Q: How far in advance should I schedule the transport of my vehicle?
A: You can generally get transportation for your vehicle moved within 24-48
hours, if necessary. However, you will likely have to pay an extra fee
for this priority. You will get the best rates if you are flexible and
give the transport broker at least 10 days.
Q: How is the cost calculated?
A: Each company is different, however, in most cases you will pay a fee
to the transportation broker who arranges the move, and pay the actual
trucking company/driver. Costs will depend on the broker fee and the
pick-up location and destination of your vehicle. In general, moves
between major cities along interstate highways are easier to arrange
and will cost less.
Q: Why do companies charge
an "oversize" fee?
A: Some vehicles are much larger than traditional passenger vehicles. Most
full size SUVs fit in to this category. Because of the extraordinary
dimensions, these vehicles take up the amount of space normally used
for two vehicles, thus resulting in the need for an “oversize”
fee. You may also be charged this fee if your vehicle has racks, spoilers,
and/or other non-standard vehicle upgrades.
Q: What will I have to do to
my vehicle before it is transported?
A: Have a no more that 1/4 tank of fuel. Remove all personal items from
your vehicle. Repair any chips and/or cracks in your windows and make
sure your vehicle is prepared for changing weather conditions. When
your vehicle is picked up, you and the driver should carefully review
the condition of the vehicle. Be sure you receive a signed document
from the driver describing the condition thoroughly
Q: How do I know my vehicle
will get to its destination safely?
A: You need to make sure the broker who arranges the transportation uses
licensed, bonded, and insured truck drivers with good driving records.
A reliable broker will discontinue using trucking companies that have
poor driving records, unreliable transportation times, or a history
of delivery problems. Ask your broker. Make sure they only use fully
insured, dependable trucking companies.
Q: What if my vehicle is damaged
during shipping?
A: The trucking company/driver's insurance covers damage done to your vehicle
in transit. You should have no deductive. Your personal care insurance
is not used. Your personal contents are not covered by any carrier insurance
and in most cases if lost, stolen or otherwise will not be covered.
First thing you should do is make sure the driver understands that the
damage is new and was not on the original bill of lading. The damage
should clearly be marked and noted, then signed for by the driver. Then,
call your broker to inform them of the damage. In most cases the carrier
will ask for an estimate and send you payment in a couple weeks. If
the carrier is not responsive and unwilling to work with you to resolve
the issue, make sure you contact their insurance company and make a
claim.
Q: What if my question isn't answered here
A: Check out our vehicle transportation articles.
There you will find a lot of useful information related to various vehicle relocation issues.