When you’re looking to ship a car, the first step is usually to obtain a quote. With so many online quote platforms and auto transport companies offering competitive pricing, it might be tempting to accept the first quote that fits your budget. However, before you finalize your decision, there’s one crucial step that many overlook: calling the shipping company to confirm the details of your quote.
At Shipping Car Quotes, we believe in transparency and providing you with the information you need to make the best decision when shipping your vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll explain why calling before confirming a quote is a wise choice, and how it can save you time, money, and stress.
Why You Should Call Before Confirming a Car Shipping Quote
Many online car shipping quote forms provide instant estimates based on the details you input. While this is a convenient way to get an idea of the price, it doesn’t always account for every factor that could affect the final cost. Speaking directly with the company allows you to:
1. Clarify the Total Cost
Car shipping quotes often look straightforward at first glance, but they can sometimes be misleading. Many companies may offer a low “base” rate, but the final price could end up being higher due to additional fees or unforeseen circumstances, such as fuel surcharges, extra insurance coverage, or remote location charges.
By calling the company directly, you can:
Confirm whether the quote includes all potential fees such as taxes, tolls, and terminal fees.
Clarify pricing for optional services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping.
Ask about the deposit or payment schedule, as some companies may require payment upfront or in installments.
Calling ahead ensures that there are no surprises when it’s time to pay for your car shipment.
2. Ask About Insurance Coverage
While many companies include basic insurance in their quotes, it’s important to understand the extent of this coverage and whether it’s adequate for your vehicle. Some companies might offer limited coverage, and additional insurance may be necessary for high-value cars or classic vehicles.
By reaching out to the company directly, you can:
Ask about the insurance coverage provided and whether it’s enough to cover the full value of your car.
Inquire about options for additional coverage if you feel that the default insurance doesn’t offer sufficient protection.
Getting a clear answer on insurance can help you avoid having to purchase extra coverage unexpectedly later.
3. Verify Vehicle and Transport Details
A key element in any car shipping quote is the vehicle’s make, model, and condition, as well as the type of transport (open or enclosed). In some cases, the quote may change based on these factors, especially if your car is oversized, inoperable, or requires special handling.
Calling the company lets you:
Verify that your vehicle details are correctly accounted for in the quote.
Discuss transport methods to ensure that the best option is selected based on your vehicle’s needs.
Confirm whether there are any modifications or unique features that could affect pricing or transport method (e.g., luxury cars, classic cars, or vehicles with aftermarket parts).
This way, you ensure that the final price reflects the true cost of transporting your specific vehicle.
4. Confirm Pickup and Delivery Schedules
Car shipping companies often have different schedules for pickups and deliveries, and availability may vary depending on the season. During busy months, such as the summer or holiday seasons, pickup and delivery times can be delayed.
By calling to confirm your quote, you can:
Discuss the timeline for pickup and delivery to ensure it aligns with your schedule.
Inquire about potential delays that may occur during high-demand periods, such as winter storms or busy holidays.
Ask about additional scheduling flexibility if you need to adjust the timing for your shipment.
Having a direct conversation helps set expectations for when your vehicle will be picked up and delivered, avoiding unnecessary stress.
5. Establish Trust and Confidence
Finally, calling the company before confirming the quote allows you to build a rapport and establish trust. It’s an opportunity to evaluate the customer service of the shipping company and gauge whether they are responsive and helpful.
During your call, pay attention to:
How easy it is to get a live representative: Do they respond promptly to your questions? Are they professional and clear about the terms?
The transparency of the information provided: Are they open about the costs, services, and potential risks involved?
Their willingness to provide detailed answers: Are they able to explain the terms and conditions of the quote in a way that makes sense?
Good customer service can make a big difference in your overall experience, and the call is an easy way to gauge how much you can trust the company with your vehicle.
What to Ask When Calling to Confirm Your Quote
To ensure that you’re getting the most accurate and reliable information, here are some key questions to ask when calling the company:
What exactly is included in the quote?
Ask for a breakdown of the services included, such as insurance, taxes, and fuel surcharges.
What is the estimated delivery window?
Get a specific range for when your vehicle is expected to be picked up and delivered.
Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
Inquire about any hidden fees or extra charges for services such as expedited shipping or remote area deliveries.
What is the insurance coverage for my vehicle?
Confirm the type and amount of coverage provided and ask about options for additional protection.
Can you accommodate special shipping requests?
If you have any specific needs, such as enclosed transport for a luxury car, make sure the company can accommodate those.
The Benefits of Calling Before Confirming a Quote
While online car shipping quotes are a quick and convenient way to get an estimate, calling the shipping company before finalizing the deal ensures that you get the most accurate and complete information. By verifying the details of your quote, discussing shipping options, and confirming the terms, you can avoid hidden fees, ensure proper insurance coverage, and set realistic expectations for your vehicle’s pickup and delivery.
At Shipping Car Quotes, we understand how important it is to make an informed decision when shipping your vehicle. We encourage you to reach out and speak directly with us to ensure that you’re receiving the best possible quote and service for your needs. Contact us today to get started with a reliable and transparent car shipping quote!
