Some Helpful Information Regarding Auto Transport Deposits
If this is your first time transporting a vehicle, you may want to pay attention. When you’re searching around for an auto transport company you want to make sure that you understand what exactly you are going to be paying for and how much you are paying, as well as how much you will be paying to whom.
Auto transport payment methods vary from company to company, though all will take roughly the same basic methods such as a credit card. Most don’t accept cash as payment, though many still accept faxed or mailed-in checks. Other methods may be available depending on the company that you are talking to; they typically will work with you if standard payment arrangements are unacceptable or not doable for you.
However, there are some things you should be aware of when it comes to paying a deposit that some people don’t know, namely the fact that brokers can charge a deposit pretty much whenever they want.
Of course, they have to tell you that they are collecting money from you, particularly if they’re going to be processing a credit card, but in terms of when exactly they can do it they can whenever they want. Some companies will require a deposit upon booking and charge you right there; this isn’t all that common, but it’s not necessarily indicative of a scam either.
Most brokers will charge you when your vehicle is dispatched to a carrier – in other words, they’ll charge you when they actually figure out when and who will be picking your vehicle up. And still others wait until your vehicle is actually loaded – once they get confirmation that the driver has picked your vehicle up, they’ll charge your deposit.
All of those times are acceptable in the car shipping industry. You should always verify with your transport company exactly when they will charge you the deposit fee, and they’re obligated by law to tell you. You should also figure out what portion of the total payment actually is the deposit, because the rest you will likely have to pay the driver with cash, a cashier’s check or money order upon delivery. This is considered standard payment method in the car shipping industry.
If you’re interested in getting a quote from a reputable and reliable car transport company like us, just fill out our free online quote form. Or, you can contact us toll-free at 800-730-9491 to speak to one of our live agents. They can answer questions, give you a free quote over the phone, help you book your reservation, and more. So get a quote and see how American Auto Shipping can help you ship your car today.
Since 2007 Dave has written all the content and blogs for American Auto Shipping and during this time added the duties of customer support and transport logistics.
He currently resides in Washington with his three kids and their mom and cat. A fan of Marvel movies and good stories, when not shipping cars Dave can be found working on his novel, enjoying a good book or playing some tournament HALO.
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