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Negotiate costs |
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It is not just about how much it will cost. In addition to costs, you should also factor in the level of service offered and the overall package and value being provided. The price will often be influenced by geographic distance between the origination and destination location, the date and season of departure, the kind of vehicle, and the type and level of
car
transport service desired. If you spend time comparing multiple companies, you will often be able to compare offers, negotiate effectively, and save money.
You should also check the payment methods being accepted by the company and the terms associated with the payment -- whether full payment is demanded upfront or just partial deposit. Some companies will accept credit cards, others will add an overhead if you use a credit card. |
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| Read, re-read, and understand the contract |
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Even if you are repulsed by legalese, take time out to read the contract in detail and don’t hesitate to seek clarifications if something is not clear. Once signed by both parties, the contract becomes a legally binding document between you and the car shipping company and the terms set forth in the agreement will often dictate the conduct between both parties. One thing to watch out for is the guarantee clause. While most companies will not promise or guarantee a precise date, they may offer to make the delivery within a certain timeframe. If a guarantee clause is provided, look out for what remedies are available should the car shipping company fail to live up to its promise. It may also be possible to seek a waiver on the cancellation fee.
Document all your communications with the car shipping company and ask for anything they promise to be provided in writing |
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| Insurance coverage |
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| Considering the long distance your car is going to travel, accidents, damages, and thefts are more than likely to occur. You shouldn’t be without insurance in such a scenario. Ask about the carrier’s insurance policy and to what extent it would cover your losses and damages. You must also determine if their policy would serve as the primary insurance or secondary to your own. It may also be a good idea to call your own insurance policy provider to find out the extent to which they provide coverage when your car is in transit and in the hands of the shipping company. |
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| What is their track record? |
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| Ask family and friends, investigate with the
Department of Transportation, contact the Better Business Bureau, and follow other steps to investigate the auto shipper’s track record and reputation. You should also determine how long they have been in business -- you wouldn’t to trust an expensive vehicle in the hands of just about anyone. |
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| Pickup and delivery dates |
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| If you are given an estimate for pickup and delivery dates, get it in writing and ask about the remedies available to you should they fail to perform as promised. |
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| Delivery location |
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| Delivery options include drop-off either at your destination location or a terminal or drop-off point from where you will need to pick up the vehicle. Work out the delivery dynamics and associated terms well in advance to avoid unwanted surprises. |
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