Finding the best company is almost always your priority, regardless of the service or product you need. So when moving something valuable like your car, you can never forget to find the best car transport companies. It’s a topic that weighs heavily on the minds of young and old car owners looking to ship their beloved vehicles across the country. Why drive when you can ship, right? But with many options out there, how do you choose the right one?
In this blog post, we’ll be your guide, helping you navigate through the sea of transport options, and we hope, by the end of it, you’ll be able to rev up your decision-making engine with confidence. From theBest Car Shipping Company to Car Shipping Companies that offer value for money, we’ve got it all covered.
But that’s not all. We understand that convenience matters and that’s why most people search for ‘Transport Companies Near Me’, ensuring they don’t have to go far to visit the organization’s office. We’ll discuss how Easy Auto Ship helps find the carriers nearest your location, bringing suitable options to your doorstep.
We recognize that different strokes move different folks, and what works for a classic car owner in New York may not suit a truck owner in Texas. Hence, we’ve made it our mission to cater to everyone, providing a comprehensive guide to the best car transport companies.
And, of course, we’re acutely aware of the concerns that plague car owners. Is my vehicle going to be safe? What if it exceeds my budget? We’ve been there, and we get it. So, we’ll also address those concerns, presenting you with haulers that prioritize safety and won’t burn a hole in your pocket. We’re not just about showing you the options; we want you to make an informed choice.
Best Auto Transport Companies - What to Look For?
It’s a jungle out there. Just search ‘Car Transport Companies Near Me’ and you’ll see countless of them popping up in your search results, each claiming to be one of the best auto transport companies. But how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? What factors should you consider when entrusting your prized possession to a hauler?
The answer lies in meticulous research and understanding the subtle nuances that differentiate average services from the best. The ‘Best Car Transport Companies’ are not just about hauling your car from point A to point B. They are about offering a comprehensive package that includes safety, reliability, affordability, and top-notch customer service.
A top-notch auto hauler will also have a robust network of carriers, a transparent pricing structure, and an excellent track record of delivering cars on time. There’s A LOT more you need to know before you pull the trigger on any one of the car transport companies. So let’s go through that below:
9 Factors to Consider When Choosing an Auto hauler
When selecting an auto hauler, many factors need to be assessed meticulously to ensure a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience for your prized car.
Reputation and Ratings
A organization’s reputation can be a reliable gauge of its capability and reliability. A good reputation, reflected in positive ratings and reviews from previous customers, often suggests that the company is dependable and delivers high-quality service. This is why paying attention to prior consumers’ ratings is essential. For instance, according to a study by BrightLocal, 76% of customers, including car shipping companies, regularlyread online reviews for local businesses as of 2022.
You can also examine Google Reviews and Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings to investigate a organization’s reputation further. Google Reviews provides real-time customer feedback, while the BBB is a reliable source for learning about a organization’s business practices.
Another useful resource is the organization’s Facebook page, where you can observe customer interactions and reviews. An active social media presence often means that a company values customer feedback and maintains transparency.
Experience and Expertise
When choosing the best auto transport companies, consider their years of experience in the industry. A company with a long track record usually indicates that it has gained substantial knowledge and expertise in handling car move.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage is a super important element to consider when choosing an auto hauler. It’s essential to confirm if the company provides insurance coverage along with the extent of the coverage and any additional fees. In 2021 alone, the National Safety Council reported that more than 5,500 crashes involved large transport trucks. Therefore, insurance coverage can provide peace of mind in case of mishaps.
Cost and Quotes
Price is always a super crucial factor to consider. It’s wise to obtain multiple quotes from different auto transporters to compare prices and services. However, consider another aspect before going for the lowest price.
Timeframe and Delivery
The timeframe and delivery are among the most important things to consider when choosing an auto hauler. The best auto transport companies ensure timely pickup and delivery of your car. Remember, a delayed delivery may disrupt your schedule or even lead to additional costs. For instance, if you’re relocating and you need your car to commute, a delay would mean hiring a car and incurring unexpected expenses. Therefore, choose a company that guarantees timely delivery.
Service Availability and Coverage
The geographical coverage of the hauler is another critical consideration. Does the company operate within your area of interest? For instance, a company that specializes in local moves may not be the best choice if you’re planning to move your car across the country. Look for “transport companies near me” and assess their service coverage. You’ll also want to ensure the company operates round-the-clock, primarily if you work with a strict timeline.
Pricing and Discounts
Everyone loves a great deal, right? When you’re screening for an auto hauler, it’s essential to consider pricing and available discounts. Some haulers may offer competitive prices and discounts, such as early bird, return customer, military, or multi-car discounts. However, don’t let price overshadow the quality of service. The best car shipping company will offer a balance of affordable pricing and high-quality service.
Customer Service
A organization’s customer service quality speaks volumes about its overall service. The right car shipping companies will have a responsive, helpful, and friendly customer service team. They should be able to answer all your questions, guide you through the process, and keep you updated on your car’s status. In fact, according to a survey by American Express, 7 in 10 U.S. consumers say they’ve spent more money to do business with a company that offers excellent customer service.
Type of Transport
Another essential factor to consider is the type of transport offered by car transport companies. Do they offer open or enclosed carrier? Open trailer is typically cheaper and suitable for any car. However, if you own a classic, luxury, or custom car, you should opt for enclosed carrier for added protection. Whichever option you choose, ensure the shippers provide adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle during transit.
With detailed research and careful planning, you can find the best car transport companies to meet your needs and ensure your car’s safe and timely delivery.
But Wait - There’s More; Make Sure to Dissect Reviews About the Company:
Now that you have shortlisted some movers with at least 90% of the ingredients for the best auto hauler mentioned above, it’s time to go further and find things that can seal the deal for you.
Search every company you have shortlisted on Google BirdEye or Transport Reviews, go to its reviews section, and search for words like:
- Delivery
- Damage
- On-time
- Experience
- Customer
- Claims
- Response
- Process
- Insurance
These are the keywords that will help you find reviews that discuss everything important about a car shipper instead of just praising them.
For instance, consider you are vetting ‘Easy Auto Ship’, one of the best car transport companies. In this case, analyze reviews that emphasize keywords such as ‘Delivery’ and ‘On time’. If most of the reviews reveal that the company consistently delivers cars on schedule, it strongly indicates their reliability.
Similarly, reviews highlighting ‘Damage’ and ‘Claims’ can provide insights into how the company handles unforeseen circumstances like accidental damages during transit.
Experience is another critical aspect to consider. Reviews with the keyword ‘Experience’ can shed light on how the customers felt dealing with the company. A company that offers top-notch experience will likely have robust systems and processes to ensure a seamless transport experience.
Another keyword to look out for is ‘Response’. Reviews discussing customer support response time can give you a clear picture of the organization’s commitment to customer satisfaction. For example, if customers praise the mover for its prompt responses and resolution of claims, it indicates the business values its clientele.
Finally, reviews containing ‘Insurance’ can reveal whether the car shipper offers comprehensive insurance coverage. This is crucial since it safeguards your vehicle during transit.
According to a 2019 report by Research & Markets, the global auto shipping industry is expected to reach $1 billion in 2027, growing at a CAGR of 3%. Therefore, with an increasing number of car shipping companies entering the market, it’s imperative to dissect reviews to identify the best auto transport companies for your needs.
Remember, although reviews can provide valuable insights, they should not be the sole basis for your decision. Also, consider factors like pricing, services offered, and company reputation. When you search ‘Transport Companies Near Me’, don’t just settle for the most convenient option. Please take the time to read through the reviews about them to make sure your vehicle is in safe hands. The time you invest in this process can save you from potential headaches later on.
Getting the Best Price for Vehicle Shipping - 7 Considerations
- Negotiations: When searching for the best price, one of the initial steps is negotiating the price. Most car shipping companies have some wiggle room regarding their pricing structure. While accepting the initial quote is acceptable, it is often beneficial to shop around and gather quotes from several different transporters. This way, you can compare prices and get a sense of the average cost, giving you an edge in negotiations. Customers who negotiate their car hauling costs can save an average of 5% on the total price. Remember, the best auto transporters value their customers and are open to fair negotiations.
- Pickup Flexibility: Another factor that can significantly influence the cost of car transport is the flexibility of pickup and delivery dates. More often than not, car movers charge a premium for specific pickup and delivery dates. Therefore, if your schedule allows flexibility, you can save a good chunk of money. For instance, Car Shipping Companies like Easy Auto Ship have reported that customers who were flexible with their dates saved up to 12% on the overall cost.
- Service Type: Choosing terminal-to-terminal moves over door-to-door can also lower the cost. Most car transporters offer both options, but terminal-to-terminal tends to be cheaper due to less handling and shorter transport distances. However, this option might require you to drop off and pick up your vehicle at the organization’s terminal. Customers who opt for terminal-to-terminal save an average of 10% on shipping charges.
- Mode of Transport: Regarding the transport method, you have the option of open or enclosed transport. Open transport is typically more affordable but may expose your car to weather elements and road debris. On the other hand, enclosed transport offers more protection but comes at a higher cost. As per our experience, opting for open transport can save you up to 40% of the cost compared to enclosed transport.
- Weight Reduction: Before handing over your car to the hauler, removing all personal items is crucial. Not only does this reduce the risk of theft, but it also lowers the weight of your car, which can, in turn, lower the hauling cost. Most movers base their rates on the weight of the vehicle, so removing unnecessary items can result in 5-8% savings.
- Discounts and Promotions: Remember to inquire about discounts. Some car transporters offer discounts for military personnel, students, cash payments, or multi-car shipments. Depending on the organization’s policy, these discounts can range anywhere from 5% to 10%. For example, some of the Best Car Transport Companies in the U.S. provide a 10% discount for military personnel and AAA members.
- Seasonality: Lastly, consider moving during the off-season. Most auto transporters have peak and off-peak seasons, with prices considerably lower during the latter. For example, summer tends to be a peak season for many car shipping companies, while winter tends to be off-peak. Moving your car during the off-season could save you 10-20% of the total cost.
Savings Strategy | Percentage of Savings |
---|---|
Negotiating the price | 5% |
Flexibility with pickup and delivery dates | Up to 12% |
Choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping | Up to 10% |
Opting for open transport over enclosed transport | Up to 40% |
Removing personal items before shipping | 5-8% |
Inquiring about discounts (e.g., military, students) | 5-10% |
Shipping during the off-season | 10-20% |
Frequently Asked Questions:
How to Handle Delays and Damages?
Transporting a car can sometimes come with unexpected hurdles, like delays or damages. While we hope for a smooth journey, preparing for potential hiccups is essential. If your car gets delayed, keeping communication lines open with the hauler is crucial. They should provide timely updates and be transparent with reasons for the delay. In case of any damages, inspecting the car thoroughly upon delivery and documenting any discrepancies is essential. Ensure the damage is noted in the Bill of Lading, the legal contract between you and the mover. It should have a clear policy on handling such cases and be held accountable for managing repairs or compensation.
Is Car Shipping Worth the Cost Compared to Buying New or Driving?
Many factors need consideration when deciding whether to ship a car, buy a new one, or drive cross-country. If the car holds sentimental value or is a high-end model, the shipping cost would be worth it. Furthermore, the wear and tear from a long drive could cost more repairs and maintenance. Also, consider the gas, lodging, and food expenses during a cross-country drive. Moreover, time is a valuable commodity; the days spent on the road could be used more productively. Therefore, working with the Best Auto Transport Companies could be a more practical choice.
Can Personal Items be Shipped Inside the Car?
While shipping personal items inside the car during transit seems logical, limitations exist. Most car shipping companies will allow up to 100 lbs of personal belongings. However, they must not include anything illegal, restricted, or frowned upon. This policy ensures the safety and integrity of the car and the personal items, complying with the transport regulations.
How do I know if an auto hauler is legit?
When looking for auto movers, ensuring their legitimacy is vital. Verify their U.S. Department of Transport (US DOT) number and check their status on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. Reading customer reviews on reliable platforms and checking their track record at the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can reveal a lot about a organization’s operations.
Is Easy Auto Ship legit?
Easy Auto Ship is a legitimate hauler. Our active US DOT number indicates that we’re registered with the FMCSA. Numerous positive customer reviews and good standing with the BBB support our reputation as one of the best car transport companies.
Is Easy Auto Ship insured?
Yes, Easy Auto Ship is fully insured. We take the safety of your car very seriously. Our comprehensive insurance policy offers protection against potential damages during the shipping process. This is a fundamental part of our commitment as one of the reliable car transport companies to provide you with peace of mind.
Does Easy Auto Ship have a good cash discount?
Indeed, we do. We believe in delivering value for money to our customers. Our excellent cash discounts, particularly with our flat-rate cash booking, can help you save big. For instance, you can get up to $150 off with a direct cash payment to the driver. It’s our way of ensuring our services are affordable while being one of the top Shippers.
Parting Words:
You want to settle for something exceptional when finding the best auto hauler. After all, your vehicle deserves the royal treatment!
The best auto transport companies have everything from top-notch customer service to reliable and efficient move.
Don’t waste your time with subpar options - give us a call today to get free quotes from the best in the business. Your car will thank you for it!