Get the Answers You Need Before You Choose a Car Shipping Company

If you are shipping your car internationally for the first time, finding the right company to partner with can prove to be a daunting task.

A car is a huge investment, and the last thing you want is to leave it in the hands of a company that might get it damaged, stolen or something worse.

If you are unsure about a company’s reputation or policies, it helps if you come up with questions that will answer all of your most pressing concerns. This way, you can get more insight into how the company operates and determine if your car is safe with them.

In this article, we give you the 10 questions you need to have answered before you decide to partner with a car shipping company.

Do They Have an Online Presence?

Before you start interrogating the agents over the phone, take the time to look up the shipping company online. If the company’s website is well-organized and frequently updated, chances are you are going to find the answers to all of your questions related to shipping your cars overseas to UK, France or any other country or continent.

In addition, you can look the company up on sites like Yelp or Better Business Bureau to find out if their reputation checks out.

What Insurance Options Do They Offer?

Even though all car shipping companies need to offer an insurance policy, these policies vary from company to company. Make sure you know what a company’s policy covers and ask if you can upgrade your insurance plan at an extra cost.

What Are Their Rates?

This is likely the first question that comes to mind when choosing the right company to partner with. Ask for their standard rates for weight and size, and see if import duties are included in the price. If not, you will have to pay these separately.

Do They Have a Federal Maritime Commission’s License

Before you choose a shipping company, make sure they are licensed with the Federal Maritime Commission or the FMC. You can even check the FMC website to see if the company you want to partner with is officially listed there.

Are There Any Extra Charges?

Some companies add additional charges on top of their standard shipping rates. While these charges are not that significant, you should know about any additional or hidden charges that can incur during the transport.

Can They Give You an Estimate?

A shipping company should be able to provide a quote if you answer a couple of questions, including the type of the car, where you are shipping to, or if you need to have the car transported.

How Should I Prep the Vehicle?

A common practice is that you remove any items from the car, especially any that might be illegal to transport, as well as food or plants. Most companies like Ship Overseas Inc. also advise that you leave a quarter of the gas tank full.

What Documents Do I Need?

Apart from these preparations, you will need to disclose proof of ownership of the car, as well as a copy of your driver’s license and passport. Make sure you ask the company representative if there’s any other additional documentation required.

When Will My Car Arrive at the Destination?

Depending on when you get in touch with the company, they should be able to give you an estimate of when your vehicle will reach its destination. Ask whether you need to pick the car up at the port or if they can have it delivered to a specific address for you.

Choosing the right car shipping company for your international transportation needs requires thorough research and careful consideration. By asking the right questions and obtaining clear answers, you can gain valuable insight into the company's reputation, policies, and procedures. From insurance options and rates to licensing and additional charges, understanding the details of the shipping process is essential to ensure the safety and security of your vehicle.

Furthermore, examining the company's online presence, including their website and customer reviews, can provide valuable feedback and help validate their credibility. Additionally, verifying their licensing with regulatory bodies like the Federal Maritime Commission adds an extra layer of assurance.

Preparation is key, and knowing what documents are required and how to prepare your vehicle for shipping can streamline the process and prevent any delays or complications. Finally, obtaining an estimated arrival time for your vehicle at the destination allows you to plan accordingly and make necessary arrangements.

By following these steps and asking the essential questions outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision and choose a reputable car shipping company that meets your needs and ensures a smooth and hassle-free transportation experience for your vehicle.