Auto Transport Basics

Say you live in Freehold, New Jersey and your company has decided to transfer you to San Francisco, California. You know how you are going to ship everything across the country, except for your car. You do not know the first thing about auto transport. Well, perhaps we can help. There are several things to know about transporting your car safely and affordably. Here is some general information.

Price Quotes
Speak to several auto transport companies in your area before you decide whom to work with. This way, you can way your options. For most people, the most important thing to consider is the price of service. Obtain price quotes from several auto transport companies before you sign any paperwork. Price quotes are usually offered for free, so take advantage of this service.

In order for the auto transport company to offer you a reliable quote, you must be prepared to answer certain questions that they will ask you. For example, know the answers to questions, such as:

What type of vehicle are you transporting?
Where do you want to ship your car?
When is the departure date?
Do you want door-to-door transport or terminal-to-terminal transport?
Are you in need of a special transport service?

Keep in mind that a price quote is just that—a quote. The price that you pay for the actual auto transport may be a little less or a little more than the quote itself.

What is Door-to-Door Service?
Door-to door service is a service that most auto transport companies provide to their customers. The auto transport driver will come to your home to pick up your car. But, keep in mind that an auto transport vehicle is an enormous truck. So, really, the driver will come as close as possible to your home. Consider your neighborhood, before you agree to have door-to-door service. If your streets are narrow or restricted, you may have to meet the driver somewhere else, like a large parking lot near your home.

What is Terminal-to Terminal Service?
Many auto transport companies offer terminal-to-terminal service to their customers. This service asks the customer to drive their car to one of the auto transport company’s authorized agents in their network of locations. Then, the auto transport company will load your car into one of their trucks. When your car reaches its destination, you will receive a call from the company that the car is ready to be picked up.

What is the Difference Between an Open and an Enclosed Carrier?

Open Carrier—Have you ever seen a large truck transporting new cars to dealerships? Well, open carriers are similar to those vehicles. The problem with open carriers is that your car will be exposed to weather and road conditions. Meaning, if it is raining, your car will get wet. If it is hailing, your car could get damaged.

Enclosed Carrier—When you ship your car with an enclosed carrier, your car is completely inside of the truck. It is not exposed to the weather elements. If you have an exotic or expensive car, we suggest you use an enclosed carrier for auto transport.

How Long Does It Take to Transport My Car?
This is a very difficult question to answer. It depends on how far your destination is from your starting point. For example, if you want to transport your car from Maryland to New York, it would take less time than a car that is transported from Maine to Florida. It also depends on weather conditions, road conditions, and traffic. Usually, it takes seven to fourteen days.

Before you choose an auto transport company, make sure that the business is fully insured and licensed. Do not take their word for it. Ask them to see proof of insurance and insurance agency contact numbers. This way, you can verify their information. This may seem over-cautious, but your car is a huge investment. Why take the chance? Transport your vehicle with a trusted company.

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