How to Choose the Right Florida Car Shipping Company

Are you looking forward to moving one or more cars from one place to another but not sure which car shipping company should you go for?

Well, if you have never hired an auto transport service before it is going to be a tough deal for you, especially with this many scammers in the market. 

Shipping your car from Florida can be a stressful process if you don’t choose the right auto transportation assistance. With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices. 

However, taking some time to research your options and evaluate companies based on necessary criteria can help you find a reliable carrier for your needs. 

In this read, we will walk you through the steps to consider while looking for a car shipping company in Florida. 

So without further ado, let’s dive right in! 

Research Company Experience and Reputation

When shipping a vehicle long distance, it’s vital to choose a carrier with experience. Look for companies that have been in the car shipping Florida business for at least five years. Usually, more experience means better results. 

The size of their operation can also provide clues – larger operations may have more resources, while smaller companies often provide more personalized service. Overall, a proven track record is key for peace of mind.

{The above graph shows the global car shipping market size forecast from 2023 to 2033}

Compare Shipping Quotes and Rates

To ensure you’re getting competitive pricing, obtain written estimates from 3-5 highly rated auto transportation services. During the quoting process, ask carriers to disclose all fees upfront so there are no surprises later. 

Shipping rates vary based on factors like distance, vehicle size/type, and time of year. Opt for transparent rate structures without hidden charges. Carefully compare total costs rather than just base rates between providers.

Evaluate Customer Service Offerings  

Great customer service doesn’t end after the quote – it’s vital throughout the entire shipping process. Inquire about assistance options before, during, and after transport. 

Does the company provide 24/7 phone and online support? 

What tracking and communication methods will be used so you know the status? 

Carriers that promptly respond to inquiries and keep customers well-informed tend to produce smoother shipments. Their level of service will largely impact your overall experience.

Check Licensing and Insurance Coverage

It’s significant to confirm that any car shipping company you work with is properly licensed and insured. 

Reputable carriers will be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a US Department of Transportation (USDOT) number, meaning they adhere to federal safety regulations. Visit https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ to learn more about how the FMCSA works.

Also, verify the company maintains adequate auto transport insurance policies like cargo insurance and commercial automobile liability coverage. This protects your vehicle from any loss or damage that may occur during transportation. 

Ask about additional coverage options, too, if you want extra protection. Only work with transportation professionals who have all the required licensing and insurance in place.

Did You Know? 

The international shipping industry carries 90% of the world’s commodities. 

Consider Available Shipping Methods

Most companies can ship your car either enclosed or open. Enclosed transport fully contains your vehicle inside a closed trailer, protecting it from weather and potential theft – though it may cost more. 

Open auto transportation secures your car to the deck of a carrier trailer in the open air, providing a more affordable option if you have a less valuable automobile. Be sure to inquire if the company also offers flexibility to switch between enclosed and open based on your needs. 

Drive-away shipping is another less common option where you drive the vehicle to its destination. Understand the pros and cons of each method based on your particular automobile, budget, and transportation requirements.

Read Online Reviews from Past Customers

Third-party customer reviews on sites like Google and Facebook can offer honest insights from previous shipping experiences. Take time to read through the most recent reviews, looking for recurring positive or negative themes. 

An occasional poor review won’t necessarily rule out a company but watch for consistency in high satisfaction ratings. Reviews may also flag areas for potential improvement. 

Trust carriers with ratings showing they regularly deliver excellent assistance and address any issues that arise. The feedback of past customers provides valuable perspective.

Click here to find some of the most reputable online review sites that you can look up when selecting a vehicle shipping service for your car.

Ask About the Condition of their Shipping Trucks

The vehicles used to transport your car can impact both the safety and the condition of your automobile upon arrival. Inquire about the average age of the trucks in the carrier’s fleet and their preventative maintenance and repair schedules. 

Ask what type of driver training programs they have in place. Newer fleets that are well-maintained help minimize risks, as do carriers that utilize GPS trackers on trucks for increased visibility during transport.

Here’s a fun fact…

A container ship travels 75% of the way to the moon and back in a year. 

Inspect Damage Protection Plans   

Understand the coverage options available should any damage occur to your vehicle when in transit.

Basic plans typically only cover damage from a secured load shifting during travel. Opt for premium plans from reputable insurers if you desire stronger protections against additional risks. 

Also, consider deductible amounts and claims processes, which can vary between carriers. 

Confirm Communication and Tracking Policies

It’s significant to work with a carrier that maintains consistent contact and shipment updates. 

Will you receive estimated arrival time frames as well as location notifications and photo updates throughout transit? Inquire about protocols for unplanned delays, too. Online tracking portals provide round-the-clock visibility. 

Same-day updates for any major changes promote peace of mind during your auto transport. Clear communication policies allow you to stay informed every step of the way.

Key Takeaways

Taking the time to evaluate multiple car shipping companies based on experience, cost, customer service, and other vital factors helps to ensure your vehicle is transported safely and smoothly from Florida to its destination. 

Whereas the selection process may involve more research upfront, choosing a reputable carrier backed by positive reviews and meeting all licensing requirements will give you confidence your auto is in good hands.