You already know that anyone who handles your exotic or luxury vehicle needs to be knowledgeable and experienced – and can provide extra-special care with attention to detail. Whether you’d like to ship your valuable vehicle for an upcoming move or are planning to transport your car to a show or event, you expect a vehicle transport company to provide premium white-glove service. We offer key tips so you can take the steps to ensure your luxury or exotic vehicle is shipped with ultimate safety and security:
1. Select the Shipping Method Best Suited to Luxury and Exotic Cars
Domestic Transport
Although you can choose between an open-air or enclosed carrier, most exotic and luxury vehicles are transported in enclosed carriers because of the superior protection they provide. Some ultra-high-end vehicles are also shipped domestically by either commercial or charter planes.
Overseas Transport
You can choose between a cargo ship or plane, however, the majority of exotic and luxury vehicles are transported overseas by plane.
Choose a Shipping Company That Specializes in Luxury and Exotic Vehicles
Whether you’re transporting your car domestically or overseas, choose a shipping company that specializes in luxury and exotic vehicles. Their highly trained personnel and premium equipment will ensure the safest and most secure transport of your car. Also, their drivers use GPS tracking to keep you informed in real-time so you know where your car is every mile of the route.
2. Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Properly Protected During Transport
Enclosed Carriers are Recommended for Exotic and Luxury Vehicles
As mentioned previously, most exotic or luxury vehicles are shipped in an enclosed carrier. Open-air carriers expose the vehicle to road grime, the elements, and a greater chance of vandalism or theft. An enclosed carrier is fully closed in on all sides so that the car is protected from dirt, dust, grime, and weather. Also, no one can see the vehicle that’s being transported, so vandalism and theft aren’t a worry.
Enclosed Carriers Cost More
Although you’ll pay more for enclosed transport, the money spent is definitely worthwhile. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your treasured car is handled only by experts, and the equipment used for transport provides ultimate safety and protection.
3. Know How to Handle an Inoperable Vehicle
There are a number of reasons why an exotic or luxury car may be inoperable. Be sure to notify the transport company if your vehicle isn’t running. Enclosed carriers are equipped with hydraulic lifts that can load an inoperable vehicle, but the transporter will need to know ahead of time so that they can have any additional equipment or personnel on hand to ensure safe loading and unloading.
4. Be Sure the Transport Company is Licensed and Carries Sufficient Insurance
DOT and FMCSA
Only work with a transport company that is licensed and registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety T Administration (FMCSA).
Sufficient Insurance Coverage
Although accidents and damage are rare in the world of collectible car transport, mishaps can happen. Reputable companies do carry insurance, but you want assurance that the coverage is sufficient to cover your extremely valuable vehicle. Top-rated luxury and exotic car shipping companies provide quality comprehensive insurance coverage options.
Get a Copy of the Insurance Coverage
Before you commit to a shipping company, ask for a description of their insurance coverage and also ask for a copy of the insurance documentation so you can review the coverage in print. Be sure to understand the deductibles.
Check With Your Own Auto Insurance Company
Ask your own auto insurance representative if the company provides coverage during transport and exactly what the coverage includes.
5. Check On-Line Reviews
Once you’ve confirmed the shipping company is licensed and insured, read online reviews. Was the car delivered on time? Was the car delivered undamaged? Did the carrier offer premium customer service? Did the driver maintain contact with the customer throughout transport? You’ll get answers to these questions and more when you check online reviews.
6. Understand the Transport Company’s Drop-Off and Pick-Up Policies
Terminals or Depots
Some carriers require that you drop off your car at their depots or terminals, which are usually located near metropolitan areas. Be sure to ask about drop-off and pick-up locations to make sure they meet your needs.
Door-to-Door Service
Most exotic and luxury car owners prefer that their vehicle is picked up and dropped off at their specified location. That could be your home, office, garage, showroom, warehouse, or other designated location. Door-to-door is a specialized service that you’ll pay more for, but your car will suffer less wear and tear. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind seeing your vehicle loaded directly onto the carrier, and you’ll appreciate the time-saving convenience.
7. Understand That Shipping Schedules Can Vary
The time it takes for a car to be delivered will depend on the carrier’s scheduling policies, equipment, and weather.
Large Enclosed Carrier
If your car is shipped on a large enclosed semi-trailer that can transport up to six vehicles, shipping will take longer than if the car is shipped on a small enclosed carrier. Larger carriers need additional time to pick up and deliver up to six cars.
Small Enclosed Carrier
Smaller carriers can generally deliver cars faster because they transport only one or two cars and therefore make fewer stops.
Weather Conditions
Weather can also affect shipping schedules. Drivers keep a close eye on impending weather that can affect the delivery date and will keep you updated.
Expedited Shipping
If you’re on a tight schedule, you can request expedited shipping. The transport company will most likely put your car on a smaller truck so that shipping can be as fast as possible.
8. Be Aware of the Transport Company’s Shipping Requirements
Fuel
Usually, the transporter requests that the vehicle’s gas tank is no more than ¼ full.
Clean Out the Car’s Interior
Transport companies want the inside of your car to be completely empty of any objects. The shipper’s insurance won’t cover anything that’s left inside your vehicle if it becomes damaged or is stolen.
Maintenance Check
Most transport companies suggest that you perform a maintenance check right before transport to ensure the battery is fully charged, brakes are functional, and fluids are topped off.
Alarm
Switch off any alarms or anti-theft equipment.
9. Properly Prepare Your Car for Shipment
Wash Your Car Right Before Transport
No doubt you always keep your exotic or luxury car spotless but make sure it’s washed immediately before transport. When your car is clean, you and the driver will be able to conduct more accurate inspections before the car is loaded and when it’s delivered.
Take Photos
Just before the car is loaded, take photos of all sides and from several angles. Photographic proof of your car’s condition can help avoid any disputes. Also, take a photo of the enclosed transport truck and the DOT number.
Note the Mileage
Also, take a photo of the odometer and make sure the mileage is noted on the shipping documents.
10. Be Prepared for Delivery
Delivery Inspection
You, or your representative, and the driver will conduct an inspection of your car upon delivery.
Take Delivery Photos
Take photos when your car is delivered. Compare them to your pre-loading photos. Note any discrepancies in the condition of the car and make sure they’re documented on the bill of lading before you sign for the delivery.
Mileage Confirmation
Also, take a photo of the odometer and notify the driver if there is a discrepancy.
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When you use Caravan Auto Transport, you won’t have to worry about whether a transporter is licensed and insured, trustworthy, or reliable. We’ve already conducted thorough vetting of every exotic and luxury car transporter in our network and we take pride in connecting you with auto haulers that offer trustworthy premium services. Request a fast, free quote now!