Vehicle Transportation in Clifton IL
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Shipping a motor vehicle is not a really challenging process, although it may seem that way from the outside, especially if you’ve hardly ever done it before. In order to transport a car, truck or motorcycle it’s actually just a matter of having the proper information and getting in touch with the right Clifton auto transport service to handle the job. Often times when you reach out to a transportation company you’ll be speaking with what’s called an auto transport broker, instead of the transporter themselves. They both provide the same solutions, which is to facilitate the moving of your vehicle, but a broker simply arranges the transport while a carrier essentially supplies the transportation. No matter where in the country you’re shipping your motor vehicle, the process is fundamentally the same. The main data you’ll need prior to transport is your vehicle’s make, model and year. You should also plan ahead if you have a rigid timeframe you need your vehicle shipped in or a certain date it has to arrive by. Initially, as a client you should know the difference between an auto carrier broker and the actual shipping firm that owns the trucks.
Clifton Auto Brokers vs. Car Carriers
When in search of car transport and car shipping companies in Clifton, there are basically two different options you can choose to book with: a broker, and a carrier. In short, an auto shipping broker reaches out to car haulers who will actually perform the moving of your vehicle. A broker will find trucking companies in your area to pick up and deliver your vehicle. An auto shipping carrier is basically the person or company that owns the truck which will pick up and deliver your car.
What Does an Auto Broker Do?
Auto transport brokers don’t have their own transport carriers and typically are not the companies that will transport vehicles. A broker acts as an intermediary who will find the best auto carrier depending on routes, your location and the type of service you require. Brokers already have an established network of shippers who have routes that run all over the country, which will offer the customer more possibilities and a far better chance to find the best one for them. Dealing with a single carrier means they may not run the route you require, have the necessary equipment or the suitable licensing to transport through the states required to get your vehicle where it needs to go. Essentially, a broker does the leg work of acquiring a carrier that meets these conditions and can sometimes get a more competitive rate by creating competition between carriers on behalf of the shipper.
How to Find an Auto Transport Carrier in Clifton
An auto carrier, as opposed to a broker, is the individual or firm that owns the moving trucks and will be responsible for transporting your motor vehicle. Dealing directly with a car carrier will not require a broker, but it may be difficult to find the best carrier since many of them count on brokers to connect them with customers. The customer will be responsible for choosing a company that handles auto transport in Clifton, either a single one or several if you are shopping around for the best price. A broker will not be necessary in this case, but you may find your choices limited. It’s significant to keep in mind that some carriers may not be able to transport a vehicle since licensing and legal requirements vary from state to state. A carrier can be a one-man company with one or two trucks, or a big auto transport company with many trucks.
Steps to Take Before Transporting Your Car
Ensure all personal items are removed from your vehicle.
Each and every Clifton auto carrier is prohibited from transporting anything that would be regarded as a “household item” due to restrictions from the Department of Transportation. This means you should get rid of anything that would be considered a “household good” from your vehicle before it is picked up by an auto transport service. For instance, car seats, umbrellas and clothing should be removed from your vehicle before it’s loaded onto the trailer.
Only leave about a quarter of tank of gas in your car.
Even though your vehicle will not be driven much during the shipping process, it may be needed during the loading and unloading process. Also, your vehicle may be placed at an angle on top of an auto carrier, meaning gasoline could move from one side of the gas tank to another, and if the gas level is too low it might not be able to start. Make sure to not have a full gas tank, however, as it can add substantial weight to your vehicle which could result in shipping difficulties.
Take photos of any existing damages on your car.
It’s a good idea to wash your car prior to shipping and make sure there is no dust or mud stuck on it. This will allow you to plainly see if there are any dents, dings or scratches that are already present on your vehicle’s body, which means you won’t mistakenly believe the damage took place during shipping. It’s simple to document them by taking photos, which will also prove the condition of your motor vehicle in the case that damage does occur during the shipping process.
Find out what’s in your Bill of Lading.
Once your Clifton auto transporter arrives to pick up your car, both you and the driver will do an evaluation to determine the condition of your vehicle. This inspection will document any current damages on your vehicle, which typically includes scratches, dents and dings. When you’re satisfied with the evaluation, you’ll be presented with what’s called a Bill of Lading. The document will confirm auto carrier is taking your vehicle for transport. It also confirms the condition of your vehicle, so both the customer and auto transporter can agree on any existing damage. When the car arrives at its intended location, the customer will be presented with another Bill of Lading. This will confirm that the vehicle has been delivered and will allow the customer to inspect that vehicle again to determine if any new damage has occurred. So this process basically protects both the customer and the auto carrier so that there will be no misunderstandings upon delivery.
Review your insurance coverage opportunities.
Each time you do business with a Clifton auto hauler you should check to make certain they have their own liability insurance. Your selected auto transport service should already have liability insurance built into their services and their costs. The typical liability coverage ranges between ,000 and 0,000 in coverage, which would be enough for the vast majority of problems that could come up. This coverage is usually provided by a third-party insurer employed by the auto transport service.
Make Certain You Select the Perfect Car Shipping Business in Clifton
There are a couple of ways you can make sure that you’re receiving the best service from the auto carrier in Clifton that you’ve chosen. Customers should only do business with transporters who are licensed, bonded and insured. Another way to verify their service record is by obtaining their MC number or USDOT and doing a lookup with the Better Business Bureau. Also, take the time to review the terms and conditions so that you’re acquainted with how the service works. Lastly, you can check out third-party reviews online and find out what past consumers are stating about the auto haulers services.
Distinction Between Clifton Auto Transports and Enclosed Vehicle Carriers
Most people think the open transport auto carrier alternative is the constantly the cheapest. You could compare this option to flying economy class on an airplane as opposed to first class. It’s the most well-known way for people to take a flight. The same can be said about open transport. Over 4,000 open auto carriers ship cars throughout the country. Even car dealerships contract a transport company to send a car the most cost effective way possible. Shipping your vehicle by using an open carrier is the most inexpensive way of transportation, rather than using a single flatbed truck only relocating one car or truck at a time.
Get the Most Out of Your Auto Transport Provider
In order to choose the right auto transport method for your vehicle, consider how much protection your car will require. If it is an antique or collector’s car, you’ll perhaps want to err on the side of caution and utilize a fully-enclosed trailer to move your vehicle. On the other hand, if you have an average or older model vehicle, then an open-air trailer should suit your demands just fine. A good game plan is to get various quotes from car shipping carriers or brokers, that way you know you’re getting the most equitable rates. Simply put a little time towards researching the auto shipping process and the car carrier in Clifton that you’re planning to do business with, that way you know all your bases are covered.