Essentials Of Car Shipping
It's not a common experience to ship a car. Here are some tips for first-time car shippers.
These are some things to keep in mind:
Choose the right car shipping company
Research different car shipping companies and compare prices and services offered. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers, and choose a company that has a good reputation in the industry.
Decide on the type of transport
Consider the type of transport that is best for your car. Options include open transport, where the car is shipped on an open trailer with other vehicles, or enclosed transport, where the car is shipped in a covered trailer for added protection.
Clean Out Your Vehicle Before Shipping
Personal belongings, documents, and electronic gear should be removed from your vehicle. If your vehicle is full of personal belongings, you should not assume that it can be shipped. While some carriers may be able to work with you, it is important that the vehicle is not overloaded with personal items. Most carriers prefer that the car is empty and with only a few gallons of gas left in the tank. This will reduce the cost of auto transport and make the vehicle lighter.
Get Comprehensive Auto Insurance
Although it is rare for your vehicle to be damaged during shipping, it can happen. There are many layers of protection available depending on the broker or carrier. However, it is recommended that you have your current auto insurance for any vehicle you ship. Proofs that support damage sustained during shipping are crucial for auto insurance claims. Before you move the car, take note of its condition.
An Additional Key Made
It may be a good idea to have an additional key made to ship your car, in case the original key is lost or damaged during transport. This will allow you to access your car when it arrives at its destination and can save you time and money in the event that you need to have a new key made. If you decide to have an additional key made, be sure to give it to the car shipping company to keep with the car during transport. This will ensure that you have access to the car when it arrives and that you are not stranded without a way to start the car.
Conduct A Thorough Inspection
Conducting a thorough inspection of your car before shipping it can help ensure that it arrives at its destination in the same condition that it was in when it was picked up. During the inspection, you should check for any damages or issues that may need to be repaired before shipping, such as dents, scratches, or mechanical problems. You should also make note of the condition of the car's tires, brakes, and fluid levels. If you find any issues during the inspection, you may want to consider getting them repaired before shipping the car to avoid any potential delays or additional costs during transport. Additionally, you should take photos of the car before it is shipped, as this can help document its condition and can be useful in the event of any damage during transport.
Be Flexible
The cost of auto transport is determined by distance, weight, type of transport (closed or opened transporters), accessibility to the destination, fuel costs, and how full the schedule for that carrier is. Sometimes you may be able to get lower rates if you're flexible about the dates of your car shipping.
Get Advantage
You should remember that car shipping services are used by thousands every day. It is an affordable and convenient service that can help you save time, and money, as well as vehicle wear and tear.
Prepare your car
Before your car is shipped, make sure to remove any personal items from the car, ensure that it is in good working condition, and fill up the gas tank.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful car shipping experience. To get a free auto transport quote, call us.