Many motorcycle shipping companies deliver vehicles in enclosed trailers. This is done because motorcycle shippers can fit several of bikes in an enclosed trailer.  Motorcycles are more of a security risk on open trailers. It is recommended that people only use an open trailer for distances under 500 miles.  Especially, if you are concerned about the exposure and security risks that are normally associated an open trailer during distances over 500 miles

Any vehicles other than motor vehicles and trailers, the label should be attached with the hinge pillar door latch post. When the vehicles are shipped, proper certification is necessary and it is the responsibility of the customer to forward the certification required for motor vehicles before it is shipped. Also, a reliable source should be provided to ensure guaranteed obligation.

For cars, the label must be placed to either the hinge pillar, door-latch post, or the door edge that meets the door-latch post, next to the driver’s seat. For trailers, the label must be placed on the forward half of the left side of the vehicle, so that it is readable without moving any part of the vehicle.

For motorcycles, the label must be placed to a permanent member of the vehicle as close as is practicable to the intersection of the steering post with the handlebars, so that it can be read without moving any part of the vehicle except for the steering system.

You are basically leaving your prized possession in the hands of a complete stranger. Make sure you find a company that can fulfill the promise to deliver your bike on time at the exact location specified, safely.  Also, make sure that the shipping company will be hand your bike with care during the loading and unloading. Make sure that you invest in additional insurance.  Don’t try to cut corners in order to save money. 

The Internet will give you several companies which makes it easier to compare rates.  A few good search engines to begin your search are: goodsearch.com, yahoo, Google or MSN.  You can search for car transport, auto transporter quotes, shipping quotes, or auto shipping companies. You can contact the company directly or you can even send an email to the car shipping company that you are interested.  With email it usually takes 1 to 2 hours depending on how busy they are.

When searching for an auto transporter, choose a company that will help you to select the right auto shipping insurance. Get insurance quotes from several auto shipping companies and compare these rates.
Before you do anything, make sure that you check with your auto insurance carrier to see how much damage will be covered if your car is damaged before purchasing additional coverage.  Keep in mind; if you own an exotic or specialty vehicle, you will have to purchase additional insurance to protect your car.

I recommend that you find an auto shipping company that is equipped to ship specialty or exotic vehicles because they use enclosed or cargo units to keep the car from being damaged. Buy enough coverage to take care of the blue book value of the car.

Always take photos of your vehicle before its loaded onto the truck. Make sure that you inspect the vehicle with the driver and write down previous body damage or scratches. You can use this later on to file a claim if you find new damage to the exterior of the car.

Get recommendations from family, friends and co-workers who have used the services of an expert auto shipper.

If you are shipping a boat overseas, the international shipping company must be equipped with trucks and trailers that are specifically customized for carrying boats. These carriers are necessary in order to carry the boat throughout the U.S. and other countries. An international auto shipping company must also be able to provide low height trailers. Pricing is based on your boat requirements. Your quotes will include any expenses such as permits to ensure custom clearance and any escort service. The international shipping company must also have adequate insurance to ship your vehicle. They must also provide highly experienced drivers that are trained in loading and unloading different types of boats.

I own an exotic or luxury vehicle?  Many auto transporter offer standard car transports and even exotic car transport services and transports all sizes. Car transporters also handle the transporting of motorcycles, quality RV transport and boat transport.

Did you know that you use their boat transport services to send larger boats if that is what you own or would like to ship? For professional RV transport service and much more, find an auto company that does it all. These types of shippers are known to provide dependable and reliable service. Many companies will even offer you a free personalized car transport quote.

Winterized your vehicle ahead of time by simply adding antifreeze, especially if you are traveling to a cold climate.  Make sure that you secure any loose items such as antennas. Also, disconnect car alarms and anti-theft device systems. Remember to remove any car covers because this is prohibited.

Don’t store items anywhere in the car.  It’s important to note that auto transporters do not carry any household goods shipping licenses and bonds. Any items stored within the car are not covered under carriers insurance. Also, an inoperable vehicle can still be transported but in most cases additional fees will more than likely apply because of the extra equipment and labor needed in order to transport your car. If your car is in rolling condition less fees may apply.

Here are a few things that will help you to ‘save’ your car from damage: Make sure that the car transport service you choose is able to show that they have the proper tie down equipment to reduce the effects of vibration during transport.  Because this can cause hoses to rupture or even cause a chassis to fracture. 

Also, if the auto is crated then the car must be secured to the bottom of the crate and some form of padding must be used between the automobile and the crate’s sides.  It is advisable that you make sure that all the fluids in the car are drained before shipping because many auto shipping companies will no longer accept cars (especially for international shipping) unless this is done.

Sorry that you had such an awful experience. Thank goodness all auto brokers are that bad. Reputable brokers specialize in finding carriers who can transport a car for a price within your budget. Pricing is very competitive   They often offer prices that are equal to or better than their competition and get your car on a truck at a discount rate. So, they are actually passing on the savings on to you.

I requested delivery within 24 days of initial contact with a reputable shipping company and my pathfinder was picked up delivered 7 days later on a Thursday.  This was within my desired delivery time. And my car was delivered without any marks or dirt on it.

I wasn’t present for both the pick-up and delivery. This didn’t cause any problems at all. The extra cost of a covered truck was worth it combined with the reputation of this auto shipping company removed all of my worries and concerns. I would definitely use this service again.


 

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!

If you want your vehicle to be shipped internationally, make sure that the auto car company offers international shipping. If you need shipment to be done within the United States, then look for an auto transporter company that provides the most reliable service in the auto transport industry.

A reputable car shipping company will stand by their mission in providing competitive pricing as well as excellent customer service from start to finish. Locate an auto shipping company that takes pride in taking care of its customers.