I made a HUGE mistake of transporting my automobile through a broker. I did everything I was supposed to do. I shopped around, requested information, checked references, etc.   Then I narrowed down my choices to a few.  Boy did I get the short end of the stick.  I spoke with a salesman who had a truck with a space available on the same day that I needed.  Being that the truck was not headed south into Texas, he told me that the car would go from Portland to Baltimore in only 6-8 business days, including the weekend.

So, I asked him to send me any relevant information so that I can review.  No Problemo! A simple contract was drawn up. The contract clearly covered NAT's rear end very well. It excused NAT (broker) from any damage to my car, and said that the time quoted was only an estimate and that there were no guarantees of course - they would make their best effort.

From my own thorough research, I knew that other companies quoted 7-14 days (no guarantees). Additionally, the deposit was non-refundable after 7 days prior to the pick up date. So, with July 28 set as my pickup date, I decided to go ahead and let them transport my car.

To make a long story shorter, I inquired and Adrian told me that there was a problem on the part of the transporter and that the driver would call me to set up pickup. July 29th came - nothing. I called again and again. Finally, on July 30,the car was picked up. I then received a package of materials on July 29; post marked for July 26th, from NAT.   

Get this - Inside was a completely different contract that I signed and faxed back. They had the audacity to want the ‘new’ contract signed and sent back hard copy. Did I mention that on the new contract there were stipulations that I never agreed to?

Anyway, I called back Tuesday, and the same thing, except this time, they said late Wednesday/early Thursday. This happened on three separate occasions and I still haven't received my car. Then they tell me Friday night it will be the next day. NOT!!!

Warning Everyone! Watch out to whom you sign the dotted line for. In other words, make sure you know whom you are doing business with! Make sure you get delivery times guaranteed in ink. Make the penalties for non-performance very harsh. If they refuse to do it, there are plenty of reputable brokers and transporters out there.
 
Remember, if you are dealing with a broker, make sure you find out who your transporter is, and they should already have damage insurance. Check with the Better Business Bureau and the states consumer affairs division for any complaints from other people. Don't get stiffed like I did.  I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy!

Find a good broker.  They can be the most helpful and they can make your auto shipment a more pleasant experience.  When you find a shipping broker, ask a lot questions. Ask the broker for any additional information that he/she thinks you should know about such as hidden fees or additional charges.