Frequently Asked Questions
Will my vehicle be driven?
Your vehicle will be driven by the truck driver to get it on and off the transport truck. The odometer readings
should be noted at pickup and delivery of the vehicle. Any
discrepancies will be noted and signed off by the driver on the
delivery receipt.
How do I prepare my car for pickup?
Any loose parts or specialty items such as spoilers, fog lights, or mirrors should be removed or secured properly.
Antennas should be removed or lowered. There should be an adequate
supply of antifreeze in the radiator. The gasoline tank should only be
a quarter full. More gasoline in the tank only adds weight for
transport. Make sure the battery is secure, with no leaks and fluid
levels low enough to allow for expansion during transit. Any tears in
convertible tops should be sealed or repaired to avoid further damage
by air during transit. Alarm devices should be deactivated. Lastly,
make sure that the vehicle is clean enough to allow accurate inspection
at pickup.
Can I put items in the vehicle?
Auto shipping companies are not insured for household goods. The law specifically
forbids automobile movers from transporting anything except your
vehicle. The vehicle
transport truck is inspected by the Department of Transportation agents
and police at every state line and can be fined up to $10,000, if found
to be carrying household items. Under no circumstances may a vehicle
carry firearms, illegal substances, contraband, or hazardous materials.
The vehicle may be subject to impoundment, and in such an event, all
fines and expenses will be passed on to the owner of the vehicle.
Can I specify an exact time for delivery and/or pickup of my vehicle?
With advance notice, arrangements can be made for this service in most metropolitan areas.
Can I leave my vehicle somewhere?
Yes, providing we have a
terminal in the place of your choice. There is also an added fee for
this service. However, the use of terminals should only be a last
resort because of excessive handling of your vehicle. We prefer that
you personally release the vehicle to the actual transport driver.
Do I have to be present when you pickup and/or deliver my vehicle?
You or your designated representative must be present to sign the
release form upon pickup, and to accept the vehicle upon delivery.
When can you pickup my vehicle?
In most cases, our car transport company can make arrangements for
pickup on your desired date. If not, a carrier will be assigned to make
the pickup normally within 2 or 3 days of your requested date.
How long does car transport take?
Transport time is a function of the distance between pickup and
delivery points. Each load can be
different, depending on the schedule of the individual carrier.
What does door to door service mean?
Door-to-Door means the driver will get as close to your home or
designated pickup point as he can safely and legally. Transport
trucks are BIG and need lots of room for maneuvering. If access to
your home is restricted by low-hanging trees, tight turns, narrow
streets, or speed bumps, the driver may ask that you meet him in a
nearby parking lot.
Is my vehicle covered by insurance?
By law, carriers have to carry a minimum of $1M worth of general liability coverage and cargo insurance. In addition, we
require that each independent contractor’s insurance agency furnish us with a certificate of insurance naming Vehicle Transport Experts, LLC as an additional insured
or certificate holder. This certificate comes directly from the
insurance agent’s office and not from the independent contractor.
Accordingly, your vehicle will be insured against in-transit damage by
the transport carrier that we assign. Any insurance deductible is paid
by the independent contractor. Vehicle Transport Experts, LLC also carries an additional $2M contingent liability policy and cargo insurance for your added security.
What do I do if my vehicle is damaged?
Notify us as soon as the damage is discovered. We will make every
effort to resolve the issue. A thorough inspection must be performed at
the time of delivery. At that time, all damage claims should be noted
in the destination exception in order to be accepted as valid.
How can I check on the status of my transport?
We are available 24/7 to keep you abreast of your shipment location.
How do I pay, what forms of payment are accepted for car shipping?
For deposit or full payment, we accept VISA, Master Card,
Discover, American Express, electronic transfer, official checks, and money orders.
Company checks will be accepted from dealers and major corporations.
For balance due, the carrier will only accept cash, cashier’s check,
postal money order, credit card or official bank check.
