Safety Precautions You Can Take Before Shipping Your Car

Shipping a car across the country or internationally can be costly and risky. In addition, shipping a vehicle is a complicated process. Aside from tracking the vehicle during transport, you must also pay various fees, complete lengthy paperwork, and communicate with all parties involved.

Having a car shipped takes more than just looking into auto shipping companies in the area. Before you have your car shipped, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that your car shipping goes smoothly.

Here are some auto safety precautions you can take to help you remain organized, informed, and prepared to ship your car successfully.

Before you book auto transport services, make sure the company is reliable and reputable. Read customer reviews, look at the feedback on the company’s social media profiles, and visit the company’s website. In addition, it would be best if you evaluated them based on their experience, licensing, and insurance. 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration can also provide you with a thorough report on the company's shipping business license, complaint record, and crash history.

When you've found a reputable company, start requesting quotes. The cost of shipping your car might vary depending on the travel distance, time of year, size, and brand of your car, including the shipment option you choose.

It’s always best to shop around for the best price, but be sure to check the following:

• • • The shipping company offers various shipping options
    • The company has excellent reviews from real clients
    • The company has a stellar track record

You want to keep your car safe even during transit. Most car shipping companies provide insurance to cover any damage to your car while it’s being transported. Ask the company about what type of damage is covered during the vehicle's transit.

Most reputable companies provide at least $50,000 in coverage, and you should inquire about this amount before hiring a car shipping company. Make sure that the insurance will still kick in if your car is damaged while not in route. In addition, you want to know that your vehicle is safe while it is parked overnight, during pick-up or drop-off.

Depending on how far your car is traveling, shipping can take anywhere from a couple of days to a week or more. A quick Google search will tell you how long the drive will be. Always add two or three additional days to be safe, and then set your timeline from there. The shipping timeline can vary based on the weather, road conditions, and traffic.

Make your booking at least two weeks before you want your car picked up. When shipping your vehicle, a timeline can help you stay on track and provide you peace of mind.

Ultimately, you want to know how to ship your car safely and smoothly. There are several shipping options available, each with its own pricing. The first consideration you must make is whether to ship your car in an uncovered or enclosed carrier.

• • • Uncovered - Uncovered shipment is the cheapest and best option for short trips. There are more open carriers available than enclosed ones. However, your car will be exposed to the elements, which leaves your car susceptible to dents
      and debris.

• • • Enclosed - If you own classic, luxury, or other high-value vehicles, you should request a service that will protect them from the elements. A covered or enclosed carrier offers the maximum protection but might cost up to 60% more.

You can also ask for your car to be "top loaded." A car placed in this position is less likely to be in contact with road elements such as dust, dirt, and other debris. However, keep in mind that this type of service is more expensive than the typical mode of transportation.

A shipping company would usually conduct a walk-around assessment to check a vehicle for damage such as scratches and dents before loading it into the carrier. Make sure that you inspect your car and agree with the report of the assessor.

This process is necessary for insurance purposes in the event of a mishap during transit. Take photos before and after shipping as documentation in case you need to file a damage claim.

Shipping your car across the country or abroad can be simple and stress-free. There are many automobile shipping services available that can meet your demands, price, and schedule.

With these safety precautions as your guide, you will have peace of mind that the company will ship your car successfully
and safely.