Easy Tips for Scheduling Your Car for International Shipping

Shipping a car cross-country is a significant undertaking, and one that requires careful planning and consideration. Whether you’re relocating for a job, sending a classic car to a show, or simply need to move your vehicle a long distance, the process can be streamlined with the right strategies in place. Here are some essential tips to ensure your car’s safe and efficient cross-country transit.

Understand the Costs

Cost is always a primary concern when shipping a vehicle. To make an informed decision:

1. Know the Factors: Costs can vary based on the size of the vehicle, shipping route, time of year, and type of service (open vs. enclosed transport).
2. Check for Hidden Fees: Some companies may charge extra for services not included in the initial quote.

Choose the Right Shipping Option

There are two main methods of transporting cars: open transport and enclosed transport.

1. Open Transport: This is the most common method, where cars are loaded onto large, open trailers. It’s cost-effective but offers less protection from the elements.
2. Enclosed Transport: Ideal for luxury or classic cars, this method provides more protection as vehicles are transported inside a fully enclosed trailer.

Prepare Your Car for Shipping with Exotic Car Transport

At Exotic Car Transport, we understand the value and sentiment attached to every vehicle, especially when dealing with exotic, vintage, luxury, and classic cars. Over the years, our commitment to ensuring each car is received in the same condition as it was handed over has set us apart as an industry leader. Preparing your car for shipping is a crucial step in this process. Here’s how you can collaborate with us to guarantee a seamless auto transport experience:

1. Deep Clean Your Car: A thorough cleaning is not just about aesthetics. When your car is spotlessly clean, it allows us to identify and document its existing condition accurately. This meticulous approach is why so many trust us with their prized vehicles.
2. Document the Vehicle’s Condition: While we will always conduct a detailed inspection upon receiving your car, we recommend our clients to take clear photographs of their vehicle from multiple angles. This documentation helps in the unlikely event of any discrepancies.
3. Secure or Remove Accessories: Exotic cars often come with unique and sometimes delicate accessories. If your vehicle has custom spoilers, antennas, or other attachments, consider removing them or ensuring they are tightly secured. We can offer guidance on the best practices based on our vast experience with luxury vehicles.
4. Empty the Vehicle: While it may seem convenient to ship personal items with your car, it’s best to remove all personal belongings. Not only does this decrease the weight (which can affect transport), but it also ensures that no items move around during transit, potentially causing damage to the interior.
5. Check Fluid Levels and Battery: Before handing over your vehicle, ensure all fluids are at appropriate levels and that there are no leaks. A charged and functioning battery is essential, as your car will need to be moved on and off the trailer.
6. Disable Alarms: To prevent any disruptions during the transport, it’s a good idea to disable any car alarms. If there are specific instructions or quirks about your vehicle, please let us know in advance.
7. Tire Check: Ensure that all tires are properly inflated. This aids in the smooth loading and unloading of your vehicle.
8. Provide a Spare Key: When you hand over your car to us, it’s always a good practice to provide a spare key. This ensures that we can manage any situation without having to call you.

At Exotic Car Transport, we pride ourselves on our impeccable service standards, ensuring that every vehicle we transport is handled with the utmost care. By following these preparation steps and leveraging our unmatched expertise in the transportation of high-end vehicles, you can rest assured that your prized possession is in the best hands.

Consider Insurance Coverage

While reputable transport companies take every precaution to ensure the safe delivery of your vehicle, accidents can happen.

1. Verify the Shipper’s Insurance: Confirm what kind of coverage the shipping company offers and the limits of their policy.
2. Personal Auto Insurance: Check with your auto insurance company to see if they offer any additional coverage for the transport.

Schedule in Advance: The Key to Smooth Auto Transportation

In the world of auto transportation, especially when dealing with premium vehicles, timing is paramount. The benefits of scheduling your car’s transport in advance go beyond mere convenience. Here’s why and how proactive planning can optimize your shipping experience:

1. Priority Service: By booking your transport early, you’re not just reserving a slot; you’re essentially getting priority service. Early scheduling often means that transporters can more easily accommodate specific date requests, leading to a tailored and premium experience.
2. Flexibility with Dates: Last-minute bookings can sometimes lead to compromised choices due to availability constraints. However, when you schedule in advance, you have a broader window of dates to choose from, ensuring that the transportation aligns with your calendar and convenience.
3. Cost-Effective Solutions: Just as with airline tickets or hotel bookings, early bird reservations in the auto transport industry might come with better rates. By scheduling in advance, you can potentially tap into discounted prices or promotional offers, ensuring value for your money.
4. Peace of Mind: Nothing beats the peace of mind that comes from knowing that one significant task is checked off your list. By scheduling your car’s transport well in advance, you can focus on other aspects of your relocation or event planning without the added stress of transportation logistics.
5. Time for Research and Preparation: The additional lead time allows you the luxury to research and choose the best transporter that aligns with your needs. Moreover, you get ample time to prepare your car for shipping, ensuring it’s in the best shape before transit.
6. Optimal Seasonal Booking: If you’re aware that you’ll be transporting your vehicle during peak seasons like summer or around holidays, advanced booking is crucial. These times see a surge in transportation requests, and by planning ahead, you ensure that you don’t get left out or end up paying premium rates.
7. Build a Relationship with Your Transporter: Establishing a rapport with your transport company is beneficial for repeat services. By scheduling in advance, there’s a higher chance you can communicate with the team, understand their processes, and even get advice on best practices for your specific type of vehicle.
8. Reduced Risk of Delays: Proactive scheduling minimizes the chances of last-minute hiccups or overbooked transporters, thus reducing the potential of delayed shipping.

In conclusion, while it might seem like a simple administrative task, scheduling your car’s transport in advance is a strategic move. It not only offers logistical advantages but also financial benefits and peace of mind. When moving a valuable asset like a car, especially a premium one, a little foresight goes a long way in ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Verify the Shipping Company’s Credibility

Ensure that the company you choose is reputable.

1. Check for Licenses: Transport companies should be registered with the Department of Transportation.
2. Read Reviews: Online reviews can provide insight into the company’s reliability and customer service.

Understand the Pickup and Delivery Process

1. Pickup Options: Some companies offer door-to-door service, while others may require you to bring your car to a central location.
2. Delivery Notification: Understand how you’ll be notified when your car arrives and how long you have to pick it up.

Schedule and Get A Quote from Exotic Car Transport

At Exotic Car Transport, we prioritize simplifying the process for our clients while providing top-tier services tailored to the unique needs of each vehicle. Here’s a brief guide on how you can schedule your transport and obtain a quote from us:

1. Contact Us: Reach out to our dedicated team either through our official website or via phone. Our experienced representatives are always on hand to guide you through every step.
2. Provide Vehicle Details: Let us know the specifics of your car type and brand – its make, model, year, and any other pertinent details. This information helps us understand the unique requirements of your car.
3. Share Your Dates: Let us know your preferred pickup and delivery dates. While we always strive to accommodate your first choice, advanced notice ensures greater availability.
4. Select Your Service: We offer a range of transport services, from open transport to fully enclosed, climate-controlled solutions. Based on your vehicle and preferences, choose the best fit.
5. Receive Your Quote: Once we have all the necessary details, we’ll provide you with a competitive and transparent quote. There are no hidden fees or surprises; what you see is what you get.
6. Book Your Slot: On agreement with the quote, you can confirm your booking. Rest assured, from this point on, your prized possession is in expert hands.

Final Thoughts

Cross-country shipping can be stress-free when you’re well-informed and prepared. Choosing to ship your vehicle, especially when it’s an exotic, luxury, or classic car, is a decision that involves trust, research, and understanding the nuances of the process. By understanding the process, costs, and ensuring you’ve chosen a reputable shipping company, your car will safely reach its destination.

With Exotic Car Transport, you’re not just opting for a service; you’re becoming a part of a legacy that prioritizes car safety, impeccable service, and a seamless experience. By following the detailed guidelines shared in this article and leveraging our team’s unmatched expertise, you can ensure that your vehicle’s journey from pickup to delivery is executed with precision and care. Contact us, prepare your vehicle, and let us handle the rest.