Most people only ship vehicles several times in their life at most. Plus, the car shipping business is a very fragmented business with few large, brand-name companies. So, this can give rise to myths about the industry. Below are three common ones:
Some people think they can save money and hassle by working directly with an auto carrier over an auto transport broker. The problem is that it is difficult to find an auto carrier that is traveling your route let alone several, so you can compare quotes. And, carriers are more likely to charge you more when they are responsible for the paperwork and have to deal directly with the customer. When you choose to use a reputable auto transport broker, you get someone who will work to find you the best deal for shipping your car and make the whole process go more smoothly.
While your vehicle is exposed to the weather on an open carrier, there is only a slightly higher risk of any damage to your vehicle from road debris. The majority of vehicles are shipped on open carriers, including most new cars. If you want to ship your vehicle on an enclosed carrier, it typically costs 25-50% more. So, you need to decide if the extra cost of enclosed shipping is worth it. However, you can be sure that shipping on an open carrier is safe.
Whether your car insurance covers your vehicle during car shipping is dependent on your specific policy. It is a good idea to check with your insurance company to find out if you have coverage during auto transport. In addition, car shipping companies should have cargo insurance in order to be licensed by the FMCSA. You should check with the car shipping company’s insurance agent to confirm their policy is still in force.
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.