What are the 6 Things In Auto Transport Carriers Only Know?
As auto sales jump and moving across the country becomes easier, the need for car transport is rising by the day. Both individuals and companies often seek the services of car transportation companies to safely move their vehicles from one location to another. Fortunately, the growing number of reputable auto transport companies has made it possible to transport vehicles any time, be it day or night. However, to get the best out of the services they offer it is important to have some insider information that is available to auto transport carriers only.
1) Initial auto transport quotes are an estimate
When browsing through websites owned by auto transport companies, it is common to find a shipping quote calculator on display. The calculator allows you to input the current location of your car and the destination so that you can receive the overall cost of its transportation. However, the cost displayed is usually an estimate which is bound to change when you send in more information about your car with extra details. It is therefore important to make further inquiries after receiving the estimate in order to determine the actual cost of moving your vehicle across the state or even overseas.
2) Professional car shipping is cheaper than DIY project
Moving your car across the state may seem easy and you might consider handling it on your own as part of a DIY project. However, moving vehicles from one location to another involves planning around logistics that ensure that they are delivered safely to the preferred destination and in good time. Auto transport carriers only have the equipment and experience to quickly assign the right carrier truck and driver to deliver your vehicle in one piece. Also, they have networks with other carriers in the industry that can quickly available special trucks to transport luxury or unique cars in a secure manner.
3) Guaranteed auto transport delivery dates do not exist
Typically, car owners request for confirmation on the exact date their vehicles will be delivered to their new location. Most times, the information provided by car carriers is in form of a range of time or window period which is usually two or three days above the actual delivery date. The main reason for this is their inability to predict a smooth journey for their drivers thus giving themselves a chance to look for an alternative in case problems arise. The problems can be manmade or natural. These problems can be sorted out quickly or in some cases may result in the delay of delivery for an extended time period.
4) Insurance does not offer 100% coverage
Although car carriers are expected to have insurance for vehicles in transit, it does not cover against all types of damage. It is important to understand the extent to which they will offer compensation after damage to avoid surprises when the car is delivered to you. Some of the areas not covered by insurance include natural disasters and water damage among others. In addition, the insurance cover by the transportation company may not cover damage that occurs during the process of loading or unloading the vehicle. If unsure, of the extent of their cover, you might need to invest in gap insurance for maximum cover.
5) Dealing with brokers can sometimes save you money
Majority of auto transport carriers get their business from brokers whose main occupation is to connect customers with reliable transport companies. The brokers have extensive knowledge on the best companies for your car and ensure that you get the best services available. Also, their experience makes it possible for them to negotiate better rates from car carriers to help save money without compromising on the services provided. Even so, dealing directly with carriers is possible and encouraged in order to avoid miscommunication or fraudulent brokers.
6) All vehicle types can be transported
At times, car owners that have luxury vehicles or cars with special features assume that moving their car from one location to another is impossible. However, companies with carrier trucks that accommodate various types of vehicles can easily transport them securely. Also, they can use their networks to seek appropriate carrier trucks if they do not have one as part of their fleet. Apart from protecting them from damage, they also purchase and advise on relevant insurance covers needed to ensure that damages are covered in full.
For more on the information available to auto transport carriers only, call our office and speak to a member of our sales team.