FAQs on Auto Transportation

If you have never had a vehicle transported to a new location before, chances are you have several concerns. After all, you are entrusting, something that is often a big investment, into the hands of someone else. And, even if you have done your homework and found a company that you believe will be capable of doing a great job that may not mean that you are question-free about the procedure-especially if it is the first time you are using such a service.
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding auto transportation:
1. What kind of truck will my vehicle be moved on? Most auto transporters use either open or closed transport vehicles. If your vehicle is a collector’s item, cost over 250K or perhaps has sentimental value, you will want to use the closed transportation option; however, this does cost more than the open auto transportation vehicles. Of course, if you will be moving overseas, then boats are often used to transport the vehicles.
2. How much advanced noticed does an auto transportation company need? If you plan on shipping your automobiles via a transportation service, try to give the company as much notice as possible, with a minimum of 2 weeks from pick-up date. Ideally, you want to give them as much time as possible, as many auto transporter companies have to hire secondary companies to do the actual transportation. The more time they have to secure the best price, the less it can cost.
3. How long does it take to transport a vehicle from point A to point B? There are several variables that can affect this: number of miles to be covered, how many vehicles are on the vehicle transporter and how many delivery stops there are along the way. However, it is safe to say, that for an East Coast to West Coast move, one should allow 7 to 14 days; a move along the coast line (either East or West) will typically take 3 to 5 days, and a move to or from the Midwest to either coast will take 4 to 8 days. You should also remember that during peak times like during the summer months or "snowbird" season that it might take a bit longer.
4. Are there any other reasons that might affect delivery? Yes. Delivery time is affected by the route taken (remember, not every road is able to be travelled by transport vehicle), weather and road conditions, if there are additional pick-ups or drops offs, and even driver illness.
5. What is door to door auto transportation service? This is when the auto transportation service is able to deliver directly to your home. This form of delivery is dependent on city ordinances and restrictions. In many cases you will need to plan to pick up your vehicle at a pre-arranged pick-up location. Make sure that when you select an auto-transportation company that the pick-up location is as close to your home as possible, so that it is easier to collect your vehicle.
6. Can personal items be put into the vehicles? Unless you have a floater on your home insurance policy, this is not highly recommended as the auto transporter is not licensed for household goods.
Hiring an auto transportation company is one of the simplest ways to move your vehicles without needing to have an entourage to go with you to your new home. Their trained drivers will take care of your vehicle so that when you get to your new home, you can begin traveling the area with a vehicle you are comfortable with.