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BIO ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vivian Cragg is a veteran at moving. She has been left behind by her husband 18 times to move their house while her husband starts his new job. She has used both professional moving companies and done it herself with the help of day laborers. This article is part of the information she learned during the last 30 years of following her husband and taking care of their move.

Information about Car Shipping

So you’re moving. Congratulations on a new adventure. You have several vehicles in your family. Two will be filled up and driven across town or country but what to do with the other two!! Here are some helpful auto moving tips on shipping the other vehicles to your new location.

Selection of the
  Right Car Transport Carrier

When you choose an auto mover for your automobile, make sure to ask a lot of questions. Ask specific questions about their insurance coverage. Ask for references from satisfied customers, they should be happy to give them out. Inquire about their charges, acceptable payment methods and deposits, if required. If a deposit is required, ask if it is refundable if you choose not to use them, or any other unforeseeable circumstances. Inquire what the delivery method will be.

> Make sure the vehicle transporter of your automobile does a complete inspection prior to it being loaded onto the trailer. Do not sign until you have fully inspected your vehicle on their trailer; make sure it is to your satisfaction. Some companies do not insure items left in the car nor will assume responsibility for loose items in the car that may cause damage. If you leave items in the car, make sure they are packed tightly so they are unable to move around freely.

Scheduling for Pick-Up of your Vehicle

When you decide on your carrier, you have to schedule your pick-up. Remember that your vehicle may or may not arrive when you want it to. It is a very different schedule from other shipments we’re used to. Many carriers can take a few days to several weeks to deliver your vehicle.  Be sure to begin the scheduling of your vehicle transport one (1) month before your move. Obtain several estimates before you decide on just one. Just be patient and give yourself plenty of time to get your vehicle processed.

Cost of Car Transport

Shopping around and getting quotes are very important for your auto moving. Be sure you get the total cost of shipping your vehicle. When you call for quotes certain information will be needed. Have your pick-up and drop-off addresses. The approximate time/date you want your car transported. Have the type of vehicle (make, model, year, license number, color) available. Which type of service (door-to-door, terminal-to-terminal, combination)? Be sure to give them any specific details regarding the condition of your vehicle. Any special requirements you may have. Most carriers accept cashier or certified checks, cash, and credit cards for deposit. Cash, cashiers or certified check are expected upon delivery for the balance of the cost unless you have made other arrangements.

Options for Car Transport

1) Open trailers (the same way new cars are delivered) which can carry from three to 11 cars.

2) Enclosed trailers which have much more protection (more expensive but worth it if you have a luxury vehicle).

3) Terminial to Terminal: Some companies have multiple store locations; you drop off your vehicle and pick it up at your new destination in one of their locations.

4) Door-to-door: Have your car picked up at your home and delivered to your new home; be sure they are bonded for both.

5) Combination delivery: You may also take your vehicle to a terminal closest to your current home and then have it delivered to your new location, right at your door (combination delivery).

6) Be sure you or someone is available to receive your vehicle. If not an additional charge may be incurred.

7) You may load your vehicle with your regular furniture. This however is more expensive since the movers are required by the ICC (Interstate Commerce Commission) to charge a weight-based household goods tariff.

8) Insurance: Auto transporters are required by law to retain $1 million worth of insurance per load to cover damages and theft of your vehicle. When you are gathering your information, be sure to confirm that they are amply covered. Be sure to check with your automobile insurance to see how their insurance works with your own.

9) Claims: Most of the time, the transport of your vehicle is normally problem free. If a problem occurs, work with the auto moving company first. If the carrier is in good standing with the BBB, the vehicle transport company will most likely take care of your needs, they are there to assist you. Be sure to have your Bill of Lading and your photos so that you can show any disputes. If your car transporter will not cooperate, you can at that time contact the BBB or ICC. It will be taken care of. You can be assured, however, that most auto moving carriers are there to service you and want your referrals.

DOT License to Transport Cars

Each vehicle transport company must be licensed and regulated by the US Department of Transportation (DOT). Be sure to take a look at their license. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration maintains and enforces federal regulations. This promotes carrier safety and takes advantage of the latest transportation technologies. You may research these details more closely at www.fmcsa.dot.gov. Contact the Better Business Bureau to see their track record. You may check online at http://lookup.bbb.org/ or call them at (703) 276-0100. Also contact any other trade organization they might belong to.

Have a safe trip and enjoy your new adventure. Life is good.

BIO ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vivian Cragg is a veteran at moving. She has been left behind by her husband 18 times to move their house while her husband starts his new job. She has used both professional moving companies and done it herself with the help of day laborers. This article is part of the information she learned during the last 30 years of following her husband and taking care of their move.