Shipping a vehicle is super handy if relocating, buying a car online, or if preparing for a long-distance movement. Despite this, the process has important steps that many customers miss. When you know the top mistakes to avoid in auto shipping, you can save time, prevent damage, avoid delays, and ensure your vehicle gets there safely.
We helped thousands of customers through the auto transport process at CarShippingCenter.com. We have learnt about the most common mistakes committed by vehicle owners and also how to avoid it. There are several characteristics that make for a smooth, predictable shipping experience, and we’ll walk you through each one.
Not Researching the Auto Transport Company Properly
Customers don’t make haste in choosing a gold or silver transport company. Though booking fast can be tempting, check the company.
What Causes This Error.
- Rush the process, customers.
- They pick the cheapest option.
- They won’t check their reviews and credential.
- They ignore licensing and insurance.
What should you do?
- Search for companies who are on FMCSA.
- Verify their MC and USDOT figures.
- Read real customer reviews.
- Inquire about insurance coverage.
- Make sure they have clear communication.
Opting for a trustworthy firm like CarShippingCenter.com reduces the chances of unexpected delays, hidden costs, or unwelcome surprises.
Failing to Accurately Describe the Vehicle
One of the biggest mistakes to make sure to avoid during auto shipping is providing incomplete or incorrect information. Carriers depend on your information to identify trailer space, weight distribution, and equipment needs.
Typical Mistakes Are
- Alterations are excluded
- Neglecting to mention large tires
- Omitting specifics such as roof racks or lift kits
- Stating incorrect size and weight
Importance of Accuracy
- Incorrect details may lead to pricing changes
- Carriers may refuse to pick up if the vehicle doesn´t fit
- It might slow down loading or scheduling
- Certain modifications require special trailers
Always provide the most accurate details possible to avoid last-minute issues.
Not Getting the Vehicle Ready Before Pickup.
A lot of customers think that the car needs no preparation because it’s only being transferred. Getting your car unprepared is a mistake that can be fatal.
Essential Preparation Steps:
- Wash the vehicle for clear inspection
- Remove all personal items
- Reduce fuel to 1/4 tank
- Check for leaks or mechanical issues
- Photograph the exterior and interior
- Ensure the battery is charged
Disable alarms
These steps keep you safe during inspections and let the driver load the car
Choosing a quotation based entirely on Price
While those cheap quotes may look attractive, they may actually have risks
- A low quote can often be a warning sign
- Inexpert carriers may be implied
- There may be fuel surcharges or hidden fees
- Dispatch delays can be caused by low-paying routes
Support for customers is usually restricted.
Carriers may cancel when higher-paying jobs become available
What You Should Seek Out Instead
Pricing that is clear
- Overview of breakdown of the charges
- Quotes that fall within the range defined by industry standards
- We charge a fair market price for car shipping services
- Not Knowing the Difference Between Open and Enclosed Transport
People often confuse open and enclosed carriers; and don’t know the difference.
Open Transport:
- Cost-effective
- Most common option
- Exposed to weather and debris
- Ideal for everyday vehicles
Enclosed Transport:
- Full protection
- Best for luxury, exotic, or classic cars
- Dearer
- Perfect for high-value vehicles
Going for the wrong choice can lead you to unsatisfied or damage to the vehicle.
Ignoring the seasonal factors and timing
One of the top mistakes to avoid in auto shipping is moving your vehicle without regard to seasonal demand.
Seasonal Factors That Impact Shipping
- Higher Prices During Summer
- Storms in winter delay
- Snowbird routes become full quickly
- Carrier availability is reduced during holidays
How To Not Make This Mistake
- Make sure you book early when things are busy
- Flexible pickup dates will help
- Please note that delivery may take longer in winter
- Efficient transport through good planning
Don’t Leave Personal Belongings in Vehicle
A lot of customers tend to overpack their car to save on moving costs.
The Reason it’s a Problem
- Adds to car mass
- Goes against FMCSA regulations
- Possible theft hazard
- May harm the insides
- Could result in extra charges
Transport companies do not cover personal goods, so by stripping the vehicle of your property – your items and the moving vehicle itself will be protected.
Not being Anti social while Pickup & delivery
Some customers think they don’t need to be present, making the inspection problematic.
Why Is Presence Important?
The Bill of Lading must be signed
- You receive an inspection report
- You check the condition of vehicle on delivery
- You guarantee that all instructions are clear
Appoint a trusted agent if you cannot attend
Bypass the Inspection Process
Not examining your vehicle while picking it up or delivering is among the biggest mistakes.
- On collection
- Verify prior damage
- Make sure to document it correctly
Make sure to check the Bill of Lading thoroughly.
At delivery
- Check the vehicle in the daylight
- Contrast with the main report
- Note down any new problems
- Review the condition before signing
It can be difficult to file a damage claim when inspections are skipped.
Why Select CarShippingCenter.com for Stress-Free Shipping Solutions?
CarShippingCenter.com has delivered thousands of shipments with years of experience to help customers avoid costly mistakes.
We Provide:
- Fully licensed and insured carriers
- Door-to-door transport
- Simple prices and no hidden fees
Inspected by professionals at pickup and delivery.
Immediate assistance
- We have enclosed and open carriers.
- Optimal management and pan-India reach.
- We treat your vehicle with utmost care from the very beginning till the end.
Conclusions: Avoid These Mistakes When You Ship Your Car.
By learning about the major mistakes to avoid in auto shipping, you can plan effectively, reduce the chances of losses and stressful deliveries. If you’re shipping a standard sedan, a luxury car, a truck, or an oversized vehicle, proper preparation along with the right company makes all the difference. CarShippingCenter.com will provide a team that is open, honest, reliable and focused on customer satisfaction.
