The Ultimate Guide: 15 Essential Questions to Ask Your Auto Transport Company Before BookingTable of ContentsIntroduction1. Are You a Broker or a Car Carrier?2. Is My Car Insured During Transportation?3. What Type of Carriers Do You Use?4. What Is the Cancellation Policy?5. What Documentation Is Required for Transportation?6. Can I Get an Auto Transport Free Quote?7. Do You Offer Customer Support Service?8. How Long Will It Take to Transport My Car?9. What Is the Cost of Transportation?10. How Do I Prepare My Car for Car Shipping?11. Do You Offer Door-To-Door or Terminal-To-Terminal Service?12. What Payment Methods Do You Accept?13. What Should I Do if There Is Damage to My Vehicle During Transportation?14. Can You Provide References or Customer Reviews for Your Auto Transport Services?15. Can You Ship an Inoperable Car?ConclusionFrequently Asked QuestionsIntroductionShipping your car from one location to another can be an overwhelming task, especially if you're doing it for the first time. The process involves a lot of trust, as your precious vehicle will be in someone else's hands for an extended period. Whether you're relocating, selling a car, or buying one from another state, choosing the right auto transport company is crucial. It ensures your car reaches its destination safely, on time, and without any unexpected costs. This guide aims to make your car shipping experience seamless by highlighting the top 15 questions you should ask any auto transport company before making a booking.By addressing these questions, you will better understand the company’s services, policies, and procedures, enabling you to make an informed decision. This post will provide the insights needed to differentiate reliable companies from less reputable ones, ensuring peace of mind during your car's journey. 1. Are You a Broker or a Car Carrier?One of the first things to clarify with an auto transport company is whether they are a broker or a carrier. Brokers act as intermediaries, connecting you with actual carriers who will transport your vehicle. While brokers offer the advantage of finding competitive rates, it's essential to know their process for vetting carriers. If you’re dealing directly with a carrier, inquire about their experience and track record in vehicle transportation to ensure reliability.2. Is My Car Insured During Transportation?Insurance coverage is a critical aspect of car shipping. Ask the company about the specifics of their insurance policy, including what it covers and any deductibles you might be responsible for in case of damage or accidents during transport. Request a copy of the insurance certificate for your records to verify adequate coverage.3. What Type of Carriers Do You Use?Auto transport companies typically use open or enclosed carriers. Open carriers are more common and cost-effective but expose your vehicle to weather and road conditions. Enclosed carriers offer added protection but come at a higher price. Ensure the carrier type used is suitable for your vehicle, especially if you're transporting a luxury, classic, or fragile car.4. What Is the Cancellation Policy?Cancellation policies can vary significantly between companies. Some might require a non-refundable deposit, while others offer more flexible terms. Understand the fees associated with canceling or rescheduling your transportation, so you’re not caught off guard if your plans change.5. What Documentation Is Required for Transportation?Different states and countries may have specific regulatory requirements for vehicle transport. Ask the company for a list of necessary documents, such as registration and proof of insurance, to ensure a smooth process. For international shipments, additional documentation might be required.6. Can I Get an Auto Transport Free Quote?Many auto transport companies provide free quotes. Provide accurate details about your vehicle and the pick-up and delivery locations to receive an accurate estimate. This step helps you understand the potential costs and compares offers from different companies.7. Do You Offer Customer Support Service?Reliable customer support is essential for addressing any issues or questions that arise during the transport process. Inquire about the availability and type of customer support they offer, such as phone, email, or live chat, and their hours of operation.8. How Long Will It Take to Transport My Car?The duration of car transport varies based on distance, route, and unforeseen factors like weather or traffic. Ask the company for an estimated timeline and understand the factors that might influence delays. A reputable company should provide a realistic timeframe.9. What Is the Cost of Transportation?Understanding the cost breakdown is vital. Ask for a detailed estimate that includes all potential charges, such as pick-up and delivery fees, fuel surcharges, insurance, and any other miscellaneous fees. This transparency helps you avoid unexpected costs.10. How Do I Prepare My Car for Car Shipping?Preparation is key to ensuring your vehicle is ready for shipping. Common steps include cleaning the car, removing personal items, and securing or removing loose parts. The auto transport company should provide specific preparation guidelines to help ensure a smooth transport process.11. Do You Offer Door-To-Door or Terminal-To-Terminal Service?Auto transport companies typically offer door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal services. Door-to-door service is more convenient but may be more expensive, whereas terminal-to-terminal requires dropping off and picking up your vehicle at designated locations. Ask for recommendations based on your needs and compare costs accordingly.12. What Payment Methods Do You Accept?Find out what payment methods are accepted and the payment schedule. Some companies require a deposit upfront, while others may request full payment. Understanding this detail helps you plan your finances and ensures there are no payment-related surprises.13. What Should I Do if There Is Damage to My Vehicle During Transportation?Despite all precautions, damages can happen during transport. Ask about the company’s claims process, the documentation required, and their liability limits. Understand what types of damages are covered and how to report any issues promptly.14. Can You Provide References or Customer Reviews for Your Auto Transport Services?Reputable auto transport companies should be able to provide references or customer reviews. Look for feedback on platforms like the Better Business Bureau and other review sites to gauge the company’s reliability and service quality. Checking for complaints or unresolved issues is equally important.15. Can You Ship an Inoperable Car?Transporting an inoperable car involves additional considerations. Not all companies offer this service, and those that do may charge extra fees and require special equipment. Confirm that the company can handle an inoperable vehicle and understand the associated costs and requirements.ConclusionShipping your car involves multiple steps and considerations. By asking these 15 essential questions, you can ensure you're selecting a reliable auto transport company that meets your needs. From understanding their insurance policies and carrier types to checking their customer support and reviews, these questions provide a well-rounded approach to making an informed decision.Take the time to compare answers from different companies, and don't hesitate to seek clarification on any points that seem unclear. A thorough vetting process not only protects your vehicle but also provides peace of mind during the transport process.Frequently Asked Questions1. What forms of payment do auto transport companies accept?Most companies accept major credit cards, postal money orders, and cashier's checks. Some may require a deposit upfront, ranging from 10-25% of the total cost, with the remaining balance due upon delivery.2. How long does it take to transport a car across the country?Coast-to-coast trips typically take between 10-14 days. Shorter distances can range from 3-7 days, but factors such as traffic, weather, and truck breakdowns can cause delays.3. Do I need to be present when my car is picked up or delivered?Yes, either you or a designated person should be present for both pick-up and delivery. This ensures the inspection is performed correctly, and the bill of lading is signed, serving as proof of delivery.4. Can I leave personal items in my car during transport?Auto carriers are generally not licensed to carry personal items, and these items are not covered by the carrier's insurance. Any damage caused by shifting goods is also not covered, so it's best to remove all personal belongings.5. What should I do if my car is damaged during transport?Immediately report any damage to the transport company and provide all necessary documentation to file a claim. The company's insurance should cover any transit-related damages, and they will handle the claims process.