Shipping a vehicle means different things to different people. For some, it’s an object: simply a car, boat, RV, ATV, or motorcycle… for others, it’s something very personal, like transporting a loved family member.
When choosing a carrier for auto transport, first and foremost, select based on a comfort level that is good for you. Although price is important, other important issues arise in this important selection process.
• Insurance: Is the carrier properly insured?
• License: Does the carrier have the proper licenses and permits?
• Safety record: Driving history does matter.
• Reputation: Is this broker going to project a professional attitude?
• Equipment: Having and maintaining a safe and modern truck is very important to the transportation process.
Your selection of Brokers that only use and use Carriers that adhere to a strict code of ethics and conduct is extremely important. Auto shipping is serious business and only serious businesses and individuals should get involved.
Properly insured means having liability insurance as well as cargo insurance coverage to not only cover your vehicle, but also any potential liability exposure that may arise in the process of moving your vehicle. Most major companies today carry a minimum of $250,000.00 in cargo insurance and at least $1,000,000.00 in liability is standard.
The required and compulsory license is very important. Being licensed through the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and having all state and federal permits (including registration with the DOT) is not only expected but required. The minimum required will be a Motor Carrier Authority Number (a license), a DOT number (license), and each state requires (expensive) permits just to use their highways for transportation.
A safety record indicating that the driver is a careful professional is vitally important to you as a carrier. Shipping is important, but getting your vehicles there safely is even more urgent.
Drivers/transporters build reputations. Some are good and some are not so good. The reputation a driver/carrier has will tell you a lot about what to expect in terms of agreement, contract enforcement, and the ability to simply “get along” with the driver/carrier you select. Choose carefully here, if you feel uncomfortable with one driver/carrier, just talk to another who makes you feel better about the process.
There are review sites on the web where you can review the past performance of various trucking companies, with details and experience stories listed by past customers.
A successful business or driver is going to have modern, well-maintained equipment with which to move their vehicle. Stay away from those who use “garbage”. For the most part, the safety and reliability of a big rig will have a lot to do with its age and visible condition. If it looks worn, it probably is. Successful carriers pride themselves on having the best equipment, and you’ll be able to tell the difference.
When you request quotes from brokers, such as http://www.best-transport-quotes.com, only companies that meet or exceed the descriptions above will contact you. After all, your safety and total satisfaction is what this entire program is really about.
