Auto shipping may sometimes be perceived similar to movers, where one is seen to be no different than the next, where quality and care are compromised for price and hidden costs. Auto shipping may also be viewed as complex and company reviews unreliable.
Myths abound and it may surprise many that auto shipping is a far more positive experience. So, let us examine 5 common myths and give you the real deal when it comes to auto shipping.
Myth#1: Same Auto Ship, Different Day
Myth: One auto shipping company is no different than the next.
The Real Deal: While many industries have only minor nuances especially when it comes to service, auto shippers can vary across the board according to geographical scope, quality and type of trucks, care in managing and tracking your vehicle, and reliability with drop off and delivery.
Recommendation: Ensure you look at options when reviewing auto shipping companies. Selecting a reputable company that operates across the country or the continent, and has safety protocols for both driver and car is a good start.
Myth#2: Buyer Beware
Myth: Bait and switch pricing happen all the time. These companies cannot be trusted!
The Real Deal: Auto shippers move vehicles and sometimes get the same sullied reputation that follows home contents movers. Movers have been known to quote you one price as a lure and then suddenly, hidden costs put your totals much higher than anticipated. It can be a devastating blow to someone on a budget. However, most auto shippers have secure and proven processes to ensure that your price is set according to variables determined beforehand, such as distance, season, timing, and fuel prices. Discrepancies from what you agreed to and what you pay should be minor.
Recommendation: Fill out a personalized quote online and get everything in writing. Auto shipping companies are dealing with high value assets and have established liability insurance; they forge their reputations based on loyal returning customers. Duping you with pricing, especially unusually low pricing, is short sighted if not suspicious and signals an untrustworthy operation.
Myth#3: Auto Shippers Do a Bang-Up Job
Myth: My car is going to be delivered with new scratches, dents or worse.
The Real Deal: Damage to your vehicle during the auto shipping process is rare and unlikely. In such unforeseen cases, all reputable shippers will have liability insurance to mitigate out of pocket expenses.
Recommendation: Clean your car and take pictures both inside and outside to capture the condition of your vehicle prior to shipping and to identify any changes or damage upon receipt. You should also read reviews online to see what others have experienced.
Myth#4: Auto Shipping is Money Down the Drain. Drive it Yourself
Myth: Shipping my car makes no sense when I can drive it myself.
The Real Deal: The truth of the matter is that it depends. Convenience aside, driving your car especially when the journey spans days should factor in costs including gas and mileage, wear and tear, hotel stays, food expenditures en-route and possibly even lost wages due to the time you need to allocate.
Recommendation: Do a cost analysis between both options where driving is even feasible. During the pandemic, driving across the border has been restricted as an example. Also consider, convenience and whether you can afford the time that it takes to drive and whether you have coverage should your car have mechanical issues while driving en-route to your destination.
Myth#5: Getting My Car Ready for Auto Shipping is Complicated
Myth: Paperwork and preparation make shipping my car a chore. I’m exhausted just thinking about it!
The Real Deal: You do in fact need to get your car ready for its journey, but good auto shipping companies make it very easy with touchless pickup and drop-offs.
Recommendation: When shipping your vehicle, it is recommended that you ensure your car is in good working order, that you clean your car both inside and out, remove personal belongings, and that you have proper identification upon delivery. The rest is taken care of by the auto shipping company.
SAC Debunks the Myths
Snowbirds Auto Connection (SAC) can help you ship your vehicle with an easy quoting, guidance and tracking process to ensure the safe and seamless delivery of your vehicle to its destination. With easy-to-follow recommendations in preparing your vehicle and a reputation for delivery excellence, SAC provides you with everything you need from start to finish. Contact SAC today to find out more about their services and to receive your personalized quote.