How to ship car across country? Well, this can be very confusing, especially for newbies. The possibility of overlooking basic things, and the challenge of choosing a auto transport carriers, will surely add to the stress. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, with a step-by-step guide to help you make the process of shipping a vehicle abroad easier.
How to ship car across country?
Step 1: Find a Transportation Company
Research is essential when looking for a reliable shipping company. You can start your research using search engines like Google, Yahoo, and Bing. You can also use forums and review sites. This will provide you with an extensive list of options to choose from.
You can use the above process or you can try our recommendation for ship car across the country.
Review Forums and Review Sites
These websites have made life easier for customers. Forums, where you can get in
direct contact with other customers and ask about their experiences with
transportation companies, are really helpful. You can find these forums and comments using search engines.
Step 2: Choose a Transportation Company
Once you’ve found the company that will ship your vehicle to you, you can check to see if it’s trustworthy. You can review complaints and reviews with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
BBB will provide you with specific details on how the company responds to customer complaints. This will give you an idea of the character and reliability of it. Reviews, ratings, and comments are a clear reflection of how the company presents its services and treats its customers.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Additionally, you can contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to verify the company’s license. You can even view complaints on the FMCSA website.
United States Department of Transportation
You can also check with your state Department of Transportation (or equivalent) if the company has the necessary business licenses to operate in the state. Asking questions to the representative of the company you are interested in is also a good idea. Contact them by phone and check to see if the business has the required licenses, such as a United States DOT number.
Step 3: Shipping Costs and Charges
So how much does it cost to ship car across country? it is necessary to add the costs of rights and other charges.
Insurance
Some individual vehicle policies cover transportation. Check to see if the shipping company has current cargo insurance, with a minimum liability that exceeds the value of your car.
Other expenses
Many factors go into the cost of shipping a vehicle, but proper research will help you save a lot of money.
Step 4: Request a Quote, Choose the Shipping Method, and Confirm the Reservation
You are ready to request a quote and confirm a reservation with the company you are interested in working with.
Door to door
This delivery option is the most convenient for you. In this option, the shipping company of your choice will collect the vehicle from your home. Then he will be in charge of the process, from the loading of the container and delivery to the Port, to its destination.
Roll-On / Roll-Off
This is also known as RORO. It consists of using a ship that can carry wheel loads and heavy equipment. This is a suitable shipping method for various types of cargo, including cars, boats, and heavy equipment.
Step 5: Gather and Prepare the Required Documents
Now is the time to gather and prepare the necessary documents to send a vehicle abroad. These are the various documents that you should have ready to avoid delays and additional fees.
Original Title and Registration
This is used for reservation purposes. Also to verify that you are the owner of the car you want to ship. It also shows that you are the sole owner of the vehicle and that no other party can legally claim your ownership.
Copy of the Sales Invoice
You will need the bill of sale for recently purchased vehicles. This document shows the record of the transaction between you, the car owner, and the seller of the vehicle. It also provides specific information about the vehicle.
Personal identification
For the company to handle the paperwork, two copies of government-issued identification documents are needed, for example, a passport, driver’s license, etc. Sometimes approval of these can be done online. In other circumstances, you will have to be physically present. Ask the sender for details.
Check the Safety and Emissions Regulations
Upon arrival in the destination country, the authorities will verify that your vehicle complies with safety and emissions regulations. Do some good research in this area before you go.
Inspections
Remove all additional items from your vehicle and make sure your battery is fully charged. Also, check if the alarms are deactivated and if the tires are fully inflated.
Reduce Fuel Levels
Remember to reduce the fuel level to 1/8 of the tank. Shipping companies limit the amount of fuel allowed in your car for safety reasons.
Vehicle Condition Documentation
Make a vehicle inspection report to note dents, scratches, and/or cosmetic problems that the vehicle has. Photograph all areas of the car with close-up images of the damaged areas. If there are additional instructions, add them to your documentation and report them to the shipping company.
Replacement Keys
You will be asked to hand over your vehicle keys to the shipping company. They will need them to move it during the trip and to drive it on and off the conveyor. Make sure to get a duplicate of your keys.
Many unforeseen events can arise during the process of shipping a vehicle. That’s why being informed about what you need to prepare will help you in the end.
