Identifying a Reputable Auto Shipper

By Tom Kearns

You can determine the caliber of the auto shipper with whom you are dealing just the same as you would any service provider. There are steps to weed out the undesirables, and then you can concentrate on the good, legitimate shippers.

Disreputable shipping companies often provide cheap estimates over the Internet or on the phone. They don't bother to visit your home or view the items that you need to have shipped. Once your property-in this instance, your car-has been loaded onto its moving truck, the company suddenly demands more money before it will deliver or unload your vehicle. Until you pay more cash, the company won't release your car. A good tip is not to do business with a mover that doesn't suggest or agree to inspect your goods on-site, but simply provides an estimate over the Internet or phone.

According to one expert, you should never try to find a mover online. While there are some reputable moving companies that have web sites, nearly all of the victims of moving fraud found their moving company on the Internet.

It's a good idea to get hold of the latest copy of the yellow pages or phone book and search for at least three companies that have actual built premises in your area. If possible, these moving companies should have been in business and located in those premises for around five years at least. Another tip from the experts is to avoid using moving brokers. Consumer protection laws that cover moving household property presently only cover motor carriers and do not extend to household good brokers.

Another firm recommendation is to make appointments with your three chosen moving companies to visit your home and provide an estimate, even if you only want to move your vehicle. If any one of those companies won't meet you in person, simply find another company that will. Establish from the outset whether the company will be responsible for moving your property or whether it intends to sub-contract the job to someone else. If the company won't be taking responsibility for the move itself, don't use them and find another company. It's also a good idea to visit the company's office to ensure that it really is legitimate. Check that the company's moving trucks have the company's logo permanently affixed to them.

When you get a new job you usually have to provide at least three proper references. It's not unreasonable to ask the moving company to provide you with three references. Make sure that you have researched the company. Call the companies up and ask meaningful questions about their experience and anything else that matters to you. For example, there's no point having a reference that states what good time the company keeps if you are actually concerned about whether or not the company will drop your car off right outside your home.

A final suggestion is to get in touch with the Better Business Bureau in your local area. They can provide you with information about any local complaints about the company. Similarly, there is a Federal website that can provide complaints information.

There are many, many reputable car movers and transporters out there. If you do just a bit of leg-work, you will find the one who suits your needs and budget.

About the Author:

To continue to read about Vehicle Shipping or Auto Transport please visit MetroGistics.