7 Common Vehicle Transportation Problems—and How to Avoid Them

Shipping a vehicle, no matter the distance is a challenging task, fraught with its distinct set of complexities. Whether you are moving, attending college, or want your special vehicle for a trip, the intricacies of the vehicle shipment process cannot be underestimated. 

From logistical considerations to ensuring the safety and timeliness of the delivery, every step presents potential pitfalls.

 The good news? For every challenge, there exists a well-tested strategy to combat it! At ShipLux, we have an arsenal of tools to combat any issue—we’re a team that is dedicated to support, transparency, and professionalism. 

In this article, we will delve deeper into the most common vehicle shipment obstacles. Not only will we identify these challenges but also provide insightful solutions, offering a roadmap to navigate the vehicle shipping terrain with confidence and efficiency.

Common Vehicle Transportation Problem #1: Damage To Vehicle During The Transit

When you reunite with your beloved vehicle, the last thing you want to see is damage! 

If possible, we encourage you to be present during the loading and unloading of your vehicle. Observing the process can provide peace of mind and allows you to ensure that the handlers are using the proper techniques and equipment. With ShipLux, we are more than happy if you wish to have someone step in and be there for you. To do this, just give us a little heads up so we know the person is truly there on your behalf, and not someone excited by your vehicle! 

Welp, sometimes things happen that are out of our control and there ends up being some damage. To avoid problems, it’s best to secure adequate insurance. ShipLux adds additional insurance to cover any potential damages during transit. It’s also advisable to check with your auto insurance provider to see if your policy offers any supplemental coverage for transportation.

At ShipLux, we’re all about communication. We will happily provide you regular updates on the status of your vehicle, and have your carrier keep the line of communication open. Discuss any concerns you might have and clarify details about the delivery process.  If your vehicle has a little quirk we should know about, please tell us. Our very well-informed driver will be more than cautious. 

While the fear of damage during shipment is valid, taking precautionary steps can significantly reduce these risks. From choosing the right carrier to securing proper insurance, being proactive ensures that your vehicle reaches its destination in the same condition as when it left. Remember, it’s not just about moving a vehicle; it’s about safeguarding a valuable asset.

Common Vehicle Transportation Problem #2: Delays During The Shipment

The problem of delayed delivery in the transportation sector is an ongoing challenge that affects both individuals and businesses. Delays can be attributed to a multitude of reasons—many of which are not within our control—including unexpected mechanical breakdowns, traffic congestions that can bottleneck major areas, or route diversions due to unforeseen roadwork or other emergencies. These disruptions can have serious implications!

In response to this problem, there are a couple of essential solutions to consider. 

The first is planning, of course.  ShipLux is a reliable and professional company and we never offer an exact timeline, because we refuse to let anyone down. Instead, we give an idea and update along the way! So, if your carrier comes across a 4-hour delay, you will be the first to know! 

The second solution is adding cushion time into the planning process. By planning for a grace period or buffer, there can be some allowance for unforeseen delays. This flexibility can be crucial in ensuring that even if delays occur, the overall schedule or timeline remains relatively unaffected. By taking these steps, we can mitigate the risk and frustration often associated with delayed deliveries, and create a more efficient and responsive transportation system! Great! 

Common Vehicle Transportation Problem #3: Hidden Costs and Fees

In the world of commerce, whether in services, products, or experiences, the allure of a good deal is universally compelling. 

However, the shimmer of an attractive price often fades when the specter of hidden costs emerges! These unseen charges, sometimes lurking in the fine print or omitted from initial quotes, can substantially inflate the final amount due, leading to unexpected budget strains and a sense of betrayal and mistrust among consumers. One of the primary challenges with these undisclosed fees is the erosion of trust.

However, ShipLux will not stand for this! We are dedicated to transparency and zero hidden fees. Each of our quotes is incredibly comprehensive. 

As a consumer, demand an honest quote. A lump sum is no longer sufficient. Instead, it should be a comprehensive and itemized breakdown of all charges. This transparency allows for a clear understanding of what’s included in the quoted price and what might be added later. If you are considering multiple vendors or service providers, these detailed quotes can be invaluable, enabling true comparison and ensuring there are no apples-to-oranges mismatches. 

We suggest always asking pointed questions about any potential additional costs. Compare it to something, for instance, like booking a hotel room! It’s typical to ask about resort fees, parking charges, or Wi-Fi costs. This proactive approach reduces the chances of unexpected bills cropping up at the last moment.

Then: contracts. They can be quite dense and filled with jargon and are the ultimate source of truth. Thoroughly scrutinizing them can illuminate any obscured charges or conditions. If certain clauses seem ambiguous or opaque, seeking clarification is crucial. Understanding not just the service’s cost but also any associated penalties, fees for added services, or conditions for refunds can save significant headaches down the line.

While the landscape of payment and quotes can feel riddled with the pitfalls of hidden costs, taking a proactive, informed approach can significantly mitigate their impact. By championing transparency, consumers can not only safeguard their budgets but also foster a culture where businesses are more upfront about their charges, benefiting all parties in the long run.

Common Vehicle Transportation Problem #4: Inadequate Vehicle Preparation

Eeek! Properly preparing a vehicle for shipment is a vital step sadly often overlooked by many. Inadequate vehicle preparation can not only result in immediate damages or additional costs but can also have long-term effects on the vehicle’s condition.  Based on the quote you fill out, when you work with ShipLux, we will provide specific requests about what you should do for your exact vehicle. 

When a vehicle is not properly prepped, it can disrupt the shipment process, leading to delays and possible shipment rejection.

Potential consequences of inadequate preparation:

• Battery Drain: Active alarms or not switching off internal electronics can deplete the battery.
• Fluid Leaks: Not checking and addressing potential leaks can damage other vehicles in the transport or the transport carrier itself.
• Added Weight: Excess items or full fuel tanks can lead to weight discrepancies, possibly leading to extra charges.
• Movement Damage: Loose items inside the car can move around during transit and cause internal damage or break windows.
• Customs Issues: For international shipments, having personal belongings in the car can lead to customs complications.

Instead, you should do the following:

• Fuel Levels: As previously mentioned, keep the fuel level to around 1/8th of the tank. This ensures there’s enough fuel to move the vehicle for loading and unloading while minimizing weight and safety risks.
• Alarm Systems: Thoroughly deactivate alarm systems to prevent battery drainage. Moreover, inform the shipping company of any unique shutdown procedures if present.
• Personal Belongings: Clear out all personal items from your vehicle. Not only can these add unnecessary weight, but they might also be at risk of theft or damage.
• Maintenance Check: Before shipment, get a brief maintenance check to ensure there are no fluid leaks or mechanical problems that could worsen during transportation.
• Document Existing Damages: Take clear photographs of your vehicle from multiple angles to document any existing dings, scratches, or damages. This documentation can be beneficial if you need to make a claim.
• Secure Loose Items: Ensure that loose items, especially in the trunk or back seats, are removed or securely fastened. This includes spare tires, tool kits, or aftermarket additions.
• Antenna & Mirrors: If relevant, remove external antennas and fold back the side mirrors to prevent potential damage.
• Check Tires: Ensure all tires are properly inflated. This aids in the easy rolling of the vehicle during the loading and unloading process.
• Lock the Vehicle: Once the vehicle has been inspected and is ready for shipment, lock the vehicle. This reduces the risk of theft during transit.

By taking the time to meticulously prepare your vehicle for shipment, you not only ensure its safety but also guarantee a smoother, more efficient shipping process. This attention to detail can save you both time and money in the long run.

Common Vehicle Transportation Problem #5: Documentation and Regulatory Issues in Vehicle Transportation

The intricacies of vehicle transportation, particularly on an international scale, are rife with complexities that go beyond merely moving the vehicle from point A to point B. 

Before we go ahead, let’s talk about where we ship to! 

• Bremerhaven 
• Drammen
• Southampton 
• Livorno
•  Puerto Rico
• New Zealand
• Australia 
• Nigeria
• Benin
• Togo
• Ghana
• Senegal
• Côte D Ivoire
• Gambia
• Guinea
• Cameroon
• Germany
• Gabon
• Sierra Leone
• Congo
• Ghana
• Angola
• Liberia
• Tunisia
• Morocco
• Dominican Republic 
• Jamaica
•  Philippines
• Japan
• Canada 
• Mexico

• Israel 
• Saudi Arabia
• Kuwait
• Dubai
• Lebanon 
• Qatar
• Bahrain
• Jordan
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Dubai

Don’t see the place you have your heart set on? Send us a quick message and we can happily discuss your options. We love to support our customers and may have a solution. 

Back to it! One of the pivotal components of this process is the vast array of documentation required. The importance of these documents cannot be overstated, as they serve as the backbone of legitimate and seamless vehicle transport. A missed form or a minor oversight can spell disaster, leading to extensive delays. In the worst-case scenarios, it can even result in the vehicle being seized by customs authorities!

For those unaccustomed to this process, the labyrinth of paperwork can be daunting. Thus, it’s imperative to get well-acquainted with all the required documentation ahead of the shipment. Each destination country has its specific set of rules and regulations about vehicle imports, and understanding these nuances is essential. It covers everything from the vehicle’s origin, its specifications, and its intended use, to its environmental standards.

But individuals don’t have to navigate these waters alone. Partnering with an experienced shipping company, such as ShipLux, can be a game-changer. They can provide insights into the specific documentation required, potential pitfalls to avoid, and the timeline one should expect. 

Their seasoned perspective can significantly reduce the risk of unforeseen complications, ensuring that the vehicle’s journey is as smooth on paper as it is on the road. In essence, while the world of international vehicle transportation documentation can be intricate, with the right knowledge and partners, it becomes a navigable endeavor.

Common Vehicle Transportation Problem #6: Vehicle Theft or Misplacement During Shipment

Among the many concerns associated with vehicle shipment, one of the gravest is the potential for vehicle theft or misplacement. Though such occurrences are incredibly rare, their impact is deeply felt, both in terms of the financial loss and the emotional strain of losing a valuable possession. The journey of a vehicle, especially when it traverses vast distances, passes through multiple checkpoints and hands. Each stage, while typically systematic, carries with it the inherent risk of human error or nefarious activities.

In today’s digital age, leveraging technology offers a proactive solution to this issue. Implementing GPS trackers on vehicles scheduled for shipment is a powerful deterrent against theft and an efficient tool against misplacement. These devices, discreet and reliable, allow monitoring of its location in real time. 

This continuous stream of information not only provides peace of mind but also offers timely data should any discrepancy arise. In scenarios where a vehicle seems to have veered off its expected path or remains stationary unexpectedly, immediate alerts can be crucial in averting potential theft or swiftly addressing misplacements.

However, technology alone, while an essential tool, cannot be the sole protective measure. It’s imperative to ensure that the chosen shipping company carries comprehensive insurance coverage tailored to vehicle theft. This insurance serves as a safety net, ensuring that, in the unfortunate event of theft, the owner can be compensated appropriately. Thus, it becomes crucial to scrutinize the terms of this coverage, understanding its limits, exclusions, and the claim process.

While the prospect of vehicle theft or misplacement during shipment can be daunting, a combination of technological monitoring and robust insurance coverage can significantly mitigate these risks, offering vehicle owners the assurance they need during the shipping process.

Common Vehicle Transportation Problem #7: Navigating Environmental Hazards in Vehicle Shipment

Transporting vehicles involves more than just the logistics of moving from one location to another; it’s about ensuring the vehicle reaches its destination in the same condition it was sent. 

One often underestimated challenge in this journey is the erratic nature of the environment. Vehicles exposed to the elements face a gauntlet of potential hazards: the pelting force of hail, relentless rain, the weight and cold of accumulating snow, or even the abrasive impact of desert sand in wind-prone zones. Such natural forces, though seemingly innocuous over short durations, can wreak havoc on a vehicle’s exterior, depreciating its value and compromising its aesthetic appeal.

Understanding the risks is only half the battle. The next logical step is seeking solutions, and in the realm of vehicle shipment, opting for enclosed shipping stands out as a prime protective measure. Unlike open transport methods, where vehicles are susceptible to every twist and turn of Mother Nature, enclosed shipping cocoons vehicles in a protective shield, effectively insulating them from the whims of the environment. This becomes especially paramount for long-distance shipments or routes that traverse areas notorious for unpredictable or severe weather. While enclosed shipping might come with a slightly higher price tag, the investment is often justified when weighing the potential costs of environmental damage repairs. At Ship Lux, we always recommend using enclosed shipping for classic cars, antique vehicles, and other vehicles that have a higher price tag. 

In essence, as one prepares to ship a vehicle, it’s crucial to factor in not just the starting point and destination but also the journey in between. By proactively opting for protective measures like enclosed shipping, vehicle owners can ensure that their prized possessions are safeguarded against the unpredictable challenges the environment may throw their way.

Navigating the Complexities of Vehicle Shipment

To conclude, in the vast world of vehicle transportation, every journey, from the shortest hop to the longest traverse, presents its own set of unique challenges. From the intricacies of documentation to the unpredictable nature of environmental elements, the road to successful vehicle shipment is layered with potential pitfalls. 

However, with every challenge comes an opportunity to innovate, safeguard, and ensure a smoother transit. Ultimately,  the most crucial takeaway is the importance of being proactive rather than reactive. By anticipating potential issues, being well-informed, and making judicious choices, vehicle owners can not only ensure the safety and integrity of their vehicles but also enjoy peace of mind throughout the shipping process.