Important Questions to Ask Your Potential Car Shipping Service
Whether you are moving to the other side of the country to be closer to family or relocating for a new job, you will have plenty of things to do and lots of things to think about. Chief among those considerations is how to get your car to its new home, and driving all that way may not be the best option.
Driving thousands of miles means lots of wear and tear on your car, and that could shorten its life down the road. There are also the inevitable road hazards, crazy drivers and unpredictable weather. When you consider all these factors, you will probably conclude that having your car shipped is the best, and most affordable, option.
Having your car shipped thousands of miles is not something to be taken lightly, of course. You will want to shop around carefully and choose a service that cares about your car as much as you do. Here are some questions you can use to sort out the best car shippers from the rest.
Are You Licensed and Registered?
You will want to make sure the car shipper you hire holds all the required licenses, both in your current location and where your car will be going. Check the licenses, make sure the company is properly registered and go from there. Do not even consider doing business with a car transport service that is not properly registered.
Are You Properly Insured?
Car transport services need plenty of insurance, so ask about the coverage they carry and make sure it is sufficient to cover any potential licenses. Ask to see the insurance certificate the car shipper holds, and verify their coverage with the insurance company.
What Services Do You Offer?
Some car shippers offer only regional service, while others operate on a true national basis. Always make sure you know what services are offered, and whether your car will be delivered right to your door or to a nearby lot.
How Much Do You Charge?
You will obviously want to know how much the shipper charges, so get the information in writing. Also find out about any potential extras you could face, either at the start of the journey or when your vehicle arrives at its new home.
What Documents Do I Need?
Different car transport services have different documentation requirements, so always ask what you will need. You do not want to delay the trip because you neglected to bring an insurance card or registration document.
How Do I Make Payment?
The payment arrangements are very important, so always ask how the car shipper expects to be paid and when payment is due. Some shippers accept a small down payment, with the rest due on delivery of the vehicle. Others may want half down and half on delivery. Knowing exactly what the arrangements are will make your life easier.
What Happens if My Vehicle is Damaged Along the Way?
While quality car shippers are very careful, accidents do happen, and you need to know what will happen if your car suffers damage. Be sure you know who will be responsible for repairing the damage and any exclusions you could face when having the work done.
Having your car shipped is a smart alternative to a long cross-country drive, but it is important to choose the right car transport service. The questions listed above can help you sort out the best carriers, so your vehicle can make the journey without incident.
