Whether for work or fun, chances are you and your car are always in the thick of it. But what do you do if you need to move across the country? You could try to drive your car yourself, but that’s a lot of wear and tear to impose on your vehicle—or on your mind and body. Perhaps you could hire a car shipping company to transport it instead. But how do you know which company is right here for you? Here are five things to look for when looking for the best car shipping companies.
What Is a Car Shipping Company?
A car shipping company is a business that specializes in the transport of vehicles. They typically offer a fleet of trucks and trailers specially designed for hauling cars. Some companies may even ship cars via rail or air.
When to Use a Car Shipping Company
You’ll likely find several circumstances compelling enough to use the services of a car shipping company. If you’re moving across the country, it might be more economical to have your car shipped rather than driving it yourself. This is especially true if you’re moving from one coast to another.
What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company
When looking for a car shipping company, you should keep a few things in mind. Here are five of the most important factors to consider.
1. Ensure They Are Registered and Licensed
The first step is to ensure that the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The agency is responsible for regulating the trucking and shipping industry, so you can be sure that any company registered with them follows the law. You can check the registration status of any car shipping company on the FMCSA website. Another critical step is to ensure that the company you’re interested in is registered with the Department of Transport. This is important because it means that the company has met all the necessary requirements to operate legally.
2. Check Their Reviews
Once you’ve checked that the company is registered and licensed, you should then look at independent reviews of their services. Many websites let you read reviews from previous customers. It’s essential to read as many reviews as possible to get a good idea of its reputation. Is it reliable? Does it deliver on time? Are its prices fair? Reading reviews can help you answer these questions and more. Apart from checking reviews online, you can also ask friends and family members who have recently moved for their recommendations on car shipping companies. It would be best if you also noted a company’s safety record. A company with a poor safety record could be a risk, so it’s important to do your research before choosing one. Lastly, you must check how long the company has been in business and what facilities they offer. You must never entrust your prized possession to a company that is not well-established.
3. Compare Prices
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a car shipping company is price. It’s crucial to shop around and compare prices before making a decision. Remember, you get what you pay for, so choose a company that offers good value for money. That being said, you must get quotes from as many car shipping companies as possible. This will give you a good idea of the average price for shipping a car. Quotes are free, and you have multiple methods of getting them. One is to call the company directly and request a quote. You can also get quotes online by filling out a form on the company’s website.
4. Check If They Have a Tracking System
In the digital age, technology is everywhere. The same applies to the car shipping industry. Many companies now offer tracking systems that allow you to track your car’s location. This can give you peace of mind knowing that you can check on your vehicle. Tracking systems are usually offered for an additional fee, so ask about them when getting quotes from car shipping companies.
5. Ask About Insurance
Last but not least, you should always ask about insurance when choosing a car shipping company. Any reputable company will offer insurance for your vehicle. This is important in case anything happens to your car during transport. When asking about insurance, be sure to ask about the company’s insurance policy and their liability insurance. This will ensure that you’re fully protected in case of an accident.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right car shipping company is essential to ensure that your vehicle is shipped safely and on time. Follow these tips to find the best company for your needs.
