Auto Moving

1. How much will it cost to ship my car? To get accurate information, be prepared to provide the following information:

• Origin city/destination city
• Approximate departure date (when your car is available for pick up)
• Type of vehicle(s) (make model etc.)
• Special transport requests (e.g., drop off at terminal vs. at your home)
• Is the vehicle running or not?

2. How do I know if my car is insured? The company 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.

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.

4. When & how do I pay? 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.

5. What about pick-up and delivery rates? Ask for estimated pick-up and delivery times from your car transport company. You should be able to get a 3-day window for pick-up. Once pick-up is made, your car transport or auto drive away company should provide you with a fairly precise estimated delivery date. If you need an exact date for pick-up, most car transport and auto drive away services can pick-up your car and hold it at a terminal for an additional charge.

6. Releasing your car to the carrier Prior to leaving your car with a driver or car transport company, 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.

7. 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 company 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.

8. 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 company. The car transport company should then work with you to reimburse you for verifiable damage done to your car.

9. 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? An open trailer is the more popular and the more frequently used trailer. They carry anywhere from 10-12 vehicles at a time.

Advantages:
Open trailers are cheaper than closed trailers. Price is determined by the weight of the vehicle being shipped.
Disadvantages:
Open trailers will be subject to the elements of nature. (i.e. rain, snow, wind, dirt and dust).

What is a Closed Trailer? A closed trailer is a vehicle that has a covered freight area. It is most commonly used when shipping an expensive or classic car that you wish to protect. If your car will be traveling cross-country and going through some dry and desert territory, you may consider using a closed trailer to protect it from wind blown sand and heat. If the vehicle is not being shipped through extreme climates, consider using an open trailer.

Advantages:
The car is well protected from the elements of nature.
Disadvantages:
Closed trailers cost more. Remember, price is determined by the weight of the vehicle being shipped.

Tips: Remove all valuables from the car, leave as little gas as possible in the gas tank for weight and safety purposes, and always insure your car, just in case it gets damaged.

10. Should you choose a moving company or an auto transportation company?

• 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 company's good reputation often goes a long way.
• Always get a written contract with approximate delivery dates and carefully read the terms and conditions, especially clauses dealing with insurance. Check to see if there are cancellation fees before committing to service. There could be a charge of up to $200. Car carriers generally have shorter delivery times than movers do.
• Research the companies' history before soliciting bids for services. Some companies frequently change their names due to complaints. Others may even go by as many as five different names. It will be in your best interest to investigate this.
• As of 1990 the Department of Transportation ruled that you may NOT load any items in a vehicle other than clothing. Auto carriers are NOT licensed to carry household goods or personal items. Any damage to your vehicle due to household goods shifting or breaking will not be covered by insurance.
• Ask to see the facility where your car will be stored before being loaded on the truck. Many companies claim they have secure storage for your car, but in actuality, they don't.

Getting a good deal on your motorcycle shipment First, remember that "getting a good deal" does not mean paying the least amount to transport your motorcycle. In other words, cheaper doesn't¹t mean better, if your motorcycle is delayed or damaged, it could end up costing you more in the long run.

Use only licensed and insured transporters. Carriers and brokers are required by the Federal Highway Administration to be licensed there under. Upon request, the transporter you are speaking with should be able to provide a copy of their license and a copy of the "Certificate of Insurance" for the carrier used. If these cannot be provided there is a good chance that the business you are dealing with may not be reputable. Choose a company with good customer service. This will save you time, and we all know that "Time is Money". Good customer service can be evaluated many ways, but lets look at the basics.

Can I reach someone in the customer service department directly without having to leave a voice mail? Once again your time is valuable, some companies have staff on hand to assist during busy times and some do not. Some may even have after hours live operators who may or may not be able to answer your questions.

Is there a way to track my order? You may have to call the company¹s office to find out the location of your motorcycle. Some companies may offer on line tracking that will tell you the location of your shipment with a few clicks of the mouse.

When starting the transfer process, what are my options for placing the order? Some companies require verbal contact to place the order, and some may offer fax or on line order options. Choose one that will best fit your time schedule. You¹re the important one here.

If I have a claim for damage, whom do I call? Claims can take a good deal of time out of your day. Be sure you know whom you will have to deal with and be advised of their credentials.

Pick a company that can give you a solid estimate. If you thought your original quote was a good deal but variables exist that could affect the price in the end; it may not be such a good deal. Get a solid quote and make sure the company explains any extra charges before the motorcycle is picked up.

Be available by phone when your transport company calls. Yes, this is very important to you and getting a good deal. You see, transport companies are just as busy as you, and when they call to speak with you about your shipment, it is important to be available by phone. If the company has to leave a message or call you again, it will only cause a delay. Yes, a delay in their schedule which equals a delay in your schedule. We are right back to the time thing again.

Also remember, a good deal is one that leaves you as a satisfied customer. Occasionally mistakes and miscommunications will happen; the transporter will understand when they do, and you should too. If both of you are knowledgeable about the shipping process and work together on a professional level, the end result will be a "Good Deal!"