Auto Transport - Buyers Guide

Auto Transport - How to Choose

Choosing an auto transport service provider does not have to become a complicated affair. There are a few things that you do need to look for in the company you choose, but overall, most companies offer the same services and what you really need to verify are the terms and conditions of their contracts and their reputations.

Calling and getting quotes or using a quote service to compare the cost of what you want done is the first step in your search for a good auto transport provider. Once you have several quotes, do not automatically choose the lowest bid. Oftentimes companies will offer deceptively low pricing to lure customers in, only to then tack on fees for every little service thereby inflating the cost and even surpassing legitimate quotes you might have passed over. Always find out if the price quoted includes everything or if there are hidden costs of which you need to be aware.

Next you should always check out a company’s reputation. Conducting a background check on auto transport companies is much easier than ever before thanks to the internet. You can look to see what kind of experiences people have had with each provider and check their names against the better business bureau in your area to find out if there have been any complaints lodged against them. While verifying each company’s reputation, also find out if they are properly licensed.

The next very important element to verify is whether the auto transport provider offers adequate insurance coverage – especially important if you are requesting terminal to terminal transport. If your car will be stationed at the terminal for any length of time before being picked up make sure that the company’s insurance covers it while there. In fact, your best bet is to ask for a copy of the company’s insurance policy so that you can read for yourself what is offered.

Finding out about a company’s payment policy can also be a deciding factor in the business you choose. Some transport companies will tack on an extra 2-3% to the cost if you pay with a credit card while some will request a down payment of 10-25% in order to accept your booking. Find out what each company expects so that you can determined what you are comfortable with.

Naturally once you have made your choice, do not rush to sign any documents without first reading them carefully – and remember that if you are booking an appointment online, once you click the submit button it counts as an electronic signature and you will be held to that contract. By reading your contract before signing it you will know what kind of terms and conditions the company offers. Knowing this information is crucial should anything go wrong during transport. Only by knowing what their terms and conditions are will you know to what kind of recourse you are entitled.

Lastly, when choosing an auto transport company it is best to select one that has the most experience transporting the kind of vehicle you are moving – and don’t be fooled into thinking a guaranteed delivery date means anything. Most of the time it is an optimistic projection of the general timeframe by which the company hopes to have the car delivered.

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I filled in a form and got offers right away. I can't believe how easy this was!

Loretta, Buyer
Maryland, USA