Are you looking to take your pickup truck on your Alaskan adventure? We understand the stress that comes with driving it all the way there. That’s where auto transport companies come in – but how do you choose the right one? You may wonder what questions to ask to ensure a smooth, stress-free journey—no need to fret. We’re here to help.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the most important questions to ask an auto transport company to help you make an informed decision and enjoy a worry-free trip.
So if you need an auto transport company in Alaska, read on to learn more about the questions you should be asking.
Questions About the Company
How long have they been in business?
Knowing how long they’ve been in business is essential when hiring an auto transport company. A company with a long history of successful operations is often a good sign that they have the experience and knowledge to transport your vehicle safely and efficiently.
Are they licensed and registered?
Any reputable auto transport company should be licensed and registered. It would help if you always asked for proof of licensing to ensure the company can legally transport your vehicle. Auto transport companies that transport vehicles across state lines must have a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. It’s easy to verify this information by looking up the company’s operating status, safety record, and registration numbers on the FMCSA website using their USDOT number.
Is the company fully insured?
All legitimate car transport companies should be fully insured by law. Ask about the specifics of their insurance policy, such as what it covers and if additional coverage is available. It’s also important to know if there are any deductibles that you’ll be responsible for paying. Auto transport companies should be able to provide you with a valid insurance certificate, which you should read carefully along with your contract.
What types of vehicles do they transport?
Some auto transport companies specialize in transporting specific types of vehicles, such as classic cars, motorcycles, or boats. It’s important to ask what types of vehicles they transport to ensure they have the appropriate equipment and experience to handle your vehicle.
What is their service area?
The service area of an auto transport company is the geographic region in which they operate. It’s important to ask if the company services the areas you need your vehicle transported to and from.
Questions About the Transportation Process
Are there any limitations on the types of vehicles that can be transported?
While most companies can transport standard cars, vans, SUVs, and light trucks, transporting high-value, oversized, or heavily modified vehicles, or those declared totaled after an accident, may require special equipment. In addition, it’s important to note that not all companies have the equipment to transport these vehicles safely. Therefore, if your vehicle has unique or uncommon specifications, it’s advisable to check with the company prior to booking.
How do I prepare my vehicle for shipping?
To ensure a smooth transport process, preparing your car properly before shipping is crucial. For more information on the necessary steps, visit the Wrightway Auto Carriers website.
What papers are required for car shipping
In most cases, you will need to provide your registration and insurance documents along with a photo ID. Some companies may also ask for the title. When shipping your vehicle south from Anchorage with Wrightway Auto Carriers, bring along your vehicle registration or any document displaying the Vehicle ID number. The last eight digits of this number are necessary for the bill of lading.
How long will it take to transport my vehicle?
Transportation times can vary depending on the distance and the company’s scheduling. Therefore, asking the company for a time estimate for your vehicle’s transport and delivery is important. This can help you plan accordingly and ensure you can receive your car when it arrives.
Will my vehicle be transported directly, or will it be loaded onto another truck?
Some auto transport companies transport vehicles directly, while others load them onto another truck for transport. Knowing which method will be used is essential, as direct transport is generally considered safer for your vehicle.
Will my vehicle be secured during transportation?
Your vehicle should be properly secured during transportation to prevent damage or accidents. Ask the company about their specific security measures to ensure your vehicle is safe throughout transport.
What drop-off and pickup options do I have?
Why go on a road trip just to retrieve your car at its destination? Luckily, bigger auto transport companies usually have more pickup and drop-off locations to choose from, but always confirm that they work for you. You may have the option of door-to-door service, though it typically comes with a higher cost. By choosing this service, the driver will bring your vehicle directly to your home or workplace, bypassing the terminal drop-off.
Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?
In general, auto transport companies require an adult to be present for pickup and delivery to handle the key exchange and sign the necessary paperwork. However, you can designate a trusted friend or relative to act as your agent if you can’t be there. Just confirm with the company that they allow this.
What happens if my vehicle is damaged during transportation?
Despite proper security measures, accidents can still happen during transport. It’s important to ask the company about its policies and procedures for dealing with any damage during transportation. Ensure you understand their insurance policy and the steps you must take if your vehicle is damaged.
Questions about Pricing
How much does it cost to transport my vehicle?
Getting a clear estimate of the total cost of transporting your vehicle is essential, including any applicable taxes and fees. Ask the company for a detailed breakdown of the costs so that you can understand how they arrive at their pricing.
Do you offer free quotes?
Auto transport companies should provide free quotes without requiring any obligation or deposit. Most companies understand that customers compare quotes from various providers and respect that. Although online calculators are available for free estimates, talking directly with a representative usually results in more precise quotes. Be wary of companies that demand a deposit or commitment before providing a quote.
Are there any additional fees or hidden costs?
Some auto transport companies may charge additional fuel, insurance, or expedited delivery fees. Ask about any additional fees or hidden costs upfront to avoid surprises regarding pay.
Is a deposit required?
Some companies require a deposit upfront, while others may require full payment before transport. Therefore, understanding the payment process and what is needed to secure your vehicle is important.
What payment methods are accepted?
Ask the company about their accepted payment methods. For example, some companies may accept credit cards, checks, or bank transfers, while others may require cash or a cashier’s check. Ensure you understand the payment process and have the necessary funds before transport.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When hiring an auto transport company, it’s important to be aware of any red flags that may indicate the company is not reputable or trustworthy. Here are a few red flags to watch out for:
The company has poor online reviews.
Before hiring an auto transport company, research and read online reviews from previous customers. If a company has consistently poor reviews, it may be a sign that they have a history of unsatisfactory service.
The company is not licensed or insured.
A reputable auto transport company should always be licensed and insured. If a company is unwilling to provide proof of its licensing and insurance, it may be a sign that they are operating illegally or not equipped to handle your vehicle.
The company is not willing to provide references.
If a company is unwilling to provide references from previous customers, it may be a sign that they have something to hide. Reputable companies should be able to provide references upon request.
The company refuses to answer certain questions.
If a company is unwilling to answer specific questions about its service or policies, it may be a sign that they are not transparent or trustworthy. A reputable company should be open and honest about its operations and willing to address any concerns or questions you may have.
Want Stress-Free Auto Transport for Your Next Adventure?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of transporting your vehicle for your upcoming trip, don’t worry – you’re not alone.
Fortunately, auto transport companies like Wrightway Auto Carriers exist to provide a reliable solution for your transportation needs. By asking the right questions, you can find a trustworthy and reputable company that will help ensure a safe and stress-free journey for you and your vehicle.
So why not take the worry out of your next adventure? Check out our website or call us to see how we can assist you with your auto transportation needs.