipping a car, while others charge a per-mile rate. Some companies also charge additional fees for things like pickup and delivery, insurance, and expedited shipping.
It is important to get a written quote from the company before you ship your car. This will help you to compare prices and find the best deal. View this auto shipping calculator to get an estimate of the cost of shipping your car.
5. What Is the Company’s Pickup and Delivery Policy?
The pickup and delivery policy of a car transport company is important to consider when choosing a company. Some companies offer pickup and delivery service at no additional charge, while others charge a fee.
It is important to find out where the company will pick up and deliver your car. Some companies only offer pickup and delivery services within a certain radius of their headquarters. If you need your car picked up or delivered outside of this radius, you may have to pay an additional fee.
6. What Is the Company’s Insurance Policy?
The insurance policy of a car transport company is important to consider when choosing a company. All car transport companies are legally required to have liability insurance. This protects you in the event of an accident caused by the transport company.
However, some companies also offer additional insurance, such as cargo insurance. This protects you in the event of damage to your car while it is in transit.
Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing an insurance policy:
- Coverage: Make sure the policy covers the full value of your car
- Exclusions: Make sure you understand what is excluded from coverage, such as pre-existing damage or damage by terrorism
- Deductible: The deductible is the amount of money you will have to pay out-of-pocket in the event of a claim
- Claims Process: Make sure you understand the claims process and how long it will take to get reimbursed for your losses
7. What Is the Company’s Customer Service Policy?
The customer service policy of a car transport company is important to consider when you ship your vehicle. Some companies offer excellent customer service, while others do not.
It is important to find out how you can contact the company if you have any questions or concerns. Some companies have a 24/7 customer service line, while others only have a customer service line during business hours.
It is also important to find out what the company’s policy is for refunds or cancellations. Some companies offer full refunds if you cancel your shipment within a certain period, while others do not offer refunds at all.
Choosing the Right Automobile Transport Services
There are many factors to consider when choosing automobile transport services. The most important factors are the company’s shipping method, pricing policy, pickup and delivery policy, insurance policy, and customer service policy.
By carefully considering these factors, you can be sure to choose a car transport company that will provide you with the best possible service.
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