Open Auto Transportation 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 8 - 10 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 Car Shipping 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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Vehicle Transportation

How does the car transportation process work?
Once you submit your auto transport order and your deposit is received by Reliable Car Transportation, the shipment of your vehicle will be scheduled according to the dates you provided on your car shipping order. The way to think about it is not every day is a driver transporting cars from point A to point B, but if these are populated areas, they normally do within one week of your first car shipping date. After an auto shipping truck has been assigned, you will receive a call from the car transport driver or auto shipping dispatch to schedule the pick up time and date.

What is the difference between terminal-to-terminal car shipping and door-to-door auto transportation?
The main difference between the two is very simple. Terminal-to-terminal shipping involves the customer getting their car to a specified drop off location that accepts cars and secures them until they are shipped. It is from these terminals where transport vehicles pick up your car and take them to the desired destination. On the other hand, door-to-door transportation is when the auto transporter comes right to your home and picks up your car directly from there. The latter tends to be more convenient than the former, but is also a bit more expensive. To learn more about the pricing difference try out our quote form or give us a call.

Am I able to ship personal possessions with my vehicle?
Yes, but it is not a good idea. There are no special rules or laws against placing personal effects in you car during transportation, other than illegal substances and goods. However, the insurance coverage during the transportation period only covers the car itself, not the things in it. This is why we not only discourage people from packing up their autos, but suggest they take anything of value out of them as well. Goods such as stereos, radar detectors, iPods, cell phone headsets, etc., are better off with you. Furthermore, items during the ride may be jarred and exposed to a variety of temperatures (depending on the particular shipping route) which can cause them to malfunction. This holds true in basically any travel situation. Whether shipping, flying, or riding a train, keep your personal property in your sight at all times.

What do I do if I receive my car but it has noticeable damage on it that did not exist before?
The single most important part of your auto shipping experience is choosing your auto transport company. The second most important part is taking pictures of your car that are clear and cover all angles. This should be done before shipping any car with any company. This is because these pictures will allow you to corroborate, beyond the form a shipper fills out, what condition your car was in before it was shipped. This way if damages do occur, you can definitively prove what dings, dents, and malfunctions are a result of the transportation process. Otherwise, you are left at the mercy of the car transportation company.

How long does it take to pick up and deliver vehicles?
A vehicle transport trip from the east to west vice versa usually takes from 7 to 14 days. Shorter auto shipping trips can take from 1 to 7 days, depending on the distance. Traffic, weather, truck breakdowns, may slow down the transport. Pickup and delivery dates are estimated but are not guaranteed. If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping in a more timely fashion.

Have more Questions about Car Hauling?
We are always ready to help! For more information online, check out our car transport FAQ...

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