If you need to move home a long distance, particularly overseas, there are several steps you must get right to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible. In particular, you will want to make sure your auto transport does not run into problems.
Here are 7 steps to get right when sending your vehicle, a long distance.
Plan ahead
Choose your travel dates and book them with the transport company as soon as possible. The earlier you get plans in place the greater opportunity to pay as little as possible.
Be aware that they might not be able to meet your specific dates due to changing shipment needs and travel times. Some periods of the year are busier than others, so moving in early spring or late fall will save you money.
If your vehicle is expensive, exotic, collectable or vintage you might want to ensure you book enclosed auto transport for protection from the hail and any variety of storms. If you don’t mind risking a few scratches, open transport will be less expensive.
If you are on a tight deadline then you might need to pay more for guaranteed pick-up dates, but if you can be more flexible, it will cost less.
Research auto transport company’s
If you know anybody who has transported vehicles before, ask them about their experiences, costs, and vehicle type.
Check out the websites of reputable nationwide or international transporters. But remember, they will only publish their best reviews, so also go to sites like Better Business Bureau, TrustPilot, Transport Reviews, and Review Centre.
Choose the three companies that seem to best meet your needs and get quotes.
Gather your auto transport quotes
Using a list of the services you need, fill in the companies’ online forms for quotes. You should get your quote immediately, or a representative will make contact.
Be sure to include all relevant information about your vehicle, including whether it is inoperable or if you have any special requests, as these factors influence the price. Be aware that quotes are temporary and subject to change. The final price you pay may be different, but make sure you find out why.
Book your auto transport shipment
Once you’ve got your quote and chosen your transporter for the job, proceed to book your shipment.
Make sure you get answers to any questions you have. This could include insurance information, cancellation policies, and other relevant details like how to contact the trucker who will pick up or deliver your car.
Prepare your vehicle for the trip
Make sure you have all necessary documentation stored together in a safe place, including your current photo ID, your booking confirmation, proof of insurance for your car, and your car’s registration.
The auto transport company provides insurance during shipment, but it’s a good idea to double-check with your own insurance company beforehand. For both pickup and delivery, be sure you are organized to meet the driver. If you can’t be there, make sure you have someone you trust to do this for you.
Ensure the car is clean and take note of any dents or scratches. Make sure your gas tank is about half full, your battery is fully charged, and check the fluid levels.
Finally, remove all personal items from the car, including any toll passes.
Hand your vehicle off for shipment
When the driver arrives to pick up your vehicle, they will give you a bill of lading. This is an agreement between you and the transporter detailing the item being shipped and its condition at the time of loading. Take care while doing this with the driver, because you will use this document to check the vehicle on arrival.
Receive your vehicle at your destination
You should be kept informed regularly about the location of your vehicle during the move.
On arrival, check your vehicle is in the same condition as when it left. If there is any damage, contact the transporter before the driver leaves.
Then you can relax!
