12 Things to Check Before Booking Car Shipping

Booking car shipping can significantly ease a move to a distant location, but picking a company is not just about comparing the lowest quote. Before you commit to shipping a car, you should have a good idea about what you are paying for, how your vehicle will be transported, what the applicable insurance coverage is, and how will the pick-up and delivery be scheduled. Spending a few minutes on checking these will help you avoid extra costs, communication problems, delays, or misunderstandings of your vehicle’s condition.

Whether you’re relocating, or buying a car out of state, or giving a vehicle as a gift to a family member in another state, the proper preparation and planning will go a long way.

Here’s a comprehensive list of what Swift Auto Transport suggests customers consider before selecting a company to handle their car shipping needs

1. Company Reputation and Customer Reviews

A good place to start is to research the car shipping company itself. You’ll want to look for feedback on its services from customers who’ve actually shipped a vehicle with them in the past. Focus on any comments relating to communication, pickup process, and delivery accuracy.

Try not to rely on just a few comments, and see if there are any repeated patterns in positive or negative reviews, paying particular attention to recent feedback.

A company with excellent communication and professionalism, even at a slightly higher cost, could be preferable over a company that offers an incredibly low price but continuously receives customer complaints related to delivery times and hidden charges.

2. Licensing and Carrier Credentials

Before booking your vehicle to ship, it’s imperative to check the car shipping company and transport carriers for their relevant licensing and registration information within the United States. Most auto transport companies readily provide this information upon request.

You should inquire about who will be transporting your vehicle as some companies act as intermediaries, working with third-party transportation carriers, while others have their own fleets. Understanding the roles of the broker versus the carrier will avoid confusion.

3. Car Shipping Insurance Coverage

The type of insurance policy and coverage options are critical aspects to inquire about.

Ask what type of coverage will apply while your vehicle is in transit and what limitations or exclusions the policy may have.

It’s also beneficial to understand the procedures involved in submitting a claim if damage occurs. Don’t assume that damage to your vehicle is covered simply because it is being transported, and verify if any personal belongings left inside your car are protected by the insurance.

4. Review the Car Shipping Quote Carefully

Get a detailed quote for your car shipping needs so you understand everything involved in the total cost. This should include the type of car, where the shipment will be picked up and delivered, the method of transportation, and the route.

Additional factors may include time of year and distance, among others, all of which could affect pricing.

Be sure to read all terms and conditions thoroughly, and make sure that the quote is comprehensive and clear.

5. Ask About Hidden or Additional Fees

Unexpected charges are one of the leading concerns for car owners when shipping a vehicle. It’s a smart practice to ask the car shipping company whether any fees can be incurred for services not explicitly listed in the initial quote, such as changes to locations, difficulties with pickup or delivery points (like narrow streets or lack of access), additional vehicle space, storage, or re-delivery.

Proactively asking about these possible costs helps with accurate budgeting and avoids surprise at the end.

6. Check Pickup and Delivery Options

When considering shipping a car, you’ll want to discuss in advance how pickup and delivery will be managed to ensure smooth operation. Some locations can be difficult for a large car carrier to access due to restricted streets, overhanging branches, or road constructions.

You should communicate clearly with the auto shipping company about your desired delivery and pickup addresses, and they can advise whether meeting at a more accessible location is required.

7. Understand Door-to-Door vs.

Terminal Shipping

There are two main types of auto transport services: door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal. Door-to-door car shipping provides greater convenience as the company picks up and delivers your car directly to the doorsteps of your specified locations. Terminal shipping requires you to drop off your car at a designated terminal and pick it up at a similar location at the destination.

8. Choose the Right Transport Method

There are generally two primary ways in which vehicles are transported, and your choice will depend on your vehicle and budget.

These are open-air (or open-deck) and enclosed transport methods. Open-air is a less expensive option suitable for most vehicles in good condition, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury, classic, collectible, or specialty cars. The auto transport company will typically recommend the best method based on your vehicle type.

9. Confirm the Estimated Transit Time

It is essential to have a clear understanding of when your vehicle can be expected to be picked up and how long the transportation will take. Factors such as route distance, weather conditions, traffic congestion, and the availability of carriers can all impact the estimated transit time. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and unexpected circumstances could cause delays, so the company should keep you informed if any issues arise.

10. Check Vehicle Preparation Requirements

Preparing your vehicle correctly prior to pickup can ensure a smoother shipping experience.

Ask the auto transport company about their specific preparation requirements, which can include:

Removing all personal items and valuables from the car;
Securing or removing loose external accessories or parts;
Leaving approximately one-quarter tank of fuel in the vehicle;
Ensuring no fluid leaks;
Disabling alarm systems if necessary;
Providing the necessary keys for the vehicle.

Follow the car shipping company’s instructions precisely.

11. Understand the Vehicle Inspection Process

Upon pickup, both you and the car carrier should thoroughly inspect your vehicle. Be sure to document any existing damage, such as scratches, dings, or chips, with detailed photographs from multiple angles.

Ensure that the carrier’s inspection form accurately reflects your vehicle’s current condition before you sign it.

A similar inspection should be performed at delivery to check for any new damages.

12. Evaluate Communication and Customer Support

Reliable and clear communication is vital throughout the entire car shipping process. During the selection phase, inquire about how the company communicates with clients, how frequently you’ll receive updates, and whom to contact if you have questions or concerns.

Ask who is responsible for updates and what procedures are in place for notifying you if there are changes to pickup or delivery schedules. Swift Auto Transport believes in empowering customers with knowledge and clear options regarding car shipping, and open communication is a key part of that.

Choosing an auto shipping company means looking for the best trade-off between cost, services, and flexibility. That’s where Swift Auto Transport comes in.

We provide specialized vehicle shipping across the US, allowing you to avoid the time and distance it would take to drive your vehicle.

Depending on your needs and travel route, we offer both door-to-door transport and both open or enclosed shipping for your automobile. It may help to ensure you have a transportation company with clear communication, transparent quoting, and careful attention to pickup and delivery can manage expectations. Don’t make your final decision simply because a company advertises low car shipping costs. They are providing a service, and reliable, transport will manage the entire experience, including that first price quote to your final delivery.

Get an Auto Shipping Quote

If you want to start moving your car now, then contact Swift Auto Transport today!

Tell our team about your route and destination, your vehicle and delivery timeline, as well as what best mode of transportation you might prefer. Receive a car quote, as well as additional details for your shipment. If you are in the process of moving across country, looking to buy a car out-of-state or delivering a car to someone, make sure that you go in well informed.

Contact Swift Auto Transport

For reliable auto transport services, please contact our dispatch team directly:

Phone: (517) 908-8863
Email: Dispatch@swiftautotransport.com

Our team is ready to assist you with your auto transport needs.

FAQ’s

How far should I plan to make my booking for car shipping?

Giving carriers a bit more lead time will usually lead to increased convenience for your specific desired timeline, particularly at peak travel times and locations.

What dictates car shipping prices?

Cost of delivery is usually influenced by the total driving distance, your car’s dimensions and type, route, shipping method type, delivery timing, any fuel cost fluctuating price increase or decrease in the supply/demand within carrier market and more.

What are the security features of open car shipping?

Open vehicle shipping is considered to be completely safe for standard vehicles but would not be the choice for unique types or extremely expensive cars or vehicles to transport.

Am I permitted to ship any items or personal belongings within a car?

Individual auto transport companies would vary regarding insurance of “extras inside” the automobile.

Let’s go over specific company’s’ shipping policies before putting anything into the shipment with.

Where do I check the conditions in the auto after delivery?

During arrival, always conduct a total inspection of your automobile, then compare the present vehicle condition with condition notes taken throughout pickup, report problems in line with the company’s’ protocol.