The idea of shipping a car may sound exasperating, but it does not have to be that way. With some advance research and the right information, the entire process can be effortless. Considerations such as relocation, importing vehicles from sellers overseas, or simple transportation to a new location are all scenarios that can help users understand how best practices for car shipping are pivotal in vehicle transportation. Regretfully, car owners often overlook the critical dos and don’ts while transporting their cars. This article aims to elaborate on the most common blunders people make while shipping their cars and suggests ways to rectify them.
1. Failing to Research Car Shipping Services
One of the most prevalent missteps made by vehicle owners entails a lack of consideration when it comes to research around vehicle transporting services. The consequences of their negligence stem from the fact that transport services may vary significantly in quality. A reliable shipping firm with real knowledge of the industry and experience handling similar vehicles is your best bet.
Key Tips:
Use reputable storefronts: Make sure they have reviews on sites like Trustpilot or BBB, since that shows a reliable business.
Check car shipping services licensure: There are companies that operate without being licensed, which increases the risk of insurance not being provided at all when it is supposed to.
Solicit Multiple Quotes: It is best to request quotes from at least three different companies in order to analyze their pricing and services.
Do not forget, the price of shipping a car is not the only thing you should consider while choosing a car shipping company. While it may be very easy to select the cheapest available option, you should keep in mind that only a few companies actually provide quality and reliability. A good company will offer transparent pricing as well as an estimate on the delivery time.
2. Not Adequately Preparing Your Vehicle
Preparation is essential for the safe transport of your vehicle. Many car owners do not take the required steps to prepare their car for transport. These oversights can slow down the shipping process or cause damage.
Key Tips:
Wash your car: A clean vehicle is easier to inspect, so ensure thorough washes well before any scheduled shipments. This can be critical when making an insurance claim for any damages post shipment.
Forget belongings: Even though it is very natural to want to store some personal items in the car, most shipment services disallow this. Any items stowed inside will interfere with the safe stowage of the vehicle.
Confirm fuel levels, battery status, fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery. For optimal fluid and battery levels, ensure the fuel tank does not exceed a quarter full. A proper check on tires, as well as the battery and fluids, is needed to ensure the proper running condition of the car.
Prepping your vehicle reduces the chances of problems arising while the car is being shipped, making the process smoother for you.
3. Leaving out shipping insurance
One of the biggest oversights involves not fully comprehending the insurance cover provided by the shipping company. Almost all trusted and reliable car shipping companies have basic insurance coverage. In most cases, basic insurance might not be adequate in the case of an accident while transporting your vehicle. Not knowing what type of insurance policy your car falls under can put you at risk of high repair costs.
Key Tips:
Remember to ask for any important details surrounding the insurance policy: Make sure you require clarity on what types of insurance policies are included in the base shipping fee. Some insurance policy advertisements have extra policies that come at an additional cost.
Think about purchasing extra insurance: For those planning to ship classic cars or any high-value cars, make sure to buy additional policies for comfort.
Pre-shipping documentation: Capture images of your car from various angles to photograph any pre-damage to your vehicle. In shipping paperwork, this will aid in making a claim if needed.
If you have questions concerning the insurance policy, confirm with the shipping company for clarification prior to agreeing to the policy.
4. Selecting the Incorrect Mode of Vehicle Transportation
There are several methods of vehicle shipping. The two primary methods are open transport and enclosed transport. While both have advantages and disadvantages, bearing in mind the safety and security of your vehicle is key when making the decision for which method to use.
Important hints:
Open transport: This option tends to be the least expensive, as your vehicle is transported via an open trailer. It is the most popular method of transport; however, exposure to dirt, debris, and the weather may cause damage to your vehicle.
Enclosed transport: This option provides additional protection as the vehicle is transported in a fully enclosed trailer. This is best suited for classic, luxury, or other high-value cars that need protection from the elements.
Assess your car’s value and your risk tolerance before selecting a specific shipping method. An example of this is if you are transporting an antique or a high-end sports car; in such cases, enclosed transport would be preferable, albeit at an extra cost.
5. Omitting Delivery and Pickup Instructions
One of the major blunders car owners tend to make is failing to confirm the specifics regarding the delivery and pickup process. Not understanding the where, when, and how of the pickup or delivery may result in unnecessary hassle and frustration.
Key Recommendations:
Set precise parameters: Talk to the shipping company to set your desired pickup and delivery dates. Each company works differently, so some may be willing to accommodate while others operate on a very tight schedule.
Know your locations: Ensure that the pickup and delivery zones are not limited to only a certain radius, especially if they are a direct drop-off. If your vehicle cannot be collected directly from your residence, then you must provide an alternate location such as a designated parking area or a warehouse.
Get confirmation in writing: Written confirmation offers protection and serves as legally binding proof for the details and terms for pickup and delivery, provide, which includes additional fees for tailored services.
Setting clear expectations minimizes car owners’ blunders, ensuring on-time arrival and perfect condition.
Car Shipping FAQ
1. What is the price range for car shipping?
Shipping a vehicle incurs a varying cost based on different parameters such as distance, vehicle type, shipping mode, and length of the car. It’s approximately ranging from 500 to 1,500. It’s advisable to track the quotes from other car shipping companies to find the lowest price.
2. What’s the estimated time for shipping a car?
The estimated time for shipping always depends on the distance and route. Usually taking 7-14 days for domestic shipping, cross-country cars can also be shipped quicker via express shipping options.
3. Is it possible to ship a car overseas?
Overseas shipping of vehicles is possible, however, the challenge arises while uncovering the complexities associated with international logistics and further classification boundaries for every destination country. This will involve dealing with customs, so it’s best to reach out to international shipping companies for support.
4. Is my presence required during the vehicle pickup?
Yes, your presence is always recommended while picking up and dropping off vehicles to inspect them at every stage for potential damages and through the sign document flow. Some shipping companies offer third-party pickups, too, making them more flexible.
5. Where can I access the tracking features during the shipping of my car?
Most companies that offer car shipping services usually have tracking services that are offered to customers. Typically, there is a tracking number issued to you after booking your shipment, which enables you to track your vehicle.
Conclusion
For those of you who are looking for a new or used car, How to Buy a Car on Carvana is a simple and seamless way to shop for a vehicle over the internet. Carvana allows you to shop for a myriad of vehicles, complete the purchase online, and even schedule home delivery. It’s a straightforward process with financing available, along with a seven-day return policy. Whether you need advice on transport after purchase or your car needs to be transported post-purchase, Csrvana provides an exceptional experience for buyers.