You might be relocating to Florida or away from the state, and you need help with your car. If so, an easy and less stressful solution would be to hire a transport company to cater to your needs. They are going to handle the logistics and help you along the way, saving you a lot of resources.
Many people would think about driving their automobiles when they want to go to another state. However, there are issues like the travel time that can be spent on other things related to your relocation or the need to book a hotel while you’re along the way. Overall, it’s cheaper to book a transport company, and you can also prevent the wear-and-tear that can result from long drives.
However, if you’re unsure of where you should start, then you’re on the right page. This is going to help people who don’t have any experience with Florida car transport services and what they entail. Some of the tips below may help you decide if this is the right option for you.
What are your Options?
When you search online, you might get overwhelmed with a lot of companies that are offering car shipping services from Florida and beyond. Although many consumers base prices when choosing a service, it’s also best to consider other factors that will ensure safe delivery. Other terms that you need to know about are the following:
Open vs. Enclosed Transport
Choose between the open and enclosed methods where the former lets you transport your vehicle in a trailer along with other vehicles. This is widely available and more affordable but know that there can be exposure to the elements and bad weather. This isn’t a recommended option if you have a classic model or a high-value automobile that you want to preserve.
On the other hand, if you have a vintage or a luxury car that you need to transport to Florida, then it’s essential to bring a lot of extra care. An enclosed container can protect it from the sand, rain, rocks, ultraviolet rays of the sun as well as snow. On the flip side, this is something expensive, so you need to get quotes before booking this kind of service. See more about the enclosed option when you click here.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal
There are options when the driver is going to drop off your vehicle at a nearby port or designated location in Florida. If this is the case, it would be cheaper, but you’ll have to arrange your schedule and rides to that area. For convenience, you can choose the drop-off to be at your doorstep, but it would cost you more.
How to Select the Right Company?
Ask around and do some research about the legitimate ones that are licensed and insured. They can drive in and out of Florida with the appropriate licenses, and they can give you quotes for your shipping plans. You just need to tell them the make and model of the car, and the kind of shipping option that you want to choose, and make sure that you have the distance that will be covered.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires these transporters to have a valid Motor Carrier number, which you can verify on the FMCSA website. Also, ask for proof of insurance to make sure your vehicle is covered in case of damage during transit. Read info about the FMCSA at this link: https://www.transportation.gov/tags/fmcsa.
Clean Your Car
Thoroughly wash your automobile before shipping, since this makes it easier to inspect for any pre-existing damage and document the car’s condition accurately. Take clear photos of your car from multiple angles, noting any scratches, dents, or other issues.
Remove all personal items from the interior, including valuables, electronics, and any aftermarket accessories that could be damaged or stolen during transport. Most companies do not allow personal belongings in the vehicle due to insurance regulations and weight restrictions.
Also, ensure your automobile is in good working condition before shipping. Check the battery, tires, and fluid levels. If there are any mechanical issues, inform the shipping company in advance. Disable any alarms to prevent them from going off during transit.
Lastly, keep a record of all the documentation related to your car shipping, including the bill of lading, insurance papers, and the initial inspection report. Having the paperwork organized and readily available can help resolve any disputes or issues that may arise.
Scheduling and Timing
To get the best rates and availability, book your car shipping service well in advance, especially if you’re shipping during peak seasons like summer or around the holidays. Last-minute schedules can be more expensive and limit your options. You can check the prices with the best companies and see if they have discounted rates and promotions. Also, there are add-ons that you might be interested in, so browse on their websites to know more about them.
Flexible Pickup and Delivery Windows
Estimated pick-ups and drop-offs may vary, but some factors can affect them, such as the weather, traffic, distance, rough roads, and accidents. Being flexible can significantly reduce stress and this is why it’s important to get the transport in order before you go on a vacation or relocate.
