The carriers are required by law to be fully insured for liability and cargo damage [$750,000.00 minimum liability and $5000.00 minimum cargo], if you book your transport with a broker be aware that the broker is not required under the Department of Transportation to maintain insurance. Make sure to ask for a copy of the truckers’ insurance coverage and whether your insurance is primary or secondary, also if there are any deductibles. Make sure that the company that you choose is licensed and bonded by the Department of Transportation. Keep in mind that many carriers allow personal belongings to be placed in the vehicle; these belongings are not covered by the carrier, but may be covered under your home owners or apartment renters’ policy.

Make sure that you obtain quotes from several reputable companies. The payment method is important, some companies take a deposit, make sure that the deposit is fully refundable, if they cannot move the car. A few companies do not take a deposit on booking, but require the full amount or a deposit on pickup. Many companies charge a surcharge if the entire payment is paid by credit card. Finally, do not pick the lowest price or the highest; pick someone in the middle of the prices range [it is imperative that the correct price be paid, so that a carrier can be obtained to transport the car], otherwise the vehicle will not be transported, since the drivers will take the highest paying cars. Beware of the lower priced companies; they generally will have problems getting the car moved.

Make sure to read the contract terms and conditions, if you have questions, do not be afraid to ask your salesperson for an explanation. The following items should be read carefully:

• anything pertaining to cancellation fees [if carrier cannot secure a truck]?
• rental car reimbursements [if car is substantially delayed]?
• guaranteed pickup or delivery dates?
• are there any additional charges [hidden costs]?
• refund policies [see #1 above]?
• does the car stay on 1 truck during the entire trip [the car should not be placed in terminals or transferred to another truck]?

The following is a guideline for shipping cars within the Continental US:

• 2500-3000 miles 10-14 days East to West
• 1000-1500 miles 5- 8 days Midwest to East coast
• 500-1000 miles 3- 5 days North to South

The above are only estimates, the carrier could encounter many obstacles along the way, which can make the transit time longer.

Most companies will indicate that they have 7 days beyond the estimated pickup date designated; this is typical, since the broker does not have control over the carrier, and a carrier must be located to move the vehicle. Many companies provide for an additional charge for a guaranteed pickup date, there can be no guaranteed delivery date [only estimated], since there are many variables [weather, break downs, coordination between driver and customer for pickup, etc.]

The driver when he arrives for pickup, he will perform an inspection of the vehicle [written], he will note the condition of the car, with regard to damages, etc., your signature will be required acknowledging the condition, a copy should be given to you. At the time of delivery, the same procedure is performed. If there are any differences in the condition of the vehicle at the delivery location the inspection report should be noted and the broker contacted immediately and a claim initiated.

Any dispute with the carrier should try to be resolved, if it cannot be, there are remedies, such as small claims court, Department of Transportation and the BBB. Try to be reasonable and workout the problem, this is the best solution in the long run.

Requirements for overseas shipments:

• no more than a ¼ tank of gas
• nothing in the vehicle, other than what belongs to the vehicle
• many countries require the original title
• If there is presently a lien on the vehicle, letter must be secured from the lending institution giving permission to ship the car overseas.
• For Hawaii and Alaska all that is required is a copy of the title or registration.

Our list of qualified transporters will assist you with the required paperwork and requirements for every country.