Professional car shipping typically provides door to door auto transport or terminal to terminal shipping. Door to door shipping is when the truck comes directly to your home of place of business to pick up the vehicle. The door to door option is by far the safest method. With terminal to terminal vehicle shipping, you would drop your vehicle off with a local towing company. The auto transport truck would pick up your vehicle from there.
Open auto transport trucks are the multi vehicle transporting trucks that you see on highways throughout the country. In an open carrier the main car storage area will be exposed to the elements. Your car will have no protection from sun, heat, snow etc. However, the good news is that this transport option is much more affordable compared to enclosed vehicle shipping. Utilizing an enclosed auto transport truck will give you added piece of mind since it will protect your vehicle from the elements. The enclosed auto transport option would be best suited for the more valuable, vintage, classic and collectible vehicles.
Be sure that the auto transport company will be providing appropriate insurance for your car. Ask for copies of their insurance certificates. Note the amount of insurance coverage that will be provided by the car carrier while the car is in their custody.
When your vehicle is picked up, be sure that the auto transporter inspects and documents the overall physical condition of your car. It is important that the auto transporter notes any existing damages in the bill of lading before you hand over the car to them. Some auto shipping companies charge for a shipment based on its weight. Most gas tanks can hold anywhere from ten to forty gallons of gas. Be sure that your fuel tank is as near empty as possible.
If the auto transport company asks to deliver your vehicle to you after sundown, be sure to demand that the delivery inspection be performed under bright lights. If any damage has been done during transport, note it in the bill of lading and request that the driver signs it before you accept delivery of your vehicle. Then you will need to contact your auto transport broker for assistance with reimbursement.
If you follow our guidelines, and use common sense your auto transport service should be problem free. Professional auto transport is the best and most economical way to preserve your vehicle when moving across the country.