Open Auto Carriers
Selecting an Auto Shipping Method: Open or Enclosed
Open trailers are either partially or fully exposed to the elements. There are many different types of open trailers, ranging from small three car carriers to the large 11 car carriers that you often see on the Interstate. Enclosed trailers are protected from the elements, and your vehicle is basically shipped in a mobile garage. Having your vehicle shipped enclosed is typically a 25-50% premium over having it shipped on an open trailer. Most cars can be shipped either on an open trailer or in an enclosed trailer. It all depends on what you want to spend.
Door-to-door Car Shipping: What it Means
All of the quotes provided by Auto Transport Prices are for door-to-door auto carriers. Door-to-door should have an asterisk after it, as it does not always mean a truck will be able to pull up to your front door. Door-to-door means that the truck driver will get as close to your specified pick-up or delivery spot as he can legally and safely get. Large towns and cities often restrict large trucks and prohibit them from entering into some residential areas. Auto Carriers can be up to 75 foot long, and drivers will need lots of room to maneuver and turn around. When access to your residence is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees, speed bumps or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet the truck at a large parking lot nearby, such as a grocery store, school, or shopping mall.
Payment Methods: Be Ready
While some auto carriers may not require payment in advance, others require a deposit (10-25% of the total cost) prior to shipping. If a deposit is given, the balance remaining is always required at time of delivery. You will need to have a CASHIERS CHECK or CASH ready when the truck arrives. Some auto carriers may allow you to pay with a credit card upon delivery, but this is not common.
Make Sure You Are Properly Insured
Your car should be insured against damage and theft by your car carrier. Make sure you request a copy of the car carriers insurance coverage before you finalize a car carrier and check to see if there is any deductible you will be required to pay if damage should occur. Everything pertaining to the car shipment should be in writing. It is likely that your personal car insurance policy may cover your vehicle in transit; and we recommend that you contact your insurance company to verify this coverage. Auto Transport Prices highly recommends that you remove any personal items from your car when it is shipped as they will not be covered by the car shipping company's insurance, and may not be covered by your auto policy or your home owners insurance.
