Car Transportation in Thornton IA

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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 Thornton, IA.

The auto transport market offers a convenient way to move your autos across long distances for a relatively cheap rate. Instead of transferring their vehicles long ranges on their own, people employ auto transporters to safely transfer their vehicles at an inexpensive price and in a secure environment. If you’re not familiar with the auto carriers in Thornton, then the process might seem overwhelming at first. In this article we’ll review the alternatives and information that will help prepare you find the ideal auto transport carrier in Thornton. Most car haulers will carry anywhere in America, from Alaska to Hawaii, and offer a variety of carrier alternatives. These possibilities may include enclosed or open transport, where you can choose to have your car moved under the protection of an enclosure. There is also a distinction between auto transport brokers and carriers, which we’ll discuss below.

Thornton Auto Brokers vs. Car Carriers

First of all, every customer should understand what it means to be an auto transport broker versus a carrier. Prior to choosing between an auto broker and an auto transport company in Thornton it’s important to have a good understanding of the variations between the two, as well as how the industry works. If you’ve never used an auto shipping service before, the procedure might seem tricky, but in this article we’ll give you all the details you need to make an educated decision.

How do Auto Transport Brokers Work?

Auto transport brokers don’t have their own transport carriers and usually are not the companies that will transport vehicles. A broker acts as an intermediary who will find the best auto carrier based upon 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 provide the customer more possibilities and a far better chance to find the best one for them. If you work directly with an auto transport carrier, they may not currently have the required equipment when you need it, or may not have licensing in all the states required to move your vehicle where it needs to go. In short, a broker does the job of contacting carriers in order to locate the one who offers the best rates and proper service, which means you might get a much better rate since it will increase competition.

Finding the Best Auto Hauler

An auto carrier, as opposed to a broker, is the individual or company that owns the moving trucks and will be responsible for shipping your motor vehicle. Working directly with a car carrier will not require a broker, but it may be difficult to find the best carrier since many of them depend on brokers to connect them with customers. A consumer would be responsible for locating and dealing with the Thornton auto transporter, or several of them if you are shopping around. A broker will not be required in this case, but you may find your choices constrained. It’s important to keep in mind that some carriers may not be able to transport a motor vehicle since licensing and legal requirements differ 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.

Things to Consider Before Transporting Your Car

Take any personal items out of your car.

No auto shipper is permitted to transfer any object that would be classified as “household goods”, as per Department of Transportation Code. This means auto transport in Thornton will not be allowed to send vehicles with your personal goods inside of them. This includes things like GPS systems, DVD players, CDs or other third-party goods that you have put in your vehicle.

Do not ship your car with a full tank of gas.

When using a Thornton auto transport company you should keep an eye on your gas gauge prior to the time of shipping. Just to be safe, make sure your gas level isn’t too low and leave only about a quarter of a tank in your vehicle. The car will need to be driven briefly so that it can be loaded on and off the auto shipping truck. Alternatively, you don’t want to ship your car with a full tank of gas either. A car with a full tank of gas will weigh substantially more than one with simply a quarter tank full, which could present difficulties with the auto transport process.

Before shipping your car, look at it for damages.

When using a Thornton car hauler you should always perform a quick assessment of your vehicle’s condition before it gets loaded on the trailer. A simple way to do this is by washing your car off and making sure there’s no dirt left on it so that way it’s much easier to recognize dents and dings. This will guarantee you are aware of any existing damages and can accurately determine if any new damage happened during the shipping process. Record any damages by taking photos with your phone or camera, that way you also have proof of your vehicle’s condition ahead of transporting it.

Find out what’s in your Bill of Lading.

The customer will be provided with what’s called a “Bill of Lading” once your Thornton auto transport gets there to pick up your car. This document is an acknowledgment form that attests the auto carrier is picking up your car for transport. The Bill of Lading also records any damage that was already present on your vehicle. Both the car’s owner and the driver of the auto transport truck should do a walk-around of the car and come to an agreement on any damage that is already present. In this case, both parties can come to an agreement on the condition of your vehicle prior to it being shipped, which will help prevent mistakes from happening when it’s delivered. When your motor vehicle arrives 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.

Understanding insurance liabilities when transporting your car.

It’s a good idea to ask your auto hauler about their company’s liability insurance coverage in the event your vehicle is damaged during the shipping process. Your chosen Thornton car hauler should have insurance included in the cost of transporting your vehicle that covers damages. The total insurance coverage typically ranges between ,000 and 0,000. Each auto hauler normally uses a third-party insurance company that handles the liabilities on their end. Also, you can check with your own insurance policy to see if it covers damages that can take place during the shipping process.

Finding the Best Auto Carrier in Thornton for Your Needs

It’s usually a good idea to do a bit of research on any organization that you’re doing business with before making a commitment. There are loads of auto transporters in Thornton to choose from, so how do you know which one is the best? First, you can obtain the company’s MC number or USDOT number. The auto carrier should always be licensed, bonded and insured. By getting these numbers you’ll be able to look up the auto hauler on the Better Business Bureau’s website to find out more details about them. Finally, review the terms and conditions of the auto transport services you’re getting and it’s also a good idea to do a bit of research on the auto transport process in general. This way you’ll have a basic knowledge about how auto transporting works.

Knowing the Difference Between Enclosed Transport and Open Transport Solutions in Thornton

An open auto transport carrier is open to the weather and elements, just as your car would be if you were driving it down the highway yourself. If using an open carrier then you could expect direct exposure to the elements and weather conditions throughout the areas it’s moving through. If you’re shipping a custom, classic or collector’s vehicle, then you may want to opt for an enclosed auto carrier. It is the reverse of an open car carrier shipping service. An enclosed carrier is just as it sounds, which means your vehicle will moved in an enclosed environment and safe from the open air. Enclosed carriers usually can only carry a few vehicles at the same. In most cases up to five cars.

Choosing The Perfect Auto Transport Service in Thornton

In order to choose the right auto transport method for your vehicle, take into account how much security your vehicle will require. If it is an antique or collector’s car, you’ll likely 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 requirements just fine. A good game plan is to get multiple quotes from car shipping carriers or brokers, that way you know you’re receiving the most equitable rates. Merely put a little time towards studying the auto shipping process and the car carrier in Thornton that you’re preparing to do business with, that way you know all your bases are covered.