Tips for Auto Transporting

By Fleet Transport

There are many factor to consider when moving a vehicle. The first is how you wish to move your vehicle.

There are several choices when making the move:

1. Moving it yourself; This is done by driving it or towing it with either a tow dolly or a trailer. While this may seem like an economical choice, you must take into account all the expenses that you will incur, such as fuel, lodging, food, trailer rental, airline tickets, and the most overlooked expense, your time!

2. Drive Away; Drive away is when you hire a company or person to drive your vehicle from point A to point B. Please take into account that your vehicle that your vehicle will incur mileage and wear and tear, not to mention a stranger driving your vehicle. You must also factor in the possibility of a mechanical break down or accident and the hassles of dealing with such a situation. If you choose this option be sure to verify that the company or person is fully insured and properly licensed to move your vehicle. Also check with your insurance companies policies on such a move.

3. Auto Transporter; Auto transporters are usually companies that transport your vehicle by a carrier (i.e. truck and trailer) This is usually the most economical and convenient choice for most people. Auto transporters usually transport multiple vehicles at one time, thus reducing the cost to you.  All transporter are not the same though. There are several question outlined below that you need to ask to get the service you desire.

A. Are they a carrier or broker? An actual carrier will be the company that physically delivers your vehicle. A broker is the company that will handle your order, logistics, follow ups and dispatching. Brokers are linked electronically to thousands of  licensed and insured auto transporter. A quality broker is an asset to customers and transporters alike by keeping the prices competitive and keeping work flowing to the transporters.

 B. Do you deliver door to door? This is an important question to ask as many large carriers require you to bring  or pick up the vehicle at a loading yard or warehouse which in many cases can be up to 50 miles away. This may also delay your move, increase the chances of damage to your vehicle, and involve more time on your part.  Door to door carriers offer the convenience of picking up and delivering at your home or office at no extra charge.

C. Will my vehicle stay on the same truck? Some transporters will move vehicles from carrier to carrier once again increasing the chances of damage to your vehicle.

D. Storage; If your vehicle will not be delivered immediately, ask where the vehicle will be stored, if the location is secure, and if any storage charges will be incurred. There should not be any charges if storage is for the convenience of the carrier. Once again, more chances for damage to your car.

E. Open or Enclosed carrier? Over ninety percent of vehicles do not require an enclosed trailer. Most vehicles are made to withstand most elements without harm. The other ten percent may require the extra protection of being enclosed. Keep in mind that enclosed transport can be up to twice the price of an open carrier. But may be worth it for you and your prized possession.

F. Placement of your vehicle: There are several carrier configurations.  Flat deck trailers place the vehicles on a flat surface with all vehicles in a row. . Wedged trailers, similar to flat deck trailers but the deck is angled up towards the front. Multi car carriers are trucks and a trailer that carriers vehicles on two different levels or "stacked" The down fall to these carriers are the possibility that a vehicle above can leak fluid or drop dirt and debris on the lower cars. Usually a top position is a better choice on these type of trucks.  As with the other choice, make sure the carrier is properly licensed and insured.

All motor vehicle carriers must have a valid D.O.T.  and Motor carrier numbers issued by the Federal Government. All must carrier a minimum of $1 million dollars of liability insurance as well as cargo insurance (as the carrier what their limits are as they do vary) to legally operate in the U. S. Beware of those who transport vehicles with their personal vehicles and do not have proper authority. Ask for a copy of their Federal motor carrier letter and a copy of their insurance policy.  Just a note, If you choose an uninsured and unlicensed transporter and your vehicle is involved in an accident, you could be liable for damages to your vehicle and other vehicles/persons involved!

G. Deposits and charges: Inquire about the companies deposit and charges. If a deposit is required, is it fully or partially refundable? What charges are there if you choose to cancel the service request?  What is the policy if the carrier cannot complete the service in a timely manner? Read the agreement carefully, you may loose your deposit even if the carrier does not perform up to expectations.

H. Timeframe: Ask the carrier what time frames they anticipate for pick up and delivery. Some carriers and brokers will gladly accept your deposit but won't have a reasonable timeframe for pick up and delivery. Many times letting your car sit until they can "build" a load or find another carrier to pick up your vehicle. Find out the policy for canceling the service if they do not perform the service in a reasonable timeframe. But be realistic, most vehicles will be picked up in an average of 7 days.

To Make Your Move Easier

After choosing a carrier or broker, here are a few tips to make your move easier and hassle free.

1. Remove all personal belongings from the vehicle. Carriers cannot be responsible for personal items.

2. If moving, don't pack your car with items to be moved. As above, these items are not the responsibility of the carrier. Also federal law states that some items may be considered household items and  will require the carrier to bonded as a licensed house hold mover.

3.Try to have your fuel tank below 1/4 of a tank. This reduces weight and makes the move a little safer in case of an accident.

4. Have the vehicle in a place for easy access. Please take into account that most trucks are long and often tall. If you live in an area that is narrow, congested, or has overhead obstacals, consider meeting the driver at a local shopping center or large parking lot for loading or unloading

5. Inoperative Vehicles. If you have an "inop." vehicle please check with the carrier prior to making arrangements. Some carriers do not transport inop. vehicles. As above, make sure the vehicle is easily accessible as well as having the tires aired up for easy rolling and steering.

In closing, whichever choice you make  be realistic in your expectations. Most carriers are honest hard working people trying to assist you in your move. Take into account that if your vehicle is being moved accross country, it won't be there tomorrow. Also consider that they are delivering other vehicles and are trying to meet everyone's time frames. As in life things don't always go as planned. There are weather issues, road construction, accidents, as well as mechanical breakdowns that can delay your move.

Keep in mind, the cheapest is not always the most economical and efficient choice. Whether you use Fleet Transport or another company, choose a carrier that you feel comfortable with and meets your standards. Visit us at:  Fleet Transport or call 937-231-6455 if you need any more assistance in your move.