|
Pricing Tips
What factors determine prices industry wide?
Cost can vary from one company to the other depending on the services they offer. The main factors that drive prices industry wide are as follows:
- Origin and Destination City/Town
- Mileage
- Type of Vehicle(s)
- Date in which to pick up the vehicle
- Any special requests
Money is definitely an issue for most customers but do be aware. The lowest quote is not always the best quote. Low cost transports may not be done in a timely manner and may cost more in time and headache than it was worth. Find out about the company and feel comfortable with them before you ship.
What can I do to help save cost without jeopardizing the service?
Be flexible with the dates: It is hard for transporters to pinpoint times and specific dates. Allow yourself the flexibility to take off work for an hour to meet the driver.
Give honest and thorough information about the haul and the vehicle: Most brokers want your business. The first quote will be their best quote so with no surprises the price will remain the same. Use the comment box for any additional information to help this not be a problem.
Take the vehicle to the terminal: If a terminal is offered near your areas at either end then use it to your advantage.
Will my vehicle be insured?
All reputable companies require the carriers to carry cargo and general liability insurance. There are however exclusions in the insurance policy industry wide that you may want to inquire about. Most insurance companies will not cover road damage, loss of personal items in the vehicle, 'acts of God' including hail etc. Check the policy and find out about the exclusions if you are concerned. Also, check with your own agent to see what is covered on your policy, there may not be any worries.
How should I pay?
Companies have different procedures when it comes to payment. You can expect to have at least one of the following options:
- Prepay 100% - This is a guarantee if you are shipping overseas.
- Percentage down remainder C.O.D. - This is the most common method. Make sure the deposit is refundable if the company fails to fulfill its duties.
- 100% C.O.D. - Most C.O.D. payments are required by Certified Check. Be prepared.
Can you explain how the hauling process works?
- Shipping - Pick up times are difficult to determine but you should be notified with an estimated date and a 24 hour notice in advance by the carrier/driver and a 2 hour notice prior to arrival. When the driver arrives allow a thorough inspection to be done on the vehicle. The driver will note any pre-existing damages and the mileage on the 'Inspection Report'. The shipper will be required to sign that noted form.
- The Transport - Drive times vary. Have reasonable expectations for the driver if you have not paid for an exact date. The Federal Department of Transportation restricts the amount of time a driver can spend on the road in one day. There may be many stops in between, and the truck could be on an irregular route. Find out at the shipping point an estimated ETA. Drivers can usually give you a window depending on the haul.
- Receiving - Most drivers or companies will call and give at least a 24 hour notice before delivery and a 2 hour notice prior to arrival in most cases. Have your payment ready. When the driver arrives the receiver should do the inspection. Check the 'Inspection Report' to make sure there is no additional damage and sign.
What are the differences in an enclosed and an open trailer?
Open Trailer:
- The most common shipping method. It is an open top and side trailer that can vary in size from a 1 car flat hauler to an 11 car dual level hauler. Trailers that haul between 5 - 9 cars are the most common and each have their own advantages.
- Overall Advantages: Less expensive, more readily available
- Overall Disadvantages: Vehicle is exposed to the elements
Enclosed Trailer:
- Trailer with side walls and roof. Also varies in size. Used more for vehicles that are classics, hotrods, upper end, or have high dollar paint jobs. These factors are not necessary for shipping enclosed.
- Overall Advantages: Protected from weather, road damage, and theft
- Overall Disadvantages: Costly, Width and Height restrictions for vehicles, not always readily available
|
