When you need to transport your automobile, whether it’s across the state or across the country, you want to ensure it’s in capable hands. But with a multitude of organizations offering vehicle transport services, selecting the right one can be challenging.
There are several factors to consider when choosing the best vehicle shipping company for your needs. These include your origin shipping location, your desired delivery destination, your transportation preferences, budget constraints, and other critical aspects. Read on to discover what to look for and where to find valuable resources to assist you in your quest.
What to Look for in a Car Transport Company
First and foremost, verify the company’s proper licensing. All legitimate car movers must possess both a Motor Carrier (MC) number and a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. The MC number, issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), authorizes a company to transport goods for others across state boundaries. The USDOT number serves as a unique identifier used by the United States Department of Transportation for audits and accident tracking. If any of the automobile shipping companies you’re considering lack these essential numbers, it’s advisable to move on to the next option.
Understanding Auto Transport Companies:
- A carrier is the entity responsible for physically moving the vehicle, often operating trucks and managing limited routes.
- A broker, on the other hand, maintains a vast network of carriers nationwide, enabling them to offer competitive rates by having multiple carriers compete for your vehicle transportation.
Additionally, check the company’s track record. Find out how long they’ve been in operation, the number of vehicles they transport or arrange shipments for, and if they have a strong online reputation, which is indicative of a reliable transport carrier or broker. Ensure their service areas align with your pick-up and delivery preferences. For further insights into transporting your vehicle across the nation, consult this article.
When researching auto shipping businesses, hearing from fellow vehicle owners is invaluable. Reading customer reviews provides firsthand insights into the company’s performance. Excellent starting points for reviews include Google and Transport Reviews. You can also consult reputable websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Consumer Affairs, which aggregate consumer feedback to determine overall ratings. If you encounter a transporter with no reviews, exercise caution, as it could be a potential scam. It is advisable to steer clear of such companies.
Finding the Best Car Transport Carrier with the Help of a Broker
Considering all these factors can make finding the ideal carrier to transport your vehicle a daunting task. Fortunately, vehicle transport brokers are here to assist you throughout the process.
Many vehicle shipping brokers boast extensive carrier networks nationwide, offering a wide range of options. A broker can help you identify the best carriers based on factors like pick-up and drop-off locations, timeframes, vehicle specifications (size, type, age), transportation preferences (open vs. enclosed trailer, home delivery vs. terminal), and your budget.
Ship A Car Hawaii stands out as a renowned broker in the United States. Vehicle owners nationwide rely on us to secure the best transportation deals, thanks to our network of over 165,000 carriers and a dedicated team of experienced consultants. If you’re ready to begin, visit our website for a quick, real-time quote. We’re committed to helping you find a reputable, licensed, and insured carrier to transport your vehicle safely.
