To ensure that your auto shipping goes smoothly it is vital that you do your homework. Take some time and find out about any companies you are considering using. Find out their shipping policies, find out what your total costs will be plus any potential extra fees, take out all of your personal possessions so you do not have to worry about theft or damage and ask about the vehicle transportation company’s refund policies. If you do these things you are likely to have a smooth auto shipping experience and will not have to worry about surprise fees, late arrivals or a damaged vehicle.

Do Your Research: Before you settle on a vehicle transportation company, it is important for you to do your research. This involves determining if the company is legitimate, if they are reliable, experienced and capable.

Find out the Shipping Policies: Determine right away the shipping policies of the car transport company. Some companies charge by the weigh of the vehicle, while others will charge based on mileage. Find out which way is cheaper and then hire the company that will save you the most money.

Find out the Price Upfront plus Any Other Potential Fees: It is very important that you know exactly how much you will be charged upfront. Also ask about any other potential fees. You will want this information before your car is picked up because finding out that you owe more then you budgeted for after the car shipping company has your car in their possession will likely result in a fight, with you on the losing end. Therefore, have in writing, the shipping price before you ship your car.

Take Out All Your Personal Possessions: Car carriers will not ship your car with any of your personal possessions inside. This is against the Department of Transportation regulations for care carriers. Your possessions will also not be covered by the carrier’s insurance. Therefore, if someone is stolen, lost or damaged, you have no recourse. Vehicle transportation companies also have weight limits and if they go over they can not get on the road. Having personal possessions in the car can cause car carriers to be over their cargo weight restrictions.

Determine If They Deliver Door-to-Door: Some companies will deliver door-to-door while others will not. Instead, they will ask you to meet them in a parking lot. Often times the reasons that auto transportation companies will not deliver door-to-door is simply due to access. If you live in a place that makes it hard for substantial sized vehicles then they will not be able to deliver to you directly.

Find out Their Refund Policies: Before you hand over any money, make sure that you understand the refund policies. Some companies will refund your money if you have scheduled a pick up and shipment and then cancel. Other companies may refund your money if they don’t deliver your car in time. Be sure that you know and understand these policies before you make payment.