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COMMON AUTO TRANSPORT QUESTIONS

How long does it take to ship my car?
Shipping a Car within the United States:
Generally, car shippers carry 8 to 10 vehicles at a time; weather & road conditions and other unforeseen factors make guaranteeing the delivery date impossible. Allow seven to fourteen days for the shippers to complete coast to coast routes; other domestic routes may take less time.

International Car Shipping:
The majority of the time, overseas car shippers are able to give you expected arrival dates. However when shipping a car overseas, other factors needs to be considered: delays at customs, cancellation of ships' departures, lack of enough freight available for consolidated shipments may cause delays in the shipping of a car. 

How long does it take to have my car picked up?
When shipping within the United States, the auto transporter will typically arrange for your car to be picked up by a truck within two to three days of scheduled pick-up date.  However, this varies on the transporter and more immediate pick-up is oftentimes possible but may incur additional fees.

Can I pack my personal belongings in my car?
Shipping within the United States:
According to the Department of Transportation, personal items may NOT be transported in a car on an auto carrier. All trucks are occasionally subject to inspection, which includes unloading the vehicles from the truck and items within the vehicle. This risks leaving the items behind. Auto shippers are NOT licensed to carry household goods or personal items; these items are never covered by a carrier's insurance. Any damage to your vehicle due to personal items within the auto shifting or breaking is also not covered. Personal belongings left in the vehicle are shipped strictly at the owner's risk. Shippers will not inventory any belongings left in the car and will assume no responsibility. Also, items packed in the vehicle add weight and may cause damage to the exhaust system or suspension of the vehicle. Some companies will allow you to put things in the car at additional cost to you.

Will a transporter ship my car if it's inoperable?
Car shippers will transport your vehicle if it is inoperable (Not Wrecked) at an additional fee. The car must have working emergency brakes and the tires must be inflated and able to roll.

Q. How long will it take my vehicle to be shipped?
A.
On average it will take three to fourteen days for your auto to reach its destination. Factors such as distances between pick up and delivery, weather and traffic will all affect the total length of time of transport.

Q. Are there charges to use haulingdepot.com?
A. No. Haulingdepot.com is a free service to you to find the most reliable & affordable auto shippers, saving you time & money on your auto shipping!

Q. How long in advance do I need to book my auto transport?
A.
It's highly recommended that you book your transport at least two weeks in advance. Some of our network brokers and carriers can accommodate on transport on a much shorter notice. If this is the case ask for expedited car transport.

Q. Will my vehicle be insured during transport?

A. Yes. Legally all auto carriers must carry insurance. The industry minimum is $100,000. We recommend that you ask to see a copy of their certificate of insurance for proof. Also, read the terms and conditions of your agreement carefully to see what is and isn't covered. For more information visit insurance during transport.

Q. Must all auto transport brokers and car carriers be licensed?
A.
Yes. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration must issue all auto carriers an MC# and/or US DOT#, in order to have proper operating authority. Brokers must be bonded and have valid MC#'s. Bonding information can be checked through safersys.com, and is strongly recommended to do so before choosing an auto transporter.

Q. How should I prepare my vehicle for auto transport?
A.
If you are going to a cold climate, make sure you have winterized your vehicle by adding antifreeze. Secure any loose items such as antennas. Disconnect auto alarms and anti-theft systems. Remove any car covers, and bras as they are not allowed by car carriers during open transport. Enclosed transport is different & may be allowed.

Q. Can I store anything in the car?
A.
It is illegal to store items anywhere in the car. Auto transporters are not licensed to carry household goods. In addition any items stored within the car or vehicle are not covered under the carriers insurance as well.

Q. Will I need to have my vehicle delivered to a terminal?
A.
A terminal is necessary in the event there is not enough room for a truck to drop off your vehicle at its destination, because of a narrow or dead end street, or any other conditions that would not allow a truck to enter. A terminal would also be used in the event no one is available to accept the vehicle upon delivery. These terminals are fully licensed and insured. It should be noted that terminal shipping is generally less expensive than door to door shipping as well.

Q. What forms of payment is accepted by vehicle transporters?
A.
Auto transport brokers and carriers accept cashier and certified checks as well as cash and credit cards for the deposit. The balance is due upon delivery and only cash, cashiers or certified checks is accepted unless other arrangements have been made prior to your transport! Every auto transport company has their own payment policy. Make sure you know it by asking and reading the agreement.

Q. What if my vehicle is inoperable, can it still be transported?
A.
Yes. However, addditonal fees will apply as extra equipment and labor are needed when transporting your vehicle.

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