Choosing a transport company
There has been a dramatic increase in the number of in complaints against auto transporters and auto transport brokers filed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Here are some tips to help you choose a company to transport your auto, motorcycle, boat or other vehicle and avoid the scams.
Know how to search the web. One way to find a reputable firm is to ask the people who treasure their vehicles: the collectible-car forums (http://forums.aaca.org/search/ is an example; use “transport” as a keyword search). You’re likely to find reputable movers — but not necessarily cheap ones! — with this approach. Or just browse for “auto transport.” Most of the quotes that you will receive are for operable, standard passenger vehicles; cars with modifications such as lift kits, lowered suspensions, or bigger tires, and non-running cars, cost more money, depending on the conditions for the carrier.
Don’t just go with the lowest price. Many companies lure customers with the lowest bid. They then must locate a carrier to physically move your vehicle. If the carrier doesn’t accept the low price (and generally they don’t), your vehicle will not be moved. At DIY Transport, we’ve already established our network of carriers; we do business with them daily. You can be assured we’ll arrive at the lowest price that ensures safe, reliable, on-time delivery of your vehicle. And we’ll do the negotiating for you!
Research the transport companies you are considering. You can start by doing a search for the company’s name in quotes; repeat it along with the word “complaints” (but be aware, many of the comments you’ll see are actually planted by competing companies, hoping to suction business away from a successful transporter). Make sure the transporter is bonded and the carriers they assign are licensed and insured – something we strictly adhere to at DIY Transport.
Don’t forget the paperwork. Make sure to have a confirmation via fax or email. Read everything a company sends you before signing it. Be aware that if you place a reservation via Internet, your e-signature is binding once you click “send” or “submit.”
Prepare your vehicle for transport by removing all personal or valuable items. Don’t fuel up; the carrier’s fuel economy is improved if you have less than a quarter tank of fuel, andyour cost depends on their cost. And it’s a good idea to wash the vehicle before it’s inspected at the time of pickup. This way, the car’s condition and any damage can be easily identified before and after transit. And don’t forget to disable any alarm system!.
Be sure the carrier inspects your vehicle. At pickup, you and the driver should inspect the car for any existing damage with a form called a “Bill of Lading.” Note any the damage on a vehicle condition report, and both you and the carrier should sign it. DIY Transport ensures that you’ll get a copy for your records. Insist on that copy, and keep it with you until the vehicle is delivered. Read more.
You’re on your way!