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VEHICLE SHIPPING TIPS
Shipping your vehicle across the country is a great way to avoid having to turn your move into a road trip, but before you put your car in the hands of a stranger, there are many things to consider.
Costs - The costs will depend on several factors including the location of the origin and destination, the distance between the origin and destination, the type of automobile (bigger and heavier cars cost more to transport), whether you purchase door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal service, and whether you request special options such as enclosed car transport. The price can vary from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Time - The length of time to transport a vehicle will vary based on the distance and locations of the origin and destination. On average it can take anywhere from one to two weeks for a coast-to-coast move. It can also take longer if you are transporting your vehicle to an out-of-the-way location.
Insurance – It’s a good idea to carefully read the insurance coverage provided by your transporter. You should consider the following:
· Ask the transporter if there is a deductible in the event there is any damage.
· Ask the transporter if their insurance is primary or secondary to your insurance.
If it is secondary, that means that the insurance only kicks in where your own insurance leaves off and that means that any claim is attributed to your own insurance policy.
Personal Goods – For many reasons it is not a good idea to load your car up with boxes or any other personal items. First, any damage or loss is typically not covered by the cargo insurance. Second, if you overload the car, you can make it heavier which may make it more susceptive to damage when being loaded and unloaded from the truck. Finally, auto-transporters are generally not licensed as interstate movers and can be fined for personal goods across state lines - any fines will be passed on to you. Check with the mover, though--some allow you to fill your trunk with goods.
Getting your vehicle ready:
· Make sure to remove any loose parts from the vehicle such as ski racks or bike carriers.
· Leave the fuel tank no more than 1/4 tank full as extra fuel adds unnecessary weight to the car which may increasing the expense.
· Leave a window open a crack so that no pressure builds up during the temperature and elevation changes.
Vehicle Pickup - When the transporter picks up the car, be sure to receive an inspection report. The report will detail all the pre-existing issues with the car including scratches, dents, and the general condition of the body and paint. Carefully read to make sure the report is accurate and save the report so you can prove any damage to the car during shipment.
Vehicle Delivery - Make sure to receive the car during daylight hours when the lighting is good so that you can spot any possible issues. Take your time to inspect the car from bumper to bumper. Remember to check the following:
· Inspect the roof and the bumpers carefully as this is where damage is most likely to occur.
· Inspect all the glass and mirrors for cracks.
· Inspect the paint for any scratches.
Remember, once the driver leaves you will not be able to prove that damage occurred during shipment. Most auto moves go smoothly, but if you do notice any issues, make sure to note it on the drivers report and for the driver to sign off on the issue as well. You can then file a claim with the transporter.
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