Archive for November, 2009

How To Find An Auto Transport Company

Monday, November 30th, 2009

One of the most valuable assets you own is probably your car. For many people a car not only holds monitory value, it is a necessity for transportation to and from work as well as for errands that must be ran. When you are moving your car across the country, you want to be sure that it will be well cared for. That means when choosing an auto transport carrier you will need to be very diligent so that your vehicle arrives at the new destination without any damage. The following tips will help you to choose a safe and reliable carrier.

You should choose an auto shipping company with a good reputation. The Internet has made it easy to check out the reputation of such companies. Enter the company name into one of the better search engines and see what people have to say. Customers that are unsatisfied with a company are quick to report to review sites today. With larger companies, you will always find one or two dissatisfied customers, so read the reviews carefully to see how the issue was resolved. In addition, if the majority or reviews that you find for a company are negative, then you should consider using another company.

You will want to know if the shipping company has the proper licenses to transport your car. Auto transport companies need a federal license ans should fulfill insurance and bond requirements. Legitimate carriers will have no problem in allowing you to see these items.

Ask the company about the insurance that they carry to cover any damage your car may receive during transportation. Also ask about any limitations or exclusions that may be included. There are some risks in transporting a car that may not be covered. Flying rocks can cause damage to the vehicle, and it is unlikely that the insurance of the auto transport company will pay for dings to the paint or even broken glass.

Most companies offer different options for shipping your vehicle. Not every company will offer every option, so check to see what is available.

Open shipping means that your vehicle is loaded onto an open trailer. This type option is usually less expensive, but your car is more susceptible to damage from flying objects like rocks or gravel.

Enclosed shipping puts your vehicle in an enclosed trailer and it is unlikely that flying objects will cause damage to the vehicle. If you have a very new vehicle, a specialty vehicle or an antique automobile, the extra expense may be worth the extra cost.

Economy service cost less but may take more time to get your vehicle where you need it to be. The vehicle may change trailers several times in the process of getting to your new home and spend a few days between locked in a secure storage yard. If you are not in a big hurry to get the vehicle where you eventually will need it, this can save money.

Full service moving means that you vehicle will likely remain on one trailer and be shipped to your new home as directly as possible.

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

Special Car for Shipping Classic and Custom Cars

Saturday, November 28th, 2009

After quite a bit of work and a lot of heard earned cash, you finally have your classic ride tricked out and ready for the road.  Whether it’s a classic Bentley or a vintage Silver Shadow, you want to make sure that it is looked after.  Unfortunately you have to have your new toy shipped and aren’t sure exactly how to get started.  You probably don’t want to put hundreds, or even thousands, of miles on your classic hot rod so getting it shipped is probably the only realistic option.

Fortunately for you there are plenty of auto shipping companies ready and waiting to pick up you gem and ship it off to wherever it needs to go.  Your car that you love so much will be guaranteed to show up at its new home in one piece and as beautiful as the day it left your driveway.

The first thing that you should do is find the carrier that you plan to use.  Make sure that you seek out a carrier that has real experience.  Most of us have never been in a situation where we need to ship our car so it is often difficult to know who the best auto carriers are.  If you find yourself in this situation, hiring a good auto shipping broker may be the best option for you.

Like anything else, it’s best to shop around to find the best deal.  You also need to make sure that you fully understand all of the terms and conditions that the carrier works under.  Make sure that they understand that your automobile is not just a run of the mill car off of the lot.  It’s important that the shipping company knows that your car is a custom one of a kind car and that they can cover it under their insurance.

If you choose to go with an open carrier to ship your car, make sure that you are guaranteed a top spot on the truck.  Cars on the bottom are more susceptible to the top cars dripping fluid on them, rocks, vandals, and other hazards.  The down side is that the top cars will be more exposed to harsh weather such as hale.

Ideally you want to probably go with a closed carrier.  This means that your car will be in an enclosed trailer from start to finish and will not be exposed to the outside world in any way.  This will cost more money.  Its up to you how much you want to spend depending how comfortable you are with your car shipping in an open carrier.

Once you decide on your choice of trailer options you should begin to remove any external customizations that are not bolted down.  This will help the auto shipping company move your vehicle from place to place without the extra worry of breaking or losing any aftermarket products.

You should also make sure that your fuel tank is not topped off.  You want to have enough fuel to get the car on and off the carrier, but much more than that is unnecessary.  Its best to cut any excess weight and extra gas is just that.

Before you finally hand the keys over to the auto shippers, make sure to note any damage that already exists to the car and get everything in writing.  Accidents can happen and it is always best to make sure that you’re covered if such a thing were to occur.

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

Shipping Your Classic Car Safely and with Class

Thursday, November 26th, 2009

At great expense you have finally customized that Classic Bentley and have taken it gingerly on the road to show it off to all the world.  Or perhaps it’s that vintage Silver Shadow.  But now you have to ship that precious and unique classic auto, and you have no idea how to go about it.  You certainly don’t want to drive that rolling money pit thousands of miles away yourself, and teleporting isn’t here yet.

Though not supernatural, auto shipping companies are there to perform just the service you need, and they will do so in a safe and reliable manner.  Your gorgeous investment in love and money is guaranteed to arrive at its new home in one piece and as lovely as the day you took it to the carrier.

You want to find a carrier with experience.  It is not likely that you have been in this situation before, so you and even your acquaintances won’t immediately know of any reliable shipping companies.  You need to either go online or locate a professional broker.  Most companies will have a website, whether old and established or new and vigorous.

Just like buying any other service, you need to shop around.  Make sure you understand their terms and all the services they provide.  Make sure they understand the quality and type of car you are asking them to ship for you.  You want a company with experience in shipping expensive one-of-kind vehicles.  Pore over the carriers insurance coverage and policies so you are confident your baby will be thoroughly protected.

If you opt for an open carrier, make sure they understand your car must be on the top tier, to keep it safer from possible vandalism or theft.  On the down side, the upper deck is more prone to exposure to harsh weather, vermin, and any road debris that may be flying high along open roads.

Ideally, you will choose a carrier with a closed trailer and one who is able to ship it immediately to its destination with no layovers in either their garage or some other company’s.  This may cost  you because you are asking that the carrier leave immediately without waiting for its usual minimal load before it takes off.  If you don’t do this however, the company will take your car to a storage lot to await more traveling companions, thus increasing the odds of theft and bodily harm.

You will of course not add to the shipment any of your personal belongs for transport.  It is a good idea to remove all customizations that can be taken off the vehicle and those that cannot should be thoroughly documented.

The fuel tank should only be holding the minimum to get it to the carrier and then off the carrier to its journey’s end.  You don’t want any excess weight.  That will up the price.  Before you and your car part company,  go over it with a fine tooth comb and note in writing even the smallest of dings, if any.  And of course, after washing the beauty, on a clear day, take pictures from all angles with a digital camera and date them.

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

Classic Shipping for Classic Cars

Tuesday, November 24th, 2009

You’ve bought a Blower Bentley and lovingly customized it a la California Kid: it is a customized vintage sports car and you are weaving in and out of traffic like a comet between common stars. Or you have already acquired the unique recent Marussia. The point is, nobody has a car like yours and now you have to ship it and you are not sure how to. You are reluctant to drive that mint-new beauty all those miles and it seems that for a magical car like yours only magic would do to teleport it to the destination.

But though they have been somewhat neglected by mystically inclined authors from Kafka to King and it is difficult to imagine anything sinisterly supernatural about them, auto shipping companies provide precisely the service you need, guaranteeing that your monetary and emotional investment will not be lost or so much as scratched.

Locate an experienced carrier. The average person does not require shipping services that often and it is unlikely that you are familiar with a reliable company by word of mouth. The best way to find what you need is either through a professional broker or through the internet. Numerous companies have websites nowadays, but that includes the old and established shippers who keep up with the world and who would be just right for you.

Compare a number of companies to make sure their terms make sense and that the companies have experience shipping your type of car. Contact them to carefully review their insurance policies and make sure that you precious property is fully covered.

Choosing an open trailer, insist and make sure that the vehicle is loaded onto the upper deck, where it is more difficult to reach and is thus safer from theft and vandalism. However, on the upper deck of the open carrier your car will still be exposed, especially so to inclement weather, birds, bugs, and any detritus that may be carried by gusty winds along stretches of interstate roads.

It is far better to book your car for a closed carrier and have it shipped immediately to the destination. In some cases this may only be possibly if you pay for the truck to leave at once without waiting for its standard minimal load. Otherwise, the company will take the car to a storage facility for an indefinite amount of time, which additional manipulation and waiting time at a general garage increases the risk of theft or damage.

Leave no personal belongings in the car and remove any easily removable “upgrades,” lest they be stolen or broken. Clearly document any removable upgrades which you may chose to leave.

Unnecessary fuel is a hazard: leave only enough fuel to get the car to the carrier and off it at destination. Before handing the car over to the company, inspect it and document the smallest prior damage, if such exists. I am sure the owner of a Bentley or a Marussia need not be reminded, but just in case, make sure you wash the car before you take dated digital pictures of it in clear daylight light from all sides and angles, so that no significant nuance or scratch remain undocumented.

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

How to Find the Best Auto Shipping Company

Monday, November 23rd, 2009

You car is one of your prized possessions, so it makes sense that when you are moving interstate or internationally you should carefully think about which company can offer you the best auto shipping. By following the tips in this article you will be able to collect your car at its destination intact and without fuss.

Auto shipping can be expensive, so finding the best price is an important consideration. It should not, however, be the only consideration. There are many Internet sites these days that can generate quotes on auto shipping with several different companies. Do not automatically choose the cheapest as when you look at the fine print it may not be the most trustworthy company.

Before choosing your shipping company check out the conditions under which the car will be shipped. By electing a company that is careful with your car, you can substantially reduce the chance of damage or breakages to the vehicle. Ensure that you are happy with the conditions provided by the company before signing on the dotted line. If in doubt, it is best to choose another company rather than have the worry of your car being mishandled.

Time of delivery can be a very important detail depending on your situation and needs. Several companies will now guarantee the time of delivery of your car and this can save a lot of stress and anxiety if you are running to a tight schedule. A company that is organized enough to be able to promise time of delivery of your vehicle also speaks well of their management and general business ethos.

A company’s reputation is also a very important point to investigate. You can do an Internet search to learn more about what the companies offer and what past customers have to say about their services. You might also have coworkers or friends who have used auto shipping services they were happy with.

A company that has all their licensing in order is the most secure way to do your auto shipping. Companies that that have all the proper licenses will not have any problem in sharing them with you and in fact will be proud of their professionalism.

It is important that you know what type of insurance the shipping company has in the event of damage to your vehicle. Some auto shipping companies have very extensive insurance policies and will guarantee your car against any damage no matter how big or small that is done to the car while in their care, other companies may not cover certain things such as minor scratches or chips which may be part of an associated risk of transportation.

Your car is likely to be one of your most important assets so you want to make sure that the shipping company you transport with is able to deliver what they promise. By checking their licenses and insurance, reading company reviews from customers and knowing exactly what they offer and guarantee you can protect yourself from problems. Peace of mind is definitely worth paying a little more for in the long run.

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

Discover The Best Auto Shipping Services

Saturday, November 21st, 2009

When you are shifting interstate or overseas and you need to ship your car there are many things that you need to consider. Your vehicle is undoubtedly one of your costliest possessions and you should do some research beforehand to minimize risk to your car and make the auto shipping goes smoothly.

The cost of the auto shipping is obviously an important factor. Auto shipping can be quite expensive, but there are now Internet comparison sites that can search automatically for different prices. There can be a bid difference between the prices offered for car shipping, but there can also be a big difference between the quality and professionalism of the companies.

One of the most important factors when choosing your auto shipping company is the conditions under which they will transport your car. There is a risk when shipping that there may be some damage done, in secure and sound conditions you can minimize the risk of scratching or breakages. Make sure you are confident that the company that you choose puts you at ease with their professionalism.

Many shipping companies will now guarantee car delivery times and they can be brought directly to your front door. Compare the estimated times of delivery between companies and choose one that meets your needs. For different people in different situations the timeliness of delivery may be a very important factor.

Before choosing the company that will ship your car do a little background search and check out their reputation. It is easy to undertake an Internet search with the major companies and any others that have less than sterling pasts will be able to spot. You might also have family, friends or colleagues who have used auto shipping companies in the past that they had good experiences with.

Selecting a company that has the proper licensing in place is also an important point to check on when considering auto shipping. A company that has everything in order will have no hesitation in sharing their paper work with you.

Check into the type of insurance that the auto shipping company’s have themselves and what they can also offer you in addition. Knowing what types of damage or breakages the company insurance will cover and what they might not is important before you ship your car. Some companies will not cover scratches or paint chips that may happen while the vehicle is in transit putting it down to the associated risk of transportation. Other companies offer a very thorough insurance that will cover any type of damage done to the vehicle.

Since your auto is one of your most valuable assets, it is important that you choose your auto shipping company with great care after having reviewed the business’ insurance, licensing, reputation and operating policies. With a little thought and consideration you can save yourself a lot of stress and potential problems. Never choose a shipping company based purely on price, as it may end up costing you much more in the long run if there are problems or delays along the way.

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

Choosing The Right Auto Shipping Carrier

Thursday, November 19th, 2009

When you are moving overseas or transporting your auto for any other reason, you want to be sure that your prized possession arrives in top condition. Knowing how to choose the right auto shipping is essential to ensure that everything is done as painlessly as possible and your car will be safe and secure.

One of the important things to consider is the cost of auto shipping. While it is not the best idea to decide on auto shipping based entirely on price it should definitely be considered. Choosing an auto shipping company that is based in the country you are shipping to will help to minimize expenses. You can easily compare the prices of shipping with a simple internet search.

The conditions under which the company will ship your car are also very important. Make sure you thoroughly understand how they will protect your car while it is in transit. There is no sense in getting a bargain on the price of shipping if the car arrives damaged and the company absolves itself of responsibility. Ensure you are happy with the conditions under which your car will be transported and clear about what is being offered.

Another thing to think about when you are looking for auto shipping is the amount of time it will take to be delivered. Some companies can differ substantially in the length of time they take to deliver your car. If time is of the essence, then this should be an important consideration and many companies will actually guarantee the delivery date.

Always look for a company that has an A1 reputation. You can look for reviews on the Internet, which will give you impartial opinions on the operating practices of the auto shipping company. You may also have friends or colleagues that have used shipping companies they were happy with and can heartily recommend them.

Before you pack up your car and send it off to the next destination you should check that the auto shipping company is properly licensed: a legitimate business will easily be able to show you their certification and will have no problem doing it.

Insurance is also an essential point when choosing a shipping company. You need to be absolutely sure that the company is appropriately insured against damage to your vehicle: know what the company’s insurance will and will not cover in the event of accidental damage. Some companies will not cover minor damage such as paint chipping and put it down to regular damage associated with the risk of transportation.

There are several things to consider when you are moving your auto to another location. Usually your car is one of your costliest assets and you want to be absolutely sure that the company you choose will act professionally and do everything possible to ensure that your car is delivered safe and sound. By following the above tips and searching auto shipping reviews on the Internet you will be able to rest easy in the knowledge that your vehicle will be taken care of.

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

Understanding Auto Transport

Wednesday, November 18th, 2009

If you are not relocating either to a distant state or abroad, you will have no reason to explore the companies involved with auto shipping.  Ah, but if you are making a long distance move, you will want to be sure that your precious, pampered car, boat, motor cycle, or SUV arrives safely and on time.  After all, you have spent money and time making sure that vehicle looks cherry and runs like a charm, and you want it there when you arrive at your destination so you won’t be without transportation.

What Does Auto Shipping Entail?

Basically and simply, it is a method of getting your car from where it is to where you want it to be without driving it yourself.  Fortunately, there are many companies that offer the convenient service of doing just that.  They have fleets of carriers in all shapes and sizes.  One will surely fit your vehicle whether you are relocating domestically or internationally.  You can also opt to have your vehicle delivered to your door.  If you live in one of those rare municipalities that have a local auto shipping company, good for you.  You can walk right in and arrange for shipping with a representative.  This is probably not the case, however, there are numerous companies online that offer many services, such as flexible modes of shipping as well as flexible schedules.  Most of these companies also pride themselves on their excellent customer service.

Two Types of Shipping Carriers

Whether you are transporting a recently purchased vehicle to your current location or are transporting your old friend to a new one, you will need to know what type of shipping carriers are available. There are two main types of carriers.

  1. The open vehicle carrier is the most commonly seen and is a great option for most people.  It will give your vehicle service at the most economical price.  Remember though, that “open” is precisely what it is.  You have often seen those huge trucks with their huge trailers rambling down the road with a load of 12 or 14 or more automobiles.  One of those vehicles could be yours if you opt for this type of carrier.  And, you can see that the disadvantages of this least expensive method is all those other vehicles which can cause yours harm, inclement weather conditions, flying debris, and theft, if not of your car itself, of the GPS, fancy stereo or other electronic gizmos that are dear to you.  There is much less chance of any of this occurring if you go for option #2.
  2. The enclosed vehicle carrier is, yup, enclosed.  Your precious vehicle will be lovingly laid to rest in its own little bed for a safe journey to its destination without fear of debris, harm from other vehicles or theft.  More attention and care will be lavished on it when loading and unloading.  Of course, this being the real world, there are two distinct downsides to this mode.  1.) The cost can be from 25% to 100% more expensive than the open carrier mostly because considerably fewer vehicles can be carried at one time.  2.) There are only a few companies that have closed type carriers available in their fleets.  Even finding an enclosed carrier can be very difficult and  time consuming if not downright impossible.

You have now received a basic education in auto shipping.  You are able to do your research armed with your newfound wisdom and find that perfect company and carrier for your needs.  Good job!

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

A Look at the Auto Shipping Industry

Monday, November 16th, 2009

Most everyone has a treasured vehicle to take care of so it will behave nicely on the road.  We do everything we can to keep it looking good and running smoothly and reliably.  There may come the necessity at some time to get our pampered pet to a faraway destination due to relocation or just plain moving away.  You don’t need to worry, though, that you will be without transportation once you get there.  Here is why.

Just What is Auto Shipping?

To simplify, it is the art of getting a vehicle from where it is now to where it will be in the future, say a couple of days or more.  This does sound easy and in actuality, it is.  Auto shipping is a great convenience to anyone on the move.  The auto shipping companies generally include carriers of all different dimensions to suit every vehicle’s needs.  They will ship your car domestically as well as internationally and even door to door if that’s what you want.  You can work with an online service provider or a local one, although a local company where you can actually walk in the door and meet with a representative is rare.  Most of these companies are scattered hither and yon, so online is probably where you will be.  In any case, you and the company’s agent can work out all your travel preparations and needs.  Most offer a variety of services including great customer service and are flexible with modes of transportations and schedules.

Auto Shipping Types

Now that you know that you must ship your vehicle whether, car, truck, motorcycle or yacht, you need to educate yourself as to the various shipping methods that exist.  Following are two of these.

  1. Open carrier is the most commonly used type because it offers the most economical rates.  Open is an apt description.  We have all seen the mega-trucks with mega-trailers carrying a dozen plus automobiles rumbling down the highways.  One of those cars could be yours.  That’s fine but bear in mind that those vehicles are subject to road dirt, inclement weather, damage from other vehicles on the carrier and even theft.  Any accessories, such as a GPS, sound system, or other expensive electronic gadgets have greater odds of disappearing than if they were in a closed carrier.
  2. An enclosed carrier is just that.  Your precious vehicle is safely tucked in for the journey with no fear of debris, weather, theft, or harm from other vehicles traveling with it.  Your car will inevitably receive better care and more attention while being loaded and unloaded from the carrier.  Sounds like heaven but there are disadvantages to this shipping method.  Firstly, it is from 25% to 100% more costly, and secondly, not every shipping company has these closed vehicles in their fleets.  Finding the few that do can be a real challenge.

I hope this helps in your mission to get that vehicle of yours safely to its destination.  You still have a lot of research ahead of you, but the above noted basic principles should get you on your way.

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.

What Exactly is Auto Shipping?

Saturday, November 14th, 2009

Indeed, we all have our treasured vehicle that we groom and take care of; as if it were our pet or perhaps our significant other. In every way possible we take care of maintaining its appearance and upgrading. So, seeing that most of us have vehicles which we love and need in our daily lives it is imperative to know what goes on in the auto shipping world. In the call for our need to travel abroad or move to a distant location may not actually require worry about being “transportation-less” or having our vehicle hurt in any way. Let’s see what we got.

First off what is auto shipping?

In a simple definition, it is basically transporting your vehicle from one destination to another. Seems pretty easy, and it is. Auto shipping is one of the most convenient shipping services to customers. It has carriers of all kinds of sizes and shapes to adhere to your every vehicle requirement. Also there are availabilities with domestic and international destination spots, even door to door service. You can choose to work with an online provider or an in house company to figure out your travel needs and car destination; offering a variety services such as flexible mode of transportation, and, on the whole front, excellent customer service.

Types of auto shipping

If you have purchased a new mode of transportation, being a car, boat, or a motorcycle or need your present vehicle to be shipped anywhere you need to be, it is important to know what types of shipping methods there are. There are two specific types of vehicle shipping:

1)      Open vehicle shipping- this is typically a great option for most consumers; for it is cheap and provides the least expensive method in shipping your vehicle. However, open is exactly what it is. Remember driving on the highway and seeing the huge trucks with trailers connected to it, carrying a variety of vehicles. Well if you choose to go this way that will one day be your car, bike or boat. Though economical the downsides include any destruction from road debris, or elements flying around or from the other cars. Security is also a potential hazard for open traveling vehicles. Equipment such as navigation systems, stereos, and other expensive electronics have a much higher chance of being stolen than if closed away in a private traveling quarter.

2)      Enclosed vehicle shipping- is precisely as it sounds. Your vehicle is tucked away   safely; protected from debris, exposed elements, and above all else other vehicles. As well as secluded from any robbers who are eyeing your vehicles electronic or outerwear candy. Enclosed shipping typically receives more attention and better care when loading into the carrier. Conversely there two major downsides to enclosed shipping. The price range can range from 25 to 100% more expensive, and the availability with this shipping, seeing that most companies are not participating in this shipping method, can be a challenge.

Now that you know what auto shipping is, and what types are out there, it is time to do your research and figure which is best for you. Good luck!

Visit MetroGistics for all of your Vehicle Shipping needs.