In this section of the Auto Shipping HUB, we will answer questions about common concerns when transporting your vehicle(s). Most of these questions are for first-time auto shippers. Q&A Baby!!
Q: How long does it take to ship my car?
A: Every move is different. Please visit our estimated timeline page for more information. A rough guide would be 500 miles 1-2 days, 1000 miles 2-3 days, 1500 miles 3-4 days etc
Q: What additional contents can I have in the car?
A: You’re not allowed to put anything in the car. Unfortunately, people often put things in the trunk. No Broker or Carrier can insure anything but the vehicle itself. Look at our page under “Can we put stuff in the car?” for more information.
Q: Can I get a copy of your insurance?
A: If you’re dealing with a Broker, they should be able to provide insurance when they locate a truck for your move. Insurance can be provided instantly if you find a carrier (hopefully using Auto Shipping HUB).
Q: Can I drop my car off at your location?
A: There are two answers to this question. If you call a broker, the answer will most likely be no. All brokers will offer door-to-door service, so your home or business address would be the pickup/delivery location. If you call a local carrier, the answer will likely be yes because they keep their trucks in a yard. These yards are typically used for maintenance, but they might be able to offer you storage of some kind. If you don’t get the answers you were hoping for from the broker/carrier, using Google Maps to find a local towing company that offers storage is always helpful.
Q: How much would a carrier charge for additional items in the vehicle?
A: It depends on how much you add. If you put some items in the trunk, there will be no charge. If you put stuff on the seats below the window line and the trunk, the charge might be 150.00+. If you pack the car entirely, they might not take it and charge you 250.00+. It’s tough to say because every carrier is different. Our advice is to keep the car empty. For more information, visit our page under “Can we put stuff in the car?“.
Q: How long does it take to get from New Jersey to Los Angeles, and can you confirm delivery on a specific day in LA?
A: As far as dates and times, they are told to the broker by the driver. Brokers can only make a request. But 7 to 10 days is the average from Coast to Coast. Take a look at this helpful page for more info.
Q: What if my vehicle(s) get damaged?
A: The carrier will handle all damage claims, regardless of whether they’re through a broker or carrier. Each carrier has different insurance coverages depending on the size of the truck. If you, as the customer, pick the right carrier/broker, all damages should be covered.
Q: How does door-to-door delivery work?
A: It’s the only way auto shipping is done. You give the transport company pickup and delivery addresses when you order auto shipping. These addresses go to the driver, who sets his route. Most transport is done by trucks over 70 feet long, so they might not get to your house, but they should get close. It’s still considered door-to-door in the car shipping industry.
Q: Can I pick my spot on the trailer?
A: You can request a spot but the driver will arrange his load accordingly. The smaller vehicles usually go in the belly of the trailer, and the larger vehicles are on top/rear.
Q: Does a broker need insurance?
A: No. The broker will need to be bonded to contract a carrier and provide auto transport.
Q: How can I check if a broker or carrier is registered with the DOT?
A: Ask for the broker or carrier’s Motor Carrier or docket number. Then, visit the FMCSA for up-to-date information.
Q: Are all brokers the same?
A: No. Use the reviews on this site to pick the one that handles business your way. Pick a broker that will work to find you the best carrier. Pick a broker that has been in business for a while and has an excellent reputation.
Q: Do all transports require a deposit?
A: No. Auto transports can be set up in many different ways. If you’re a dealer, you’ll want to do an invoice with your broker or carrier. So, if you have a broker or carrier who insists on having a deposit, you might want to move on. Some companies make the deposit after pickup, which is nice because it builds trust between the customer and the shipper.
Q: How long will it take to ship my car?
A: Several factors can affect how long it takes to ship a car. Weather, traffic, and any number of unforeseen occurrences can lengthen a shipment’s timetable. Car transportation usually takes two to ten days, while cross-country trips take between ten and fourteen days. That’s why we provide customers with a transportation quote from local companies to help reduce travel time and cost.
Q: Should I choose an open or enclosed trailer?
A: Picking between these two is all about determining how much exposure you’re willing to risk. Open trailers are the most common method and the least expensive. Enclosed trailers are the more expensive option because fewer cars are being shipped at a time. They’re used for expensive vehicles, especially ones with expensive paint jobs. Closed trailers are also used for vehicles that don’t meet the measurement requirements of the standard open container haulers. Both are safe when transported correctly.
Q: How much does auto transport cost?
A: Many factors go into the price of auto transport. If you know you need to ship a vehicle, it’s best to fill out a quote form. If you’re like many and just want to get an idea of the cost, try our “free estimate auto shipping rates” page.
Q: What time frame do you need to schedule a pick-up? I would like to pick it up between June 17th and June 19th.
A: It should be fine, but sometimes it takes longer to schedule with a driver. That quoted rate is basically when a driver has a spot open up, and we can fill it with your vehicle. If you need a direct rate from a carrier for pickup on those two days, I can get that to you, too. Direct shipping rates from the carriers are usually higher.
A: The estimated time frame for this route is 7-10 days from pick up to delivery.
Auto Transport Houston
Auto Shipping HUB | Q&A Questions & Answers
