How to Select an Auto Transportation Company

If you have ever moved to a new neighborhood, then you already know just how stressful that move can be. After all, there is the sorting through the items you have collected since moving into your current residence, then packing up the items you plan to take, the discarding of items you no longer want and then getting all the boxes, large appliances and furniture transported to your new home. Even if it is just a short distance away, the job can be completely overwhelming. However, if you will be making a long distance move, then there additional concerns involved. Perhaps one of the more challenging aspects involves getting all of your vehicles moved to the new location-preferably without having to either find someone to drive them or needing to put unnecessary mileage on the vehicles.
Thankfully, the task of finding someone to relocate your vehicles is not the daunting task, one might expect. Today there are many auto transportation companies to choose from. Consequently, you want to be sure that the auto transportation company you choose is all that you need it to be. Here are a few tips for ensuring that you aren’t taken for a ride.
· Get between 5 and 10 quotes from auto transportation companies. If you are doing this online, be sure that you enter all of the information correctly. As quotes are submitted, keep in mind that the lowest quotes may not be totally accurate as they often have hidden fees. In addition, these low-bidding companies are often middle-men who then have to locate a carrier to do the transporting. These carriers typically will only move on the highest bid. In addition, these lower quotes commonly expect an upfront deposit.
· Check out the companies through Angies List and the BBB or talk to other co-workers-especially those who relocated to your area.
· Be sure to read everything the company has to say about the move and make sure you understand. If you have questions, get them answered before you sign a contract!
· Make sure that the company is a member of the BBB, is bonded, licensed and insured.
· Write down the mileage on each of your vehicles before and after transport. Also, be sure that you have a copy of the inspection report for each vehicle. In the case of damage, it is your responsibility to make sure these reports are correct in order to collect reimbursement for damages.
· Inspect your vehicle and note any dings, dents or scratches before the trip. You may even wish to take pictures of the vehicles-both inside and out. This is the only way to prove your case in the event that there is a question at the end of the move. Keep these pictures, as well as the contract and the Vehicle Condition Report together and where you can easily find it.
· Do Not pay anything upfront! Payment with a reputable company will be made at the end of the trip.
· Read the contract carefully and be on the lookout for any hidden fees.

If you follow these tips then moving your vehicle, whether it’s just across the state or a long distance move from Boston to California, is an easily accomplished task. Yes, it may take a bit of time, but the peace of knowing that your vehicles will arrive where you need them is worth the time invested.