When looking to acquire auto transport services there are a number of considerations one should bear in mind. They can easily make the difference between a harrowing, and a pleasant shipping experience.

First, if you are moving and are thinking you can save some cash by packing your automobile to the seams with your personal belongings – think again. It does sound like a good idea, right? Why pay an auto shipper and a mover?

Well, chances are you are going to have to pay a mover for your furniture and other large items that will not be crammed into a car anyway. And if you think this is going to save you a bunch of money packing less things in the mover’s truck – you are wrong.

The important point here is that your favorite books, CDs, posters, and sweatshirt are not covered by the auto shipper. Auto transport companies, across the board, are not liable for what happens to objects inside of the car. It more trouble than its worth.

This leads into the second essential tip for avoiding a car shipping disaster. Remove your CD player, GPS, built-in TVs, car starter, etc., before giving your automobile to a shipper. These electronics can get tossed about during the ride as well, especially if they are not well fastened.

Again, none of this stuff is covered by insurance. Although your car will be on the move most of the time, tightly strapped onto the carrier – the driver will have to take some breaks. If your shiny new GPS is sticking out, it may tempt the wrong person. Let’s keep honest people honest, right? Enough said.

Alright so hand the auto transporter a barren car. What else?

Third, take photos, rather extensively, of your car before sending it off.

It is certainly the exception that something should happen to your car. But, plan for the worst and hope for the best.

By documenting in lucid detail the condition of your vehicle before it is shipped, the transport company cannot claim an obvious dent in the fender was already there. Being able to prove that the damage occurred to your auto while in transit will mean that the shipper has to give you money towards the repairs. Again, these situations are rare, but one who plans for the future see good times ahead.

Fourth, make contact with a human being at the other end of the transaction.

Many companies make finding quotes and setting up the transport online extremely easy. This saves them money on overhead, and those reductions are passed down to you the customer.

All this is fine and dandy. Nevertheless, it will be humans that eventually handle and ship your car. That said, it is a very good idea to speak with customer service agents to get a feel for the level of care and professionalism of the shipper. If they are silly, aloof, or sarcastic and crass, chances are this indicated the quality of service down the line. Then, you’ll know you need to try another company.

These few simple points can save anyone about to ship a car a world of hassle and a waste of time.

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