Finding the best auto shipping company can make a big difference when you need to move your car across the country. If you know what to look for, you can choose the best car shipping company, get your car delivered quickly and find reliable auto transport services without getting too stressed out. In this blog we put together expert advice and industry insights to help you find the best car delivery service for your needs.
Make Sure They’re Licensed and Registered
Check to see if the car shipping company is registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and is licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) before you hire them. This makes sure that you are working with professionals who are insured, compliant and responsible.
If you are shipping to Hawaii or Puerto Rico, which are both outside of the continental U.S., make sure your shipper is also registered with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). A bonded company offers extra protection because bonds require proof of proper licensing and act as a financial safety net in case something goes wrong. Choosing a company that is bonded and insured makes sure that your car is safe.
Check Auto Transport Reviews and Credibility
Reading reviews of auto transport services is one of the best ways to find a trustworthy one in today’s digital world.
A reliable business should have a professional website that clearly explains their services, areas of operation, offers a free quote depending on vehicle and service type, and has live agents available to answer any question you might have. If a company doesn’t give you a lot of information or has vague contact information, it could be a sign that they are not trustworthy.
Ask Friends and Family for Recommendations
Asking for opinions is still one of the most reliable ways to find the best vehicle delivery service. You could especially ask people who have longtime experience in using a car shipping service. Past experience can help you avoid unreliable carriers and make you confident in your choice.
Get a Transparent Car Shipping Quote
Reliable car shipping companies will give you a free quote online. This helps you compare pricing and services across multiple providers to make an informed decision. But keep in mind that the cheapest quote doesn’t always mean the best car delivery service.
Be upfront with your carrier about your vehicle’s condition, whether it’s operable or not, and its size, because these factors directly affect the transport cost. A reliable company will always be honest about prices and give clear reasons for each cost.
Partner With an Auto Shipping Company That Works With the Most Reputable Carriers
The best auto transport companies know that the quality of the carriers they work with affects their reputation. They carefully check out and partner with licensed, insured and reputable auto carriers all over the country, from California to Florida, Texas to New York, and everywhere in between. These businesses know that a carrier is more than just a subcontractor; it’s also a part of their brand. That’s why they only work with carriers who have a longtime experience in delivering vehicles on time and without damage.
Choose a Company With Multiple Transport Options
Not every shipping company offers every kind of transportation, and the needs of your vehicle may be different from what they have at hand. The best auto shipping companies typically provide several auto transport methods, such as:
- Open car transport: the most common and least expensive way to move regular cars.
- Enclosed car shipping: the best way to protect luxury, classic, specialty and exotic cars that need extra care.
- Door-to-Door Car Transport: the most convenient option because your car is picked up and dropped off as close to your chosen locations as possible.
- Expedited Car Shipping: ideal if you need your car delivered quickly and without any delays.
These and a number of other car shipping services are flexible enough to meet your shipping needs safely and quickly.
Opt for a Carrier That Prioritizes Communication & Customer Service
A reliable shipper is open and reachable. Choose a company that makes it clear their live agents are available during working hours. You shouldn’t have to deal with voicemail or unanswered emails. In case of misunderstanding or issues, your carrier should have a customer-oriented approach.
Also, see if you can get in touch with the driver directly or get updates on a regular basis. Delays happen in the real world, but clear communication keeps people from getting stressed out and surprised.
Keep Good Records and Stay Informed
Staying organized will help make sure that delivery goes smoothly, even after you’ve picked a truly reliable car transport company. Keep a copy of your shipping contract, inspection reports and any correspondence with your carrier. These records can be useful if there is a disagreement or an insurance claim.
The Best Auto Shipping Company May Not Be the Cheapest
You might want to go with the lowest quote, but when it comes to vehicle transport, you usually get what you pay for. A slightly higher price can get you a carrier that is licensed, insured and experienced, and who prioritizes customer service and good reputation. Check all the details before you book to avoid hidden fees.
Global Auto Transportation has proven its reliability over the past two decades. We ship cars of all shapes and sizes all over the country, including to Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. We are licensed, bonded and committed to giving you reliable auto transport services you can count on.
Ask Some Important Questions Before You Commit
Before you sign a contract, ask yourself a few important questions:
- Does the auto shipping company perform a thorough inspection of all vehicles before picking them up and after delivering them? The best auto transporters do.
- Do they give you the opportunity to track your order or send you regular updates on its status? The best auto transporters do.
- Do they offer insurance that fully covers your car? The best auto transporters do.
- How long have they been in business? Experience is key!
- Do they tell you about all the extra costs up front, like fuel surcharges, tolls and oversize fees? The best auto transporters don’t have any hidden fees.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best car delivery service doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can be sure that you are choosing a trustworthy partner if you check their licenses, read reviews, compare quotes and look for flexible transportation options. These steps will make sure that your car gets to you safely and on time, whether you need it delivered quickly or at a low cost.
Global Auto Transportation is your reliable, professional and affordable auto transport service for safe vehicle shipping across the country.
