Car Shipping in Tampa FL

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What is included in transferring your vehicle from one location to another by using an auto transport business in Tampa? Simply put, it’s the act of transporting a car from one state to another through some type of car shipping method. Consumers have the choice to choose between an open carrier, which is the most well-known, or an enclosed carrier that better covers your vehicle. An open carrier is the most common, which also means it’s the most cost-effective for ordinary vehicle transport needs. The ideal place to begin in your quest for finding an auto transporter is knowing the distinction between a broker and a carrier. In short, brokers assist in the shipping process by hooking up customers with carriers, while the carrier actually performs the job. Below, we’ll examine the distinction between a broker and carrier, as well as other tips that will help you make the best auto transport choice.

What is the Difference Between Auto Carriers and Brokers in Tampa?

If you’ve never had your car shipped before, then chances are you’re unaware of the differences between an auto broker and auto carrier in Tampa. Essentially, 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 basic understanding of the two before making a final decision on which provider to do business with.

Auto Transport Brokers and How They Work With Customers

Auto transport brokers don’t have their own transport carriers and typically are not the companies that will transport vehicles. Brokers assist in auto transportation by hooking up customers, referred to as “shippers”, with the carriers that provide the specific services requested. The advantage of using a broker instead of a carrier is that you have more options because of their existing network of auto carriers. Dealing with a single carrier means they may not run the route you need, possess the necessary equipment or the correct licensing to transport through the states required to get your vehicle where it needs to go. Essentially, a broker does the leg work of finding a carrier that meets these criteria and can sometimes get a more competitive rate by creating competition between carriers on behalf of the shipper.

Locating the Best Auto Hauler

An auto carrier usually employs a large double deck truck to move various vehicles at once, which you’ve probably seen on the freeways at times. It is driven by a professional CDL driver trained in loading, unloading and transporting vehicles. Sometimes, the operater of the truck is also the owner of the rig, so they decide on their solutions and which routes to drive. The truck driver is the person who is actually responsible for picking up and delivering your vehicle. Occasionally a carrier may also act as a broker, so if they’re not able to transport your vehicle, then they will find another driver who can do the job. This means that even when you think you are dealing with a carrier in some instances you go through a broker service. Most of the time when customers deals directly with a company, rather than an intermediary, they think they’ll be obtaining a better price, but that’s not automatically true with Tampa auto transport. On the other hand, a broker already has established a network of carriers, so they can search multiple options to find the best choice for their customers.

Tips for Shipping Your Car

Take any personal items out of your car.

Most individuals are unaware of a Department of Transportation Code that prohibits auto transport services in Tampa from transporting personal goods included in vehicles. Items that should be removed from your vehicle prior to shipment 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.

Leave a quarter of a tank of fuel in your car.

Before your vehicle gets loaded up with a Tampa auto hauler you should examine your gasoline level to make sure you have around a quarter tank of fuel. Some fuel is necessary to start your automobile and drive it so that it can be loaded and unloaded from the auto shipping trailer properly. You don’t want to have a maximum tank of fuel either, however, as that can add extra weight to the trailer and complicate the process.

Before shipping your car, always check it for damages.

When using a Tampa car hauler you should always perform a quick assessment of your vehicle’s condition before it gets loaded on the trailer. An easy way to do this is by washing your car off and ensuring there’s no dirt left on it so that way it’s much easier to identify dents and dings. This will make sure you are conscious of any existing damages and can accurately determine if any new damage happened during the shipping process. It’s best to document the condition of your car by merely taking pictures of it on your cell phone as proof, just in case there are any issues during transporting it.

Know your Bill of Lading.

As soon as your Tampa auto transporter arrives to pick up your car, both you and the driver will do an inspection to determine the condition of your vehicle. During this time you can identify any dents, dings or scratches already on your vehicle’s body. 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 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 destination, 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 safeguards both the customer and the auto carrier so that there will be no misunderstandings upon delivery.

Confirm your insurance coverage.

It’s a wise course of action to question your auto hauler about their company’s liability insurance coverage in the event your car is damaged during the shipping process. Your chosen Tampa 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. Each auto hauler typically 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.

Getting the Best Auto Transport Service in Tampa

There are a vast array of auto transport businesses out there and it can be tough to choose which one is the best for your needs. You can even do a bit of research on the auto transport Tampa service that you’re considering going with. First, you can get the company’s MC number or USDOT number. Always make certain that the car carrier service is the company’s insured and licensed, that way you know you’re doing business with a reliable company. You’ll also be able to look up any reports on the service with the Better Business Bureau to see what previous customers are saying. Finally, 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.

Distinction Between Tampa Auto Transports and Enclosed Vehicle Carriers

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 street yourself. If you’re opting for this type of car carrier transport, you should be aware that your vehicle will be exposed to all those elements. An enclosed auto transport carrier is a great car shipping option you can use particularly if you will transport a classic or custom vehicle. It is the opposite of an open car carrier shipping service. In an enclosed car carrier, the vehicles are housed in a covered truck. Since these carriers have an enclosure, they can usually carry a lower amount of vehicles than an open option.

Getting the Best Deals on Auto Transport in Tampa

Always think about how much safety and security your vehicle or vehicles will need throughout the transport process. Using an open transport is ideal, and almost always more cost-effective, if you’re shipping a standard vehicle that would generally be exposed to the outdoors on a daily basis anyways. Antique, classic cars and collector’s vehicles that are specifically kept in protected conditions would benefit the most from an enclosed shipping option. As a customer, it’s a good idea to get several quotes from Tampa auto transporters. This way you’ll understand the general prices, but the lowest priced is not always the most effective choice. Do a little bit of research on the company you’re thinking of going with and on the auto transport business in general. When you eventually make your decision, you’ll be comfortable that your vehicle is being transported properly and securely to its final location.