If you're particular about your vehicle (and if the following things are of a concern to you), here are a few questions to ask any carrier when you initially contact them:
- Do they actually have their own fleet and drivers or are they simply a broker? (meaning that all they do is farm your job out to a 3rd party transporter and take a piece of the pie for arranging things......)
- Even if they state they are not a brokerage, find out if they plan to sublet your job to another carrier.
- Do you want an open or an enclosed carrier? Find out how they price each. Some charge a premium for putting you at the top of the trailer so there are no potential fluid leaks from cars being carried above yours, etc.
- Is your vehicle going to be off-loaded at various points between the original pick-up and final destination? Every time someone has to move your car on/off a truck and around a storage lot perhaps, the greater potential there is for damage.
- Inspect your vehicle for existing damage to your satisfaction prior to initial loading and have it all noted with the driver - they should have a form for this. The driver might perhaps note some things you might not be aware of! Also do the same at the other end before the driver departs.
- Ask how they tie your vehicle down - chains connected to the frame/underbody of the vehicle, straps through the wheels, straps around the circumference of the tires, etc.
- How closely are they willing to commit to specific pick-up and drop off times? If you're flexible, you can generally get better pricing.
- Ensure that all the things you are concerned about are written into the contract between you and the carrier.
- Pricing is generally better if you are able to drop your car off to them at a location they specify and if you're willing to do the same at the other end - pick it up at a location designated by them. Door-to-door can be more expensive in some cases though some smaller companies only do door-to-door service.
There are lots of large, reputable national carriers that have been in the business for years and pride themselves in doing a superior job. You'll find the same thing with a number of smaller/mom-and-pop/private carriers as well. But as with most businesses, there are some bottom-feeders to watch out for.........
Hope some of this helps! You're doing one of the best things by asking for referrals.
Bill
