What Exactly Is Auto Shipping

Most everyone has a treasured vehicle to take care of so it will behave nicely on the road. We do everything we can to keep it looking good and running smoothly and reliably. There may come the necessity at some time to get our pampered pet to a faraway destination due to relocation or just plain moving away. You don’t need to worry, though, that you will be without transportation once you get there. Here is why.

What Does Auto Shipping Entail?

Basically and simply, it is a method of getting your car from where it is to where you want it to be without driving it yourself. Fortunately, there are many companies that offer the convenient service of doing just that. They have fleets of carriers in all shapes and sizes. One will surely fit your vehicle whether you are relocating domestically or internationally. You can also opt to have your vehicle delivered to your door. If you live in one of those rare municipalities that have a local auto shipping company, good for you. You can walk right in and arrange for shipping with a representative. This is probably not the case, however, there are numerous companies online that offer many services, such as flexible modes of shipping as well as flexible schedules. Most of these companies also pride themselves on their excellent customer service.

Two Types of Shipping Carriers

Whether you are transporting a recently purchased vehicle to your current location or are transporting your old friend to a new one, you will need to know what type of shipping carriers are available. There are two main types of carriers.

1. The open vehicle carrier is the most commonly seen and is a great option for most people. It will give your vehicle service at the most economical price. Remember though, that “open” is precisely what it is. You have often seen those huge trucks with their huge trailers rambling down the road with a load of 12 or– or more automobiles. One of those vehicles could be yours if you opt for this type of carrier. And, you can see that the disadvantages of this least expensive method is all those other vehicles which can cause yours harm, inclement weather conditions, flying debris, and theft, if not of your car itself, of the GPS, fancy stereo or other electronic gizmos that are dear to you. There is much less chance of any of this occurring if you go for option #2.

2. The enclosed vehicle carrier is, yup, enclosed. Your precious vehicle will be lovingly laid to rest in its own little bed for a safe journey to its destination without fear of debris, harm from other vehicles or theft. More attention and care will be lavished on it when loading and unloading. Of course, this being the real world, there are two distinct downsides to this mode. 1.) The cost can be from 25% to 100% more expensive than the open carrier mostly because considerably fewer vehicles can be carried at one time. 2.) There are only a few companies that have closed type carriers available in their fleets. Even finding an enclosed carrier can be very difficult and time consuming if not downright impossible.

Now that you know what auto shipping is, and what types are out there, it is time to do your research and figure which is best for you. Good luck!

Visit JMN Logistics for more information on Auto Shipping or follow JMN Logistics on Twitter.

Ensure Your Own Peace of Mind by Shipping Your Vehicle in One Piece

The last thing you want is to hastily trust your car to the first trucking company you come across, sign a contract on faith, have your car picked up already that day, and then, in Paris or Pompei, have the shipment delayed and finally the vehicle delivered with damage you can never prove wasn’t there in the first place.

Good companies might inform you on how best to submit your property for transportation themselves, but it is best to be self-informed, save time by preparing your car beforehand, and make sure the busy clerk doesn’t forget a point or two: the responsibility for any overlooked issues will rest wholly with the client.

When your car is concerned, it is better to be fastidious than a careless slacker: occurrences of scandalous customer service involving expensive cargo are not uncommon. Before admitting a company clerk to you car, inspect it yourself minutely, with particular attention to the motor: it is better to be fully aware of the motor’s condition before shipment, so that later you will not have to wrack you brains about a bunch of wires you never before noticed and suspect conspiracy unnecessarily.

It is better to remove any removable customized accessories, radios, alarms, mirrors, etc. Make sure not to leave in plain sight inside the car any precious or even not so precious objects which might invite a break-in (some people think nothing of breaking into a car to steal a false Zippo). Check the tires for air and wear. Any damage that remains unrepaired upon submission should be listed in the agreement and signed by both parties. A company official will likely want to check the car himself in your presence, but don’t be afraid to nag them with a host of small detail - good carrier companies will only be glad to oblige their customers and a display of vigilance might deter bad companies from carelessly handling your property.

Any reasonable person would be insane to pay all of the insurance policies insistently offered over the phone and by mail. While buying insurance against damage and theft from the company is a good idea.

Inquire beforehand if the company offers the insurance you prefer whether it’s primary or excess. The primary insurance policy will cover damages independently covered by your regular auto insurance. What your regular coverage insurance doesn’t cover your excess policy will. Be sure you know exactly what is and isn’t currently covered.

There are companies that specialize in shipping exotic vehicles. Their carriers are specially designed to handle antiques or classic cars. It is advisable to have an insurance contract which will cover everything that is dear to you about the unit.

Taking digitally-dated photos of your car prior to shipping is a good idea. Inspect the car with the truck driver and inspect the car for apparent damage immediately. This should be done in the presence of the driver or official at the destination. If any new objectionable damage is found a claim should be filed immediately.

Visit JMN Logistics for more information on Car Shipping or to get into auto shipping visit JMN Logistics at Car Haul Jobs.