There are over a thousand auto transport companies in the United States alone. In 1990, there were only a few hundred. 90% of these were insured in 1990. Less than 40% of these are insured today.
Researching Auto Transport Companies
Hence it is very important to cross check the company before you trust them with your vehicle. Do not hesitate to ask for details, especially their car shipping rates. Here are a few precautions that would help you differentiate between the honest and not so honest auto transport companies. First of all, when choosing a company to transport your vehicle, try to schedule your vehicle pickup three to four weeks ahead of time. Also, do not give out your vehicle for transportation without a detailed check up. This means that you have inspect your vehicle from its head to tail and check for scratches and any other signs of wear and tear. It is also best to repair your vehicle before handing it over to a company for transportation, otherwise your risk damaging your vehicle even more during relocation.
An official should always be present with you when you make a thorough inspection of your vehicle. Check his list after he has done a similar inspection of your vehicle. Also don’t forget to take pictures. That way when you receive the car back, you can compare it with the pictures to notice any changes. If there is wear and tear or you find extra scratches, bring it to the notice of the driver immediately.
Paying attention to details
Remember to always ask for exact dates of pickup and delivery and make sure there are no inconsistencies, know what your options are. This is why seeing a copy of their insurance coverage is important. Insist and obtain a copy. If the auto transport company is reputed, it should not hesitate in showing you one.
Also the best way to pay them is to only pay on delivery. But most auto transport companies will probably require you to pay a full or half money before picking up your car. In that case, use your credit card so that there is some evidence of your payment. Make sure to get your transaction receipt as well.
Inspection
Even before the auto transport official comes to inspect the car, do an inspection of your own. You will be surprised to find how many nicks and dents there are, especially if it’s an old car. It is obviously a good idea to get your car fixed then.
This is because of the simple fact that the more things are sticking out of your car during a transit, the more are they likely to get damaged. Specialty items like fog lights and window shades should be removed. Don’t fill your gas tank before handing it over to the transportation official; always keep only one-fourth of your gas tank full, other wise there are weight issues during transit.
Don’t forget to charge the battery however before handing your car over to the transport company. Make sure there are no leaks; if there are, make sure you tell the driver about it. You don’t want any accident happening because of your car. To ensure safe loading and unloading, the tires should be held properly in place and be inflated properly. Extra fittings like speakers, stereo equipment, CB radios, radar detectors, radios, scanners and cellular telephones should be removed from the car before you hand it over to auto transport companies.
Even if the company offers tracking device, make sure you have your driver’s number. That way you can stay in touch with him personally and know where your vehicle is.
Auto transport companies provide a good service but make sure you take your precautions.
