It’s more convenient when you call the professionals when it comes to relocation. For one, they will handle the long drives and the weight of the cargo on your behalf, and this is often the case with car shipping services.
Individuals are now finding it easier to get their vehicles shipped, especially if they’re buying from another state. However, when you’re not doing enough due diligence, it can often lead to pitfalls and unnecessary stress. Sometimes, consumers might be surprised by the unexpected costs of shipping their automobiles to or from Florida. Being aware of these red flags will help you avoid the wrong company, and here are some tips to know about.
Selecting the Wrong Company
If you book the first transport provider that you see online, know that they might not give you the best option. Do some proper research first to avoid damage to your car and prevent unexpected costs. With a transparent Florida car shipping company, you can be in touch with trustworthy drivers who will do their best so that you can be satisfied with their services.
Prefer the ones with lots of positive reviews and make sure that they have a solid reputation in the industry. Check their social media pages and see if the comment section is open to allow their previous clients to leave feedback. Read other people’s experiences when it comes to hiring them and verifying their licenses. Ask for proof of insurance and the necessary credentials, so you can be assured that they are operating legally.
Ask for multiple quotes from at least three different companies, so you know that you’re getting a fair price. You might be tempted to go with the cheapest option, but they may mean a lot of hidden fees so beware if they’re too good to be true.
Improper Preparation of Your Vehicle
If you choose the open transport option, know that the car can be exposed to various weather and elements while on the way to Florida. What you need is to properly wash the car, so you’ll be able to take pictures of pre-existing damage. It makes the insurance claims easier, and you will also identify whether the vehicle needs a tune-up or not, preventing additional charges.
Be thorough when it comes to washing the interior and exterior of the car and take detailed photos. Any imperfections or noticeable scratches should be reported to the company, so you’ll be able to win disputes. You will also have proof that a dent was added during transport if you have a video recording of the before and after condition of the car.
Go to a mechanic and make sure that the batteries have adequate charges. Properly inflate the tiles and check the brake fluids that you can also read info here. Make sure that the car is going to work when the experts load and unload it from the truck trailers to make the entire process faster and more seamless.
Also, don’t make the mistake of leaving your valuables like jewelry or paperwork behind. Clean everything and remove most of the stuff because the loss of these items is not covered by insurance.
Overlooking Insurance Coverage
Sometimes, people think that the insurance provided by an auto transport company can be enough for their needs. However, this isn’t the case when you have an expensive automobile as they often require a higher level of coverage. If you’re shipping a sports car or a vintage, you need to have a sufficient amount to protect you against sudden out-of-pocket costs.
Review your policy and purchase additional insurance coverage for full protection. Learning more about the terms, what the transport company will cover in case of damage, how soon you can get your vehicle repaired, any out-of-pocket costs, deductibles that you can check here: https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/deductible_2, and other terms will often result in a smoother process. Read the fine print and see what your options are in case you incur dents or losses during the service.
Ignoring the Timing and Seasonality of Shipping
Your timing is important, and it will play a role in the costs that you will be paying. You need to know the availability of the transport providers when it comes to shipping to or from Florida, especially if it’s the hurricane season. It can also be expensive during the winter or the summer months when others are also booking these services. Heavy snowfall or road closures can play a role in your overall bill, so make sure not to overlook these factors.
Time-related pitfalls like the peak seasons during the holidays should also be avoided. Instead, you might consider relocating in the fall when the demand is lower. Lock in the prices so you’ll have to pay the same even if the demand spikes up suddenly. When you’re flexible with the dates, you can get discounts in the process.
