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The Comprehensive Guide to Gifting Vehicles

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Maybe you have a child that is graduating from school or a relative in need of a vehicle. It might even be that you know someone who is struggling financially and you would like to gift them a car. Whatever the reason, there may come a time when you would like to gift a car to someone else. Given that the process of gifting a vehicle is much different than buying one, it’s important to know the process of how it works and also understand the tax implications of giving a car to someone else.

Make Sure the Car is Paid For

You will not be able to gift a car or transfer a title unless you own the car. Therefore, if you have an outstanding balance on your car loan, you must pay it off completely before you can give the car as a gift. Be sure you obtain a copy of this final payment from your bank or dealer’s lending department to confirm the full payment.

Consider the Recipient’s Financial Situation

Even though you are gifting a car to someone else for no financial gain, you still need to go over the terms of the arrangement with the recipient. Make sure they understand that once you give them the car, they will be responsible for other costs such as gas, insurance, and maintenance. You also want to work out who will be paying the taxes and other fees associated with transferring the title. If the recipient is unable to afford the expenses associated with owning the car, you may want to reconsider your decision.

Be Prepared to Pay the Gift Tax

While there may be no sales tax, there may be a federal gift tax involved with gifting your vehicle. The requirements differ every year, but typically a gift tax is applicable when the fair market value of the vehicle exceeds $15,000 for a single person or $30,000 for a married couple. The gift tax can be anywhere between 18-40%.

Write Up a Bill of Sale

Without a formal bill of sale, there is no proof that someone else owns the car and you may still be liable. You can avoid any misunderstandings by writing up a bill of sale that includes the following information:

  • Make and model of the vehicle
  • Purchase price of the vehicle
  • VIN
  • Odometer reading
  • Your signature and the signature of the giftee

Transfer the Vehicle Title

You must transfer the vehicle title to officially release ownership of the vehicle. The easiest way to transfer the title is to go to your local DMV, fill out the necessary paperwork, and pay a transfer fee. At this time you will list the price of the car as gift. Since vehicle transfer laws and fees vary by state, you may need to familiarize yourself with this information before gifting your vehicle.

Make Sure the New Owner is Insured to Drive the Car

Now that you are ready to hand the keys over, you need to make sure the giftee is properly insured to drive the car. They will not be able to legally drive the car without insurance. If the giftee already has car insurance, they simply need to contact their insurance company to add this vehicle to their existing policy. If they do not have insurance, they will need to sign up for a new policy.

Is Additional Car Shipping Insurance Necessary?

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If you are moving across the country, purchasing a car from another state, or attending a car show, sometimes driving is not an option. Therefore, you must rely on auto shipping to safely get your car where it needs to go. For most people, their car is one of their most valuable assets, so it only makes sense that they would want to protect it. Although damage during auto shipping is unlikely, there is still the possibility that something could happen while your vehicle is in transit. Things like weather, falling branches, and road debris always pose a slight risk. This is why it is important to inquire about insurance when shipping your car. Shipping insurance can help provide peace of mind during the shipment process. If you are preparing to ship your car in the near future, here are some important things to consider regarding car shipping insurance.

What Insurance is Provided by Shipping Companies?

Auto transport companies are required to provide basic liability coverage. This policy typically  covers damage to your vehicle that occurs during loading, transport, or unloading. Everything else, including any damage that is a result of your car’s condition prior to shipment (e.g, leaking oil, loose parts, etc.) is your responsibility. While basic liability insurance is required, the terms and amount of the coverage will depend on the particular auto transport company and the minimum requirements for that state. That is why it is important to inquire about the details of the insurance coverage prior to booking your shipment.

How Much Coverage is Enough?

Again, auto shipping companies are required to have coverage, but the exact amount of the policy varies by company. Therefore, you need to inquire about the specific policy to decide whether or not it is adequate for your vehicle. You may come to find that the coverage does not meet your expectations in covering the true value of your car. This can be especially true if you are shipping a luxury or antique car. If the company does not offer the coverage you need, you may need to choose a different shipping company or look into adding additional coverage on your own. In addition to checking with your car shipping company, you should also contact your own auto insurance provider. Depending on your policy, your car may be covered during auto transport.

Although auto transporters are legally responsible for carrying liability insurance per the United States Department of Transportation, there are unfortunately frauds out there. Always ask for proof of insurance as well as a detailed explanation of the policy coverage prior to shipping your car. At this point, it is up to you to determine whether or not additional coverage will be necessary.

Car Show Tips: Preparation and Displaying

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If you have a classic car, you may be eager to show it off! After all, you have worked hard to keep your car in mint condition so it only makes sense that you would want to share its beauty with other car enthusiasts. Whether it’s your first time entering a car show or you have done so several times, it’s important to remember that there are certain tips and tricks to ensure your car looks its best. If you’re hoping to win a trophy or you simply want to impress passers-by, these car presentation tips will improve your entire car show experience.

Preparing Your Car

Wash Your Car

If you want your car to stand out, it needs to be shiny and clean as a whistle! Car fanatics know that if you plan to enter your car in a show, it should be in pristine condition. This begins by giving your car a good and thorough cleaning. Be sure to wash every inch of your car’s exterior, including the engine and the undercarriage. You also want to be sure and wash your car by hand to ensure that you don’t miss a single spot. After all, car shows are all about the details. Be sure to use appropriate automotive products and avoid harsh cleaners that can damage your paint job. You also want to begin with the wheels, and then work your way from the roof down. Finally, always wash your car in the shade so it doesn’t dry too quickly in the sun and leave streaks.

Dry Your Car

Preparing your classic car for a show isn’t the same as washing your everyday vehicle. You can’t just take it for a spin and let it air dry. When you are prepping a car for a show, you must hand dry the car yourself using a microfiber towel. This will prevent streaks and water marks from showing up on your car. It also makes it easier to catch any dirt spots that may have been overlooked. You can remove any remaining spots with an abrasive polish. This is a great trick for saps and other stains.

Polish Your Car

Now it’s time to give your car that pristine shine. Once your car is cleaned and dried, you can polish away any spots where grease, dirt, scrapes, or scratches are still visible. Once you have polished your car, you can apply a glaze that will seal and lock in the shine. Glazes are perfect for filling in small minor scratches and imperfections on the surface of your car to minimize their appearance. Finally, spread a thin layer of wax on the vehicle to give it a nice shine.

Detail the Interior

You want to make sure the interior of your car looks as impressive as the exterior. Start by vacuuming the floors and in between the seats. Take a damp cloth and wipe the hinges and door jambs to remove grease. Next you want to shampoo the carpets using an automotive carpet cleaner and use a mild soap to wipe down hard surfaces like the dashboard. Wipe down the windows with a glass cleaner. Finally, use a conditioner for leather seats. You also want to use a conditioner on your tires to give them a good shine. Shining your tires can make your car look brand new. Be mindful of the trunk as well, and don’t forget to clean it out when you are detailing the interior.

Displaying Your Car

Bring a Canopy Tent

Parking in the shade is ideal, but it’s not always possible. That’s why it’s extremely helpful to bring a canopy tent. This allows you to stay in the shade no matter where your car is parked. Not only do canopy tents provide much needed shade for you and your car, but more people will come look at your car because it is in the shade. It also helps protect your car from sap or pollen that can fall from nearby trees.

Open the Hood and Trunk

When you are displaying a car at a show, you have to show every part of your car, including what’s under the hood. After all, the engine is the heart and soul of the vehicle. If you don’t open the hood and trunk, judges might assume you have something to hide. Even if you don’t have the biggest engine, people still like to see what’s going on underneath the hood.

Open the Windows

In addition to opening the hood and trunk, you also want to open all of the windows. This makes it easy for attendees and judges to peek inside your vehicle. Considering how much work you put into detailing the interior, you certainly want to make sure and show it off.

Make a Modifications Poster

People can look at your car and they may assume any number of things but they won’t know the exact specs and details unless you tell them. Invest in designing a framed poster that includes all of your car’s modifications. That way, people can read all about your car instead of making guesses. This can also be very helpful for judges who might stop by when you aren’t available to answer questions. This provides them with information about your car and a list of all the mods you have made.

Display Original Documents if Possible

Not everyone has access to the original documents for their car, especially for older cars. That’s because paper is hard to maintain over the course of many years. That said, if you do happen to have any original documents including the original paper advertisement, owner’s manual, or stickers with specs, be sure to display these along with your car during the show. 

Place Mirrors Underneath Your Car

It may sound strange but most people will not take the time to get down on their hands and knees to peek under your car. However, that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t be interested in seeing the undercarriage. By placing a few mirrors underneath your car, it makes it easy for people to see the suspension and other components they may have otherwise missed. This helps to create that extra wow factor for judges.

Get a Custom License Plate

This is one detail that is easy to overlook but can really make your car stand out. License plates are a big part of a car’s identity and this is a great way to showcase a little personality and give your car an easy way to be identified. Getting a custom license plate can really add to the ambiance of your classic car.

Topics You Should Discuss with an Auto Transport Company Before Shipping a Car

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Whether you are purchasing a car online or moving across the country, shipping your car is usually much easier than driving it yourself. However, before handing over the keys, you want to make sure that you have hired the right company for the job. Furthermore, you want to be sure you fully understand the shipping process so that you can have the best experience possible. Given that most people don’t ship cars on a regular basis, you will likely have several questions about the industry and how auto transport works. Here are a few important topics you should discuss with an auto transport company before shipping your car.

What kind of car are you shipping?

One of the first topics you will want to discuss with an auto transport company is what kind of car you are looking to ship. The make, model, and size of your vehicle can help the shipping company get a better idea of what it will cost to ship your car. In addition, if you are shipping a luxury, antique, or classic car, you may want to consider additional options such as enclosed transport. Finally, you want to let the shipping company know whether or not your car is in working condition or if it’s inoperable, as this can change the equipment that will be needed to ship your car safely.

How much will it cost to ship your car?

This is likely one of the first questions you will have and any reputable car shipping company should be able to provide you with a quote. Keep in mind, however, that there are several factors that determine the cost of auto shipment. These include:

  • Size of your vehicle
  • Distance of shipment
  • Open or enclosed transport
  • Door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal delivery
  • Time of year
  • Flexibility of shipping dates

When you receive your quote, be sure to ask if the quote includes everything. You want to make sure you understand the pricing clearly, because the last thing you want are unexpected fees and additional costs.

Are they properly licensed and registered?

You want to be sure that the company you are working with is in compliance with all necessary licensing requirements. Any company that transports vehicles is required to be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. They should be able to provide you with a valid U.S. DOT # for verification. In addition, they should also be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and should be able to provide you with their MC #. You can look this number up on the Motor Carrier website to check the company’s transport history.

What services do they offer?

You want to be sure and discuss what kinds of services the auto transport company offers. For example, some may have restrictions on the size or weight of vehicles. Some may not have the proper equipment to haul an inoperable vehicle. There are also other specific services such as open or enclosed transport, as well as door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal services. You want to inquire about all of these services so you can find an auto transport company that best fits your needs.

Are they insured?

Insurance is a very important topic to discuss whenever you are handing over your vehicle for shipment. You want to make sure that the auto transport company you are working with offers adequate coverage for your vehicle. If you don’t think it’s sufficient, ask about increasing the coverage.

How long will shipping take?

There is no guarantee in the auto shipping industry and this might vary from one company to another. However, they should be able to provide you with an estimated delivery time. Just keep in mind that things like weather, road conditions, traffic, and mechanical problems can arise and affect your delivery time.

What are the payment arrangements?

Be sure to inquire about what payment methods are accepted, and ask about a deposit. Many auto shipping companies will ask customers to pay a deposit or partial payment when the shipment is scheduled, but rarely would you be asked to pay in full. Be sure you understand all of the terms and conditions of your contract so you aren’t hit with any surprise bills.

What documents will you need for shipment?

In most cases, auto transport companies will require title, registration, and insurance information in addition to a photo ID. They need proof that the car you are shipping actually belongs to you. That said, be sure to clarify exactly what documents are necessary so you have everything ready and won’t delay shipment.

How do you prepare your car for shipment?

Though the process of shipping is pretty straightforward, there are a few things you will need to do to ensure your vehicle is properly prepared for shipment. As the owner of the vehicle, it is your responsibility to make sure that your vehicle is prepared for shipment so be sure and ask what you need to do prior to dropping off your vehicle.





Towing an Electric Car- What You Need to Know

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If you own an electric vehicle, you may be wondering if it can be towed. Whether you just want to be prepared in case your car breaks down or you are looking for a way to move it a long-distance, it’s important to know the ins and outs of towing your electric car. While it is certainly possible to tow electric cars, they are not towed like a traditional combustion engine. Electric cars are equipped with onboard electronics and motors that are installed to turn the wheels, and this can make the towing process a bit more complicated. It is best that you are aware of exactly how to tow your electric vehicle.

Why Might You Need to Tow You Electric Vehicle

While EV’s are certainly reliable cars, they are not immune to the occasional malfunction. As with any car, things can and do go wrong from time to time so you need to be prepared for the unexpected. For example, you may encounter a flat tire, a dead battery, brake issues, or even a factory defect. You may also find yourself in need of towing if you plan to move to another state.

Start with a Charge

If the reason you are having your car towed is because the battery ran out, it is best to try and charge it rather than tow it. Instead of towing it to a charging station, check with the towing company to see if they have a charging truck that can be delivered to your vehicle. Charging trucks can be a good alternative to towing if you are dealing with a dead battery.

Towing Your Electric Car

Any car, whether it be gas-powered or electric, can suffer major damage if it is towed incorrectly. Electric vehicles are equipped with computers on the tires, batteries, and sensors, so a number of things can go wrong if it is not towed properly. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, most EV’s do not have a neutral gear, so the wheel movement is generating power to a battery that isn’t turned on. In order to fully eliminate wheel movement, it is recommended that you always tow your EV on a flatbed truck in order to avoid potentially catastrophic damage to your vehicle. In most cases, all four wheels should be off the ground and not in movement unless the car is being driven. When loading your EV onto a flatbed, be sure to check the specific vehicle’s manual to locate where the tow chains can be safely and securely attached to your vehicle.

Safely Transport Your Electric Car

Purchasing an electric vehicle is a big financial investment, so you want to learn about proper care and maintenance. This includes knowing the basics about towing your EV. If you are moving or transporting your EV a long distance, it is always recommended that you work with a professional auto shipping company to safely transport your electric vehicle. This will ensure you protect your vehicle and your investment.

How Car Home Delivery Works When You Buy a Car Online

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If you are in the market for a new car, look no further than your laptop. These days, thanks to technology, consumers can shop dealers all over the country to find the perfect car. They can even make the purchase right from the comfort of their own home. Forget about spending your entire weekend strolling around car lots. Online car shopping has changed the way consumers shop for cars and the process has never been easier. Once you have found that perfect car, you can even arrange for home delivery. Avoid the hassle of spending hours at a dealership and forget about driving across the country to pick up your new car. Home delivery makes buying a car online easy, convenient, and hassle free.

Here’s How it Works

The last thing you want is to put additional miles and wear and tear on your brand new car. Home delivery is the best way to get your new vehicle, without compromising the quality of the car.

Discuss it with the dealer: Before purchasing your new vehicle, be sure to let the dealer know that you are interested in home delivery. Some dealers will offer this service as an option when purchasing the vehicle, while others might not be willing to do so. Some dealers might have a policy where you have to arrange for your own delivery. Either way, you want to discuss this service up front with your dealer so you can negotiate the best price for the vehicle, including transport.

Fill out the necessary paperwork: If the dealership offers home delivery services, the process is pretty straightforward. They will ask you to sign all of the sales documents and verify that the car is indeed the make and model that you chose. At this time you should also ask for photographs of the vehicle as well as a photograph of the odometer. You want to be sure to have these photos so you can properly document the car’s condition prior to shipment. The sales rep should also arrange for an inspection of the vehicle before you conclude the sale.

Research car shipping companies: If the dealership will not provide home delivery services, you will need to make your own shipping arrangements. Start by researching car shipping companies and make sure to verify proper licensing, registration, and insurance. You also want to check reviews and ask for a quote before booking. Once you have chosen a reputable car shipping company, you will arrange for them to pick up your new vehicle at the dealership. (the sales rep should still take care of photos and inspection.)

Choose your transport option: When booking shipping services, you will have the option to choose between open and enclosed transport. Though it costs a bit more, enclosed transport offers the most protection for your vehicle during shipment. Covered transport is recommended for antique, luxury, or expensive cars.

The Bill of Lading: The Bill of Lading is an important document that acts as a contract between the shipping company and the customer. As soon as you come to an agreement on the delivery time, this information will be inserted into the Bill of Lading and the shipping company will arrange to pick up your car from the dealership. Upon pickup, the sales representative will also provide documentation and photographs of the vehicle’s condition. You will electronically sign the Bill of Lading, confirming the condition of the vehicle. Once the vehicle is delivered to you, you will inspect it again and sign the Bill of Lading once more to finalize shipment.

Your car is delivered to you: Confirm all shipping details and ensure all documents are signed. You also want to arrange to have someone available when the car is delivered, so you can sign the Bill of Lading. Once everything is arranged, your delivery is scheduled and your vehicle will be on its way. You should receive notifications about estimated delivery times as your vehicle is in transit.

 

The Surge in Used Car Prices Explained

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If you are in the market for a used vehicle, you have probably experienced a bit of sticker shock. That’s because used car prices have skyrocketed in recent months, in some cases even surpassing the vehicle’s original MSRP. This has undoubtedly turned vehicles into an appreciating asset, something that has previously been unheard of. These record high prices have left consumers feeling annoyed, frustrated, and curious about what is going on. The answer is pretty simple- supply and demand. This basic economic principle, combined with the coronavirus pandemic, has led to record high used car prices. Let’s take a closer look at how we ended up here and what factors have contributed to this rise in price.

The Impact of the Pandemic

There is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected a number of industries, and the automotive industry is no exception. In early 2020, millions of workers were forced to work from home, which translated to a delay in new car purchases. Fewer new car purchases means consumers are holding on to their old cars and this leads to fewer used cars available for sale. In short, without a healthy market for new car sales, the used car supply dries up and the cost increases due to lack of inventory. Simultaneously, record levels of unemployment and financial anxiety have encouraged more people to buy used cars instead of new ones, which has led to an even greater demand. Simply put, more and more people are lining up to buy used cars but the supply is low and this drives the prices up.

The Rental Car Crisis

Another reason used car prices have been hit so hard is directly related to rental car companies. Rental car companies were at a near halt last year as a result of the pandemic so many of them sold off most of their cars in order to stay afloat. Now, with the rebound in travel, rental car companies are facing a shortage of cars to rent as demand has soared. They are scrambling to purchase used cars, and are even willing to pay a premium price, to restock their inventory.,

Delayed Purchases

Another factor that is playing into the recent surge in demand for used cars is the fact that many buyers are now starting to make purchases that they put off last year as a result of financial uncertainty during the crisis. Since there are fewer new cars on the market, these buyers are now forced to look into purchasing a used car. These same consumers had planned to spend more to buy a new car, so their budget is now higher for a used car.

Shipping Crisis

Finally, we are facing an unprecedented shipping crisis, with barges unable to unload at their ports. This has led to a devastating shortage of microchips, which are necessary for the electrical components in new cars. As a result, new car manufacturers are forced to slow production, which has left consumers with no choice but to purchase used cars. Again, there is a high demand for used cars and a shortage of supply, which has driven used cars prices to an all-time high.

10 Tips on How to Prepare Your Car for Auto Transport

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Are you preparing to have your vehicle shipped across the country? If so, you may be wondering what you need to do to ensure your vehicle is properly prepared for transport. Since auto transport isn’t something most people do on a regular basis, you may not be aware of exactly what steps you need to take to make sure your vehicle is ready for its cross-country haul. As the owner of the vehicle, you are responsible for preparing your automobile for transport prior to the driver’s arrival. Here is everything you need to know so you can prepare your vehicle for shipping day.

1. Wash the Vehicle

The first thing you will want to do is wash the exterior of your vehicle. This may seem counterintuitive since you are about to have it shipped across the country, but the reason for washing your car is so you can document its condition. You will need to inspect your car and make note of any existing scratches or dings and it’s much easier to spot any imperfections on a clean car.

2. Take Photos of Your Vehicle

Once you have thoroughly cleaned your car, you will want to take time-stamped photos of the exterior of your vehicle. You want to document any scratches, dings, dents, or paint chips prior to handing your vehicle over for transport. These photos will serve as proof of your vehicle’s condition in the unlikely event that your vehicle is damaged during transport. When your car is picked up for shipment, you want to have these pictures ready so you can include them on the Bill of Lading (the inspection report you will sign).

3. Remove Exterior Accessories

Any exterior accessories on your vehicle could get damaged during transport so it’s best to remove them before shipping your car. These items include:

  • Removable bike racks
  • Luggage racks and rooftop boxes
  • Retractable antennas
  • Custom spoilers

4. Perform Any Necessary Maintenance

If you are transporting an inoperable vehicle, you will need to notify the car shipping company of your vehicle’s condition beforehand, as it requires special equipment to transport inoperable vehicles. For vehicles in working condition, you want to check your car for any leaks or mechanical issues. You also want to check to be sure your battery is fully charged, you have adequate air pressure in your tires, and be sure to top off your fluids.

5. Take a Picture of the Odometer

You will need to note the mileage of your vehicle before shipment and upon delivery so you should take a picture of the odometer. This will provide you with peace of mind knowing that no one took your vehicle for a joy ride during transport.

6.Empty Your Gas Tank

You want to make sure that your vehicle has no more than a quarter tank of gas. Extra gas means extra weight and this can add to your shipping cost. Since carriers have to meet certain weight requirements, they prefer that your vehicle have a quarter tank of gas or less.

7. Disable Alarms and Remove Toll Tags

The last thing your driver wants to deal with is a car alarm that won’t turn off. To prevent this from happening, disable your car alarm prior to shipment. In addition, you won’t need to pay any tolls while your car is in transport on a trailer, but your tag would likely still pick up the fee. Therefore, deactivate or remove toll tags before shipment.

8. Remove Personal Items

Most car shipping companies do not allow you to pack personal items inside your vehicle during shipment. These items are not insured against damage or theft, so be sure to remove all personal belongings before handing over your vehicle. This includes items such as sunglasses, charging cables, water bottles, GPS devices, jewelry, or any other personal items.

9. Gather Your Vehicle’s Documents

Before you hand your vehicle over to the driver, they will want proof that the vehicle is actually yours. To prevent any last-minute delays, have your paperwork prepared in advance. You will need the following documents:

  • Vehicle registration information
  • Proof of insurance
  • Bill of sale or other proof of ownership
  • Original vehicle title
  • A valid ID

10. Get an Extra Set of Keys

Your car will need to be driven onto the carrier for loading so your transport driver will need a set of keys to get your vehicle on and off the trailer. This is a good time to have an extra set of keys made if you don’t already have them. You don’t want to hand over your only set of keys.

 

5 Questions to Ask Before a Company Ships Your Luxury Car

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A luxury car is a big investment so you want to be sure it is in the right hands if you need to ship it. Working with the right auto transport company is crucial to a positive car shipping experience. Before handing over your prized possession, you want to make sure that you conduct thorough research to help you find a reliable auto transport company. If you are looking to ship your luxury car, here are some important questions to ask to help you find the right shipping company.

1) Is your company licensed, registered, and insured?

When you are entrusting a shipping company to handle your luxury vehicle, you want to be sure they have the proper credentials to do so. All interstate transport companies are required to be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and they should be able to provide you with their DOT number. In addition, they are also required to register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and they should be willing to give you their MC number. You can verify their MC number on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website. It is also required by law that car shipping companies be fully insured. Be sure to inquire about their insurance coverage and if you find that it is not adequate to cover your luxury vehicle, ask if you can increase your coverage for an additional cost.

2) What kind of transport services do they provide?

Most auto transport companies offer the option between open or enclosed transport for your vehicle. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, it is recommended that you choose enclosed transport when you are shipping a luxury vehicle. The outside elements can be hard on your vehicle during interstate travel if it is left unprotected. An enclosed carrier provides the protection you want for your luxury car. Though it costs a bit more, enclosed carriers are the best way to ensure maximum protection for your luxury vehicle during shipment.

3) How much experience do you have shipping luxury vehicles?

You wouldn’t want to trust just anyone with your luxury vehicle. That’s why it’s important to do your research and find out as much as you can about the shipping company you plan to work with. Start by finding out how long the shipping company has been in business and ask specifically about their experience shipping luxury vehicles. It takes additional time and care when handling a luxury vehicle and you want to make sure the shipping company takes those additional steps to ensure your luxury vehicle arrives safely and on time.

4) Can you provide a list of references?

One of the best ways to find out if a shipping company is reliable is to ask people who have used them. A reputable car shipping company that has been in business for a while should have no problems providing you with a list of satisfied customers. Contact a few of these references to see if they can provide additional insight about their experience working with this shipping company. You always want to check references and read reviews, especially when you will be shipping a luxury vehicle.

5) How should I prepare my luxury vehicle for transport?

In order to ensure a smooth and safe shipping experience, there are a few things that need to be done to prepare your vehicle for shipment. Be sure to talk with your shipping company about specific steps you need to take to get your luxury vehicle ready for transport. These steps will likely include:

  • Washing the exterior of your vehicle
  • Taking photos of your vehicle’s condition
  • Removing all personal items from your vehicle
  • Removing any exterior accessories
  • Checking the battery, tire pressure, and fluid levels
  • Performing any necessary repairs or maintenance
  • Making sure the gas tank is no more than ¼ full

Given that each car shipping company has its own rules and regulations, be sure to inquire about any additional steps that need to be taken prior to shipment.



How Car Shipping Works

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If you are planning a long-distance move or you are interested in purchasing a car in another state, it may not be practical or possible to drive your car to your home. Car shipping is a convenient way to get your car from one destination to another without having to get behind the wheel. While the process is pretty straightforward, most consumers are new to the industry and do not have the slightest idea of how the process works or where to begin. Understanding how it works can give you a better idea of what to expect and how to go about finding the right auto shipping company. 

1. Find a shipping company and get a quote.

The first step in the process is to do your research and find a reputable auto shipping company that meets your needs. Ensure that the company you are working with has proper licensing, registration, and insurance. You can verify this by visiting the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website. You also want to check reviews both online and with the Better Business Bureau. In addition to checking credibility, you also want to ask for a price quote. Ultimately, you want to find a competitive price that seems reasonable. You don’t want to overpay, but paying too little can also be risky. The quote will be based on a number of factors including the size and weight of your vehicle, the distance you will be shipping it, the condition of the car, the time frame in which you need it delivered, as well as the type of transport you choose (open or enclosed). 

2. Book your service.

Once you have decided on a car shipping company you can trust, it’s time to book your shipment. If possible, it’s best to book a couple of weeks in advance. This will ensure that a carrier will be available in your area. At this time you will also need to decide whether or not to use an open or enclosed carrier. You will also need to schedule either door-to-door service or terminal-to-terminal service. Finally, you will need to let the carrier know if you require expedited shipping services or if you are flexible with your delivery date. 

3. Check insurance coverage. 

At the time of booking it is always a good idea to check with the auto transport company regarding their liability insurance coverage. You may also want to check with your own insurance company to see what coverage you have and if you need to add more. 

4. Prepare your car for shipment. 

Once you have everything booked, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for shipment. Here are a few important things you need to do in order to prepare your vehicle to be shipped.

-wash the exterior 

-take photos of the exterior of your vehicle and make note of any scratches, dings, or dents (these photos can be used to compare your vehicle’s condition upon pickup)

-perform an inspection of your vehicle and check for leaks, low tire pressure, low fluids, and check the battery

-make sure there is no more than a quarter tank of gas in the vehicle

-remove custom accessories such as alarms, spoiler, bike or luggage racks, or antennas

-remove all personal items from inside the vehicle

5. Gather your documents.

At the time your vehicle is picked up, the driver will ask for some important information to prove the vehicle actually belongs to you. You will need to show the original title and registration, proof of insurance, and a photo ID. 

6. Sign the Bill of Lading.

Right before your car is loaded onto the carrier, you will be asked to give it one final inspection and make notes of any existing damage. At this time you will sign the Bill of Lading which acts as a contract to acknowledge the condition of your vehicle and the destination to which it is being shipped. 

7. Pick up your vehicle. 

The final step in the process is to pick up your vehicle. Depending on the arrangement, it may be delivered directly to your door or to the nearest terminal. Either way, you will inspect your vehicle again upon pickup and sign the Bill of Lading again to acknowledge receipt of the vehicle.