Getting Ready To Ship A Vehicle? 4 Things You Need To Do
If you are moving across the country, you may not want to drive your vehicles across the country as well. That takes a lot of work and will put a lot of miles on your ride as well. That is why when you are moving across the country, working with an automobile transportation service makes a lot of sense. When working with an automobile transport company, there are a few things you need to know.
Use a Registered Company
First, when you are looking for an automobile shipping service to work with, you will want to ensure they are registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Legally, all automobile shipping services have to register with DOT. As such, they should be able to provide you with their DOT number. If you are shipping your vehicle across state lines, they should also be able to provide you with their motor carrier number. You can verify these numbers with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Always work with shipping companies that are doing things above-board.
Always Get Things in Writing
When preparing to ship your car a long distance, it is important to get everything in writing. Getting everything in writing will ensure that you understand everything that you are being charged and that there are not any charges that you were not expecting.
Your written quote should include information such as the services that they will render. Common services include things such as loading, crating, and fumigation. The quote should consist of the origin where you drop off your vehicle and the destination. It should also include insurance details.
When you sign the contract, it should be on the company letterhead and should be signed with someone with authority at the company.
Be Sure to Get a Bill of Loading
Finally, when you drop off your vehicle, don't leave until you have a bill of loading (BoL). A bill of loading is a document provided by the company transporting your vehicle. It will state that they have received your car and the date and time they received it. It should also include the business name, state the contract terms again, and include a detailed description of your vehicle, including its current condition. If your car is damaged at all during the transportation process, you will need a BoL to file with the insurance to get reimbursed for damage.
When shipping a vehicle long distance, use a registered company, get a detailed quote and contract, and don't leave your vehicle when you drop it off until you have a bill of loading. Contact a company that offers automobile shipping services to learn more.
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