Moving can be a stressful proposition – trying to decide what to do with your car when you need to move only exacerbates your overall stress level. Shipping your vehicle can be a great option to make your move easier.. Here are a few tips on how do it easily.
First you need to decide when you want to have the car moved. It will take a similar amount of time as if you were driving to your new home yourself. Not doing the drive however has the benefit of reducing your overall stress level and you don’t have to deal with adverse weather conditions. Also you will likely want to bring your belongings with you if you are driving, and worrying about your valuables sitting in your car when you stop to eat or sleep can add another level of stress.
When you decide shipping the vehicle instead of driving is an option make sure to call a few moving companies. You will need to let them know what kind of vehicle you want to move and where you are starting from and the final destination. Don’t forget to request references. Once you have a short list check your choices with the Better Business Bureau.
Allow a lot of lead time to organize your move. Leaving a couple of weeks before the move will make life easier. Make sure you have someone available on the pickup date to get give the car to the shipping company.
Inquire what kind of insurance coverage the mover has and if you need supplemental coverage. If there is a large deductible you can check with your insurance company to see if you are coverd in the event of any damage. Request a copy of the insurance policy offered by the mover and read it! Nothing will stress you out more than fighting with an insurance company if there is damage.
It is a good idea to have someone with the vehicle when it is picked up. As with when you rent a car do a walk through and note any existing damage with the movers so you can tell if there is any new damage which has resulted from the move. The mover will likely want to fill out a bill of lading. This will include a condition report of the vehicle before your car or truck is loaded. Don’t sign the form until you have read it and agree with the movers assessment. It is not unheard of for some unscrupulous movers to note damage where there isn’t any to cover the possibility of damage resulting from the move.