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The first question you should ask your vehicle shipping company is simple: who is really moving your car? Handing over your second most valuable asset without knowing the answer can lead to problems with cost, safety, or delays.
According to a Forbes report, the average cost to ship a car is about $1,650. That price changes based on distance, type of vehicle, and service level. Some companies may promote low quotes but add hidden fees later. Others might not even be licensed or insured. Without asking the right questions, you could pay more than expected or deal with unnecessary stress.
This guide will walk you through questions to ask your vehicle shipping company before booking. You’ll learn how to tell the difference between a broker and a carrier, what affects pricing, and how to compare providers with confidence.
What You Will Learn
The most important questions to ask your vehicle shipping company before you sign a contract
How to tell the difference between a broker and a carrier, and why it matters for your shipment
How to compare providers so you can choose the best auto shipping company for your needs
Overview
To ensure a smooth and reliable vehicle shipping experience, it is essential to ask pertinent questions before booking a car shipping company to avoid issues such as hidden costs, delays, or dealing with unlicensed providers. The best questions to ask will depend on your specific needs, such as your budget, timeline, and concerns about vehicle safety.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
About the Company
It is crucial to understand the company's background and operational structure to ensure reliability and accountability.
Are you a broker or a carrier? Knowing this distinction helps you understand who is directly moving your car versus who is arranging the service.
How many years have you been in business? A longer operating history often indicates a company's experience in handling various shipping challenges.
Can you share recent customer reviews or references? Real customer feedback provides insight into the company's service quality and client satisfaction.
Pricing and Fees
Understanding the full cost upfront prevents unexpected charges and helps in budgeting effectively.
What does your quote include? A detailed breakdown ensures transparency regarding insurance, taxes, and delivery fees.
Are there extra charges for fuel, expedited service, or storage? Asking about potential hidden fees helps avoid a higher final bill.
Do you offer discounts for military members, students, seniors, or multiple vehicles? Many companies provide discounts that can significantly reduce the total cost.
Insurance and Safety
Confirming insurance coverage and safety protocols is vital for protecting your vehicle during transit.
What type of insurance coverage is included in the price? Ensure the policy adequately covers your vehicle's value in case of damage.
Will I be responsible for any deductibles if damage occurs? Knowing this detail helps you budget for potential out-of-pocket expenses.
How do your drivers handle weather delays or accidents? This question reveals the company's contingency plans for unforeseen circumstances.
Service and Logistics
Clarifying service details and logistics helps manage expectations and plan for pickup and delivery.
Do you provide door-to-door service, and is it included in the quote? This convenient service saves time and stress, but its cost needs to be confirmed upfront.
What pickup and delivery window should I expect? A realistic delivery window is more helpful for planning than a fixed date.
Do I need to be present, or can someone else sign on my behalf? This is important for scheduling and ensuring a smooth handover.
How can I track my vehicle during transit? Tracking options offer peace of mind and allow you to monitor your vehicle's progress.
Payment Terms
Understanding payment requirements and accepted methods is crucial for financial preparedness and security.
Do you require a deposit? If so, how much? Be wary of large deposits, as they can sometimes be a red flag.
Do you offer zero-deposit options? A zero-deposit model reduces your risk by ensuring payment only occurs upon carrier confirmation.
What payment methods do you accept? Flexible payment options enhance convenience and security.
Flexibility and Problem-Solving
Inquiring about flexibility and problem-solving procedures ensures the company can adapt to changes and handle issues professionally.
What happens if I need to change my pickup or delivery location? A flexible company can adjust plans without imposing heavy penalties.
What is your cancellation or reschedule policy? Knowing your options upfront helps if your plans unexpectedly change.
How are damage claims handled? A clear claims process demonstrates the company's commitment to standing by its service.
Other Notable Aspects
Broker vs. Carrier Distinction: Understanding the roles of brokers (who connect you with carriers) and carriers (who own the trucks) is fundamental to choosing the right service. Vetted brokers often save time by pre-screening carriers, while direct carriers might have limited routes.
Comparing Providers: It's important to compare companies by checking reviews across multiple sources (Google, BBB), understanding how pricing factors like transport type (open vs. enclosed) and distance affect costs, and evaluating their communication and tracking capabilities.
Why Asking Questions Matters
Before you book auto transport, remember that you are placing one of your most valuable assets in someone else’s hands. The wrong decision can mean paying hidden fees, waiting through long delays, or even trusting an unlicensed company.
When you ask the right questions, you protect yourself. You confirm who is moving your car, what insurance covers, and how pricing really works. That preparation helps you avoid risks and gives you confidence that your car will reach its destination safely and on time.
Key Questions to Ask Before You Book
Asking the right questions up front will save you money, protect your car, and prevent stressful surprises. Here’s what to ask and why it matters.
About the Company
Are you a broker or a carrier?
This helps you know if you’re dealing with the company that owns the trucks (carrier) or one that arranges shipping for you (broker). Brokers often provide more options, but should be transparent about who they work with.How many years have you been in business?
Experience often means fewer mistakes. A company with a long history has handled different routes, vehicles, and challenges.Can you share recent customer reviews or references?
Real customer feedback shows how the company treats clients and whether they follow through on promises.
Pricing and Fees
What does your quote include?
A clear breakdown prevents surprise charges later. Quotes should show if insurance, taxes, or delivery are included.Are there extra charges for fuel, expedited service, or storage?
Some companies hide fees until after you book. Ask now to avoid a higher final bill.Do you offer discounts for military members, students, seniors, or multiple vehicles?
Many providers offer price breaks. These savings can make a noticeable difference in the total cost.
Insurance and Safety
What type of insurance coverage is included in the price?
Coverage protects you in case of damage. Make sure the policy covers your vehicle’s value.Will I be responsible for any deductibles if damage occurs?
Knowing this in advance helps you budget and avoids surprises if a claim is needed.How do your drivers handle weather delays or accidents?
This shows if the company has a plan for problems beyond its control.
Service and Logistics
Do you provide door-to-door service, and is it included in the quote?
Door-to-door saves time and stress. If it costs extra, you need to know upfront.What pickup and delivery window should I expect?
Shipping timelines are estimates. A delivery window is more realistic than a fixed date.Do I need to be present, or can someone else sign on my behalf?
This matters if your schedule won’t allow you to meet the driver.How can I track my vehicle during transit?
Tracking offers peace of mind and lets you plan for delivery.
Payment Terms
Do you require a deposit? If so, how much?
Some deposits are fair, but large ones may be a red flag.Do you offer zero-deposit options?
A zero-deposit model means you don’t pay until a carrier is confirmed, which reduces risk.What payment methods do you accept?
Flexible payment options make the process easier and safer for you.
Flexibility and Problem-Solving
What happens if I need to change my pickup or delivery location?
Life changes happen. A flexible company can adjust without heavy penalties.What is your cancellation or reschedule policy?
Knowing your options upfront helps if plans shift unexpectedly.How are damage claims handled?
A clear process shows the company is ready to stand by its service.
Broker vs. Carrier: Why the Difference Matters
When you ask your vehicle shipping company if they are a broker or a carrier, you set the stage for how the process works. Here’s what to know.
Definition of each role: A carrier owns the trucks and drivers who move your car. A broker connects you with carriers, handles scheduling, and compares prices on your behalf.
Pros and cons of using brokers: Brokers usually give you more options and flexibility. They can find a carrier faster, especially for hard-to-reach routes. The trade-off is that you don’t always know the carrier until later.
Pros and cons of going direct with carriers: Working with a carrier may cut out the middle step, but they may have limited routes or availability. You might also need to contact multiple carriers to compare prices.
Why vetted brokers can be the best choice: A trusted broker already checks carrier safety records, insurance, and registration. This saves you time and lowers your risk of ending up with an unreliable provider.
Red flags to watch for: If a company won’t share its USDOT or MC number, avoids questions about insurance, or won’t name the carrier, treat that as a warning sign.
Comparing Providers: How to Choose the Best Auto Shipping Company
Once you know the difference between a broker and a carrier, your next step is comparing providers. Here are ways to make a fair choice.
Check reviews across multiple sources: Look at Google, BBB, and industry review sites. Consistent positive feedback across different platforms shows reliability.
Understand pricing factors: Costs depend on transport type (open vs. enclosed), distance, season, and vehicle size. Open carriers are cheaper, while enclosed carriers offer more protection.
Watch for hidden or extra fees: Ask if there are charges for storage, expedited shipping, or changes to your booking. A clear quote helps you avoid surprises.
Evaluate tracking and communication: The best auto shipping company will keep you updated from pickup to delivery. Ask if they provide online tracking or direct driver contact.
Look for bundled or special services: Discounts for multiple vehicles or offers for students, seniors, or military members can save money. Some companies also include perks like free storage for short periods.
Final Thoughts
Shipping your car is a big decision, and the company you choose will make all the difference. By asking the right questions, you protect your budget, avoid hidden costs, and gain peace of mind knowing your vehicle is in safe hands. A little preparation up front saves you from stress later and helps ensure your car arrives on time and in good condition.
The best auto shipping company is the one that answers your questions clearly and delivers on its promises. Whether you work with a broker or a carrier, focus on transparency, fair pricing, and proven reliability. With these tips, you’ll be ready to compare options and book your shipment with confidence.
Learn More About Auto Transport
If you are comparing car shipping providers, start with the right questions. This checklist will help you sort out pricing, service quality, and the difference between a broker and a carrier. The best auto shipping company for you will be the one that provides clear answers and fair terms.
At AmeriFreight Auto Transport, we focus on educating customers about their options. With more than two decades of experience, we are a top-rated car shipping company that connects you with vetted carriers and explains exactly what’s included in your rate. Visit our website to learn more about how auto transport works and what to expect before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the differences in cost between open and enclosed car transport?
Open transport is the most common and usually costs less. Enclosed transport is more expensive but offers extra protection for high-value or classic cars.
How are car shipping rates calculated, and what factors influence the price the most?
Rates depend on distance, route, vehicle size, transport type, and timing. The biggest cost drivers are distance and whether you choose open or enclosed shipping.
What specific vehicle information affects shipping costs?
Your vehicle’s make, model, year, and condition all impact the price. Larger, heavier, or non-running vehicles usually cost more to transport.
What paperwork is typically required for interstate vehicle shipment?
Most companies only need your vehicle details, contact information, and keys. At pickup, you’ll also sign a bill of lading, which records the vehicle’s condition.
