You’re moving, and you’re wondering if you should ship your car. Shipping a car can seem like a significant expense when you’re discussing a major move, so you need to give it enough thought. However, working with the best car shipping companies can be well worth the expense and can even help you to save money in the long run. You also need to prepare before shipping your car, so here are some tips to help you get ready.
1. You Need Specific Documents
When shipping a car, you have to have specific documents available. You need the Bill of Lading or other proof of sale showing you’re the owner. Title and registration are also required to prove rightful ownership. You also need an officially authorized photo ID to prove that you are who you are.
Additionally, if you’re sending your car and someone else will pick it up, you need to have documentation indicating who will be picking up your vehicle. If you have any liens against your car, those may need to be cleared before shipping. Proof of taking care of the liens may also be required if you’re in that situation.
2. Always Check Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage varies between car shipping companies. Brokers tend to have better coverage compared to working directly with a shipping company. Also, contact your insurance company to see if they require any extra premiums to cover shipping damages if they happen.
Compare the coverage with the value of your car. In some cases, you might need to purchase additional insurance if the default coverage is less than your car is worth. This is especially important if your vehicle is a high-end or antique car that needs extra coverage.
3. Open vs. Closed Transport
Know the difference between open and closed transport. Open transport means your car is exposed to the elements. This may or may not matter to you, depending on your vehicle. Open transport tends to be less expensive than closed transport.
Alternatively, closed transport completely encloses your car in a shipping container to ensure its safety during transportation. While an enclosed transport costs more, if your vehicle is worth the extra fee, it’s a better option to make sure your vehicle reaches your destination without any damages. To be fair, damages are rare, but they do happen, so it’s better to consider your options upfront.
4. Price Is Not King
As you search for the best car shipping company, don’t immediately go for the cheapest one. While a lower price tag may be attractive, it does not always reflect the best service. For example, you might find a company or a driver with a fantastic rate. Still, after some research, you find out neither is appropriately certified or maybe their default insurance coverage is minimal.
Your best bet is to compare quotes and research reviews to see what companies are rated higher. The best reliability typically comes from a company that gives you a middle-of-the-road quote. Brokers also tend to provide better quotes because they have an extensive network of carriers to work with, so you might want to go that route, too.
5. Being Flexible Is a Good Thing
Be ready to be told your car can be picked up and dropped off over a range of dates. Expect that you’ll get phone calls as you get closer to that range to confirm the date. Also, expect that date to be moved by a day or so. It’s not often because the companies are unreliable. The changing dates result from other delays that can happen that are not the carrier’s fault. Weather, truck mechanical issues, and other things can cause dates to move around.
The same thing goes for delivery. Expect a date range with a confirmed date as you get closer to delivery. You need to be flexible so you won’t be upset if the dates don’t work out exactly as you expect. Planning as far in advance as possible can help you get a preferred date, but it always helps if you can be flexible.
In the End
Before shipping a car, you need to have your documents in order so you won’t have to wait to get everything submitted and done. Check on the provided insurance coverage and your insurance to see what the terms are for covering your car during transport. Decide which type of transport is best for your vehicle and then compare quotes from multiple companies. Finally, be prepared to be flexible for the best car shipping experience.