With the average price of a new vehicle in the United States reaching $48,500, transporting cars safely has become a big business. With so much money at stake, many owners wonder if auto transport carriers can be trusted to handle and deliver their expensive rides properly.
Are There Any Reliable Auto Transport Carriers?
Yes, there are reliable options you can trust with expensive vehicles. Search for car shipping services in your area and compare the top auto transport carriers in the search results.
Besides the license, proof of insurance, physical address, and at least a decade of experience compare them in some more areas, such as in this example:
| Company | Insurance Coverage | Customer Ratings | Transporter Type | BBB Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Company A | Up to $1M | 4.8/5 | Enclosed | A+ to A- |
| Company B | Up to $750K | 4.5/5 | Enclosed and Open | B+ to B- |
| Company C | Up to $500K | 4.2/5 | Open | Below C |
Based on this comparison, Company A stands out. It offers the highest insurance coverage and specializes in enclosed auto transport carriers. This means your vehicle gets maximum protection. Customer ratings are also a key indicator of trust, and Company A scores higher than the others.
- Company A: Best for expensive cars, uses enclosed carriers transporters.
- Company B: Reliable but may not offer complete protection for high-end cars.
- Company C: Affordable but better for regular vehicles, not luxury ones.
Whether you need car transport state to state or local moves, choosing a trusted carrier matters. Always prioritize companies that specialize in enclosed options to reduce risks during transport.
5 Ways to Avoid Scam Auto Carriers Transporters
1. Verify Legitimate Carriers
Transporters must have proper credentials. Check their DOT/MC number on the FMCSA website. Ensure their operating authority and insurance are active. Look for cargo liability coverage, too. This protects against loss or damage during car transport.
2. Get Everything in Writing
Don’t fall for bait and switch tactics. Demand written details of your move. This should include:
- Vehicles being transported
- Pickup and delivery addresses and dates
- Total cost with itemized fees
- Carrier’s full legal name and DOT number
Any changes? Get them in writing, too. This protects you from surprises.
3. Beware of Hidden Fees
Trustworthy transporters disclose all potential charges upfront. Watch for these common fees:
| Fee Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Loading/Unloading | Costs for handling your vehicle |
| Peak/Non-peak Surcharges | Higher rates during busy seasons |
| Tolls/Permits | Based on specific transport routes |
| Fuel Adjustments | Charges due to fluctuating gas prices |
Be wary of vague “miscellaneous” charges. Fees shouldn’t exceed initial estimates without your okay.
4. Avoid Pressure Sales
Reputable carriers transporters don’t push for immediate bookings. Take time to research. Check online reviews and carrier validation tools. Check their BBB profile for complaints. Walk away from high-pressure or too-good-to-be-true offers.
5. Insist on Tracking
Reliable transporters provide regular updates. Request these tracking milestones:
- Pickup confirmation with vehicle inspection photos
- Checkpoints along the transport route
- Estimated delivery time and date range
Be cautious if updates are scarce or your vehicle’s location needs to be discovered.
Which is Better, Tow Dolly or Auto Transport Services?
Verdict: Professional car transport is better because of its safety, convenience, and hands-off approach. Here’s the comparison:
| Factor | Towing with a Dolly | Professional Auto Transport Services |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Safety | You’re responsible for safely towing your vehicle. Errors in setup or weight distribution can lead to accidents. | Professional transporters secure vehicles with industry-standard equipment and techniques, minimizing risk. |
| Effort and Skill Required | Towing requires practice, especially for backing up and dealing with trailer sway. You need to ensure correct hitching and balance. | Professionals handle all aspects, from loading to unloading, so you don’t have to worry about the technical details. |
| Weather and Theft Protection | Dolly towing offers no protection from weather or theft. | Enclosed carriers protect your vehicle from weather, theft, and vandalism. |
| Insurance | You may need extra insurance when towing, depending on your coverage. | Professional transporters carry high-limit commercial auto insurance to protect your vehicle. |
| Cost | Renting a dolly is cheaper upfront but comes with more responsibilities. | Professional services cost more but offer convenience, safety, and peace of mind. |
Ultimately, towing with a dolly is a more hands-on, cost-effective option, but it requires experience and attention to safety. In contrast, hiring professional auto transport services, especially with enclosed carriers, ensures security and convenience for valuable vehicles. Transporters handle everything, and the extra protection may be worth the investment for high-end cars.
How Can I Find the Best Auto Transport Carriers Near Me?
Search this phrase top-rated auto transport carriers near me, and do the following:
- Select the first 3-7 companies in search results.
- Visit their website to ensure it is professional and has MC# and US DOT number.
- Verify the USDOT number with the FMCSA website.
- Check the BBB profile to ensure the rating is over A and that there are no or very few open complaints that are also very recent.
- Should have a Google business profile with map location and pictures of their business place.
- Next, check their customer support response and behavior by talking to them a few times throughout the day just to get initial quotes.
Make a table comparison mentioning everything you just checked, from license and ratings to their quotes, and then decide which one to go for.
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