Tips for Getting the Best Deal on Auto Transport

Today’s number of cars on the road is much higher than fifty years ago. The number of miles traveled, and the number of people driving is much higher than fifty years ago. This is because some more cars and people need to get to places. This creates a need for car shipping.  Whether you’ve just moved and need to get your car to your new home, or you’re moving across the country and need to get your car there, there are a few things you can do to guarantee a good deal. However, finding the best deals on auto transport can be tricky. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to run into some traps that may cost you more than they’re worth. If you are familiar with the industry, you may already know what to do, but if you are nervous and don’t know how to get started, look through this blog post to help you on your way. We’ll look at some of the best practices for getting the best deal on auto transport.

What is an auto transport service?

An auto shipping service is a company that specializes in transporting vehicles. This can include cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, and other types of vehicles. An auto shipping company will typically have a fleet of trucks and trailers to transport vehicles. The company will pick up the car from the customer’s home or business and deliver it to the destination. The customer can have the car shipped door-to-door or to a terminal.

Get multiple quotes

Shop around to ensure that you get the best deal. To do this, you’ll need to get multiple quotes. This will help you to find the best price. This is because many factors can affect the cost of auto transport, such as the weight of your vehicle, the distance you’re moving it, and how long you need it moved. You can use an online instant quote generator to get a rough idea of the cost. Follow the steps below to get a quote using the online form:

• Go to a shipping company’s website, i.e., SAKAEM Logistics.
• Enter the necessary information, like where you are shipping from, where you are shipping to, the type and size of your vehicle, and other relevant details.
• The quote generator will then provide you with an estimated cost to ship your vehicle.

Alternatively, you can directly call the shipping service provider for a more personalized quote. Be sure to include the same information when requesting a quote so that you are comparing apples to apples.

Compare services

There are a lot of auto transport companies out there, and they all have different rates. Some companies may charge more for their services, but they may also offer better quality service. So, it’s important to compare companies before you decide which one to use. Here are a few tested ways to compare these service providers:

• Shipping method: Decide whether you want an open or closed carrier. Open carriers are less expensive, but your vehicle will be exposed to the elements during transport. Closed carriers are more expensive, but they will protect your car from the weather.

• Service types: Auto transport companies provide standard, expedited, and guaranteed to pick and drop service. Expedited and guaranteed pick-up and drop-off services are the most expensive ones since these services are tailored to your needs.
• Services Offered: Some companies may offer additional services such as storage, insurance, and pick-up/delivery. Make sure to compare the services provided by each company to see what their price includes.
• Location: This is important because it will determine how much it will cost to ship your car. If the company is far from where you live, it will likely cost more to ship your vehicle.
• Flexibility: Some companies may be more flexible than others regarding pick-up/delivery times, storage, etc. If you have specific needs, ensure to choose a company that is willing to work with you.

Understand cost and pricing

Auto shipping companies use a variety of factors to determine the price of their services. Here are a few most common ones:

1. The type of vehicle you want to ship: Some cars are simply more difficult or expensive to ship than others. For example, a standard sedan will cost less to ship than a large SUV or truck.
2. Distance: The further the distance, the higher the price. Shipping companies typically charge by the mile for longer distances.
3. The time of year: Believe it or not, the time of year can impact shipping prices. Demand (and costs) are higher during the busy summer months than during the winter months.
4. Your location: Pick-up and delivery locations can also affect the price. If you live in a rural area, it may cost more to have your vehicle shipped than if you live in a major city. This is because shipping companies cost more to get to and from rural areas.
5. Insurance coverage: Most reputable auto shipping companies will include insurance coverage with your shipment at no additional cost. However, you may be able to purchase additional insurance for peace of mind. Be sure to ask about this when getting quotes from different companies!
6. Discounts: Many auto shipping companies offer discounts for various reasons, such as loyalty programs, referrals, AAA membership, military service, etc. Ask about any potential discounts before making your final decision on which company to use!

Choose a reputable and experienced company

A good company will have a strong track record of providing quality services at a fair price. They should also have a good reputation with customers and be able to provide references upon request. A reputable company will keep you updated on the status of your shipment and provide tracking information so you can follow its progress. And if there are any delays or problems, they will work with you to resolve them as quickly as possible.

Check reviews

Reading reviews can help you narrow down your options and choose a company that will give you the best possible experience. You can go to a few different places to check out reviews of auto shipping companies. The Better Business Bureau is always a good place to start. Here, you will be able to see any complaints the consumers have filed against the company and any positive feedback that has been left. You can also check online forums and review sites like Yelp or Angie’s List. Ask for recommendations if you know anyone who has recently shipped their car. They can give you first-hand insights into a particular company’s services.

Get all the details in writing  

When you’re ready to book a vehicle shipping service, get all the details in writing first. This includes the price quote, the estimated delivery date, the shipping company’s contact information, and the terms and conditions of the shipping service. By getting all the details in writing, you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible service for your needs.

Work with a broker

If you have never used a broker to ship your car or truck before, you might wonder what it is like. Why would you need to use a broker to send your vehicle? An auto transport broker is a company that helps coordinate the transport of your car between two locations. In most cases, this process is completed via trucking companies, but there are other means of transporting a vehicle. When you use a broker, you can save time and money by having them contact multiple companies to get the best price on your vehicle’s transportation. Auto transport brokers typically receive payment from the carrier, which saves you money.

What to do before you ship your car

Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork, including your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. You’ll also need to ensure your car is in good condition, with no fluid leaks or other issues that could cause problems during transport. Once you have everything in order, contact the shipping company to schedule a pick-up date and time. Be sure to be available to meet the driver when they arrive to load your car onto the truck.

Benefits of using an auto transport company

There are some significant benefits if you’re considering using an auto transport company to ship your car.

• Cost Effective: When you factor in the cost of gas, food, lodging, and time, it’s often cheaper to ship your car than to drive it.
• Reliable: When you ship your car with an auto shipping company, you can rest assured that it will arrive on time and in the same condition it was when the professionals picked it up. Auto shipping companies are reliable and offer a high level of customer service to ensure that your shipping experience is positive.
• Safety: Auto transport companies are equipped with the latest technology to ensure the safety of your vehicle. This includes GPS tracking and state-of-the-art security systems that monitor your car. They also have a 24-hour customer service hotline in case you need assistance.
• They have the right equipment: Auto shipping companies have the right trucks and trailers to transport your vehicle. They also have the necessary equipment to load and unload your car safely.
• Convenience: As a bonus, auto transport companies offer convenient payment options and flexible drop-off times for customers who need to pick up their vehicles at a specific location or date.
• Flexible: Auto shipping companies offer various shipping options to meet your needs. You can have your car shipped on an open trailer or enclosed trailer, and you can choose to have your vehicle picked up and delivered door-to-door or to a terminal.

Documentation

There are a few different types of documents that you may need when transporting a vehicle through an auto transport company.

Your vehicle’s registration: This document proves that you are the vehicle’s legal owner and that it is currently registered in your name.

A Bill of Lading: It is a contract between the customer and the transport company. This document lists the vehicle information, pick-up, delivery locations, dates, and times. It is essential to review this document carefully before signing, as it is a binding agreement.

Vehicle Condition Report (VCR): This document helps document the vehicle condition at the pick-up time. The transport company will inspect the vehicle, note any existing damage, and take photos. It is essential to review this document carefully and ensure that you report all the damages, as the customer will be responsible for any damage during transport.

Proof of insurance: This protects the company in case of any vehicle damage during transport. The customer will need to provide a copy of their insurance policy and a signed waiver agreeing to pay for any damages that may occur. 

Your driver’s license:  This document proves that you are a licensed driver and are authorized to operate the vehicle.

A signed contract with the auto transport company: This document outlines the terms and conditions of the transport, including the price and other relevant details.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the most common reasons for shipping a vehicle?

There are many reasons why people may need to ship their vehicles. Some of the most common causes include:

• Moving to a new location
• Starting a new job in a different city
• Attending college in another state
• Visiting family or friends who live far away
• Taking a car to or from a rental agency
• Going on vacation

 How does auto transport work? 

The process of shipping a vehicle can vary depending on the company you choose and the type of transport you need. However, most companies will follow these basic steps:

• Pick up the vehicle from the customer’s location.
• Load the car onto the transport truck or trailer.
• Deliver the car to the designated destination.
• Unload the car from the truck or trailer.
• Return the vehicle to the customer.

Are there any hidden fees? 

There are no hidden fees when you ship a vehicle with a reputable car shipping company. All charges should be clearly outlined in the quote you receive from the company.

What is the average cost of shipping a car?

The average cost of shipping a car is $1650 if you opt for an enclosed carrier and $1200 for open carrier shipping. However, the price can vary depending on the distance, the type of car, and the shipping method.

How long does auto transport take? 

Again, the time it takes to ship a vehicle depends on several factors, including the distance of the shipment and the shipping method. In general, shorter shipments take less time than longer shipments.

What is the best way to ship my vehicle? 

The best way to ship your vehicle depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some people prefer to ship their cars via train, while others choose to ship them via truck. Ultimately, the best way to ship your vehicle is the way that best meets your needs.

Is it safe to ship my car? 

Yes, it is safe to ship your car. Auto transport companies take many precautions to ensure that your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.

What kind of insurance is included with auto transport services? 

Most auto transport companies will include liability insurance in the price of their services. This insurance will protect you if your vehicle is damaged during shipping. However, it is essential to check with the specific company to see the type and amount of insurance included.

What is the payment mode? 

Most auto transport companies require a deposit to be paid upfront, with the balance due upon delivery. Some companies may offer payment plans or other financing options.

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