Auto Shipping in Petoskey MI

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Unlike other vehicle shipping companies in Petoskey, 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 Petoskey, MI.

Auto transport organizations exist for the sake of convenience. Rather than moving their vehicles long distances on their own, people hire auto transporters to safely relocate their vehicles at an inexpensive price and in a safe environment. However, if you’re not acquainted with the auto carrier practice, then the task of selecting the perfect hauler and options may seem challenging. In this article we’ll evaluate the options and facts that will help prepare you find the ideal auto transport carrier in Petoskey. Many car haulers will transport anywhere in America, from Alaska to Hawaii, and offer you a variety of carrier choices. Usually you’ll have the choice of whether to ship your car in an enclosed or open manner. But first, we’ll explain the difference between an auto transport broker and an actual carrier who moves the vehicles.

What is an Auto Broker in Petoskey?

Before selecting an car hauling service you should have a fundamental understanding of the industry and how it works. The process can be challenging if you don’t know where to start or where to get correct details. We’ll cover the basics of auto shipping as well as the role that car carriers and auto brokers play in providing clients with transport services.

How do Auto Transport Brokers Work?

An auto shipping broker is a service that will hook up customers to the most effective auto shipper for their needs. When you get in touch with a broker, they will handle the process of finding a carrier for your vehicle and getting it from one place to another. It’s significant to note, the broker does not actually own the trucks, but rather they have set up a network of carriers to connect customers with. After getting in contact with a broker, they will reach out to auto transporters in Petoskey who have the capacities to handle the customer’s shipping needs. After the job is passed on to the carrier, the broker will stay in contact with the customer until the vehicle is delivered. Basically, an auto transport broker acts as an intermediary between the customer and the auto transporters that can make contact with many providers in order to find the best service for the shipper.

How to Identify an Auto Transporter

When you work specifically with an auto transport supplier that usually means you will be interacting with the actual person or business that will be moving your motor vehicle. An auto carrier owns the trucks or trailers that are used to ship motor vehicles all over the country. Every car carrier in Petoskey must be licensed and insured, but it’s a good idea to do some research just to make sure. Most auto carriers serve a certain number of locations and routes that they can transport cars to. Many carriers basically rely on auto shipping brokers to connect them with the proper customers who will fit the routes they take, which means more efficient service. You’ll end up paying about the same price whether you go with a carrier or broker, however, as fees are based mainly on fuel rates at the time. There is competitiveness among auto carriers today and the majority of auto carriers offer a number of promotions and discounts to their clients. As a result, you can take advantage of the circumstance in order to get a good bargain.

Car Shipping Tips

Secure your personal items outside your vehicle.

You may not be aware of this, but there is in fact a Department of Transportation Code that prohibits car haulers in Petoskey from hauling vehicles with personal possessions in them. Items that should be taken away from your vehicle prior to shipping include things like car seats, external GPS systems and clothing. So it’s a good option to check your vehicle and remove any of these items before the truck comes to pick it up.

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

Although your vehicle will not be driven much during the shipping process, it may be necessary during the loading and unloading process. Also, your vehicle may be placed at an angle on top of an auto carrier, meaning gas could shift from one side of the gas tank to another, and if the fuel level is too low it may not be able to start. Make certain to not have a full gas tank, however, as it can add significant weight to your vehicle which could result in shipping issues.

Before shipping your car, look at it for damages.

To ensure you have proof of the condition of your car prior to using a Petoskey auto carrier it’s a good idea to search for any dents, scratches or other damage that may already exist. The best way to do this is by thoroughly washing your car first so it will be easier to recognize any dents or damage. Then, take pictures using your phone or camera to record the condition of your vehicle, even if its body doesn’t have any damage. That way you have documentation of its condition in the event any problems arise during the vehicle transport process.

Keep track of your Bill of Lading.

When the Petoskey auto transport arrives to start the shipping procedure, you and the driver of the carrier can do an evaluation of your vehicle’s condition. This inspection will document any current damages on your vehicle, which normally 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 contract will confirm auto carrier is taking your vehicle for transport. It will also make sure that both you and the auto transport carrier are in agreement on any existing damage on your car. When the car arrives at its intended destination, the customer will be presented with another Bill of Lading. This new bill will outline if any new damages have taken place during the shipping process. So this process essentially protects both the customer and the auto carrier so that there will be no confusion upon delivery.

Verify your insurance coverage.

It’s a good idea to ask your auto hauler about their company’s liability insurance coverage in the event your car is damaged during the shipping process. Your chosen Petoskey car hauler should have insurance included in the cost of transporting your vehicle that covers damages. The overall insurance coverage typically ranges between ,000 and 0,000. Auto shippers will utilize a third-party insurer and should not cost extra, but rather it should be included in the rate that you’re already paying to deliver your vehicle. Also, you can check with your own insurance policy to see if it covers damages that can take place during the shipping process.

Locating the Best Auto Carrier in Petoskey for Your Needs

You’ll have a wide variety of auto transporters to pick from when looking for the best service for your vehicle shipping needs. Fortunately, you can do a little bit of research on your end before making a final decision on which auto transport Petoskey service to go with. First, you can acquire the company’s MC number or USDOT number. A reliable auto carrier service should be insured and licensed. You’ll also be able to look up any reports on the service with the Better Business Bureau to see what previous clients are saying. Ultimately, it’s a good idea to review the terms and conditions in your service agreement with the vehicle shipper so you understand the service you’re getting.

Main difference Between Open Transport & Enclosed Carriers in Petoskey

Going with a Petoskey auto transport service you’ll be able to ship your vehicle just about anywhere in the country, and you’ll also be able to choose how your vehicle is shipped. While most auto transport businesses will move the vehicles by way of a tractor trailer, depending on the business you choose, you may have the alternative to go with either open-air or enclosed transport. While both methods use a truck for transport, they do have their distinctions.

When a car shipping firm says it uses open-air trucks, it uses the type of car carrier that most people relate to car transportation. Open air auto carriers will feature two rows of cars, one on top and one on bottom, and are generally around 75 feet in length. There are no sides and no roof on the trailer, so the vehicles are open to the elements at all times.

Researching Auto Transport Companies in Petoskey

Prior to deciding on whether you utilize an open trailer or enclosed trailer, first think about how much protection your car really needs. If it is an antique or collector’s car, you’ll most likely want to err on the side of caution and utilize a fully-enclosed trailer to move your vehicle. However, if you’re simply transporting an average motor vehicle that you use every day for common driving needs, then an open trailer would probably be a good fit for you. As always, try to get at least three or four quotes for car shipping services so you can be sure you’re being billed an adequate rate. Simply put a little time towards studying the auto shipping process and the car carrier in Petoskey that you’re preparing to do business with, that way you know all your bases are covered.