Shipping your car from one location to another can be a stressful and complicated process, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Fortunately, you can ease some of the stress and avoid potential problems by choosing a reliable and trustworthy auto transport company to help you with the move.
But how do you know which auto transport company to choose?
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a list of 15 top questions to ask your auto transport company before booking. By asking these questions, you can better understand the company’s services, policies, and procedures and ensure that you’re making the right choice for your needs.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the questions you should be asking your auto transport company.
1. Are You a Broker or a Car Carrier?
It’s important to know whether you’re dealing with a shipper or a broker when choosing an auto transport company. If you’re dealing with a broker, ask them about their process for selecting carriers and ensuring their reliability. If you’re dealing with a shipper, ask them about their experience and track record with transporting vehicles.
2. Is My Car Insured During Transportation?
Ask the auto transport company about their insurance coverage and what it covers in case of any damages or accidents during transportation. Additionally, inquire about any deductible or other costs you may be responsible for in case of a claim. It’s a good idea to ask for a copy of the insurance certificate to ensure the company has adequate coverage.
3. What Type of Carriers do You Use?
Auto transport companies use different types of carriers to transport vehicles. The most common types of carriers are open carriers and enclosed carriers. It’s important to know what type of carrier the auto transport company uses and whether it’s suitable for your vehicle. Additionally, ask about any restrictions on the type of vehicles that can be transported on the carrier.
4. What Is the Cancellation Policy?
Ask the auto transport company about their cancellation policy and the fees associated with canceling or rescheduling your transportation. Some companies may require a deposit upfront, which may be non-refundable if you cancel within a certain timeframe. Others may offer a more flexible cancellation policy, allowing you to cancel or reschedule with little to no penalty.
5. What Documentation Is Required for Transportation?
Ask the auto transport company about the required documentation and what you need to provide. If you’re shipping a vehicle internationally, additional documentation may be required. It’s also a good idea to ask the auto transport company about any specific state or country regulations that may apply to your transportation process.
6. Can I Get an Auto Transport Free Quote?
Many auto transport companies offer free quotes for their services. When requesting a quote, be sure to provide accurate information about your vehicle, the pickup and delivery locations, and any other relevant details.
7. Do You Offer Customer Support Service?
Ask the auto transport company if they offer customer support and what kind of support they provide. Do they have a dedicated support team available to answer your questions and concerns? What are their hours of operation? Is support available through phone, email, or chat?
8. How Long Will It Take to Transport My Car?
The time it takes to transport a car can vary depending on several factors. A reliable auto transport company should be able to give you an estimated timeline for the transportation process. Be sure to ask for a specific timeframe.
9. What Is the Cost of Transportation?
The price of shipping a car can vary depending on several factors. When asking about the cost of transportation, be sure to ask for a breakdown of all charges, such as pickup and delivery fees, fuel surcharges, insurance, and any other miscellaneous charges.
10. How Do I Prepare My Car for Car Shipping?
Ask the auto transport company about their recommendations for preparing your vehicle for transportation. However, there are common auto transport preparation steps. Following the auto transport company’s preparation recommendations can help ensure a smooth and stress-free transportation process.
11. Do You Offer Door-To-Door or Terminal-To-Terminal Service?
Auto transport companies typically offer two types of service: door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal. Ask the auto transport company about their service options and what they recommend based on your specific needs. Door-to-door service may be more convenient but may come at a higher cost. Terminal-to-terminal service may be more affordable but may require you to drop off and pick up your vehicle at specific locations.
12. What Payment Methods Do You Accept?
Before booking an auto transport service, asking the company about their payment methods is important. Some auto transport companies offer more flexible payment options while others don’t. It’s also good to ask about the payment schedule and when payment is due. Some companies may require a deposit upfront, while some may require full payment upfront.
13. What Should I Do if There Is Damage to My Vehicle During Transportation?
Ask the company about its claims process and the documentation required to file a claim. It’s also a good idea to ask about their liability limits and what types of damages are covered under their insurance policy. In the event of any damages during transportation, report them to the auto transport company as soon as possible and provide all necessary documentation to file a claim.
14. Can You Provide References or Customer Reviews for Your Auto Transport Services?
Asking for references or customer reviews can give you an idea of the auto transport company’s reputation and the quality of its services. A reputable company should be able to provide you with references or customer reviews upon request. Check for complaints or negative reviews on websites such as the Better Business Bureau or other sites.
15. Can You Ship an Inoperable Car?
If you have an inoperable car that needs to be transported, it’s important to ask the auto transport company if they offer this service. Not all companies can transport inoperable vehicles, and those that do may have different requirements and fees. Additionally, ask about any special equipment or handling requirements for your specific vehicle to ensure that it can be transported safely and securely.
MI Car Shipping is a Safe and Reliable Auto Transport Company
MI Car Shipping is your trusted auto transport broker here to help. We make USA car shipping easy and also deal in international car shipping services.
At MI Car Shipping, we will find you a reliable and affordable auto transport carrier that will take care of your vehicle during your upcoming move. As accredited by the Better Business Bureau for Ethics (BBB) and a four-time award-winning company of the torch award for Ethics, we go above and beyond to provide you with exceptional service. We provide excellent and satisfactory car shipping services.
Contact MI Car Shipping at 866-620-1776 today to schedule your auto transport, and you will get an instant free quote. Our car shipping calculator is always available to ease your journey. For more about your best car shipping broker in the USA, visit our website at https://mettiintl.com/.
