The interstate car transport service is a convenient way to move vehicles from one state to another. The process includes picking up the vehicle, preparing it for transport, shipping it, and finally dropping it off at its destination.
This guide will provide information on the entire process.
Step 1: Prepare your vehicle for transport.
Before being picked up for transport, your car must be prepared.
Many shippers require that you disconnect the battery and remove the key from the car before shipping. This is to prevent damage from electrical shorts or theft of components such as radios and tape decks during shipment.
To provide better protection against theft and vandalism, many shippers recommend removing all personal items from the vehicle before shipment.
Step 2: Picking up your car.
When you're ready to move your car, contact a shipper and tell them when they can pick up the vehicle.
Shippers often require that someone be present when the vehicle is loaded onto the truck so make sure this is possible before you schedule the pick-up.
The shipper will provide you with specific details regarding your pick-up, such as where to leave the car and what time to expect them.
Step 3: Shipping your vehicle
After your vehicle has been picked up, it will be transported by truck to its destination.
If you are moving, this could be a different state, or it could simply be to another location in your current condition.
Typically the car will travel on an open carrier, which any roof or enclosure won't cover.
This allows other people to see your vehicle during transport and exposes it to weather conditions and possible theft.
You can purchase protection from the elements by purchasing a "trailer saver." This is an inexpensive insurance policy that covers your vehicle against weather-related damage, such as hail or falling tree branches.
Though rare, accidents do happen during transport, and it's also possible for another car to crash into your vehicle while it's being transported.
You can't do anything to prevent this from happening, but you can purchase an accident protection plan which covers any damage up to $1,000.00 regardless of what caused the damage or who is at fault for the accident.
Step 4: Dropping off your car
When your vehicle arrives at its new destination, it will be dropped off at the location you requested.
The shipper will provide you with all of the details regarding this drop-off, such as where it can be found and any fees that apply (if applicable).
It's important to note that some companies require a hard copy of your request for pick-up and delivery by mail, fax or email.
If you're going to be away from home for an extended period, make arrangements with someone to run your errands - they can take care of the shipping at your convenience.
Step 5: Complete your transaction
When your car has been delivered, the shipper will ask that you pay any fees which apply (if applicable) and sign on the dotted line to complete your transaction.
Remember that an oversize load fee often determines the shipping cost; this will be on top of the price you were quoted.
