You have a significant investment in your car, and if you’re thinking of shipping it, you want to make sure it won’t suffer any damage during transport. Vehicle transport is generally very safe but you can take a few added precautions to ensure your car’s maximum protection while it’s being transported.
1. Choose a Transport Method That Best Suits You and Your Car
Open-Air Transport
An open carrier provides safe and reliable transport for standard vehicles. And it’s the most cost-effective shipping method. Typically, eight to twelve cars are loaded and secured in place on the two levels of a specially designed trailer. This is the type of truck and trailer you see hauling new cars on highways all over the country.
You just need to be aware that on an open carrier, your car will be exposed to the elements and road grime, just as it would be if you were to drive it on the highway yourself. When you choose open-air transport, you normally drop off and pick up your car at the company’s terminals because the carrier is too large to navigate most city streets and neighborhoods.
Enclosed Transport
An enclosed truck and trailer offer the highest level of protection and is the best transport method for valuable and high-end vehicles such as antiques, classics, luxury cars, and exotics. The carrier is closed in on all sides so that your vehicle is completely protected from weather, road debris, and prying eyes.
Enclosed carriers are equipped with advanced loading devices such as hydraulic lift gates which act as an elevator for loading and unloading. The hydraulic lift provides added protection for low-clearance vehicles and also avoids the need for accelerating up steep open carrier ramps. Enclosed carriers often are able to offer door-to-door service because the vehicle is smaller and they can maneuver in areas and neighborhoods where large open-air carriers can’t.
2. Choose a Trustworthy and Reputable Transport Company
Once you’ve decided which transport method is best for your particular vehicle, choosing a trustworthy and reputable transport company is one of the best ways you can ensure your car’s protection and safety. Choose a company that is:
Licensed and Insured
If you shop around, you’ll likely find some fairly cheap pricing on auto transport. Just be aware that the reason a company can offer the cheapest pricing is that they cut corners in important areas. Maybe they aren’t licensed through the Department of Transportation, aren’t insured, or ask you to sign a waiver releasing them from any responsibility for damage. Ask to see their licensing and insurance certifications. Reputable auto transport companies carry insurance and are licensed with the Department of Transport (DOT).
No Deposit Required
Reputable car transport companies typically don’t request or require a deposit.
Check Reviews
Highly rated car transport companies provide great service and happy satisfied customers. Take the time to read the company’s reviews.
3. Make Sure the Insurance Coverage is Sufficient to Cover Your Car’s Value
Vehicle transporters ship hundreds of thousands of vehicles every year without damage. It’s rare that accidents happen, but as with most things in life, there are no guarantees. That’s why reputable car transporters carry insurance to cover any damage that may occur. To ensure the company’s insurance will cover any damage, make sure you:
Ask to See Insurance Coverage
As you’re researching transport companies, ask for a full description of their insurance coverage. In addition to a description, ask for a digital copy so you can review it. Make sure the insurance is sufficient to cover your car’s value. Be aware that anything left loose inside your vehicle is not covered by the transporter’s insurance.
Don’t Sign Insurance Exemption Waivers
Do not sign a contract that includes a waiver exempting the transport company from any responsibility for damage that may occur while your car is in its possession.
Take Photos
For good measure, take photos of your car right before it’s shipped. Set your phone’s camera to date and time stamp, then take photos of all sides of the car. Include the roof if you can. The transport driver will perform a complete inspection of your car before it’s loaded on the trailer, and note any current damage. It’s best if you can be there during the inspection so you’re both on the same page as to the condition of your car.
Inspect
Upon delivery, you’ll be asked to sign a Bill of Lading – a document that details your car’s condition upon delivery. Before you sign the document, you should also inspect your car. If you see any damage that wasn’t noted on the Bill of Lading, take photos, report the damage to the driver immediately, and make sure the damage is included on the document before you sign it.
4. For Added Safety and Protection
Wash Your Car
Washing your car may seem pointless before shipping but the reason it’s important is that when it’s clean, both you and the transport company will be able to more clearly assess the car’s condition before and after delivery.
Remove Personal Items
It can be tempting to leave items inside your car, or pack boxes inside if you’re moving, but most transport companies require your car to be empty inside. Loose items won’t be insured against theft or damage.
Remove Toll Stickers or Tags
If the toll tags are on your car when it’s shipped, you’ll be charged for toll passage during the car’s transit.
Remove Outside Accessories
To prevent damage, remove luggage, ski, and bike racks; retractable antennas; custom spoilers; etc.
Keys
Don’t give your only set of keys to the transport driver. Make sure you have a spare set for the driver and keep the originals in a safe place.
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Protect your investment and use a reputable car hauler you can trust. With fast and easy quotes, Caravan Auto Transport connects you with the best vehicle transporters near you. Request your free quote now!