A car is its owner pride and joy, so when you are contemplating a move, you need to ensure that your car is shipped by a reliable moving company. While they all serve the same purpose, there can be quite a difference in the quality of their service, which is why you need to judge them using these parameters so that you can avoid these common mistakes during auto transportation:
In order to ship your vehicle, most car transport companies will require you to present certain documents such as your certificate of insurance and the vehicle registration. Keep your papers filed and in order so that you can show them to the company representative as and when needed. An inspection of the vehicle is carried out beforehand and issues (if any) are reported to the company. You need to do yet another inspection after the delivery. Make note of any damages during transit on the inspection report and get the driver to sign it so that you can claim proper insurance.
Any business that transports vehicles needs to be registered with the Department of Transportation. If the move is interstate, they have to be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration as well. There are websites where you can check the registration number of these companies to verify that they are actually registered. Ask for references from previous clients too. There is no place for verbal agreements and promises here everything should be documented officially.
Any company that offers car transport interstate is required to have the appropriate insurance to cover any damage to the vehicles they are moving. Ensure that you read through the insurance certificate of the moving company so that you know what coverage is being offered. If you feel it is not enough, you can get it increased.
Remember that rates for shipping vehicles are different for each company. The same firm might also charge different amounts depending on the type of service you need. In order to ensure there are no hidden charges, ask the company about the breakup of the price they are charging. Most companies will provide you with a car shipping quote free of charge, which will make it easier to compare the costs of different services. Dont judge a company solely on the price though cheaper rates dont mean their services are the best.
Last but not the least; empty all personal belongings from the vehicle because car transport companies are prohibited by law from shipping vehicles that contain household items. Your belongings might be seized if there is an inspection by the Department of Transportation during the journey.
To look for relevant listings where you are moving to, search online in this way Des Plaines movers or Joliet moving services.