International moving and vehicle shipping is not an easy task. It consists of various time-consuming and difficult processes until your vehicle reaches the desired destination. Whether you want to move your vehicle to Asia, Europe or just about any other place in the world, you need to be better prepared. It does not matter if you are moving your vehicle or someone else’s. The process of moving vehicles is not straightforward. It can be difficult having to figure out to ship a vehicle you bought at an auction as a dealer to a foreign port. Choosing the right shipping company on the other hand is crucial for the best outcome, and more information about the topic can be found here. However, it can be daunting having to choose a reliable international moving and vehicle shipping company. But, if you have the right knowledge, then you can easily get your vehicle shipped to the desired location without any delay. In order to help you make the right decision when it comes to choosing the right shipping company and getting the vehicle sent to the desired location, the following top 11tips will come in handy.
- Choose an International Vehicle Shipping Company
When it comes to international moving and vehicle shipping, you need to choose an international vehicle shipping company. Do not settle for a vehicle shipping company that claims that it would be able to send the vehicle and instead choose one that has experience shipping vehicles to different parts of the globe. This is why you need to take your time to find a decent international vehicle shipping company. Moreover, it is a good idea to make sure that the company is in fact registered with the Department of Transportation. The company must have a U.S. Department of Transportation and Motor Carrier registration number.
- Do Plenty of Research before Shipping
Do not make the mistake of just shipping the vehicle over to a different country. It is vital that you first do plenty of research before the shipping. Never hire a vehicle shipping company until you have done your research and are sure that the company selected is the right one for you. In addition to the registration numbers, it is important that you verify them for authenticity. The Better Business Bureau is a good place to start. It will help you find out if the company has had any type of complaint filed against it. Then, check to find out the issues faced by the company and if they have been resolved. Visit the company website and look for references. This extra time trying to learn more about the company will allow you to make the right decision and ensure that your vehicle is in the right hands.
- Shipping Insurance
Although it is a requirement for carriers to have insurance, it is important that you ask the company for evidence and verify the information to ensure that it is correct. Try contacting the international insurance company for auto transporters and checking Safersys.org for more information. Furthermore, find out if the company has enough insurance to cover the value of your car and if there are any additional insurance options available.
- Picking Up & Drop Off
There are many vehicle shipping companies that actually come to your home to pick up the vehicle, whereas, there are many companies that require you to transport your vehicle to a specific location. Normally, vehicle shipping companies have a designated drop off spot and you will need to drop off your vehicle at the said location. Furthermore, it is possible for the international vehicle moving company to drop off your vehicle at the desired location. On the other hand, there are some companies that may require you to pick up the car from the terminal and take it to the final destination on your own. Thus, make sure to have questions regarding pick up and drop off answered before choosing an international vehicle moving company.
- International Shipping Rates
When it comes to shipping vehicles internationally, there are a range of prices that you will come across. The type of vehicle you want to ship is the most determining cost factor besides the location. A Schumacher Cargo Logistics points out, sport utility vehicles cost more to ship than motorcycles or even compact cars. Make sure to consider the cost of additional insurance when comparing international shipping rates of different companies.
- Time Variations
The time it takes for a vehicle to be shipped internationally varies from company to company. However, the starting and final destination will impact the time duration. It normally takes just a few days for shipping a car a short distance. But, if you live in the state of Washington or Alaska and want your vehicle shipped to the Middle East or countries like India or Pakistan, then it would take a lot longer. The longer the trip, the more ports the vehicle would need to go through which would increase the time duration.
- Prepare Your International Car Transport
Many people tend to overlook the preparation of their car for international shipping. But, it is something that should never be overlooked. Ask the international vehicle moving company about how you should prepare your car for international shipping. It is a good idea to take pictures of your vehicle to document its current condition as it can be used as evidence in case your vehicle’s condition deteriorates.
- Storing Items
It might not be a good idea to use your vehicle as a place for storage. If you transport something that is considered illegal, then it would lead to many problems with customs. Hence, it is a good idea to avoid storing anything in the vehicle.
- Gasoline
It is normally recommended that you only lead a quarter of the tank with gasoline when shipping a vehicle internationally.
- Dealing with Customs
A reputable shipping company would have a customs broker working on your behalf to ensure that your vehicle swiftly goes through customs. Thus, it is a good idea to choose a company that employs a customs broker.
- Shipping Contracts
Before you agree to sign a shipping contract, it is crucial that you fully understand it. If you are transporting an extremely valuable vehicle, then you might need to hire an attorney to read the shipping contract on your behalf to ensure that you best interests are protected.