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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps involved in car shipping?
Carrying a car is surprisingly simple; once you know the “to” and “from” locations. Does this involve Miami, Tampa, Orlando, or somewhere beyond Florida? Call A-1 Auto Transport at 800-452-2889 for a no-cost shipping quote. We’ll guide you through the steps and handle all the details.
Are there different options for car shipping services?
Most of the time, your vehicle ships via an open trailer that is unprotected from inclement weather and road debris. If your car is new or valuable, consider an enclosed logistics upgrade for extra safeguarding. Door-to-door service is another popular option that includes fixed pick-up and drop-off appointments.
How much does it cost to ship a car?
Vehicle shipping costs depend on what you’re shipping and to where. So, sending a small hatchback from Miami to Jacksonville might cost $350. However, shipping a large SUV from Orlando to Los Angeles could run $1,200. An A-1 Auto Transport professional can provide all the information you need. Or receive a free online shipping quote.
Are there any cost-saving options for shipping my car?
Yes. Because your car is consistently shipped with the greatest oversight and expertise, reducing shipping costs can happen if there’s time and distance flexibility. Standby shipping provides a lower rate if you can wait for an available transport slot that may add a couple of days to the process. For extra savings, terminal-to-terminal delivery is worth looking at, too. Rather than door-to-door service, you’ll use the closest freight terminals for vehicle drop-off and pick-up.
How do I prepare my car for shipping?
Taking some easy pre-shipment actions can help ensure a smooth vehicle transportation process.
- Prior to moving, completely clean your car. This will help you spot any pre-existing nicks or dents.
- Remove or secure any loose parts, such as exterior trim or mirrors. This will reduce the chance of damage during shipping.
- Make sure your vehicle is in reasonable operating condition so there are no difficulties during shipping. Check the battery, tire pressure, and the absence of any powertrain leaks.
- Ensure that the gas tank is only one-quarter full, as your vehicle will only be operated for very brief periods of time.
- Prior to transport, remove valuable gear and accessories that are not built into the car. These items include GPS units and audio gear. This is also the time to take out important materials like parking passes. Also, remember to grab your toll transponder to avoid unnecessary charges that might happen during shipping.
- You’ll want two sets of car keys. Give one to the haulage company during the hand-off and keep the second as a backup set. If needed, have the duplicate keys made before transport.
- During the hand-off, take a full set of interior and exterior pictures. This will create a record of your vehicle’s condition before it gets shipped.
How long does it take to ship a car?
Shipping your vehicle within Florida or the South usually takes two to four days. So, for example, a delivery from St. Petersburg to Tallahassee might only be two or three days. However, a shipment across the country, like from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle, could require seven to ten days. It’s important to note that things like a hurricane and holiday traffic can affect delivery times.
Who regulates car shipping companies?
Florida vehicle shippers are regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services. In addition, car transport companies that work in many states or that use larger trucks are overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation/Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
How can I check a auto transport company’s license?
The status of an interstate Florida car transport company’s federal registration can be checked through the U.S. Department of Transportation.
How do I file a complaint against a car shipping company?
Florida directs that complaints about an interstate car shipment be forwarded to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Issues regarding the unsafe operation of an auto transport vehicle can be sent to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles/Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement.
How much does car transport cost?
The average cost of shipping a car to Florida ranges from $400 to $1,400. However, it is possible to find more affordable or expensive quotes depending on the specific factors involved.
The cost of shipping a car to Florida varies based on a number of factors, including:
- The distance between the pickup and delivery location.
- The size and weight of the car.
- The type of transport (open or enclosed carrier).
- The time of year (shipping during the summer is more expensive).
- Any additional services required, such as insurance or expedited shipping.
Where can I find reviews for car shipping companies?
Finding the most reputable car shipping companies in Florida, or anywhere else, requires a combination of research, reviews, and due diligence. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you in your quest:
Word of Mouth: Start by asking friends, family, or colleagues if they've had any experiences with car shipping companies in Florida. First-hand testimonials from trusted individuals can be very insightful.
Online Reviews: Websites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are good places to look for feedback. Customers often leave their experiences, both positive and negative, which can give you an idea of the reliability and professionalism of the company.
Transport Review Websites: There are specific websites, like Transport Reviews and Ship, that cater to the auto transport industry. These sites can be very useful for finding reviews and ratings for car shipping companies.
Verify Licensing and Insurance: Legitimate car shipping companies are required to have a license from the Department of Transportation. You can verify this by checking the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. While there, also ensure they have adequate insurance to cover potential damages during transit.
Ask for Quotes: Once you've narrowed down your list, ask for quotes from multiple companies. While price shouldn't be the only determining factor, it can give you a sense of the market rate and help you identify companies that are suspiciously cheap (which could indicate cutting corners or potential hidden fees).
Questions to Ask: Before finalizing your decision, engage the company directly. Ask about their shipping process, if they use open or enclosed carriers, their pick-up and delivery windows, and how they handle delays or potential damages.
Check Experience and Specialization: If you have a specific type of vehicle, like a classic car or luxury vehicle, you might want a company with experience or specialization in that area.
Terms and Conditions: Always read the terms and conditions before signing any contract. Understand the company's policies on cancellations, delays, and damage claims.
Gut Feeling: After interacting with a company's representatives, trust your instincts. If something feels off or too good to be true, it might be a red flag.
Follow Up: After you've used a company's services, consider leaving a review to help others in their decision-making process. This can be on any of the aforementioned platforms or directly on the company's website.
Remember, it's always worth investing some time in research to ensure the safe and efficient transport of your vehicle.
How does scheduling work when shipping my car to and from with an enclosed auto transport company?
Scheduling with an enclosed auto transport company when shipping your car to and from Florida involves several steps and factors to consider. Enclosed transport offers additional protection for vehicles by shielding them from weather, road debris, and other potential hazards. Due to the premium nature of the service, scheduling might be slightly different than standard open transport. Here's a general breakdown of how it works:
Quote Request: Begin by requesting a quote from the auto transport company. This usually requires providing details about the car (make, model, modifications), the pickup and drop-off locations, preferred dates, and any special requests.
Booking: Once you're satisfied with a quote, you'll proceed with booking the service. It's a good idea to schedule at least a few weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
Pick-up Window: Instead of a specific time, most companies will provide a pickup window – a range of dates when your car will be picked up. This window accommodates the many variables in long-haul transport, like traffic, weather, and other pickups/deliveries.
Preparation: Before the pickup date, prepare your car for shipping. This typically involves cleaning the vehicle (for inspection), removing personal items, disabling alarms, and checking fluid levels and tire pressure. The transport company should provide you with a detailed checklist.
Inspection at Pickup: Upon arrival, the driver will inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damage and document it. It's wise to be present during this inspection and to take your own photographs as well.
Transport: Once loaded into the enclosed trailer, your car is shielded from external elements throughout its journey. Depending on the route and distance, delivery can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Communication: Good companies will provide updates on the shipment, especially if there are any delays. Some may even offer tracking services.
Delivery Window: Similar to the pickup, you'll be provided with a delivery window. Plan to be available during this time to receive the vehicle.
Inspection at Delivery: Upon delivery, inspect the vehicle again for any potential damages that might've occurred during transport. If any are found, document them immediately and notify the transport company.
Payment: Some companies require a deposit upfront, while others might only request payment upon delivery. Be clear about payment methods and terms when booking.
Feedback: After the process, many companies appreciate feedback or reviews on their services. This can be beneficial for future customers as well.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car?
Shipping a car from Florida (or any location) at a lower cost involves a mix of flexibility, research, and some strategic decisions. Here are some steps and tips to find the cheapest way:
Open Auto Transport: This is typically cheaper than enclosed transport. Open transport means your car will be on an open trailer, exposed to the elements. While it's safe and widely used, it doesn't offer the same level of protection from weather and road debris as enclosed transport.
Terminal-to-Terminal: Instead of door-to-door service, consider dropping off and picking up your car at designated terminals. This can be more cost-effective, although it might require some extra time and logistics on your end.
Be Flexible with Dates: If you have some flexibility in your schedule, you might be able to get a better rate. The transport company could fit your car into a shipment that's not full, or during a non-peak time.
Avoid Peak Seasons: As mentioned previously, Florida sees a surge in auto transport demand when "snowbirds" migrate. This generally happens when they're moving south in early winter and north in early summer. If you can avoid shipping during these peak times, you may get a better rate.
Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from multiple transport companies. This not only gives you an idea of the average cost but also allows you to negotiate.
Check for Discounts: Some companies offer discounts for military members, students, or return customers. It's always worth asking.
Broker vs. Direct Carrier: Brokers can sometimes find you cheaper rates since they have a network of carriers to choose from, but going directly to a carrier might reduce middleman fees. It's worth checking both options.
Consider Driving: If the destination is not too far and you have the time, consider driving the car yourself. Calculate the potential costs of fuel, lodging, and wear-and-tear on your vehicle to see if it's a viable option.
Insurance: Ensure you understand the insurance coverage. While it's crucial to have your car insured during transport, some companies might offer expensive premium policies that might be redundant if your existing auto insurance or their basic coverage suffices.
Prepare Your Car: Reduce the weight of your car by emptying it of personal belongings and minimizing the fuel in the tank (typically to about 1/4). Extra weight can sometimes add to the cost.
Check Reviews: While looking for the cheapest option, don't compromise on the reliability and reputation of the transporter. Sometimes, a very cheap rate can be a red flag for subpar service or potential hidden fees.
Lastly, remember that while cost is essential, ensuring the safe transport of your vehicle is paramount. It might be worth paying a bit extra for peace of mind and to ensure you're working with a reputable company.
Can I pack my vehicle with personal items before shipping my car with an enclosed car carrier?
Yes, you can pack your vehicle with personal items before shipping your car with an enclosed car carrier. However, it is important to note that doing so is at your own risk. Car carriers typically do not cover any damage or loss to personal items inside the car during transport. Also, extra weight can increase shipping costs or put your car at risk of damage during transit.
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