How to Choose an Automobile Car Shipping Company

Summary

Selecting an international car shipping company can be challenging without a clear understanding of the services they offer. This comprehensive guide provides essential tips for choosing the right auto shipping company, covering aspects like shipping costs, types of services, insurance options, and quality of service. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and secure shipping experience for your vehicle.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car Shipping Company

Shipping Costs

One of the most critical factors to consider is the cost of shipping. Planning ahead can save you from unexpected expenses. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the average cost to ship a car domestically ranges from $600 to $1,000, depending on the distance and type of service (AAA).

Tips for Managing Shipping Costs:

• Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple companies to find the best deal.
• Plan Ahead: Last-minute bookings can be more expensive.
• Understand the Fees: Be aware of any hidden fees that may not be included in the initial quote.

Types of Services Offered

Different companies offer various types of shipping services. It's essential to understand what each company provides to ensure it meets your needs.

Common Types of Services:

• Door-to-Door Shipping: The vehicle is picked up and delivered to specific addresses.
• Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: The vehicle is dropped off and picked up at designated terminals.

A professional shipping company should offer both options. According to a survey by Consumer Reports, 70% of customers prefer door-to-door service for its convenience (Consumer Reports).

Insurance Coverage

Insurance is a crucial aspect of car shipping. Most companies offer basic insurance, but additional coverage may be necessary for high-value vehicles.

Insurance Options:

• Basic Coverage: Typically included in the shipping cost.
• Premium Coverage: Higher premiums for additional protection, especially for luxury or antique cars.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that all auto transport companies carry a minimum level of insurance (FMCSA).

Quality of Service

The quality of service can vary significantly between companies. One way to gauge this is by seeking references and reading reviews.

How to Assess Quality:

• Customer Reviews: Check online reviews on platforms like Yelp and Google.
• References: Ask the company for references from previous customers.
• Accreditations: Look for companies accredited by organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Car Shipping Report

A car shipping report is essential for documenting the condition of your vehicle before and after shipping. This report can help resolve any disputes regarding damages.

What to Look for in a Car Shipping Report:

• Pre-Shipping Condition: Detailed documentation of the vehicle's condition before shipping.
• Post-Shipping Condition: Documentation upon delivery to compare with the pre-shipping report.

Conclusion

By considering these factors—shipping costs, types of services, insurance coverage, quality of service, and car shipping reports—you can make an informed decision when choosing an international car shipping company. This will ensure that your vehicle is transported safely and efficiently, giving you peace of mind.

Interesting Stats

• Average Shipping Time: The average time to ship a car domestically is 1-2 weeks, while international shipping can take 3-8 weeks (AAA).
• Customer Satisfaction: According to a survey by J.D. Power, 85% of customers were satisfied with their car shipping experience (J.D. Power).

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and secure shipping experience for your vehicle.