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Auto transport myths busted

corsia car shipping

Auto transport myths busted

Myths exist in every industry. They do exist the auto transport industry as well. What is a myth? It is a common misconception we may believe to be true because other people do.

However, we should never assume things. Assumption is often not based on facts. We should do some research and check all necessary facts before deeming something as true or false. And when it comes to myths about auto transport, the easiest thing is to contact some of the best car shipping companies and ask questions.

In this post, we will explore and expose some popular misconceptions about car shipping and share useful information to help you navigate the world of auto transport. Ready? Let’s get some auto transport myths busted.

What are the most common auto transport myths?

Myth #1: Terminal-to-terminal transport is cheaper than door-to-door!

When you have never shipped a car before you simply don’t know what is true. The most cost-effective method of auto transport is the door-to-door vehicle delivery. The fact is that terminal-to-terminal shipping might save gas and money to the carrier, but not to the customer.

Terminals often charge an additional fee to keep your car in storage until you pick it up. Moreover, you have to get to the terminal somehow. It implies additional driving and costs, and often these terminals are in the outskirts of the city. Consequently, door-to-door car shipping is cheaper than terminal to terminal.

Myth #2: It’s always cheaper to drive the car yourself.

False! In reality this may not always be true, as driving the car yourself can rack up costs such as fuel, tolls, lodging, and meals. Additionally, the wear and tear on the car during a long distance drive can lead to costly repairs in the future. Based on your vehicle, locations and distance, type of transport, current supply and demand the cost to ship a car can certainly be lower that the cost to drive it yourself. Check current prices.

Myth #3: Open transport is always cheaper and just as safe as enclosed transport.

While open auto transport is generally less expensive, it may not be suitable for certain types of vehicles or in certain weather conditions. Enclosed auto transport provides added protection from road and weather elements and potential damage.

Myth #4: Vehicle transport cost depends only on the distance

False. A few major factors affect the car shipping cost – distance, vehicle make and model, whether the car is operable or not, the type of transport – open or enclosed, modifications to the vehicle, accessibility of the final destination, and mainly demand and supply situation. So, when looking to ship a car think about all those factors when it comes to prices.

The distance is a major factor, but not the only one. Shipping your car to a rural location would cost you more because the carrier has to go off the major highway. Also, if you are not flexible with the shipping dates, and need exact dates, it will cost you more. Also, car shipping cost depends on current fuel prices meaning car transport rates fluctuate.

Myth #5: Shipping to terminals increases the chance of delays

This is a fast debunk. Terminal-to-terminal auto transport does not delay shipping. The delivery time depends completely on the customers’ availability to pick up their car from the terminal.

Myth #6: All auto transport companies are the same.

Auto transport companies vary greatly in terms of pricing, services offered, and certainly quality of service. It’s important to do research and choose a reputable company with a good track record. Read customer reviews online, ask for references and call the companies to discuss services and prices. This is how you get to evaluate for yourself.

Myth #7: Avoid auto transport brokers and only deal with carriers

This is just some of the most ridiculous advice. Many companies are both carriers and brokers, but most often companies are either carriers or brokers.

Most carriers on the road are independent owner-operators and their job is transporting your vehicle, not doing marketing, sales, and customer service. They do not have the time to deal with customers besides quick calls some hours before pick up and delivery and doing the necessary inspection.

Dealing with a car shipping carrier could mean no customer relations department. It could turn your auto transport experience into a challenge when you don’t know where your car is because carriers are busy driving instead of answering the phone.

Also, keep in mind that carrier companies have a limited number of trucks covering certain regions, and when their capacity is filled, they can’t offer you the dates you desire. Just like in many other industries, the broker is the necessary piece in the puzzle. Check out auto transport broker vs. carrier for more details.

Car shipping cost and delivery time are what most customers care about. And this is where a broker will help you. Sure a carrier will offer other dates and try to accommodate your needs, but a broker can find just what you need at the time you need it. The auto transport broker company will serve your needs and have all of your questions answered. Brokers provide you with terms and conditions and with all the information you need upfront.

Myth #8: The transport company is responsible for any damages or loss during the transport.

While all reputable car shipping companies carry insurance, it’s important to read the fine print and understand the limitations and deductibles of the coverage. Additionally, pre-existing damage may not be covered. So in reality you have to research and ask questions because insurance coverage varies based by company. Some companies transport specialized cars and they carry higher insurance policy.

Myth #9: Auto transport is always fast.

While some transport companies offer expedited services, auto transport takes time, especially for long distances. Moreover, time is always an estimate and dates are never guaranteed. Due to weather, traffic and road conditions delays occur. Plan accordingly and choose a company that provides realistic timelines.

Myth #10: It takes more time to ship than to drive the car myself

That is our favorite myth. Many people across the country think that it would be faster to drive their car than to ship to wherever they are moving. If you are moving across the state, to a location about 200 miles away, driving is certainly fine and probably cheaper. However, for distances exceeding 200 miles, shipping is a better option.

Let’s say you are shipping a car from Boston to Florida. Just think about all the miles you have to drive. Think about the time off work, factor in hotel, gas, and food. And finally, consider the unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. Compare the final amount to a car shipping quote and you’ll see that you will not be saving much. In fact, you may even pay more to drive your car than shipping it. Shipping a car saves you money, miles, and stress.

Myth #11: The driver will always be the same throughout the transport.

Depending on the company and the route, multiple drivers may be involved in the transport of a single vehicle. Make sure to ask the company about their driver policies and procedures. Sometimes when a customer request expedited auto transport and any type of guaranteed dates this often requires multiple trucks and drivers.

Myth #12: You don’t need to do anything to prepare your vehicle for transport.

This is false. Every customer is responsible to prepare their vehicle for transport. It’s important to clean your car thoroughly before pick-up and remove any personal belongings or loose items in and outside. Additionally, you need to inform the company of any special instructions or issues with the vehicle.

Myth #13: You can pack items in your car during transport.

Most transport companies usually prohibit personal items from being loaded in the vehicle. This is for safety reasons and to comply with regulations. Car carriers are not licensed to transport household items, only vehicles. However, Corsia allows one suitcase or a box in the trunk of the vehicle, weighting no more than 100lb.

Myth #14: You can book auto transport at the last minute.

While it is not impossible, in general auto transport requires planning and coordination, especially for long distances or during peak seasons. It is best to book your car transport service as early as possible to ensure availability and secure a favorable rate.

Myth #15: You can only transport a vehicle in working condition.

While it may seem that vehicles that are no working might not be transported, it is not true. A non-operational vehicles can still be transported – they just may require special equipment and handling. Make sure to inform the company of the condition of the vehicle as this affects transport time and the cost to ship a car as well.

Now you have it. All the myths debunked. Are there any other myths you are aware of? Let us know in the comments below. And don’t forget to check the 7 facts about auto transport, because the more you know, the better your car shipping experience is.

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Simon Moore
Great company
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Looking for a logistics company, to ship my car, from California to Illinois,my first search, then Corsia showed up, skeptical. Call and a very friendly secretary: Elena. She guided me through, I scheduled and as she explained, all when smooth as scheduled Very happy I did the right choice. I'll recommend this great Company to anyone that is thinking to relocate a vehicle. Thanks Corsia logistics for your honesty and professionalism!
Elizabeth Woodward
High five's all around!
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Corsia was highly recommended by a friend in the automobile industry. We needed to transport a cargo van from Seattle to Florida. We contacted Corsia who quickly arranged transport within just a few days. Communication was outstanding! Just a few email confirmations and we were all set. Mike was great and arrived right on time and delivered to Florida on schedule. Tip-avoid the hornets nest of auto brokers on line and just contact Corsia for a truly great experience!
Carrol Tiffany
Amazing
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Corsia has been amazing. Their prices are really competitive but more importantly their customer service has been 5-Star. Elena followed up with me every step of the way, making sure there was no miscommunication between me & the driver. We are using them to ship a 2nd vehicle & would not hesitate to use them again!
Tony Boyd
Definitely recommend
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I have recently used Corsia for long time family car with sentimental value that was moved I have recently used Corsia for shipment of my vehicle from Oregon to Arizona by recommendation from other family member who also used Corsia in the past. I am very pleased on the service and the communication throughout shipment. Ken was my direct contact and kept me informed along the move The car was picked up and delivered as communicated. I did use a enclosed mover and the driver was also clean cut professional and treated car as his own. I would definitely recommend Corsia again with the experience I have had. Thank you. T
JW
Top notch
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Top notch Transport - Porsche 997 Top notch! As easy and efficient as one could possibly imagine. Great customer service.. thank you Luke. Great prices. Check. Timely communications. Check. Clean transport trailer. Check. Supremely careful driver. Check. Timely arrival. Check. Don't mess around elsewhere, just call Corsica and feel confident your transports needs are going to be exceeded. My Porsche 911 rode like a Queen in her enclosed chariot. I've never needed a transport company before, and I surely will use them every time. Do yourself a favor, seriously. Call now.
Geet Mp Haryana
Reliable, efficient
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Corsia rep (Elena) was very proactive. Helped ship a car from CA to GA. She checked in with me via email quote and several phone calls to find me the best possible quote for the fastest available service. After several communications, Corsia was able to schedule a vehicle pickup the next day. The driver communicated well, and the vehicle arrived in final destination faster than we expected in perfect condition. I highly recommend using Corsia's reliable, efficient service.
Cay Liptak
Clean, efficient, wonderful
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Thanks, Corsia! Pickup was so clean, efficient, and wonderful -- my only recommendation is to make sure you schedule it during the day so you can fully review the car in the daylight. Drop off was equally wonderful, and the whole trip went down without a hitch (pun intended!). Seriously, Corsia delivered my Jeep from CT to California with no issues or bumps in the road!
Csaba Kovesdy
Truly positive experience
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Corsia Memphis to LA, mid-size SUV. I looked at 4 different companies amd Corsia was the most responsive of them. While being responsive, they were not unduly aggressive: when I indicated that I need to wait a month before making a decision they stopped contacting me and only came back with a reminder when I really needed it. Once I decided to engage Corsia they found me a transport within two days and the car was delivered (from Memphis to LA) in another two days. I had a truly positive experience.
Kelly Torres
Highly recommend
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Working with Corsia Logistics was a great experience. Working with Corsia Logistics was wonderful. They were able to find a driver right away to transport our car. They were in constant communication as to when the car was getting picked up and dropped off. The driver also communicated with me as to when he would arrive. I would highly recommend Corsia Logistics.
Amy Nelson
Excellent Organization
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Corsia was an excellent company to work with while I transferred my car across the US. A friend of mine suggested I use them as they had been very organized and trustworthy with her own car. I researched a few different place but decided to go with Corsia and I'm so glad I did! Any questions I had throughout the process they answered quickly and clearly. I would definitely use them again in the future and recommend them for others to use.
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