There are different reasons why people need car shipping services, including buying an automobile online, relocation, and students going to universities. Shipping your automobile by ship or truck makes it easier and more practical to go from one location to another.
Of course, people can just drive to or from Texas whenever they want. When they’re relocating from nearby states like Oklahoma or Louisiana, driving the cars themselves can be an option. However, it’s a different story when they’re from states like Oregon or Wisconsin.
What Does the Process Looks Like?
Some brokers and companies will help you with the overall logistics. You can choose between open transport and enclosed carrier depending on your needs and the type of vehicle that you have. See info about a carrier on this webpage here.
Open trailers are cheaper, and they are often faster. They are efficient and great for daily drives. After all, driving your vehicle around will also expose it to the elements like road debris, dust, and rain. When you load it on a truck trailer, the exposure is minimal, and there will be clamps and straps that will keep it safe during transit.
For those who have luxury or vintage models, the enclosed carriers can be a better choice. They will make sure that your precious assets are protected but know that this can be an expensive option.
Other Things to Expect
Selecting the Right Company
Brokers are going to help you access an entire network of truckers and carriers that primarily offer shipping services. There are also marketplaces where you can have more control when it comes to selecting a company. You can also verify their licenses through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and USDOT sites to make sure that they are legitimate.
Compare their quotes and see other services that they offer when it comes to shipping to or from Texas. There are customer reviews from the BBB and search engines that you can also read, so don’t miss out on them.
Creating the Booking
When you’ve already decided which company to hire, you need to provide them with the operability condition, model, age, and other details about your automobile. Next, you need to specify the pick-up and drop-off destinations, select additional services if needed, and provide your contact information.
Know that they will need paperwork, including the title and car registration of the vehicle, proof of insurance, license plate, and driver’s license. With a Reliable Texas Auto Shipping service, you can choose the cheaper open trailer transport modes or the enclosed ones. Confirm your details, pay for the booking, and wait for the pick-up date.
How Long Will It Take Before the Drivers Deliver Your Car?
Know that the duration will depend on your booking date, the weather, distance, and other travel conditions on the road. When you’re going for a cross-country move, it’s going to take around two weeks or so before the delivery. Some companies can deliver it within 24 hours for shorter distances and expedited shipping options.
You need to do your due diligence, especially if this is going to be your first time when it comes to automobile shipping. Get quotes from at least three companies as well as recommendations from friends and family. When you’re with the right transport companies, your entire experience will definitely be a breeze.
Stay in touch with the drivers and get their contact information. This way, you can call them for updates, and they’ll also tell you if there were roadblocks or delays while their cargos are in transit. A GPS can also help, and most companies have applications that you can install on your phone to track everything.
It can take a few hours or so for them to call you back, but you’ll definitely hear updates. Carriers are also going to send notifications that will give you the peace of mind that you deserve.
Prepare your car whenever you’re shipping it. Wash the interior and exterior and remove stuff that can damage the windows and the windshield glass. Read about cleaning in this link: https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/bob-vila-s-guide-to-cleaning-your-car-52731/.
Any loose change, important paperwork, and jewelry should be removed to prevent loss and theft. Also, they’re not part of the insurance, so if they get lost during transport, then they won’t be covered.
Take pictures and videos of pre-existing dents so it’s easy to prove to the insurers that new damage has occurred while the vehicle is in transit. Be specific and upfront when you’re describing the current condition of your car so you’ll have realistic expectations. Find a company that will meet your transport needs at an affordable price.
Primary insurance may also be included, but make sure to inquire about the specifics. See the coverage value, and if you’re shipping something exotic or a classic to Texas, you may need to purchase additional coverage just in case.
