In this post, we answer a few frequently asked questions to help you find a reliable auto transport company. We believe that timely and relevant information is key to a stress-free car shipping process. For more information or to book with Corsia, do not hesitate to call us now.
Today finding an auto transport company is easy. The real challenge is finding the right shipper who will put your needs before their profit, and make you feel more than just an order number.
Do you search for a company online?
You can always start by asking for recommendations from family and friends. This is always the best way whether you need a product or a service. And if this does not yield any results, turn to online search for numerous results. If you are shipping your vehicle within 200 to 300 miles radius, search for local companies first. In Google search, just type in ‘car shipping company’ or add your city or state to the search phrase (for example, ‘car shipping companies boston’).
Why should you limit your search to a local car shipping company? Because oftentimes, local companies are smaller, family-owned businesses that will work to offer a better rate and a more personal approach. Whether you are shipping across the state or across the country a local company can usually help you.
What are the different types of auto transport companies?
Whether you go local or pick an out-of-state company, make sure to select a reputable one. Your online search for an auto transporter will return thousands of hits, don’t panic. Take your time, check their website, and read customer reviews.
When searching for a vehicle shipping company you will come across four different entities:
- broker/management companies
- carrier companies
- lead generator websites
- auction websites
Most carrier companies are owner operated businesses that physically transport vehicles.
Many don’t have an online presence, because they would rather be on the road, moving vehicles and making money. That is why carriers rely heavily on brokers for their loads.
Most brokers, in turn, don’t have their own fleet. Instead, they have the resources to reach out to a vast network of carriers.
They do all the legwork to find a carrier that travels your route and can accommodate your particular situation. The broker checks the carrier’s safety ratings and will make sure the carrier is properly insured and has all the necessary equipment.
Good broker companies quote realistic market prices that are fair to both the customer and the carrier.
They will also stay in touch with you throughout the entire process until the carrier safely unloads your vehicle at a destination of your choice.
Lead generator websites
Such websites look like an auto transport company, but in reality, they are not. They lure you in with a promise of multiple vehicle shipping quotes and collect your information to then resell it to a number of brokers. So, think twice before you leave your information on their website. There’s a big chance you will be contacted, and maybe even hounded by multiple companies, whose main concern will be to bash their competitors rather than offer quality services.
Auction websites
Auctions, as it is in the nature of that establishment, foster underbidding wars between companies driving auto transport rates to unrealistically low value. At the same time, carriers will ship vehicles that pay a realistic market price. Hence, booking at a “too-good-to-be-true” price means you will have to wait weeks before a carrier picks up your vehicle. Or your car could end up in the hands of an unlicensed and uninsured carrier.
How do I choose a reliable car shipping company?
Check the USDOT and FMCSA numbers. It is a legal requirement for every auto transport company to be registered and verified with the USDOT and FMSCA. Most licensed and verified companies will post their MC and USDOT numbers on their websites. Only carriers and brokers, the companies who provide or arrange for actual vehicle shipping services, will have USDOT and MC numbers.
Inquire about the cargo insurance policy. By law, all auto transport carriers must carry sufficient liability insurance that covers your vehicle while en route. If you are working with a broker, then it is up to your vehicle shipping expert to verify that your car hauler has cargo insurance, as well as the extent of the policy.
Make sure the company offers the services you are looking for. Are you pressed for time and need your vehicle delivered on or by a specific date? Ask if the auto transporter offers expedited delivery.
If you are shipping a modified or non-running vehicle, it’s important that the driver has a skill set and adequate equipment to transport such vehicles.
In case you need to move a classic or luxury vehicle, you may want to add an extra layer of protection during transport – inquire whether the shipper offers enclosed auto transport.
How can Corsia Logistics be of service?
Corsia Logistics is a small, family-owned and operated company. Our team of knowledgeable agents provide personalized services to every one of our customers. We treat our clients like family. But don’t take our word for it, read our customer reviews online and see for yourself why customers choose us.
Our approach is simple – affordable rates and personalized attention. We call our rates the AA rates – affordable to the customer and acceptable by the carrier. When the price falls in this ‘golden mean’ category, you know you will receive reliable service. Why? Because only the realistic market rate will ship your vehicle in a timely and professional manner and this is what we offer.
