When it’s time to move your vehicle long distances, hiring professional auto transport services is often the wisest choice. The vehicle shipping industry provides vital capabilities for smoothly relocating cars, trucks, RVs, and other vehicle types across state lines or even clear across the country. In 2023 alone, over $9.9 billion in revenue was generated by auto transporters meeting this critical demand in the U.S.
Assisting over a million customers yearly, these businesses enable car and fleet owners to ship vehicles safely and easily between locations separated by hundreds or thousands of miles. Although the industry has faced some declines recently, the top transport service providers have continued adapting with more routes, carrier options, and improved technologies.
As we’ll explore here, selecting the ideal company for your shipping needs from among the many reputable providers available is key. Understanding the factors that distinguish quality auto transport operators empowers you to choose services tailored to your situation confidently. We’ll overview important considerations around licensing, reputation, costs, insurance, and more. Applying these insights will help you pick shippers ready to handle your vehicles securely and on schedule. So read on to learn strategies for identifying and working with professional vehicle transport services for all your relocation needs.
Key Factors in Selecting a Vehicle Transport Service
#1. Transport Type
The first major factor is whether you require open or enclosed auto transport. Open carriers like car trailers are cheaper but expose vehicles to weather and road debris. Enclosed trailers offer complete protection within an interior cargo area but cost 20-40% more. Let’s discuss these two options one by one:
What is open auto transport?
Open auto transport utilizes uncovered car carriers like truck trailers to ship vehicles long distances. It is the most common and affordable type of vehicle transport. With open transport, cars, trucks, SUVs, and other vehicle types are loaded onto either single-layer or double-layer open-air trailers for shipping.
On single-layer open trailers, vehicles are loaded singly and securely fastened down along the trailer bed. Double-layer trailers have both a top and lower deck to allow stacking vehicles vertically to maximize load. The open nature of these trailers means that transported vehicles have exposure to road elements like rain, snow, debris, and wind during transit.
Most personal vehicles can be shipped via open auto transport. The open carriers utilize ramps or lifting equipment to load vehicles after drivers prepare them for transport. Companies moving dealer inventory also use open car trailers frequently. Experienced drivers securely strap and chain vehicles into place on the trailers to prevent damage en route.
Open Transport Pros
- The most affordable transport option
- Can ship sedans, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles
- Higher availability of carriers
Open Transport Cons
- Exposure to weather and road conditions
- Higher risk of exterior vulnerability from debris
- It is not ideal for vintage, exotic, or high-end vehicles
What is enclosed auto transport?
Enclosed auto transport refers to shipping vehicles using fully covered cargo trailers that completely protect vehicles from road elements and debris during transit. Enclosed carriers encompass box trucks, 18-wheelers with covered trailers, along with other customized transport trucks.
Unlike open car trailers, enclosed transport encases vehicles within climate control; closed trailers keep interiors and exteriors shielded. Vehicles load into the rear of trailers via ramp or lift access. This maximum protection makes enclosed shipping ideal for vintage cars, exotics, classics, race vehicles, and luxury automobiles requiring extra care.
The logistics surrounding enclosed vehicle transport mirror typical auto shipping. After securing quotes, vehicle types are matched to equipment like enclosed box trucks or covered 18-wheeler trailers. Vehicles are inspected prior, protected with coverings, loaded inside the weatherproof trailers, strapped securely into custom mounts, and then transported door-to-door under GPS monitoring across set delivery routes and timetables.
Upon arrival, trailers park securely near the destination while owners or dealers take delivery. The highest level of care protects delicate finishes and performance components at all transport stages compared to open shipping.
Enclosed Transport Pros
- Full exterior/interior protection from weather and debris
- Reinforced climate control maintains optimal temperature/humidity
- Extra secure tie-down equipment to prevent shifting/vibrations
- No exposure to rain, snow, dirt, bugs damaging surfaces
- Discreet transit preserving any proprietary/exotic qualities
- Often required coverage for insurance policies on rare vehicles
- Ideal carrier when vehicle condition is a top priority
Enclosed Transport Cons
- A lot more expensive than open transport
- Constraints on vehicle size and models can ship
- Lower availability than open carriers
Considerations and Costs
The maximum security comes at a 20-40% price premium over open transport average costs. Several constraints also exist around vehicle sizes and models depending on enclosed trailer space. Availability is lower than standard car carriers in some regions. Those shipping vintage, exotic, or high-value vehicles find the protection worthwhile, given vehicles often exceed six figures. When vehicle condition and safety outweigh transport costs, enclosed shipping is the clear solution.
#2. Reputation and Reviews
Wondering how to choose a vehicle transporter? A transport company’s reputation and client reviews should be two of the most heavily weighted factors when evaluating auto shipping services use. The reviews and feedback on a provider offer rare insider perspectives into their actual service quality, reliability, care in handling vehicles, and overall customer service. By analyzing the reputation through public data and listening to past client experiences, you gain pivotal insights to inform a trusted choice.
Specifically, the transporter’s rating on the Better Business Bureau, the percentage of positive reviews on aggregator sites like TransportReviews.com, and any pertinent commentary on Google or Yelp profiles indicate their standing. Trends of complaints around damaged cars, extremely late deliveries, poor communication, or billing issues provide warning signs to research further or avoid.
Meanwhile, years of overwhelmingly satisfied customer feedback about professional, caring, and communicative service — with vehicles consistently arriving intact and on time — signal transporters who prioritize client relationships and excellence. This builds confidence in entrusting your vehicle into their hands as they have a proven track record of success.
Hours of researching these insights upfront ensure that your transport experience leaves you thrilled rather than frustrated with the service. By picking a trusted provider, you can have peace of mind that your precious vehicle will be handled properly through every mile.
#3. Costs and Payment
The costs of transporting your vehicle can vary substantially depending on distance, vehicle type, desired speed, and carrier availability. Most auto shippers provide free quotes tailored to your exact shipment specifications. Understanding the pricing structure and smart payment choices ensures seamless budgeting for your move.
How Pricing Typically Works
Most carriers charge rates based on transport distance calculated by vehicle mileage. Average costs range:
- Open auto transport: $1.00 – $1.50 per mile
- Enclosed transport: $1.50 – $2.50+ per mile
- Local moves less than 500 miles away may have lower rates.
Factors impacting price per mile:
- Season and route demand
- Vehicle size/type
- Diesel fuel costs
Carrier competition
Request multiple quotes across several months for the best deal as rates fluctuate. Carefully validate all details—from mileage to ferry charges—on binding quotes before booking.
Payment Options
Vehicle shipping payments include:
- Full upfront payment
- Partial deposit such as 20-30% downpayment
- Financed payments through third-party lender partnerships
Reputable transporters outline terms clearly in their contract agreement before finalizing a deal. Financing can ease budget needs if required through authorized lenders familiar with the industry. By understanding transport costs set by carriers and leveraging smart financing if essential, you can seamlessly account for auto shipping charges in planning your vehicle relocation.
#4. Insurance and Safety
Insuring and safely shipping your vehicle are top priorities when using an auto transport service. Protecting your investment, should accidents or damage occur, while minimizing those risks upfront through rigorous standards, are key indicators of quality providers. This guide explores insurance needs, safety best practices, and how to identify carriers who truly value vehicle protection.
Transport Company Insurance Coverage
Reputable auto shippers carry substantial cargo insurance policies to reimburse clients should claims arise. Required minimum liability coverage ranges from $100,000 to $250,000. However, seeking transporters with $1 million+ maximum coverage proves essential for fully protecting your vehicle investment should any incidents happen. Review the declared coverage amounts and confirm the company’s reliable history of managing claims.
When evaluating shippers, also confirm what insurance documentation they provide after transport. Quality carriers detail the coverage protections in place through a certificate of insurance or declarations page. Having a proper record of their active policy guarantees you recourse if requiring reimbursement for any damage later.
Why is it so important?
Insurance coverage and safety protocols are the most critical factors to prioritize when selecting an auto transport company.
Comprehensive safety processes guarantee skilled, reputable drivers handle vehicles properly. Does the company thoroughly vet driver histories absent crashes or violations? Is ongoing safe driving training required? What special equipment is used to secure cars on trailers gently? Does their multi-point inspection and GPS tracking monitor for issues? The right protocols minimize accident risks substantially.
Inadequate insurance or safety exposes owners to crippling losses not recoverable. Six-figure vintage cars wrecked by an uninsured carrier leave owners devastated. Alternatively, sufficiently insured and safety-focused transporters provide genuine peace of mind against road dangers. They are making these protections paramount when selecting between shipping companies to stop preventable yet crushing losses in their tracks through accountability and rigor. In a crux, prioritizing insurance and safety saves vehicles.
#5. Timeframes and Delivery
Confirming timeframes and delivery details upfront when hiring an auto transport service is important for several key reasons:
- Sets Expectations: Getting clear ETAs for pickup, transit time, and delivery helps you plan accordingly on both ends of the shipping route. You’ll know when you need to have your car ready and available for transport.
- Scheduling: Know how flexible or strict the transport company’s scheduling is now rather than later. This may impact your pickup/delivery dates and coordination.
- Route Clarity: Confirm details like terminal vs door-to-door delivery, any storage fees if applicable, and responsibility for transport to/from terminals.
- Tracking Access: Ask what visibility and tracking capabilities they provide for your car in transit, such as online portal access or text updates.
- Contingency Planning: Understand delay policies and procedures in case bad weather, truck issues, or other problems arise. This provides assurance they have contingencies.
Customer Service and Support
Responsive, empathetic customer service and support reflects on the quality of care and transportation service overall. From initial inquiries, quotes, and bookings to transport check-ins and any issues requiring claims assistance, accessible and helpful staff make a difference.
Reach out to each provider before committing, even posing scenarios, to gauge the quality of support. Transporters prioritizing client relationships through strong service teams show the greatest dedication to smooth, stress-free auto shipping.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Transportation
Shipping your vehicle to a new home or location requires planning and preparation before the auto transport truck arrives. Taking time upfront can help avoid potential issues or delays and ensure a smooth loading and delivery. Advanced preparation makes a difference.
Vehicle Preparation Checklist
Follow this pre-shipping checklist to get your car road-ready for transport:
- Clean Out Interior: Remove all non-mounted personal items and clutter to avoid damage or lost items. This includes floor mats, hanging items, chargers, etc. Confirm what can stay in the car with your transport company.
- Check Fluid Levels: Top off fluids like gas, oil, transmission, wiper, brake, and power steering fluids. This reduces potential leaks or issues in transit. Some transport trucks do not haul vehicles with gas tanks above 1/4 tank.
- Inspect Hardware: Check lug nuts, body panels, tie downs, bumpers, etc for tightness. Give special attention to any aftermarket accessories added to the car to ensure sturdy mounting.
- Ensure Tires Are Properly Inflated: Inspect all tires, including the spare, and refill them to the car manufacturer’s recommended PSI levels. This provides stability in transit.
- Disable Car Alarm Systems: Transport trucks often haul multiple very close vehicles, and sounding car alarms will overwork the truck battery. Check the owner’s manual on how to turn off alarms. Discuss with the transporter if you need help or are unable to do so.
- Check Vehicle Dimensions: Measure your vehicle’s height, length, and width, including mirrors and aftermarket accessories, to ensure the transport truck can properly haul your particular vehicle model.
Documentation Required
Provide these documents to your vehicle transport company before shipping:
- Clear Copy Vehicle Title: Most require the title to confirm legal ownership before accepting vehicles for transport.
- Vehicle Registration or Bill of Sale: Alternate paperwork that establishes legal vehicle custody.
- Authorization Forms: If you will not be present at either pickup or delivery, provide written authorization for a specified representative to act on your behalf.
FAQs: Auto Transport Concerns
What happens if My Vehicle is damaged?
It’s understandable to worry about potential damage during vehicle shipping. All auto transport companies are legally required to carry insurance in case any damage occurs. Be sure to thoroughly inspect and photograph your vehicle at both pickup and delivery. Note any new damage immediately on the bill of lading before driving off the truck. Reputable transporters will have a clear claims process to submit, assess, and resolve damage claims based on their insurance liability coverage. Ask for full details.
How to Track My Vehicle during Transport?
Real-time tracking and status notifications for your in-transit vehicle may ease concerns. Auto transport tracking capabilities do vary widely, though, from minimal to more frequent updates. Inquire what specific tracking tools your transporter provides – options could include online GPS portal access, text/email alerts at key transit points, or phone updates. Understanding their capabilities sets proper expectations upfront.
Can I Transport Personal Items in My Vehicle?
It’s highly advised NOT to store valuables, cash, or electronics within your vehicle during transport. While rare, theft and interior damage can occur, unfortunately. Additionally, items may shift around while in transit. Only tightly mounted non-valuable items are recommended, keeping within the vehicle at your risk tolerance. Inquire about your transporter’s policy on personal items and confirm details in writing on responsibility for damage, loss, or theft of items remaining. Removing items altogether is safest.
