How to Choose the Right Auto Transport Company: A Complete Guide

Posted by MoversCom on December 2nd, 2024

How to Choose the Right Auto Transport Company: A Complete Guide  

When you are shipping your car across town or across the country, you must choose an auto transport company that can be relied upon. Your car's safety, the overall cost and your experience are all greatly dependent upon the choice you make.

This guide takes you through everything you should know to make a well-informed choice and ship your car with confidence.  

1. Steps for Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

Research Auto Transport Companies: Begin by diligently researching different companies. A little homework now will save you headaches down the line.  

Reviews and Ratings: Google Reviews, Trustpilot and even the BBB should be considered when trying to get an idea of customer experiences.  

Referrals from Friends or Family Members: Personal recommendations are often trustworthy.  

Check the license and insurance: Also ensure that the company is licensed by the Department of Transportation, so it has full insurance coverage for your vehicle.  

2. Types of Auto Transport Services

Transport services differ. Knowing what suits your needs will make all the difference.  

Open Transport: The cheapest method in which your car is exposed to the vagaries of weather and road conditions.  

Enclosed Transport: Provides added protection, suitable for premium or antique vehicles, but at a slightly higher price.  

Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal: Door-to-door service is more convenient, whereas terminal-to-terminal can be more inexpensive but less flexible.  

3. Seek multiple quotes
  
Get at least 3-5 quotes, discuss prices and services, and make sure to:  
   
Pickup and delivery locations  
Type of vehicle (in this case, a sedan, SUV or truck)  
Transport method: open or closed  
Delivery date and time  
Insurance options 

4. Check credentials  

A good transport company will have proper licensing, insurance and a bond.  

FMCSA Registration: Check the company's DOT number.  

Insurance Coverage: Request proof of coverage and verify that it indeed protects against potential damage.  

Bonding: This ensures monetary compensation in case of disputes. 

5. Assess experience and reputation

Select a company with a good history.  

Years in Business: Experience often translates to reliability.  

Customer Testimonials: Request recent examples of customer feedback.  

Professional Associations: Association memberships with organizations like ATA or NATA can be symptomatic of a dedication to quality.  

6. Check customer service

Good communication is the oil that makes everything run smoothly.  

Make sure the company does communicate clearly and timely about your car's status.  

Has customer service that is responsive and knowledgeable.  

7. Be Aware of Warnings

Shipping your car is a big decision, and it’s crucial to stay alert to potential red flags that could lead to unnecessary stress or financial loss. Here are some key warnings to keep in mind when selecting an auto transport company.

1. Low Ball Quotes
Ever heard the saying, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is"? This is especially true with car shipping. Companies that offer quotes far below the market rate might lure you in with attractive pricing but often make up for it with hidden fees, unreliable service, or worse—outright scams. Always compare quotes from multiple companies, and don’t just look at the price. Consider the company’s reliability, customer reviews, and overall service quality to avoid costly surprises later.

2. No Written Contract
A verbal agreement won’t cut it when it comes to transporting your car. Reputable companies will provide a detailed contract that clearly outlines the terms, costs, and conditions of the service. If a company hesitates or refuses to put the agreement in writing, consider it a serious red flag. A written contract protects both you and the company, ensuring accountability and clarity throughout the process.

3. Lack of Transparency
Trustworthy transport companies are always transparent about their credentials. They’ll provide licensing, insurance coverage, and any other necessary information without hesitation. If a company dodges these questions or gives vague answers, it’s time to move on. Transparency is non-negotiable when trusting someone with your vehicle.

Conclusion

Before making a final choice, it's imperative to make an appropriate and comparative analysis. Using these steps will allow you to ensure that your vehicle is safe, transported promptly, and the experience is hassle-free.