If you’re considering shipping your car across the country, there are several things to remember. Those include picking the right company, getting a quote, and preparing your vehicle for shipment.
Pick the Right Company
When shipping cars, it’s essential to pick the right company. A good one like RCG Logistics will have a reliable fleet of trailers, able to transport vehicles quickly and safely across the country. Companies with these resources will also have a professional team to take care of your shipment. This means they’ll be able to communicate quickly and get back to you fast if there are any issues. Another critical thing to consider when choosing a company for car shipping is how long they’ve been in business. It’s essential to choose a company that has been in the industry for a while because this shows they’re committed to serving customers. If you need help deciding which company to choose, it’s a good idea to research the Internet. The best company will provide a reasonable quote and delivery options that are suitable for you. They should also offer insurance and payment options that are convenient for you.
Get a Quote
Getting a quote is the first step in finding the right car shipping company. A good quote should include a range of prices, so you can find one that works for you. The cost of car transport is highly dependent on several factors, including distance, season, and the size and weight of your vehicle. Typically, longer routes result in higher auto-shipping costs. Another factor that impacts car shipping quotes is the type of carrier you use. Open carriers are cheaper but are less protective than enclosed carriers. Enclosed shipping costs 30-40% more than available transport but offers more protection for your vehicle.
Prepare Your Car
If you’re planning to ship a vehicle, you must take the necessary steps to prepare your car for shipping. This will ensure your vehicle arrives intact and hassle-free at its new destination. One of the most important things is cleaning your car thoroughly. This will make it easier for you to spot any existing dents, scratches, paint chips, or other damage. Next, you’ll want to inspect your vehicle before loading visually. This will help you identify any potential damage before it’s loaded onto the trailer. In addition, you’ll want to clean off any personal items or accessories attached to your car’s exterior. These can catch or scrape the truck ramps and trailer frame, which could cause damage to your vehicle. Finally, you’ll need to hand over a copy of your keys to the carrier. This will help them access your vehicle should they need to.
Schedule Pickup
One of the essential parts of car shipping is scheduling your pickups. You can schedule your pickups by calling or visiting a car transport company’s website and talking to a representative. Whether you’re moving your vehicle or need to ship a whole fleet of cars, scheduling your pickups is vital. However, you should know a few things before you plan your pickups. First, car shipping availability is based on demand. Ideally, you should book your shipment one month before the date you need your vehicle picked up. Try to book your shipment at least six weeks in advance during the busiest times of the year. This will give you the best chances of getting your preferred dates for pickup and delivery. Most people don’t get the pickup and drop-off dates they prefer because they wait too long to schedule their shipments. You can avoid this by booking your shipment at least four weeks in advance of the date you need your vehicle shipped.
Pay the Bill
A Bill of Lading (BOL) is a document that the shipping carrier or their agent provides to you, the consignee, as proof that the car was picked up and delivered in good condition. The BOL includes many details about the shipment, such as the pickup and delivery date and time, the vehicle ID number, payment details, etc. This document is essential for the shipper because it provides them with proof of liability in case of any damages to your vehicle. The BOL is also a great way to keep track of your car’s location and movement during the shipping process. Most car transport companies offer insurance to cover your investment if the vehicle is damaged during transit.
Convenience
Car shipping is a convenient service that allows people to transport their vehicles across the country. It can be helpful for various reasons, including buying or selling a vehicle online or moving to a new home. A car shipping company will pick up and deliver your vehicle on a truck designed to transport cars. This is a great way to keep your vehicle in good condition and ensure it arrives safely at its destination. Generally, the more expensive an auto transport company is, the higher the quality of service. A reliable company will have a vast network of drivers and well-maintained open and enclosed carriers. Many different car shipping services are available. Some specialize in cars, while others ship other vehicles, like motorcycles or RVs. The price of your car shipping estimate will be based on the type of vehicle you are shipping, the location it needs to be picked up from and delivered to, and the carrier you are using. Some companies even provide instant online quotes for their customers.