When hiring an auto transporter there are some basics that should be covered before giving them a deposit to ship you car or motorcycle. Start by checking with the
U.S. government to make sure the have the proper operating authority. (follow continue on the FMCSA page and then use the top left drop menu to do a carrier search, using the company name, state and MC#.)
All auto transporters will need a valid MC number and USDOT if they are a carrier. Make sure their status is active and their bond if they are a
transport broker and insurance if they are a carrier is valid.
Next you want to make sure the auto shipping company does not have a history of complaints on the
BBB. Note, that companies may have some complaints over their long history which is natural in this business due to issues sometimes out of their control like
transport delivery time complaints, which can be caused by weather or traffic. What you want to look for is a pattern of the same complaints that are not responded to. Stay away if that's the case and find another
auto transporter to ship your car.
In the last post I discussed the differences between a transport broker and carrier. As posted in the last article they both have advantages and disadvantages to help you
ship your car. The major differences are that carriers actually own their own trucks and brokers do not.
Auto transport brokers have a network of "trucks" they use.
There are few things to consider and depending on your needs one may better suit you. While a carrier has there own trucks and may have more control of the process brokers have more choices.
Regardless of which shipping company you choose to move your vehicle, the automobile is always insured under the carriers insurance always. So even if you choose a broker to move your car the vehicles under the carriers respsonsibilty once its picked up.
Bottom line is both have advantages depending on your specific needs and both can get the job done efficiently and reliably. Always get a minimum of 3-5
auto shipping quotes, and always check the status of your chosen transport company including MC numbers, USDOT and Insurances. Always read your contract too!
One of the most
frequently asked questions in the auto & motorcycle transport industry is whats the difference between a carrier and a broker?
The difference is this;
Carriers own their own trucks and equipment.
Brokers do not.
They both are required by the federal government to have licenses.
They are required to have different licenses for each authority.
Brokers need an MC number and carriers need both or just an MC.Auto Transport Brokers are like a mortgage broker, they find the best rate and carrier company for your needs and then take care of the paper work, bill of laiden and the pick up arrangements.
Transport brokers do not insure your vehicle. The vehicle is insured through A. Your own insurance and B. The carrier they book it with.
Sometimes a Company can be both. They can be a carrier and an auto transport broker. This might mean they could use their own truck to transport your vehicle or they may use another carrier to do so.
In summary both companies can service your request. As in the previous posts always check out the
transport company you do business with. A
reputable carrier or broker can give you a great price and great service, both having advantages and dis advantages which we will discuss in the next post.
