This is why it is so important to give the correct information to your car shipping company prior to picking up your vehicle.  It is not the car carrier's responsibility in this particular case. That's like someone placing an order for Moscow, Pennsylvania and the car carrier asking whether or not this is domestic or international car shipping. In this case, a car shipping company has the right not to issue a refund. I wouldn't.

Yes. The truck driver will need to have full access to your vehicle in order to load and unloud during transport. Make sure that you disable your car alarm as well.

You are absolutely right. Enclosed carriers are for people with specialty cars although many who have used vehicles use enclosed carriers.  I recommend that you continue your search for a car shipping company until you find one that has an available open carrier.

Like oil and water - car leakage and car shipping do not mix. Oil leakage or any type of leakage is not only a safety hazard; it could damage other vehicles that are being shipped. Car shipping companies will not transport a vehicle that has leakage.

Representatives via chat, in the car shipping industry as well as other industries, will refer you to an 800 number or local number. Many car shipping companies have limited staffing to handle online chat customers.  They may not be able to answer ever single question that you may have. So, they will automatically refer you to a number to call so that an agent can handle your questions more efficiently.

Make sure you double check with your car shipper first. I can't see why not. All businesses that accept major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard accept pre-paid cards.

During tough times, it seems like everything goes up in price. But as far as oversize fees, this is not unusual. Cars and trucks that take up a large amount of space are normally charged an oversize fee. 

I totally agree. That can be frustrating. I suggest that you do further research, preferably on the Internet. Choose at least 3 to 4 car shipping companies and call or email them for a quote.

It depends on the car shipping companies policy.  That's why you have to read the fine print so to speak before signing that dotted line. Some car shippers will give you a refund while others may simply re-schedule your pick up and delivery.

Car shipping companies can not guarantee an exact date. It can take up to two weeks, especially during the busy holiday season. The best advice I can give to you is to shop around. Search online and contact several car shipping companies to find out their availability.

Since you are concerned about your car getting scratched, you should purchase additional insurance from the company. Insurance will protect your vehicle if it is scratched or damaged during transport. 

Also, I suggest that you speak to Reindeer Auto Relocation, the company transporting your vehicle.  Each company in this industry has their own set of rules as to whether car wraps are allowed. 

As far as determining what is safer (top or bottom) that is a personal preference.  Each has pros and cons. On the bottom your vehicle could have road debris fly up and hit. On top your vehicle is exposed to more weather. Your transport company should be able to make you comfortable with the choice you make. 

Also, on most trucks the trailer is on a suspension so no rails hit any of the vehicles during transport.   

I understand your concern completely.  The best advice that I can give you is to find a reliable car shipping company and check out their reputation on BBB.org.  A reliable car carrier will send a reliable truck driver to pick up and deliver your vehicle safely.

Then the email option will work best for you. Good luck!

Yes, there are several car shipping companies that offer email as an option for communication.  In addition, there are a few international companies that offer online chat where as a representative can answer your questions right away.  Just keep in mind that online chat for car transporting companies are usually only available during normal business hours.

Your motorcycle will be shipped either by an open or an enclosed carrier. So, your motorcycle will not be driven all the way to Rhode Island.  You don't have to worry about being charged for gas. Make sure that your gas tank is no more than 1/4 tank of gas and make sure that you remove all loose items and belongings from your motorcycle for safety purposes.