10 Tips for Car Shipping
August 19th, 2008 by adminWhen it comes to shipping a car, as long as you have hired a dependable shipper, you likely won’t experience any problems. Most transports go off without a hitch. To further enable your car shipping experience to go smoothly, here are 10 tips that will help you through the process.
- Check Insurance: Before you hire a shipper, check their insurance. Ask for proof of insurance before getting them to haul your car. Also ensure that the contract you sign states that your vehicle is insured while on the back of a truck.
- Check References: Another important measure in choosing the right transport company is checking their references. Most companies will give you references upon request. This is an easy way to find out about other’s experiences with the company.
- Confirm the Price: You were likely quoted a price prior to dropping off your car. Confirm that price on the bill of lading, or have a contract signed. This can protect you from dishonest auto shippers.
- Inspect Your Vehicle: When it comes to car shipping, it is important that you get your vehicle in the same condition it was in when it left. To enable yourself better, inspect the vehicle. Mark down any scratches or dents, so that you have a record of the vehicle condition. You may even want to take a few pictures with your digital camera.
- Share Your Inspection: The driver will likely inspect your vehicle before loading it on the truck. Bring your inspection with you, and inspect it with them. This will ensure you are both aware of the condition of the vehicle prior to your car shipping.
- Remove Accessories: Some accessories, such as that light rack on top of your jeep, or that fancy spoiler, increase the chances of damage to your vehicle. Most times these types of accessories can easily be removed. If this is the case, take them off prior to sending your vehicle.
- Check the Tires: Prior to shipping your care, ensure the tires are properly inflated. If any of the tires have a slow leak, spend the $20 to have it fixed before handing your keys to the auto transport company.
- Test the Battery: Another issue that can lead to delays is a vehicle that won’t start. Make sure your battery is strong enough to start your car a few times without the alternator charging it for a long period of time.
- Don’t Fill the Tank: It isn’t legal to carry a vehicle with a full tank of fuel. Make sure your have around 1/4 of a tank of gas, but don’t fill it up. It will likely lead to delays as the transport company will either run the car, or drain the tank, prior to car shipping.
- Re-Inspect on Pick-up: When you pick up the vehicle, inspect it again. Check to ensure there are no new dings or scratches in the car.
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