Difference Between Auto Shipping Brokers And Carriers
Google is the best place to start if you are looking for auto shipping. It's possible to assume that you will do a quick Google search and get quotes from several auto transport businesses before deciding on the one that is best for you. Your results always mention carriers and brokers. What are they? Both companies claim they can get your vehicle to where it needs. Although they may appear to be interchangeable at first glance, the truth is that these companies are not.
We'll be looking at the differences between carriers and brokers, how they impact your search for auto shipping companies, and why it's worth considering a third option.
What is the difference between brokers and auto transport carriers?
The main difference between brokers and carriers is that brokers coordinate the shipment using a network.
One driver can own a truck and be considered a carrier. These single carriers will often schedule their shipments through an agent who will verify the trucker’s licenses, cargo insurance, and USDOT credentials.
Larger carriers might manage and coordinate the movement of a fleet with their trucks, though they may also work with brokers. If they need additional resources, the same carrier may work with an owner-operator.
Agents often work with many different carriers to service the country. A single carrier might only be able to operate in one or two areas of the U.S.
Wait! You can also search for auto transport management companies such as Move Car when you search for shippers. These companies manage all aspects of the auto shipping process, including updating clients and coordinating shipping. They also handle any issues that may arise and ensure that cars are delivered on schedule. An auto transport management company can take care of your vehicle from quote to delivery.
There are similarities between brokers, carriers, and auto transport management firms
There is a clear similarity between auto transport management companies, brokers, and carriers. They all work directly with customers to coordinate auto shipping. But the similarities don't end there. These lines often blur between the different types of shippers.
There are some companies that act only as carriers or brokers, but many others fall somewhere in the middle. Some brokers are also licensed to own their own fleet, which makes them broker-carriers. Owner-operators can work with carriers, acting as brokers at times even though they don't use that term in their marketing. Many companies, regardless of whether they are carriers, brokers, or auto transport management firms, will advertise full-service experiences.
This overlap can make it difficult to choose a company that will handle your shipment.
Choose from your options
There is plenty of overlap between the various segments of the auto transportation industry. This doesn't mean that you should pick the cheapest shipper and call it quits. There are pros and cons of choosing a broker to replace a carrier and vice versa. Plus, there are benefits that only an auto transport management company can provide.
Here are some reasons why you might consider working with a broker.
Brokers can be flexible. They don't have to follow a specific fleet's schedule or movement, so they can meet your auto shipping needs wherever you are. They will be able to track down available car carriers in your area so that you can get a quicker pickup time.
You are protected from the unexpected. In some cases, a broker might be able to transport your vehicle onto another truck without any delays.
It's easy to know if your driver is licensed and insured. Brokers have years of industry experience. Brokers vet every trucker they work with to ensure that they are properly licensed, insured, accredited, and bonded. They verify that all truckers they work with are licensed, insured, and accredited.
Great customer service. Brokerage exists to serve customers. Your broker is your intermediary, helping you get a great deal and solving any problems with your shipment. They will also keep you informed about the status of your vehicle.
It saves time. Buying an auto carrier online is risky. There are many online options, but how do you find out if they are licensed and insured? Is the owner-operator a good driver? Are they able to transport the truck you require? Do they have the trucks that you need to ship your vehicle? Are they able to transport your vehicle where you need it? Is their price competitive? Directly contacting carriers can be more difficult than going through a brokerage. You will enjoy a stress-free shipping experience.
Working with a broker has its downsides. They don't have control over pick-up or transit times, which could lead to unexpected delays. You also won't be able to vet your driver or carrier.
Here are some reasons you might want to work with a carrier
It is possible to get a lower price. Sometimes, pay less for the same shipment if you go directly to the carrier. Sometimes, going directly to a carrier can result in a lower-cost shipment because there is no middleman.
There are few surprises. You can book your car with a carrier and they will take you on the route they believe will be the most efficient and cost-effective.
One point of contact is all you need. If there are any issues with your shipment, you can directly communicate with the carrier and not rely on a third party to resolve them. Sometimes, this can help to solve problems.
Working with carriers has its downsides. Your shipment date could be delayed if the truck your vehicle was meant to be on breaks down. You may also find that the carrier is less responsive to your questions about the status of the vehicle after it ships. Carriers are only in the business of transporting cars and not providing customer service.
Why you should work with an auto transportation management company
A company that manages all aspects of auto transport. Your vehicle will be taken care of from the first quote through delivery. You are so lucky! Move Car Auto Transport is a top-of-the-line auto transport management company.
Companies that specialize in auto transport management are more likely to work across the country. This is particularly important when shipping cars from one coast to the other. The same company will handle your shipment from pick-up to delivery, and everything in between.
You get the best of both a broker and a carrier when you work with an auto transport management firm. One point of contact will be available for the entire vehicle's journey, and you'll receive updates along the way. Auto transport companies can offer you a wider range of routes and drivers, which will ensure that you get the best price. Your driver will be thoroughly vetted, giving you peace of mind. You'll also save time because your auto transport management firm will take care of all details.
How to enjoy a wonderful auto transport experience
Some companies claim that only working with a broker or a carrier is the best way to ship your car. However, both brokers and carriers will get your vehicle to its destination. The customer shipping their vehicle successfully is not enough to define quality. It will happen regardless.
How do you define quality in auto transport? It all comes down to the experience that you, the customer, have before, during, and after your shipment.
An auto transport management company will vet your carriers for you so that you don't have the hassle of determining which ones are trustworthy. Chat with friendly customer service representatives around the clock. It's certain that you will be able to ship your car whenever you need it. You'll be able to check the status of your vehicle once it is on its way. You won't have to pay any additional fees. That sounds like a high-quality experience!
Here are some tips to help you choose a reliable company to ship your vehicle
We know that your vehicle is important to you and that you don’t want it to be handed over to anyone. These are our top tips to help you choose the best auto transport company:
Get many quotes
Numerous auto shipping companies offer online quote calculators that will give you an instant estimate of the cost to ship your vehicle by different companies. Get multiple quotes as it won't take too much time.
Do not base your decision solely on price
The most affordable shipper may not always be the best or safest. You may be tempted to book with the lowest price and go for it, but make sure to do your research and ensure you are looking at auto transport management firms (not just carriers). How are their reviews? Are they licensed and fully insured?
See reviews
Past customers will give you the best insight into how an auto transport company will treat your vehicle. Do not stop looking at testimonials on a company website. To find eye-opening reviews from customers, keep checking out sites such as Yelp and social media.
Make sure you know exactly what you require
If you provide the correct information about your shipment, auto transport management companies will only be able to give you the best quote. Before you contact any shippers, make sure you know the vehicle's make, model, modifications (e.g. a lift kit, big spoiler), and where you would like to ship to. How is the vehicle in its current condition? What structural damage should the shipper be aware of? These are all factors that will affect the shipping cost of a car or truck.
Research and trusting your instincts are the most important aspects of choosing an auto transport company. Although there are many bad apples in every industry you can usually spot them by doing some research. The best shippers will have glowing reviews and treat your vehicle like a priority. Keep searching until you find the right auto transport management company for you.