Door to Door Car Transport

What Is A Door To Door Car Transport?

A door to door car transport service is when a driver picks up your vehicle at your home or job and takes it to a new location.  If you’re moving or taking a long vacation and don’t want to drive, then you can have your car transported.  One benefit of using a car transport is not having the stress of sitting in your vehicle for hours and stopping for gas or at toll booths.

A door to door car transport will get as near to your home as possible.  You need to have a street that is broad enough for a large auto transport carrier to drive down.  Car transport trucks are about 75 feet long and very wide.  The street also must not be a dead-end street or have low hanging trees.  If your street is narrow, then you have the option of meeting the transport driver somewhere else.  The area should have a lot of space like a huge parking lot.  Let the driver know ahead of time if there are any problems on your street that could prevent him from getting to your house.

What To Look For In A Door To Door Transport Service

The car transport service you choose should have a good idea of what time your vehicle will arrive at the destination.  Distance and carrier type have to be taken into consideration. There are some companies that will give you an ironclad guarantee.  For your peace of mind, you’ll want a transport service that is fully licensed, bonded, and insured.  Ask for a copy of the insurance coverage. The company should also have a good reputation as being reliable or dependable.  http://www.cargoautotransport.com/index.php  

Ask questions about the quotes for auto shipping or transport.  Your questions should be answered, or you should be given 800 numbers to call.  It’s best to choose a company that will give you a free quote for the car.  The free quote should include a shipping contract, terms, and conditions.  Make sure you choose a company that is well informed and wants to work with you.  http://www.americanautoshipping.com/

You have a choice between an open trailer and an enclosed trailer.  Most people prefer the open trailer because they aren’t as expensive.  Open trailers are exposed to elements, but the vehicle is tightly anchored to the transporting truck.  If you’re worried about any damage from rain, wind, or debris, then you may want to choose the enclosed trailer.

Responsibilities Of Customers

To prevent any damage to your car during the transport, you’ll need to get your car ready before it’s picked up by the transport service driver.  The first thing you can do is call the transport company and ask if they have any tips or guidelines on preparing your car for shipment.  Wash the car and look over it carefully for any chips, dents, nicks, or other damage.  Make a list of everything you find.  Take pictures of the car from all sides.  Take close-up pictures of any damage, so you’ll have proof if you need it.  Most transport services will also inspect your vehicle before shipment.  They’ll want you to sign a bill of lading which shows you agree to the assessment.  The bill of lading lists all the terms and conditions of the agreement between you and the transport service company.

Also, remove all items in your car to help prevent damage from added weight when being hauled.  Auto transport insurance doesn’t cover any items on the inside of your vehicle.  The gas tank shouldn’t be filled all the way because it can also add to the weight of the car.  There should be less then half of tank of gas.  It’s very important that your vehicle doesn’t have any leaks.  Fluids from leaks can cause damage to other cars on the transport.  You will be held responsible, so make sure your car is checked thoroughly.  

Pick Up And Delivery

Before your vehicle is picked up by the transport service, you should do everything you can to prevent any damage form occurring during the transporter’s trip to the new location.  Convertibles can be damaged from debris or moisture, so seal the top securely.  Accessories or specialty items should be secured also, or you can remove them.  Don’t forget to fold back your mirrors and retract the antennae, so they don’t break.

Your vehicle usually will be inspected by the transport driver at the time of delivery.  You should try to be there during the inspection.  If you can’t be there, then an agent from the company should be there to verify the inspection.  You personally should check over your vehicle as soon as possible after it arrives at the destination.  Check the car for mechanical problems as well as cosmetic.  If you find anything wrong, then the driver or agent from the company should sign your record of damages.  This way you can file with your insurance company within 24 hours.





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