If you’ve been online looking for an auto shipper, you were probably as overwhelmed as I was. There are literally hundreds of companies out there who ship vehicles. Since U-Pack Moving is not equipped to transport automobiles (we can ship motorcycles, lawnmowers, and small ATV's if the flamable fluids are drained) I'll give you some quick tips on what to look for.

To break it down, you'll find two different kinds of auto shippers: Brokers and Carriers. The most common difference between the two is whether they own their own equipment and employ their own drivers or not.  Usually Carriers do and Brokers don’t (it's better if they do). You may also find some carriers who need to broker the service on occasion (even though they own their own equipment). This usually happens when they need to use different equipment, the area is out of their service area, or a date is requested that cannot be accommodated with their own drivers or equipment.

Carriers usually have more control over their resources which may help as far as timing, customer service, and price is concerned. Brokers normally require a deposit when the reservation is made and it may or may not be refundable if you have to cancel (the remaining amount due is paid to the truck driver.) 

It’s a good idea to check with the auto transport company you are considering to determine what type of vehicles they specialize in – especially if you’ve got an expensive or delicate car. You’ll find there are auto shippers who can transport anything from compact cars to SUVs and boats.  If you need to have the vehicle dropped off directly at your door, you’ll also want to see if they offer door to door transport. Some will, some will offer only terminal to terminal and some will offer a combination.

If you’re like me, handing your vehicle off to someone else might make you a little nervous. I would definitely recommend that you find out what kind of insurance each auto transport company offers to protect your vehicle while it is in their possession.  You might also talk to your own insurance company and figure out whether your personal auto policy will cover your vehicle for damage while it is in the auto carriers’ possession. Here’s something specific you may want to ask the auto shipper and your own insurance company: what is the deductible (if any) and which insurance would be Primary and which would be Secondary? 

I hope this information is useful in helping you to decide the best way to ship your vehicle. I came across a transport reviews website that may be useful as well.  You'll find customer comments on many different transporters; you can look up a specific transporter and check what kinds of reviews they have received and more.  You might also check out Dependable Auto Shippers – they’re an auto shipper we feel comfortable recommending.