Today we’ll go into what the shipping process would look like with A1 Auto Transport, one of the best car transportation services around, on how to prepare your vehicle for shipping and what to expect on delivery.
Let’s get started!
Process of Shipping a Vehicle
1. Choose a transport service
Just like any business, there are good and bad transport services. With at times, hundreds of thousands of dollars in transit, it’s always a good idea to verify who you will be working with and that they are fully insured and licensed to operate.
You can do so by checking out the Department of Transportation’s website, as well as the FMCSA, or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. All carriers and brokers must be listed on these websites according to law.
It’s also required by law to have insurance for your vehicle. However, you must verify how much the insurance is, as not all vehicles will be covered (for example, luxury vehicles that are worth millions).
Always check online reviews to verify that the transport service is operating truthfully. While reviews can be faked, they are normally easy to spot, so stay away from any “new” transport companies that are all decked out in 5-star reviews without any negatives to state.
Your transport service is going to be taking care of your expensive vehicle, so don’t wait to vet it until the last day. Never sign any documents or put down a deposit until you’re 100% sure that the company you’re working with is a legitimate broker or carrier.
All that’s required from you is to get a cost/distance estimate , and then choose the carrier you want to work with. Remember, as the customer, you hold all the cards and can negotiate down the price!
2. Choose your transport type
If you’re shipping domestically, you’ll likely be given an option between open and enclosed trailers. Open trailers typically carry 10-12 vehicles in the open and are commonly seen going up and down the highway.
Open trailers are the most budget-friendly option, while enclosed trailers offer higher-end care and a higher price. Enclosed trailers can only fit 2-3 vehicles max, but they do keep your vehicle out of the open air, and any potential damages or thefts.
If you’re transporting your vehicle overseas, you’ll be given a similar option, though the vehicle will likely be on top of the ship rather than in a cargo container. Air transit is also possible, but remember that air travel is fairly expensive, and can often cost more than the vehicle itself.
3. Prep your vehicle for shipping
Start by cleaning the outside and inside of your vehicle. Remove any accessories inside and outside (such as Jeep wheels or roofboxes). Take out any personal belongings you may have as well, as they are not covered under insurance.
Take photos of your vehicle after the outside has been cleaned for safe keeping. This is evidence of the condition your vehicle was in before, so you avoid any problems if you need to claim damages after the fact.
Keep your gas tank at 1/4th capacity, some transport companies require differing amounts, so check with your transport service on how much gas to leave in the tank. Once that’s all done, all that’s left to do is inspect your vehicle, hand it off to the delivery driver, and await the delivery of your new vehicle!
Remember to consider tipping your driver. You’ll also be given a range of days that your vehicle will arrive rather than a specified date. This is because logistically, driving across the country has many delays and problems along the journey, so it’s always best for customers to have a range rather than be disappointed and upset if the said date of delivery was missed.
Conclusion
Entrusting A1 Auto Transport with the shipment of your newly purchased vehicle from TopMarq.com ensures a smooth and secure delivery process. As we navigate the intricacies of vehicle transportation, it becomes evident that selecting a reliable transport service is paramount. The diligence in choosing a licensed and insured carrier or broker, verified through regulatory bodies such as the Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, lays the foundation for a trustworthy partnership.
The selection between open and enclosed trailers offers flexibility based on individual preferences and budget considerations, whether shipping the best SUVs domestically or overseas. While open trailers provide a cost-effective option, enclosed trailers afford higher-end protection for your valuable vehicle.
The preparation steps, from cleaning and photographing the vehicle to removing personal belongings, contribute to a seamless shipping experience.
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