How to Ship a Classic Car
Shipping a vehicle is complicated, and if you’re like most car enthusiasts, you want to ensure your vehicle will be handled with the utmost care throughout the entire process. Unfortunately, many people believe that the costs of shipping a vehicle are not justified, as it can be a pricey endeavor. Fortunately, there are ways to transport your classic car, without breaking the bank, while still maintaining the safest shipping process possible. Using the following basic steps of procedure, you can have your VW, or any other type of vehicle, transported with you to your final destination.
Do Your Research
You wouldn’t buy the first house you walked into, and likewise, should not sign up with the first auto transport company you contact. Spend a reasonable amount of time gathering information about the options available, before even making the first call for a quote. The Better Business Bureau is an invaluable resource when doing your research as it gives a great snapshot of each company’s history. Review websites, such as Yelp, can also help give you an idea of different individuals’ experiences.
• Pro-tip: Keep in mind that people tend to document negative experiences over positive ones, so take certain reviews with a grain of salt if they appear to be very different from the vast majority.
Determine Priorities
Do you want an open or closed container for your vehicle? Do you have a specific time frame in mind during which you need to receive your vehicle? What is your budget limitation?
If you are nervous about cosmetic damages, and do not have any budget limitations, then an individual closed container will be the best option. If you want to guarantee certain dates of delivery or need it picked up ASAP, expect to pay additional for these requests. If you just want your car to make it from point A to point B in the same condition, then you should be fine with an open carrier. Once you have made a list of your specific requirements, it is time to start collecting quotes.
Use Best Judgement
If you have a friend or family member you trust, who has previously shipped a vehicle, then that is a great place to ask for a referral. However, many people do not have this particular resource and are forced to pick a company sight unseen. Pay attention to the professionalism of the company; is the agent pushy? Do they sound competent? If you think there are red flags, then move on to the next option. Remember that this is the company tasked with moving your vehicle great distances, and you want to feel very comfortable allowing them to take care of your most prized possession.
Avoid Rookie Mistakes
Finally, it is very important that you don’t make any rookie mistakes.
• Don’t pay for the cost of transport up front. Too many people are swindled by companies or individuals who never pick up the vehicle after taking all of the transport payment.
• Don’t attempt to drive a classic car across country. Often people think that the costs associated with shipping a vehicle cannot be justified if their car is in working order. Unfortunately, this is just not the case. The wear and tear on your vehicle is irreversible, and the costs of repair along the way, or the dangers of a car accident are far too costly to risk.
• Don’t pay for a quote. All companies should offer free transport quotes, and if they don’t, end contact immediately. That initial investment will allow many shady companies to pressure you into booking with them, even if the quote doesn’t seem fair.
For many, your vehicle is your most valuable possession, and it warrants great care during transport. Pick a company that customizes a shipping package based on you and your car’s specific needs, meets all your requirements, and offers a guarantee of quality service. In an industry, unfortunately riddled with less than ethical companies, it’s important to find one that meets and exceeds your needs. 

 

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List of Auto Shipping Companies to contact:

Auto Transport

(562) 294-3433