Consumers need to be even smarter when planning to transport personal property items. It’s tough to develop trust in an auto shipping company and most of us turn to the web in search of feedback on companies we’re interested in working with. Here are some secrets to make you smarter, when searching for an auto shipping company.
1. Trust in working with an experienced auto shipping broker. Many consumers make the mistake of thinking the best assistance may be found with a carrier company. However, reputable brokers are required to maintain licensing and have access to many options you won’t find with individual carriers. Often, their recommendations are lower priced and the companies they work with are screened for compliance of insurance certification, business reputation, and other licensing requirements.
2. Consider getting your quotes online. There are many great resources to get instant, online quotes. One great company is American Auto Shipping. They offer a quick-format questionnaire that provides you with a list of 10 pre-screened brokers and preliminary pricing. American guarantees that their recommended brokers are held to very high industry standards to ensure overall customer satisfaction.
3. If you’re nervous, check a company’s reputation before locking down a contract. There are lots of places to find valuable feedback online. Two well known sources are the Better Business Bureau and Transport Reviews. It is highly recommended that any selected companies be contacted personally by telephone to finalize details and customize your auto shipping needs as necessary.
4. Make certain to plan your auto shipping in advance. The more time that you are able to allow yourself, the better pricing you will secure. Providing more time also enables you to consider other important factors such as seasonal weather and travel routes that may adversely affect your transport.
5. Be sure to properly prepare your car before shipping. You should take the time to wash your car so that any defects or damage to the body or trim are readily apparent when the truck arrives to pick up your car. Pay close attention to the initial inspection as this is what potential damages will be weighed against at later dates. It is also important to remove any personal items from your vehicle as well as any loose accessory items such as ground effects or antenna. Some drivers also recommend reducing fuel to a quarter tank to reduce overall, vehicle weight for lower costs.