In most situations, your car shipping company will give a 3-day window for pick-up rather than an exact date. And while it may not be convenient for you, it does keep the cost of shipping your car lower.
Car carriers are on the road almost constantly to make use of their most expensive asset: the truck. The more they can work a truck, the more cheaply they can afford to transport cars. However, with the trucks constantly on the road, any delays, such as a paperwork problem at pick-up, a late customer, a flat tire, or long weigh station lines, can delay your exact pick-up date.
That is why you should be skeptical of a car shipping company that gives you an exact pick-up date. Most reputable companies give a 3-day window for pick-up and will inform you of any delays ahead of time.
If a car shipping company does promise an exact pick-up date, you should get it in writing. Plus you want it to include the remedy they offer if the pick-up is not made on the specified date. Some possible remedies include a discount, no fee for cancellation, or rental car reimbursement. Once your car is picked up, your car shipping company should give you a fairly accurate date for delivery.
If it is critical that you have an exact date for pick-up, ask your car shipping company about dropping off your vehicle at a terminal, which typically involves an additional charge. A terminal stores your car until the car carrier picks it up.
MoveCars.com is a directory of car shipping companies . Since 1997, MoveCars.com has been providing a comprehensive directory of car shipping companies, including international car shipping companies and enclosed car transporters, as well as car shipping tips for first-time car shippers.