Car Transport: Tips to Prevent Damage by Transport Companies
July 14, 2023
Safeguarding Your Investment: Expert Tips for Damage-Free Car Transportation
Do you need your vehicle transported? If so, don't give it to just anyone. After all, your automobile is one of the most significant investments you own, second only to your home.
Putting your automobile in the hands of someone else is a substantial investment. You must conduct a thorough study to distinguish the most dependable organizations from those that will not supply you with excellent service.
How can you distinguish between auto transport firms that you wish to work with and those that may cause harm to your vehicle? Here's how to avoid damage to your vehicle or automobile during relocation.
Examine Car Transport Companies to Protect Your Ride
There are several automobile transportation firms on the market nowadays. They provide a wide range of services with varying advantages and rewards. It's also worth noting that the industry is unregulated.
If a company handles interstate movements, it must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
(FMCSA) and the United States Department of Transportation
(US DOT). However, you must still establish if the firms you are considering have these registrations. After all, there are no auto transport cops.
The best way to do this is to ask companies for their US DOT and MC numbers. These numbers allow you to research the safety records of each company. If you talk to a transporter that can’t provide you with these numbers, scratch them off your list.
Besides vetting companies on these websites, you should also check out each company’s online reputation by searching their history via the Better Business Bureau. Read online reviews from each company’s customers, too.
That way, you’ll have a solid understanding of the company’s reputation and how it treats customers.
How Do the Best Automobile Manufacturers Safeguard Your Vehicle?
Aside from properly screening auto shippers, you should be aware of the measures that the finest firms have in place to protect your vehicle. Professional vehicle movers have a variety of safety protocols in place to protect your vehicle during the transfer process.
Among these safeguards is the provision of automobile transport insurance. Every car transported by a legitimate company should be insured. As a result, every firm with which you are considering doing business should be able to supply you with a copy of their policy.
Some firms even simply offer a copy of their automobile transport insurance policy on their website. If a firm sends you a copy of its policy through email or gives you a link, make sure you read it thoroughly.
You should also check with your auto insurance agent. That way, if there are any gaps in coverage, you'll be aware of them ahead of time. What should you do if you uncover a flaw in the policy?
Ask the company about prices for additional coverage. You should also inquire with your private insurance carrier about potential options.
Other Ways to Avoid Car Transport Damage
What are some additional ways that outstanding auto shipping companies go above and beyond to guarantee your vehicle arrives undamaged? To begin, the driver should guide you through car checks during pickup and delivery.
You will be requested to thoroughly examine your vehicle and make notes about any changes in condition that you notice throughout these vehicle inspections. Car movers recommend having your vehicle cleaned before pickup.
That way, you can better see and note any dents or other characteristics of your car’s current condition before handing the keys over to a driver. The same goes for inspection upon delivery.
Companies take these steps to guarantee that your vehicle arrives in the same shape you left it with the driver.
Keep These Car Safety Tips in Mind
When it comes to automobile shipping protection, the first step is to choose a reputable firm. Unfortunately, far too many customers make the mistake of choosing the cheapest auto carriers. Instead of cost, you should concentrate on the services provided.
Anyone may provide you with really low-cost automobile transportation. However, only the greatest auto shippers will have years of expertise in automobile shipping as well as good safety records. They will also have favorable consumer feedback.
However, there is one caveat. Most customers only submit reviews after they had a negative experience. Keep it in mind.
Even the best companies will have some below-average customer reviews, and if you read these carefully, you may realize the scores were the result of issues outside of the auto carrier’s control.
When do lousy reviews spell trouble? When you see patterns or themes based on multiple unsatisfactory reviews. Red flags to watch out for are repeat complaints about poor customer service, many issues with car damage, and delayed or inadequate deliveries.
These represent significant red flags that could negatively impact your car-moving experience. If you look at a company’s reviews, and they can’t be explained away as an anomaly, move on to another company.
Some Final Thoughts on Transport Vehicle Protection
There are a few extra items to consider while preparing an automobile for export. The size and manufacture of your car may influence how it is moved. For instance, if you have a daily driver or commuter, an open carrier would suffice.
If you have a high-end, luxury vehicle or collectible, you must take a separate method. Enclosed carriers move the most costly automobiles in entirely enclosed trailers, protecting them from the weather and road risks.
If you’re dealing with vintage rides, exotics, race cars, or other investment-worthy pieces, there’s no other way to go. Yes, car transporter's costs will increase by 30 to 60 percent, but it’s well worth it to ensure your investment remains in tip-top shape.
Find Car Transport That Is Damage-Free
Although there are rotten apples in every barrel, there are trustworthy, professional vehicle shippers out there. All you have to do is know where to look. The advice provided above will assist you in avoiding suspicious movers and locating the best vehicle shipping firms.
Are you ready to learn more about having your automobile moved? Or are you ready to receive a free, no-obligation shipping quote? To learn more, please contact us right now.