How Does Auto Transportation Work?

If you’re looking to transport your vehicle, it’s important to note that the shipping process can seem a bit complex, especially if it’s your first time. Knowing how auto transport works can help you conquer the shipping maze free-of-stress.

By significant margins, familiarizing yourself with the auto transportation process can help you hand-select the right car transport company that’ll guarantee to ship your car safely and without delay. Whether you’ve bought a new car or are looking to escape your nine-to-five routine for an extended vacation, you’ll need to find the best shipper who can perform the job conveniently and efficiently.

Read on for more information on the ins and outs of the car shipping process. If you need clarification, call a shipping provider in your area. These auto-transport experts can answer your questions and settle any doubts before your vehicle departs for its final destination.

Get a quote

Your first step should be to request an instant quote from a reputable car shipping company like Guardian Auto Transport (www.guardianautotransport.com). From there, you can book a pick-up or drop-off appointment, depending on your current location. Unfortunately, some carriers don’t offer pick-up services if you reside in a rural area. In that case, you’ll need to pinpoint the nearest drop-off location and plan accordingly.

To get an instant quote, you may need to submit your vehicle information, pickup details, and delivery locations. As a next step, you’ll need to choose your preferred shipping method and other critical information so that these representatives can include these preferences in your final quote.

Method of auto transport

Most shipping providers will present you with several options for shipping your vehicle from one place to another. Some of these modes include transport by a large ship, railroad truck/car, or airplane. The method you choose will depend on your budget, preference, and shipping needs.

If you’re unsure of which shipping method is best suited to your vehicle type or trip duration, you can seek help from the professionals you’ve handpicked for the task. They can help explain the advantages and disadvantages of using each of the mentioned methods so that you can make an informed decision.

Schedule your auto transport

Most of the auto carrier companies offer two ways to schedule your car shipment. You can choose to complete everything online, only if you’re satisfied with the available resources. If all your questions and concerns have been fully addressed, move on, and book your auto transport online.

However, if you’re not satisfied with the online process and feel that you need to talk to a representative before committing to the process, you can contact your shipping company via phone. Here, they can answer questions about their operating insurance policy, recommend a particular shipping method, or explain their set price points. Remember that reputable professionals will always be at your service and ready to address any question, comment, or concern.

Prepare your car

Once you schedule your shipping date, you’ll need to get your car ready for the journey. This includes inspecting for scrapes, dents, or other defects, fixing damages, and cleaning your vehicle. Your auto transport company may also need you to gather some essential documents, including the car’s certificate and the proof of ownership.

While you prepare the car for shipment, the transporting team will be busy planning and arranging the trip. Behind the scenes, they’ll collect relevant permits, schedule a pickup, arrange for cargo insurance, and assign a driver.

For some car owners, handing over their prized possession can trigger some anxiety. Luckily, in this day and age, you can track the order online to see where your vehicle is at any given time. That way, your shipping provider won’t be able to pull a fast one and claim that your car is further along in its journey than it actually is.

Schedule Delivery

The last step is to schedule delivery. A reliable auto transport company will keep in touch throughout the shipping process, informing you of any progress or unforeseen delays. Additionally, they’ll call you earlier to schedule delivery to ensure you’ll be available when they eventually arrive. Upon arrival, make sure you inspect your car properly before signing the final paperwork.