Transporting a car, especially across long distances, requires careful planning and choosing the right company. Many individuals discover that the car transport industry often involves brokerage firms acting as intermediaries. These brokers advertise widely but don’t directly handle the transport. Instead, they gather your requirements – such as the route and preference for enclosed trailers, ideally single or two-car carriers to avoid double-deckers – and then post these details to a network of independent transport operators who bid for the job. This means the initial quote you receive might not be the final price; it depends on the bids from these operators.
Once a broker confirms an operator and provides a quote, it’s crucial to verify their insurance coverage before signing any contract. A significant point to check is whether the insurance policy includes or excludes “Acts of God.” Many policies have exclusions for events outside the driver’s control, like flooding. If “Acts of God” are excluded, you might need to rely on your own car insurance, but even then, coverage may be denied if your vehicle is in someone else’s care. It’s wise to confirm with your insurer beforehand.
For specific needs, like enclosed transport and guaranteed insurance coverage without exclusions, finding a suitable carrier can take time. In one instance, securing transport with these conditions took over three weeks, opting for a smaller, two-car carrier to ensure greater care. While this approach might be slightly more expensive, it can be worth it for peace of mind. In this case, the vehicle arrived in excellent condition and within a day of the estimated timeframe.
Finally, remember essential preparation steps. Always wash your car and thoroughly document its condition with photos, both inside and out, before it’s loaded for transport. This documentation serves as a crucial record.
