Vehicle Shipping in Richmond IN

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Unlike other vehicle shipping companies in Richmond, we never charge hidden fees. Our pricing includes everything that you will need to transport your vehicle from point A to point B – all at extremely competitive rates.

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Don’t settle for slow response or late deliveries. For over 10 years we have shipped vehicles on time, when and where our customers need them. Call today to see why we’re the best budget auto transport company in Richmond, IN.

What is involved in transferring your vehicle from one place to another by using an auto transport business in Richmond? In fact, auto shipping consists of a car carrier company relocating the vehicle from one place to another for a consumer. This process can be taken care of by using an open carrier, which is the most frequent option you’ll see on the road, or an enclosed transport where your vehicle would not be subjected to the outdoors. Usually, an open carrier is used to transport most vehicles unless they are expensive or collector’s vehicles. However, first you should understand the distinction between an auto transport broker and an auto carrier. In short, brokers assist in the shipping process by connecting customers with carriers, while the carrier actually performs the job. Below, we’ll review the distinction between a broker and carrier, as well as other strategies that will help you make the best auto transport choice.

Richmond Auto Brokers and Their Role in Auto Transport

Chances are if you’ve never used an auto transporter in Richmond, then you might be unaware of the difference between an auto shipping broker and carrier. Basically, using either service will have the same end result, transporting your vehicle from one place to another, but it’s always a good idea to have a fundamental understanding of the two before making a final choice on which provider to do business with.

What Does an Auto Broker Do?

An auto transport broker is simply the professional chosen by you, the shipper, who aids in the process of procuring an auto transport company in Richmond. This means the customer, or shipper, does not actually deal directly with the auto carrier who will be in charge of picking up and delivering your vehicle. The auto transport broker acts as a liaison between the shipper and carrier, which means they can shop around to find the most reliable shipping option for their customers. They will take into account price and how close the auto carrier is to your location, which can end up expediting the shipping process. The broker will be in contact with you, the consumer, throughout the entire shipping progression until your vehicle is delivered at its ultimate location.

What Is An Auto Transport Carrier?

An auto transport carrier is the firm that owns the trucks and employs the movers that do the work of transporting a motor vehicle. Working directly with a car carrier will not require a broker, but it may be challenging to find the best carrier since many of them rely on brokers to connect them with customers. The client will be accountable for choosing a company that handles auto transport in Richmond, either a single one or several if you are shopping around for the very best price. A broker will not be essential in this case, but you may find your choices constrained. Not every auto shipper will necessarily be able to handle your auto transport needs, as they require licensing to travel through each state and may not be able to achieve your destination depending on the states they must go through. Auto carriers can range anywhere from a one person operation to a company with multiple drivers and a fleet of auto shipping trucks.

Steps to Take Before Transporting Your Vehicle

Secure your personal items outside your car.

You might not be aware of this, but there is actually a Department of Transportation Code that prohibits car haulers in Richmond from transporting vehicles with personal belongings in them. Items that should be removed from your vehicle prior to shipment include things like car seats, external GPS systems and clothing. Make sure to do a swift inspection of the inside of your vehicle before it gets loaded onto a trailer.

Leave your gas tank a quarter of the ways full.

Prior to your vehicle gets loaded up with a Richmond auto hauler you should look at your gas level to make sure you have around a quarter tank of fuel. Some fuel is required to start your vehicle and drive it so that it can be loaded and unloaded from the auto shipping trailer properly. However, you won’t want to leave more than a quarter of a tank or a full tank of gas in your vehicle because of the added weight it adds.

Take pictures of any existing damages on your car.

It’s a good plan to wash your car prior to shipping and make sure there is no dirt 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 incorrectly believe the damage took place during shipping. It’s effortless 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 transporting process.

Find out what’s in your Bill of Lading.

You will be given a Bill of Lading when your chosen Richmond auto transport arrives and starts the process of loading your car on their truck. This document is an acknowledgment form that proves the auto carrier is picking up your vehicle for transport. The Bill of Lading also records any damage that was already existing on your vehicle. The car owner and customer can do an inspection together so that they agree on the car’s existing condition. This way, both parties recognize existing damage and can compare that report to a subsequent examination after the vehicle is delivered to its final destination. When your current vehicle shows up at its new location, the customer will be presented with another Bill of Lading confirming the delivery and turning over the car back to the owner.

Confirm your insurance coverage.

Although the Richmond auto hauler should have liability insurance built into their services, it’s a good idea to check with your own insurance company as well to see if they would include any damage that occurs as a result of moving your vehicle. Your selected auto transport service should already have liability insurance built into their services and their prices. The typical liability coverage ranges between ,000 and 0,000 in coverage, which would be sufficient for the vast majority of problems that could come up. This insurance coverage is usually provided by a third-party insurer employed by the auto transport service.

Ensure You Choose the Correct Car Shipping Supplier in Richmond

To make certain you’re getting the best car shipping service in Richmond there are a few details you should collect regarding your auto transport company. Consumers should only do business with transporters who are licensed, bonded and insured. You can also acquire their MC number or USDOT number to check their reports with the BBB (Better Business Bureau). Also, take the time to review the terms and conditions so that you’re familiar with how the service works. It’s also a good idea to read any third-party reviews of the company to see what past customers are saying.

Main difference Between Open Transport & Enclosed Carriers in Richmond

Generally, shipping a vehicle via open transport will save you the most money. There are more carriers of this type than an enclosed version, and you’ve probably seen them many times on the highway. The variety of these carriers and their popularity helps contribute to the affordable price tag. In general, this will be the most cost-effective method of transporting your vehicle. Auto carriers travel consistent routes and will transport up to 10 other vehicles along with yours to maintain effectiveness. This decreases the cost of shipping as it is divided by the all the vehicles onboard.

Get the Most Out of Your Auto Transport Provider

Always take into account how much safety and security your vehicle or vehicles will need during the transport process. Using an open transport is suitable, and almost always less costly, if you’re shipping a standard vehicle that would commonly be exposed to the outdoors on a daily basis anyways. Antique, classic cars and collector’s motor vehicles that are specifically kept in protected conditions would benefit the most from an enclosed shipping option. When first exploring auto transport companies in Richmond you should get a few quotes on the price of the transport. However, the lowest price it not necessarily the ideal choice for every scenario. Do a little bit of analysis on the company you’re thinking of going with and on the auto transport industry in general. When you ultimately make your decision, you’ll be comfortable that your vehicle is being transported properly and securely to its final destination.