When it comes to international car shipping, unfortunately, many people choose international companies with blind folds on.  Like children playing with a piñata, when all the candy falls out, they grab the first piece of candy that falls to the ground. 

When googling for a car transporter, don’t chose the first company that pops up in your Google search engine …just because a car shipping company has high rankings in the search engines doesn’t mean that it offers quality service.   

A great way to rate an International car shipping company’s service is by reading the company reviews online.  Another great way to find out if a company is up to par is by asking the international shipping company for references from previous customers. 

Before explaining what door-to-door shipping is, let me explain what door-to-door shipping is not. Door-to-door shipping is not delivering your 2007 Honda Civic Sedan directly in front of your house on your newly paved wrap around driveway.    A truck driver needs adequate space in order to maneuver his truck.  If you live in an area with a lot of trees or very narrow streets, the truck driver will have to deliver your car at a nearby location.  

Many car shipping companies will tell you in advance if they will be unable to deliver directly in front of your house or apartment building, especially if they have delivered in your area in the past.  But if this is not the case and it is the first time that they’re delivering in your area, you will be notified by the carrier if they are not able to deliver your vehicle directly in front of your home.    

Tip: If you live in a residential area that doesn’t allow truck access, you may have to consider having your car delivered at a near by vacant parking area.  

If you are shipping your car on an open carrier during the week of Halloween, you will want to have adequate coverage because your car could get “egged” during transport.  If you’ve never experienced getting egged before, it can actually chip your paint.  So, make sure that the auto transport company you choose offers a full coverage insurance policy in case of any damages to your car.

On the day of delivery, if your car is damaged, you can feel confident about being covered because you have adequate insurance coverage. Your car shipping company should not have a problem reimbursing you for damages. But if they should happen to refuse reimbursement, you can simply file a report with the BBB.

Tip: On the day of pick-up, make sure that you receive a copy of your vehicle’s inspection report.  This report will state the condition of your vehicle such as current damages to your car such as nicks and scratches. You will want to keep this report with you for the day that your car is delivered. Also, make sure you thoroughly inspect your vehicle.

The car shipping carrier that you are hiring to ship your vehicle may be the most reliable car shipping company on the planet.  They may claim to hire the safest drivers and vehicle transport carriers …but having good reviews is not enough to keep your vehicle safe from damage during shipping. 

If you think that buying additional insurance from your car shipping company is a waste of money—think again.  You could be taking a huge risk for not having car carrier insurance.  Your current auto insurance policy will more than likely not cover you for damages during auto transport. 

Tip: When you are shopping around for the best car shipping quotes, don’t forget to ask for the company’s carrier insurance rates.  Investing in car carrier insurance will save you money if your car is damaged during transport.

A few blog posts ago, we mentioned that when shipping your vehicle, you should contact your car shipping company way in advance. But sometimes, you have no other choice than ship your vehicle at the very last minute.  That’s why many car shipping companies offer expedited car shipping services.

How will your car be shipped?

For fast delivery, your vehicle will be pick-up at your home or office and delivered by a car transport carrier right away. Keep in mind that car shipping companies charge additional fees for guarantee delivery of your car.  Even though you are getting your car shipped last minute, make sure that you follow the steps to prepare your car for delivery.

Tip: Contact your car shipper for a free quote. Many car shipping companies offer great rates for expedited services.