The Complete Guide to Car Shipping: Tips and Best Practices

Regardless of where the final destination is, shipping a vehicle requires careful planning and consideration to ensure it arrives safely and promptly. At ShipLux, we’ve been doing this for a while and want to share our wisdom, tips, and tricks with you to help streamline the process so you can make informed decisions. 

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1. Research Car Shipping Companies
   
   Credentials and reputation are everything! To avoid any scams, verify that the company is licensed, bonded, and insured. Head over to the Better Business Bureau or online review sites to understand the experiences of previous customers.  Reputable shipping companies will be excited to help you and will want you to get the best experience so they will highlight the vehicles they have experience with, so you can match it to the type of vehicle you own.
   
2. Get Multiple Quotes
   
   Collect several quotes to get a good understanding of the market rate. Be cautious of significantly lower prices; they may indicate lesser service quality or hidden fees.
   
3. Understand the Delivery Options
   
   There are plenty of different delivery options available depending on the company. For example, door-to-door is more convenient as the company picks up and delivers the vehicle to specified locations. Terminal-to-terminal generally costs less but requires you to drop off and pick up the car at specified locations. 
   
   There are also different types of shipment options. There is open transport, which, while exposing your car to the elements, is more affordable. Enclosed transport provides more protection, ideal for luxury or classic cars, but costs more.
   
4. Prepare Your Car for Shipping
   
   Cleaning is the best tip! A spotless car helps in the quicker detection of any damages post-shipment! Ensure the car has no leaks, inflated tires, and a charged battery.
   
   Document any existing damage by taking detailed photos of your car from various angles, focusing on any existing damage. This will help in the unlikely event of a dispute. Don’t forget to empty your car as personal items and additional weight can lead to extra fees or potential damage.
   
5. Review Insurance Options
   
   Always, always, always confirm the type and amount of coverage the shipping company provides. This is vital, and be sure to get a copy of their insurance policy for your records (you can thank us later for this hot tip!) 
   
   Check with your auto insurance company if they cover car transport, as you might want to get gap coverage for extra protection.
   
6. Finalize Shipping Details
   
   After the quote, comes booking and then the all-important contract. Ensure you understand all terms and conditions before signing anything!  If you’re unsure about something, ask. Also, while you may have a preferred date, flexibility can result in cost savings. However, if time is a constraint, book well in advance.
   
7. Receiving Your Car
   
   Upon receiving your vehicle, inspect it immediately. Before signing the delivery receipt, inspect your car thoroughly in good lighting. If any damage has occurred during transport, note it on the delivery document. If possible, take a short drive to ensure there are no mechanical issues.
   
8. Remain Patient
   
   As much as we wish it was possible, shipping a car isn’t as fast as shipping a package! Depending on the distance and route, it can take a week or much more. Stay in communication with the shipping company for updates. In winter, routes may be closed due to snow, leading to delays. Summer can be busier as many people move or ship cars. Understanding seasonal dynamics can help set your expectations.
   
9. Know International Rules (if applicable):
   
   If your car is being shipped internationally, familiarize yourself with the destination country’s regulations, tariffs, and customs duties. Some countries have strict rules on vehicle emissions or require modifications.

Conclusion

With proper research and preparation, you can ensure your shipping is done efficiently and safely. Always prioritize your vehicle’s safety, keep open communication with the shipping company, and remember that being proactive will smooth out the process significantly. Safe shipping!