Top 7 Questions to Ask Before Booking a Car Shipping Company

The auto shipping industry may seem overwhelming at first glance, especially when you're trying to decide on the right service for your needs. A private individual or a business owner, status notwithstanding, must deal with a reputable auto shipping company. To help you make an informed decision, BAH Logistics has put together this list of 7 important questions to ask prior to booking a service.

Question #1: Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?

A reputable and trusted auto shipping company should be licensed, bonded, and insured, so this must be a high-priority question to ask before entering into any transaction. A proper DOT (Department of Transportation) number shows that the company is listed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and adheres to federal regulations. If you’re shipping a car across state lines, the car carrier must have a valid USDOT number. This number is an official identifier used to collect and monitor the company’s safety records, compliance, and insurance status.

Question #2: What Does Your Insurance Cover, and What Are the Limits?

Car transport companies have a legal obligation to maintain liability insurance, but not every coverage is created equal. It's beneficial to inquire about the insurance they provide, how high the coverage limits are, and what their claims process is if your car is damaged during transport. A reliable car transport company will be up-front about its insurance policy and can provide full-coverage insurance or other protection for valuable vehicles.

Question #3: What Is Your Pricing Structure and Are There Additional Fees?

Having an understanding of the cost structure keeps your finances in line and avoids unexpected spending. To make sure it makes sense, look past the upfront cost and determine what is truly included. Ask for a precise breakdown of the costs so you know exactly what you're spending. Choose a delivery company that delivers maximum value for money.

Question #4: What Type of Transport Method Do You Use?

Different shipments require different approaches. A good car shipping company should have some options to select from, such as open, enclosed, expedited, and door-to-door shipping. For example, if you prefer more protection, you may have the option of enclosed shipping, and if you have a standard car, which is less expensive, open shipping is perfect for you. If speed is your priority, expedited shipping assures faster delivery. And if ease is your priority, then door-to-door service offers the most hassle-free experience.

Question #5: What Is Your Estimated Pickup and Delivery Timeline?

Pickup times are typically set according to factors like distance, route popularity, seasonality, weather, and demand. The shipping firm quotes an approximate time and will try to keep to it. Double-check your booking confirmation at all times for the actual pickup time and pickup location. If there is a change, notify the carrier at the earliest to avoid missed pickups or deliveries. For a sure time, book one month beforehand.

Question #6: What Is Your Cancellation and Refund Policy?

Shipping schedules are usually volatile, and you would appreciate knowing a company's cancellation policy. Ask about the free cancellation deadlines, the charges involved, and the cancellation process for reservations. Further, ask how the company refunds in case you need to cancel or amend your reservation. Knowing this will put your mind at rest in case of last-minute changes in shipping arrangements.

Question #7: Can You Provide References and Reviews?

Online reviews are the new form of reference. They provide you with an unrestricted view of what you can anticipate from a company. Look for genuine sources like BBB, Google Reviews, Consumer Affairs, and Trustpilot to evaluate the credibility of the company. To determine the company's true credibility, read multiple reviews and particularly pay attention to comments specific to the service you need.

Conclusion

Selecting the proper shipping agency is the most critical aspect of a smooth car shipping experience. By questioning as suggested by this article, you'll be much closer to finding an operation that suits your needs and expectations. So, are you ready to reserve your next car shipping? Don't forget, the proper questions lead you to the correct decision!