Attempting to transport your car for the first time can be mentally and emotionally overwhelming. If you’re moving, ordering a vehicle from another state, or even exporting a vehicle, transporting cars is a sensitive task that requires a lot of forethought. Fortunately, utilizing a car shipping checklist for first-time shippers alleviates a hefty portion of the stress so that you do not have to think of hundreds of other shifts accompanying your relocation or purchase.
This guide attempts to equip you with all the requirements related to your vehicle in addition to highlighting critical steps to follow, things to consider, and the best ways to pick a shipping service. First Timer Shippers Inc takes pride in making the vehicle shipping process smoother for people who are unfamiliar with the aspect.
Understanding the importance of a checklist when shipping a car
Planning steps is very essential before moving, be it locally, nationally, or even internationally. This is very important as planning ensures that all transporting and delivering steps are done with precision, alongside detailing, as nothing is missed. While the majority of first-time movers forget many transport specifics, leading to unwanted expenditures, having checklists or simple guides helps overcome these problems, allowing for a seamless experience without any troublesome situations.
In order to ensure efficient shipping, these steps are imperative:
- Selecting a vehicle shipping company
When it comes to scheduling, for many people, picking the first company they come across tends to be the go-to option. This is not the case when it comes to handling your vehicle properly, keep the following in mind while making your choice:
a.Their reputation along with how long they have been in service
Reputation is built on serving clients, you just need to check and read the reviews. Make sure to check their history, look for customer reviews and feedback. Be sure to pay special attention to beginner shipper reviews as well.
If a company has reviews that are generally positive, this simply indicates that the company follows policies regarding vehicle delivery.
With great pride and professionalism, we at Automobile Shipping have specialized in the car shipping industry for many years. We are confident that our services, which transport automobiles professionally, suit your needs.
b. Insurance
Check whether the auto transport company is registered with the FMCSA and whether they provide full insurance coverage on the automobile. This safeguards you in case something bad happens while your vehicle is on transit.
c. Customer Support
Just as any other service offered by a company, customer service needs to be of high quality too. Therefore, consider a firm that is responsive, helpful and guides you through the entire shipping journey.
- Opt for a Transport Method
Choosing the vehicle transport procedure is one of the important considerations you will need to make early on in the activity. There are two broad types you can select from:
a. Open Car Transport
This is the cheapest service and also the most popular. Your vehicle will be loaded on top of an open trailer with other vehicles. While this is the most safe option available, during transport your automobile is subject to the weather which is dangerous if you are sending a luxury or classic car.
b. Enclosed Car Shipping
Vehicles such as high-end luxurious and classic cars need extra care and protection which enclosed transport provides by shielding it from weather condition and road debris. Enclosed carriers fully encase the vehicle during shipment, thus giving protection. Owners of valuable vehicles fully appreciate the coverage the protection provides, whether it be monetary or psychological.
At Automobile Shipping, we offer both open and enclosed options to better meet your requirements and budget.
- Get a Car Shipping Quote and Confirm Costs
Estimates will be adjusted later in the process booking phase. Quotes are obtained once the vehicle has been scheduled for transport without any additional steps. The quote conveys how car shipping is reliant on:
– Distance. If your car needs to be transported to a remote location, expect to pay more.
– Car Size and Weight. The amount incurred will vary depending on the size of ragged cars that will be laden onto transport vehicles.
– Shipping Method. Choosing open transport will cost less.
– Delivery Location. Hard to reach destinations will incur more charges.
Our quotes will always be guaranteed accurate at Automobile Shipping, known for dependably low costs without compromising transparency.
a. Collect Various Estimates
It is wise to collect estimates from different companies since the services offered and the prices charged may vary. Ensure that all estimates capture every possible concealed cost (for example: insurance and fuel surcharges) in order to avoid unnecessary expenses down the line.
b. Ask for Discounts
Some shipping companies have discounts available for certain classifications of customers such as multiple car shippers and military members. Always make it a point to ask because this has the potential to minimize your expenditure significantly.
- Prepare Your Car for Shuttle
Following a tentative quote from the transport company, the next step is to prepare the vehicle. In this regard, these are the steps you need to follow:
a.Clean Your Vehicle
Cleaning the vehicle aids in checking for damages aside from removing and documenting the vehicle. It’s worth taking pictures of the entire car as having them for the insurance policy is a good idea when aircraft insurance is involved.
b. Remove Personal Items
Transport companies restrict personal items within the vehicle as they can shift around the cabin during movement, making it necessary to remove personal effects stored inside the vehicle.
In addition, forgoing possession results in the loss of insurance coverage specifically pertaining to the vehicle.
c. Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure Must be Checked
Check that fluids are filled to appropriate levels, and that the tires have the right amount of air. If you are going to be transporting a non-operational vehicle, notify the shipping company in advance as this might require certain tools and equipment.
d. Alarm Systems Should be Disabled.
In the event the vehicle has an alarm, ensure it is disabled prior to transport, to prevent uncontrollable sounding during transit.
- Ensure Vigilant Monitoring During the Moving Phase
Communicate with the shipping company about the vehicle’s status once it’s out and moving. With us here at Automobile Shipping, we offer tracking services, allowing constant monitoring so you know the exact location and expected arrival time.
a. Vehicle Status Communication Must be Issued Notification.
Ensure the client can be reached on the preferred days for vehicle pickup or drop off. Provide contactable information that includes the best contact number to ensure there is no delays.
b. Examination of the Car Should Be Conducted Right After Presentation.
Verify the vehicle is checked for damages both reported and not reported in the system before handover. Obtain the relevant insurance policy document from the transferring company in case proof will be needed. The images taken in advance will be useful.
What Difference Does We Have with Vehicle Shipping?
Picking a car shipping service for the first time might be difficult, but the pick up and drop off locations are in good hands. Here is the reason why you should allow us to manage your car transport needs:
- You can be sure in the Automobiles Backgrounds and Knowledge.
We have been there and solved all of the issues accompanying the vehicle transport seasons for a long time. Novice shippers have customized solutions to their problems which makes automobile shipping catering specifically to novice shippers.
- Cheap as well as clear cuts pricing
You Will Get Quotes For Enhancing Your Experience With Us Which Has No Hidden Costs. We assure no unexpected outcomes.
- Extensive Customer care services.
Customer aids will walk you with the shipping process and work with the client every step. A member from out team will work with you to ensure the vehicle is delivered in a properly worked schedule.
- Comprehensive insurance protection
Knowing that you have coverage against all possible risks while your vehicle is being shipped brings peace of mind.
As we pointed out earlier, the newest information shows that with Automobile Shipping, it only takes a little bit of work and planning for a vehicle to be shipped out of state with ease. Account creation and adhering to the checklist makes the shipping process smoother. Whether it is for relocation or purchase, Automobile Shipping ensures that all requirements for car transportation are fully met.
As an expert in the industry, the company provides complimentary quotes upon request via email. This allows the company to further their reputation as a trusted professional in the field. However, contacting them does clarify a lot of issues and helps in shipping cars without the customers having to do any work.