Can you explain the entire process of receiving an auto transport quote?
What is the difference between using a car shipping broker and locating my own carrier?
How do I know the difference between a good and bad auto transport broker?
What can I do to help educate myself before selecting an auto shipping broker?
Do all auto transport brokers and car carriers have to be licensed?
Are there any fees that I have to pay to use ShipCoastToCoast.com's auto transport quote services?
How far in advance do I need to book my auto transport with a car shipping company?
Can I pack personal belongings in my vehicle for the car transport?
How do I find out when my vehicle will be picked up and/or delivered?
Do I have to be present for pick-up and delivery of the vehicle shipment?
Can I drop off or pick-up my automobile at a vehicle shipping terminal?
What does "door to door service" mean in the auto transport industry?
Does my car stay on the auto carrier for the entire car transport?
What should I do if, when I receive my vehicle, it is damaged from the car transport carrier?
What is the difference between an Auto Transport Open Carrier and an Enclosed Carrier?
Q. Can you explain the entire process of receiving an auto transport quote?
A. Once you have entered all the required fields on the quote form, the auto transport brokers we work with will receive your information and get back to you immediately with a quote via email and/or telephone. The auto transport quotes will include different services such as open transport, enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and standard car shipping options. For a run down of the entire car shipping process please watch our Complete Car Shipping Guide Video or Read Moreabout receiving a quote here.
Q. What can I expect from an auto transport broker?
A. Each company works on an individual basis with different ways of contacting customers. Some auto transport brokers will call customers who have requested an auto transport quote and some will wait for the customer to call them after they have reviewed their quote. We have carefully hand
selected each of our brokers and are very comfortable with their ability to give the best possible service in the auto transport industry. If you have any questions on shipping your car, all of our auto shippers are very friendly and would be happy to answer your specific questions. Read More about auto transport brokers here.
Q. What is the difference between using a car shipping broker and locating my own carrier?
A. Due to the high volume of automobiles being transported, it is very difficult for consumers to locate a carrier on their own, especially since only brokers know what auto carrier is on the exact route they need for the transport of their vehicle. An auto transport broker has access to thousands of car carriers nationwide and they will verify that the vehicle carrier has the proper authority and insurance prior to your vehicle being shipped. An auto transport broker also maintains communication with the carrier during the transport of the vehicle which allows the customer to relax during the process. Read More about brokers and carriers.
Q. How do I know the difference between a good and bad auto transport broker?
A. ShipCoastToCoast.com has selected each of their brokers through personal relationships and business referrals. The brokers have been carefully screened to assure our customers that all of our auto transport brokers are bonded and licensed. Each car shipping broker is required by law to remain in compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Feedback from the customers is the best insurance of how they perform their duties. We rely on customer feedback through our email address at customersupport@shipcoasttocoast.com and the ratings customers give on www.transportreviews.com. Read More on how to find the best transporters.
Q. What can I do to help educate myself before selecting an auto shipping broker?
A. At ShipCoastToCoast.com we suggest that you seriously consider all your options when choosing the right auto transport broker. Take the time to call several of the auto transport brokers and make a decision based upon their reputations in the industry and the customer service skills over the phone. There are many sites on the internet that provide customers information about different brokers. We suggest that you contact the Better Business Bureau and any other organization that will be able to verify the track record of the companies you are working with. Also, go to www.transportreviews.com and review the ratings on any broker you may be thinking of using. Read More
A. Yes, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) must issue all auto carriers a Motor Carrier number (MC#) and/or United States Department of Transportation number (US DOT#), in order to have proper operating authority. Auto Transport Brokers must be bonded and have valid MC#'s. Bonding information can be checked through
SAFER, and we strongly recommend you to do so before choosing an auto transporter to ship your vehicle.
A. No, ShipCoastToCoast.com is a free service to you to find the most reliable and affordable auto shippers, saving you time and money on your auto shipping! Request a Free Auto Transport Quote NOW!
Q. What steps are involved in shipping my vehicle?
A. Once your order is placed and all paperwork submitted, the transport of your vehicle will be scheduled according to the available date you provide. After a truck has been assigned, you will receive an email with the estimated pickup date and time. Auto carrier drivers are instructed to call the customer 12 to 24 hours in advance of pick up and delivery to establish a more accurate estimated time of arrival and to work out specific directions. When the driver picks up your vehicle, they will perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle on a Bill of Lading. Both the person releasing the vehicle and the driver will sign this Bill of Lading and one copy will be left at the vehicle point of origin. The same Bill of Lading will be present on delivery so that the vehicle can be re-inspected before it is released. Finally, we recommend that you watch our Complete Car Shipping Guide Video so that you can learn about every step to the car shipping proccess in full detail. Read More if you are a first time shipper.
Q. How far in advance do I need to book my auto transport with a car shipping company?
A. It is highly recommended that you book your transport at least two weeks in advance. Some of our network brokers and carriers can accommodate your transport on a much shorter notice. If you need your car quickly, make sure to ask for expedited car transport.
A. Most coast to coast shipments will take between 7 and 10 days. If you car is transported up and down each coast, it should be 3 to 5 days. Shorter routes can range between 1 and 3 days. Make sure to ask your auto transport broker for specifics on car shipping times.
Q. Can you guarantee a car shipping pick-up or delivery date?
A. When you request a specific pick-up date from your auto transport broker, they will make their best attempt to accommodate your needs. If the exact date you request is unavailable, your auto transport broker will work within a 2-3 day time frame of your request. Most car shipping brokers will not guarantee a delivery date. Vehicles being moved are placed into the most efficient routing schedule by dispatch departments. When booking your move, you should be provided with an estimated transit time that your car shipment will take, so that you are able to plan accordingly.
Q. How do I prepare my vehicle for auto transport?
A. Please clean the exterior and interior of your vehicle. This way, when the driver arrives to pick up your vehicle, you and the driver can thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any dings, scratches, and defects. Please have a minimal amount of fuel in your tank. A quarter tank or less is sufficient. If you are shipping your vehicle to Alaska or Hawaii, you will be charged an additional de-gassing fee if your vehicle has more than a quarter tank of gas. If you are going to a cold climate, make sure you have winterized your vehicle by adding antifreeze. Secure any loose items such as camper shells, truck bedliners, and cargo/ski racks. All antennas including phone, radio, and CB that do not retract MUST be removed, or they may get broken. Disconnect auto alarms, anti-theft systems, and radar detectors. Remove any car covers or accessories as they are not allowed by car carriers during open transport. Enclosed transport is different and may be allowed. Check out our vehicle transport check list.
Q. Can I pack personal belongings in my vehicle for the car transport?
A. No, your car and its trunk compartment must be free of all personal belongings. There are several reasons for this. The primary reason for this is that the Department of Transportation does not allow for the transportation of "personal items" in a car that is being hauled by an "Auto Carrier". The second reason is that any personal items in the vehicle are NOT covered by the carrier's insurance. Lastly, all trucks have weight limitations that they must comply to. With the extra weight of customers personal items being placed within the car being transported, this can put the carriers transport truck over its weight limitation. This can cause delays and you may be subject to an additional surcharge.
A. Each auto shipping company will provide tracking tools for you so you may inquire on their website, via email, or phone as to when your vehicle will be picked up or delivered. Current location and even weather reports on your route are available from some auto shippers. Just ask your auto transport broker for further information on tracking your car transport.
Q. Where will my car be picked up and delivered?
A. Upon booking your move, they will attempt to provide door-to-door service. However, if you live in an area not safely accessible by their transport trucks, they may require you to meet the truck at a nearby parking lot that can accommodate it. They also have terminals to service all major cities. These terminals provide direct pickup and delivery from your door.
Q. Do I have to be present for pick-up or delivery of the vehicle shipment?
A. Yes, we require you, or a designated person, be present upon pick up of your vehicle. A contract "bill of lading" will be signed with you at the origination point. If you are not able to be there, please call your auto transport broker prior to the pick-up date, to confirm an alternate "in care of" person. However, if there any changes to the pick-up or delivery address after you have placed your order, there may be an additional charge.
Q. Can I drop off or pick-up my automobile at a vehicle shipping terminal?
A. Yes, they do have terminals within most major cities. Prior arrangement is required for this service. A car shipping terminal is necessary in the event there is not enough room for a truck to drop off your vehicle at its destination, because of a narrow or dead end street, or any other conditions that would not allow a truck to enter. A terminal would also be used in the event that no one is available to accept the vehicle upon delivery. These terminals are fully licensed and insured. It should be noted that terminal shipping is generally less expensive than door to door shipping as well.
Q. What does "door to door service" mean in the auto transport industry?
A. Door to Door service is when the auto transport carrier picks your vehicle up at the location that you designate as "pick-up location", and delivers the vehicle to your designated "drop-off location" that you give on our free auto transport quote form. Urban areas are more often accessible for pick-up and delivery service to your doorstep than rural areas because rural areas can produce difficult situations, such as overhanging tree branches that the car transport trucks can not go through. As well, transport trucks are typically 80 ft. long, weigh 80,000 lbs., and are built low to the ground which limits their ability to maneuver in tight spots. The vehicle transport driver may have to choose a parking lot or interstate turnout that is close to your residence, however, this will allow the driver to safely load or unload your vehicle. It is always up to the auto carrier driver's discretion as to where they will drive the truck to the place you designate, since the driver is responsible for both the safety of the car transport truck and the vehicles being transported.
A. Most car shipper companies charge a small deposit with the balance paid in cashier check or cash on delivery. The car shipping company will accept major credit cards and personal checks for the deposit. Every auto transport company has their own payment policy so make sure you know it by asking for and reading the agreement.
A. Yes, your car can still be shipped. If you car is not running it can be winched on and off the auto transport carrier as long as it turns, rolls, and brakes. Additional fees will apply as extra equipment and labor are needed when transporting your vehicle. Read More about non-operational vehicles.
A. Yes. Legally all auto carriers must carry insurance. The industry minimum is $100,000. We recommend that you ask to see a copy of their certificate of insurance for verification. Also, read the terms and conditions of your agreement carefully to see what is and isn't covered. Read More on auto transport insurance.
A. In almost all cases the auto carrier that picks up your car is the one that will deliver it. However, some auto shipping routes do require two truck to maneuver it. It is important to ask the auto shipping company if your shipment will be a one or two truck move.
A. It is important to make sure that any dings, dents, or scratches that were not on the inspection report at pickup are noted on the inspection report at delivery. The next step is to take pictures of the damage, get two estimates for repair, and submit copies to the auto shipping company. The auto carrier carries insurance just for this reason, so you will be fully covered for any damage during loading, unloading, and transit.
A. Generally, an Open Carrier is similar to those you see transporting cars to and from dealerships. These carriers range in size and capacity. Vehicles that are moved via an open carrier are exposed to inclement weather and road conditions. Enclosed Carriers also range in size and capacity. Since these carriers are covered though, the vehicles in transit are not subjected to inclement weather or road conditions. Enclosed carriers are recommended for custom, exotic, or autos that have been especially cared for. All motorcycles are usually shipped on enclosed carriers. Ask your auto transport broker what car shipping method is best for your auto transport. To learn more about open and enclosed transport visit out enclosed auto transport page or our automobile shipping page.