Shipped with Confidence: How to Choose the Right Auto Transport Service
Shipped with Confidence: How to Choose the Right Auto Transport Service
Blog Article
Whether you're moving cross-country, buying a car from another state, or sending a vehicle to a loved one, How to find a good car shipping company can feel overwhelming. With so many options, promises, and price points, how do you know who to trust with one of your most valuable possessions?
This guide breaks it down so you can confidently choose a reliable auto transport service without second-guessing yourself.
- Start with Research – But Be Smart About It
Before you even request a quote, start by gathering a list of potential companies. Use multiple sources:
- Google Reviews: Look for consistent patterns. A few bad reviews can be normal, but multiple complaints about delays or damaged vehicles? That’s a red flag.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): A company with a high BBB rating and accreditation is usually a good sign.
- Industry forums and Reddit: These can offer honest, unfiltered experiences from real customers.
✅ Pro Tip: Avoid companies that only operate through brokers and don’t have their own fleet. Transparency is key.
- Verify Their Credentials
Legit car shipping companies are regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Ask for their DOT number and Motor copyright (MC) number—then look them up on the FMCSA website (https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov).
This will tell you if the company is insured, licensed, and active. If they can’t or won’t provide this info? Move on.
- Compare Quotes—But Don’t Be Fooled by Lowball Prices
Everyone loves a deal, but when it comes to car shipping, you get what you pay for. Extremely low quotes may mean the company:
- Delays your shipment until they can find someone willing to take it
- Adds hidden fees later
- Uses underinsured or unverified drivers
Get at least 3-5 quotes from different companies and read the fine print. A legitimate quote should include pick-up and drop-off windows, insurance coverage, transport type (open vs enclosed), and cancellation policies.
- Know the Types of Transport
There’s no one-size-fits-all in auto transport. Your needs might be different based on your car’s value or how far it’s traveling:
- Open transport: Most common and affordable. Great for standard vehicles.
- Enclosed transport: More expensive, but ideal for luxury, vintage, or exotic cars.
- Door-to-door: More convenient, though not always possible in remote areas.
- Terminal-to-terminal: Cheaper, but less convenient.
Ask the company which options they offer and what works best for your route and vehicle.
- Ask About Insurance and Liability
Even the best carriers can run into trouble on the road. Make sure the company provides:
- Primary cargo insurance
- Liability insurance
- A clear process for making a claim
Also, check with your personal car insurance to see if your vehicle is covered during transport.
- Read the Contract Carefully
Before you sign anything, review the contract in detail. Look out for:
- Cancellation fees
- Delivery windows
- Damage claim process
- Fuel surcharges or hidden fees
Never agree to verbal terms. If it’s not in writing, it doesn’t exist.
- Customer Service Matters
A company that responds quickly, answers questions clearly, and communicates openly throughout the process is worth its weight in gold. If they’re dodging questions now, how will they handle a problem later?
Test their responsiveness by calling or emailing with a few questions before you book.
Final Thoughts
Finding a good car shipping company isn’t just about saving money—it’s about peace of mind. By doing your homework, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts, you’ll find a company that delivers your vehicle safely, on time, and without drama.
Report this page