Choosing an auto transport company is one of the most critical moving decisions. The right choice will save you time and money while ensuring your car is safely delivered. There are three main types of companies to choose from. The first thing to look for is a licensed and insured company.
Cost
The cost of auto transport can vary widely. The price depends on your pick-up and delivery preferences and the type of vehicle being shipped (i.e., open or enclosed). Choosing the right San Diego auto transport company for your car shipping needs can save you time and money. Look for a company that offers competitive pricing, honest estimates, and reliable services. Most car shipping companies have various options that can fit your budget. For example, some offer door-to-door service while others operate terminal-to-terminal shipping. For door-to-door, your vehicle will be picked up and delivered directly to your doorstep. In contrast, terminal-to-terminal will have you drop off and pick up at an auto transport company’s operating base or warehouse in cities.
Time
The time it takes to get your car from pick-up to delivery varies. Many auto transport companies offer estimated timelines with big buffers to account for delays. The peak season is late spring through summer when many transporters are on the road. Long distances tend to take longer because of the added driving time. A reputable company has an excellent logistical team that works hard to optimize routes. This translates to faster shipping times for you. Make sure you remove personal items and fill up your gas tank to reduce the weight of your vehicle, as well as clean and wax your car before its journey. This makes it more appealing to carriers and helps protect your car from dirt, bugs, and dings during transit.
Safety
Many people purchase items online because it’s convenient. They get them delivered to their home without driving to the store. Auto transport companies offer the same kind of convenience for vehicle buyers. They’ll pick up your car from one location and deliver it to another. Auto transport companies must follow strict rules about loading and unloading vehicles. They also must inspect your car before and after transportation. If there is damage, they will note it on an inspection report. Clean out your car before you have it shipped. Carriers generally aren’t licensed to carry household goods, so anything left in the car may get lost or damaged during transit. This includes things like music players and other personal items.
Convenience
Auto transport companies make moving your car quickly from one location to another. Whether you need door-to-door transport or terminal-to-terminal service, they can accommodate your needs. They also offer open or enclosed trailers depending on the condition of your vehicle. When deciding on an auto transport company, could you request a quote and vet them thoroughly? Don’t hesitate to ask for the DOT number and look up safety reports. You also want to be sure they are licensed. Most people use car shipping services when they relocate, and their schedules don’t allow them to drive the vehicle to their new home. Individuals can also utilize these services when they buy a car from an online seller and need it delivered locally.
Security
Some modern cars are built with hundreds of sensors that help them operate better and add internet capabilities, but these can be entry points for hackers to manipulate your vehicle. Using an auto transport service eliminates that risk and ensures your car is safe for the journey. Most auto transport brokers have connections to various shipping agencies and carriers and can offer you the best option for your particular situation. They will also provide you with all of the necessary information relating to costs, delivery times, and other topics related to your car transport. For example, if you have a rare stock car that you need to relocate, it might not be wise to put it on an exposed transport vehicle where everyone can see it. Instead, a terminal delivery service may be safer if your car is delivered to a secure terminal.
