Auto transporters are on the road as much as possible to leverage their most expensive asset—the truck. The more an auto hauler can work a truck, the more affordable it becomes to transport vehicles.
With the car carrier out on the road so much of the time, any delays that may be encountered (such as a paperwork problem at pick-up, a flat tire, a late customer, or long weigh station lines) can have an effect on the actual pick-up time. This is why most auto transport companies will quote you a three-day window, to allow time for possible delays. So while not having an exact date for pick-up may be a little inconvenient, it results in lower shipping costs.
If a car transport company does give you an exact date for pick-up, make sure to get it in writing. The three-day window is the typical time frame offered by most auto transporters, so it’s not out of the question to be a little skeptical if you are quoted an exact date. Also, make sure that a remedy for a missed pick-up is included in the contract (a discount, rental car reimbursement, etc.) to cover your bases should the pick-up not be performed at the specified time.
If it is critical that your car is picked up on an exact date, ask your auto transport company about dropping off your vehicle at a terminal. For a small charge, a terminal will store your vehicle for you until the auto hauler picks it up.
MoveCars.com is a comprehensive online directory of car shipping companies, including enclosed auto transport and international shipping companies. Even before you start looking for a car shipping company, you can find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about car moving, car shipping tips, and a glossary of auto transport terms.