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05
May
How To Find The Best Auto Transportation Broker
Do you need your car transported to another location?
One way to do this is with an auto transportation broker.
How Can You Find the Best Auto Transportation Broker?
Until our cars can safely drive themselves, having someone to organize their transportation is the convenient option.
However, you do have to be careful when selecting a transport broker.
Here are a few steps you need to take before booking in your beloved set of wheels to be transported:
Research Different Companies
The first item on the list is to do your research! Visit different websites and see what they have to offer.
Find out where they are located. Do they have a street address and working phone number? How long have they been in business? If there is a problem you need to be able to contact them for a quick resolution.
When you choose a company it is essential they contract with qualified, reputable carriers.
In the US, brokers must be licensed and registered with the FMCSA. Details of this should be shown on their website.
Price Isn’t Everything
You want a good price but it can’t be the only factor at play. A quality service is going to be more important than a cheap service. If a quote seems to good to be true because it is far less than all other quotes, beware!
Try to avoid using comparison websites. Contrary to popular thinking, this can actually work against you in getting a good price and carrier. Go straight to the company and see what they can do for you.
Be wary of companies who take your credit card details online or process payments up front. You need to at least have a driver and pick up date scheduled before paying.
Read the Fine Print
When you have chosen a company, it is important to get written confirmation. This could be via email or fax and should include the terms of the contract or agreement.
Read the fine print and know exactly what you are getting. This includes insurance and any extra hidden costs.
If you have questions, ask them!
Do an Inspection
Before your car is loaded onto the trailer, you should perform a detailed inspection with the driver and note any scratches, dent or other damage on the Bill of Lading (BOL). Also be sure to get a copy of the signed BOL. Consider taking photos of your car prior to transportation in case any damage is caused.
Having proof will make any claims process easier.
At delivery, do another inspection and note any additional scratches, dents or damage on the BOL. Remember, everything needs to be recorded in writing and you need another BOL copy at delivery.
Take Out Valuables
Before transportation make sure to remove any valuable items from your vehicle. Delays can and do happen at times, so you do not want to be stuck without something you need.
Check your vehicle, including the glove box, for personal items you may need as well. This seems like an obvious step but it is something many people forget!
Check Your Car
When your car is delivered it is important to check the condition straight away. Is it in the same condition as when it left?
Check for scratches, dents and any other damage. Compare the current condition compared to the BOL from pick up. If you notice a problem, note it on the BOL before signing, and contact the auto transportation broker as soon as possible.
If you are looking for a reputable company to arrange secure transport, we can help. Fill out our contact form and we will be in touch shortly.
