Choosing a Transport Company

Choosing a company to safely transport your automobile may seem simple. Just open the Yellow Pages and pick the first name you come across right? Not quite. If you want your car, and your wallet, in tiptop shape after the delivery you are going to have do a little bit of homework.

Here are some things to consider when choosing an auto transport company. Some may seem like common sense, but better safe than sorry. This is your baby, after all.

Always read the fine print when companies are advertising special low price offers. Make sure the offer includes insurance. Insuring your car through transport is not a waste of money. Sure it won't actually be driven but it will be laying on a big semi surrounded by other cars. Things happen when you are dealing with many objects that weigh thousands of pounds each. This way, even if it's something small and cosmetic, they will handle it.

Also, make doubly sure there is no miscommunication regarding the schedule of pick up and delivery. Pick up time is the time it takes from when you place your order until it is finally loaded on to a trailer for transport. That can take anywhere from two to ten days depending on their business volume and your need. You can speed up your wait time but some companies charge extra for priority service.

Transit time can also take longer than you'd think. Keep in mind these trailers carry many automobiles at the same time and each one demands it's own stop. Add in unloading and delivery time and you are looking at about eight to ten days from when your car leaves on the trailer until it is finally back in your welcome arms. Just be patient. Don't hesitate to call them if you think they are not meeting schedule. Some will offer a partial refund for late delivery. The best companies, however, won't expect you to call them if they are going to be late. They'll call you. Look for customer reviews of companies that tout this fact.

Finally, make sure you have paperwork for everything. And I mean everything. Make sure you have paperwork detailing what kind of service you expect. Is your car going to be taken to a transport center where you'll pick it up or do you expect it to arrive at your home? Make sure the documents are clear on that. Also, the company should offer a thorough inspection before transport. Don't miss this inspection and get a paper copy of the entire proceeding. This way both you and the company can be sure your car arrives in the same condition in which it left.

Choosing an auto transport company shouldn't be too much of a headache. Just do your homework. Read a ton of customer reviews and find the a company with great customer service and a proven track record for getting cars home safely. You'll be glad you did when the transport goes off without a hitch.