According to research, the average person will move 11 times in their lifetime.
With each move comes the need to transport belongings—and sometimes even vehicles—to the new location. Auto shipping is a popular option for those moving long distances or overseas, as it can be costly and stressful to drive a car for days or weeks at a time.
Even if you’re not moving, you may be in the market for a new car, and you’re probably considering shipping it to your location. The thing is, there are a few common auto shipping mistakes people make when shipping their cars that can cause problems down the road.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss seven of these mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Not Getting Estimate in Writing
When you’re shopping around for car shipping companies, it’s imperative to compare car shipping rates from several shipping companies. The next most vital part is to ensure you get an estimate in writing.
This will protect you from hidden fees or surcharges later on. The company should also be able to provide a detailed breakdown of the charges so that you know exactly what you’re paying for.
If a company is hesitant to give you an estimate in writing, move on to the next one. Once you get the estimate, make sure it’s valid for at least 30 days so you have time to compare companies. If the company tries to pressure you into making a decision on the spot, walk away.
2. Not Asking for Referrals
If you know anyone who has shipped a car before, ask for referrals. They may have some great insights that you wouldn’t have otherwise. You can also check online review sites like Yelp or Google Reviews to see what others have said about specific companies.
When looking at reviews, pay attention to not just the overall rating but also the content of the reviews. Are people mostly happy with the service? Are there any common complaints?
Don’t just take the company’s word for it – do your own research to see what others have to say. Call the referees and check the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints filed against the company. You should also look at the company’s website and social media accounts.
Are they active and engaging with their audience? Do they respond to negative reviews in a professional manner? All of these factors will help you ensure you’re working with a reputable, reliable company.
3. Not Checking for Insurance
When you’re shipping your car, you want to ensure it’s properly insured. Otherwise, you could be on the hook for damages if something happens to your car during transport. Most car shipping companies will have insurance, but it’s always best to double-check.
Go the extra mile and ask about their coverage and what it entails. You should also consider getting additional insurance from your own car insurance company. This way, you’ll be covered no matter what happens.
4. Not Clearing Out the Car
You should clear out your car before shipping it, as anything loose inside could become damaged during transport. This includes things like floor mats, GPS devices, and loose change.
You should also remove any personal items from the car, as they could get lost or stolen along the way. If you have any valuables, keep them with you or ship them separately. Moreover, any items attached to the car, like bike racks or spoilers, should be removed before shipping.
Additionally, you should make sure there’s no more than a quarter gas tank in your car. Any more than that, and you may be charged an extra fee
5. Not Disabling the Alarm
If your car has an alarm system, be sure to disable it before shipping. Otherwise, it could go off while in transit and annoy or startle the driver. It’s also a good idea to remove any aftermarket alarm systems as they can be tricky to disconnect.
If you’re not sure how to disable the alarm, consult your car’s manual or ask the shipping company for instructions. You see, some alarm systems can only be deactivated by the dealership, so it’s best to take care of this before shipping.
6. Not Tracking Your Car
During shipping, you’ll want to track its progress, so you know when to expect delivery. Most auto shipping companies will provide tracking information and updates along the way.
If something happens and the delivery is delayed, you’ll be the first to know. This way, you can make alternate arrangements if necessary. Furthermore, if you have any questions or concerns, you can reach out to the company, and they’ll be able to fill you in on what’s going on.
7. Expecting Guaranteed Pick Up or Delivery Dates
This is one of the most overlooked auto shipping mistakes and people end up getting pissed. The thing is, many factors can contribute to a delay in pick up or delivery, such as weather, traffic, and mechanical issues.
As a result, most auto shipping companies will give you a window of time rather than a specific date. This way, they have some flexibility in case something comes up.
It’s important to be patient and understand that these delays are out of their control. The best car shipping company will do everything they can to get your car to you as soon as possible. If they guarantee a delivery date, look for a different shipping company.
Auto Shipping Mistakes: A Comprehensive List
Shipping your car can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. By avoiding these common auto shipping mistakes, you can rest assured your car is in good hands.
Do your research, plan ahead, and be prepared for anything and everything. If you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to the shipping company. They’re there to help you every step of the way.
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