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Whether you want to ship a car within the United States or overseas, it is important to understand the procedures involved. Shipping a car is more difficult than it looks and should be handled by a certified vehicle transport company with years of experience in car transportation services.
The following tips will ensure you get a stress-free method of transporting your vehicle to your desired destination.
The vehicle transport company you intend to use must be licensed and registered with the Department of Transportation with a valid DOT number. The transporter service also needs to have a Motor Carrier Number for interstate shipment. If you will be shipping to a foreign country, ensure the car shipping company is registered as a freight transporter with the Federal Maritime Commission. It is also good to go through the logistical performance ratings and customer reviews of the car transport company to know how well the company treats its customers.
After choosing a vehicle transport service, learn about the shipping processes. Ask about important information such as the time range of delivery, price quotes, and terms of service. Most logistic carriers usually give a time frame of 30 days or more if you are shipping overseas. You can request an earlier pickup date if you are willing to pay an extra fee. Avoid dealing with a third-party logistics company. Instead, opt for brokers or transport carriers that are representing themselves. Make sure you thoroughly study and comprehend all the terms and conditions in the contract.
Get your car washed; remove all valuable materials or personal items such as money, purse, important documents, and CDs to prevent them from missing. It is also advisable to empty the fuel tank to about 1/5 but ensure you fill up other fluids. Turn off all security systems and alarms so that the pickup driver can easily access your vehicle. Ensure the engine is in good working condition. Moreover, make sure the tires are gauged appropriately and that the battery is fully charged.
Document your current car condition and take note of any pre-existing damages. You can do this by taking pictures of your car from different angles. Whichever car shipping service you use is less likely to cause any damage to your car. However, it is still good practice to document your car’s condition. These documents will support your claim if the transporter contests any liability for damage during transport. It will also be simpler to complete the condition report when your vehicle arrives.
It is advisable to have insurance in place when your car is being transported, although most reputable auto transportation services provide insurance coverage for the shipment cost. Before transferring your car to the shipping company, it is advised to keep a nearly empty tank, about ¼ enough to be driven on and off the trailer. It is always a good idea to get an extra set of spare keys for you and the driver if you don’t already have one. Plan your schedule and be ready in time to receive your car on delivery.
Shipping a car through a vehicle transport company can be strenuous to do. Nonetheless, by adhering to the simple tips mentioned above, you will have peace of mind and save yourself from stress during the transportation process. Following our tips will help you transport your car securely and greatly reduce the possibility of your vehicle being damaged.
Choose us for quality-assured shipping and logistics. At Ghost Pepper Logistics, we aim to provide five-star car shipping services nationwide. Choose us for your quality-assured car shipping and logistics needs within the United States and overseas.
