Tips And Warnings For Auto Shippers

Still basking the very day that you and your best friend decided to throw in your backpacks for a full forward 3 month summer travel of Europe after college graduation? Planning for months in advance, and preparing yourself for any mishaps or uncontrolled phenomenon; maybe your mothers at the time thought you were out of our minds, but it all seemed right. The preparations only led to more excitement and before you even set out on your travel you felt that you already achieved something so big!

Backpacking takes months of advance planning; airport tickets, Euro-rail transports, which countries, which cities, which hostels, money appropriations, and the packing for the venture. Going through the auto shipping world you must prepare all the same, well minus the clothes. You must get the company or broker. Pickup and delivery stops, figure the right transportation; which direction will you go, how comfortable is your vehicle’s lodging, how much are you going to pay, and perhaps clothes can be included. Why? Well you do need to undress your car of any electronic devices and outside gear; spoilers or any other specific ornaments. Here are some tips and warnings for a safe auto shipping adventure.

Tips

Be forthright with your carrier. An over filled gas tank or additional “things” in your car can impede the delivery process and during checks can cost the driver extra money.

Do not pay anything upfront. This is a big no-no! Also stay clear of lower-priced companies, their cheap rates could be due to less experience in auto travel; this could result in damages to your vehicle. Make sure of this because your vehicle could be left out in the dust, as companies or brokers will often times go for the highest bidder.

Be sure to do extensive research on your broker or company of choice. Make certain they are insured, licensed, bonded, and registered with the Better Business Bureau.

Document and photograph your vehicle. At pick up and delivery your company should do the same.

Read the contract in full before signing, this is very important. Pay close attention to small print and any hidden fees.

Warnings

1.) As convenient and secure as this industry may sound, there are no guarantees and it can be very unstable. Mechanical issues, road blocks, and weather are just a few dilemmas that can happen.

2) When reserving your spot with an auto shipping carrier due not reserve with two different companies. If this occurs most drivers will pass on your vehicle and then you will have to do the whole process again.

3) With a credit card reservation make sure fees are not added unless a driver is assigned to your vehicle.

Being alert and educated is a must. If you are not fully prepared, you will find yourself in a lot of trouble, just like when traveling cross country or internationally with a backpack and high hopes. It is possible to get lost, have your possessions stolen, or worse. This can all happen to your vehicle, so be prepared and use these tips and warnings as a guide.

Visit JMN Logistics for more information on Auto Transport or visit the JMN Logistics information page.