How to Choose the Right Transport Company for Your Valuables

Key Steps to Take Before Hiring a Transport Company

Ask the Right Questions

When you first contact a hauler, it's essential to ask pertinent questions about their services. This includes:

• Care for Your Property: How will they ensure the safety of your items?
• Scheduling: What is their timeline for pickup and delivery?
• Contract Issues: What are the terms and conditions?
• Equipment: What type of equipment do they use?
• Licensing and Insurance: Are they properly licensed and insured?

Most haulers are reputable, but asking these questions can help you identify any red flags early on.

Get References

A reliable hauler should be able to provide references from recent jobs. Contact these references and ask:

• What did you have the company haul?
• When did they haul it?
• Were you kept informed about the pickup and delivery schedule?
• Did they adhere to the promised schedule?
• How well did they care for your items?
• If any issues arose, how were they resolved?
• Would you recommend this hauler to others?

These questions can give you a comprehensive understanding of what to expect.

Verify Licensing

Your hauler should provide their DOT and MC numbers. You can verify the validity of their DOT number on the FMCSA website. A valid DOT license indicates that the hauler has filed the necessary paperwork and pays the required taxes and fees.

Check Insurance

Ensure that the transport company has adequate insurance to cover potential damages. Choosing an uninsured or underinsured company puts you at risk of not being compensated for any loss or damage.

Review FindAHauler Profile

If your hauler has a profile on FindAHauler.com, check the feedback left by other users. This can provide additional insights into their reliability and service quality.

Read Contracts Carefully

Before signing any transport contract, read it thoroughly. Understand the terms, especially regarding down payments and full payment conditions. It's generally advisable not to pay a down payment before the pickup of your property. If possible, negotiate to make the full payment upon delivery.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Transport Industry Growth: The global logistics market is expected to reach $12.68 trillion by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2017 to 2023 (Allied Market Research).
• Customer Satisfaction: According to a survey by the American Moving and Storage Association, 84% of customers were satisfied with their moving company’s services.
• Insurance Claims: Approximately 20% of all moving claims are related to damage during transport, highlighting the importance of choosing a well-insured hauler (Consumer Affairs).

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when transporting your valuable items. Thousands of people have successfully shipped their cars, boats, horses, and more using reputable haulers. Always prioritize reliability and customer service over cost to safeguard your possessions.

For more information on finding a reliable hauler, visit FindAHauler.com.

By taking these precautions, you can avoid the pitfalls of choosing an unreliable transport company and ensure that your valuable items are in safe hands.