There’s some important considerations when deciding on a transport carrier for your vehicle such as your goals, your budget, and level of protection for your vehicle to name a few. You need to reflect on which of these are a priority to you.Goals- Determine what your goal is! Is it to transport your coveted collector’s item like a ’67 Corvette or simply to transport your economy class Hyundai Accent from point A to B? If you have an expensive, collector car you may choose to use an enclosed transport over a long haul route of thousands of miles. Expect to pay though a few hundred more dollars typically versus an open transport since the transport may only carry 4 or fewer vehicles. The added level of protection may be of interest to you else maybe price means everything.Do Your Research- Do your due diligence in selecting a carrier. Either go through your local telephone book or go online and search for ‘auto-truck-boat transport services or brokers ‘. Call some up and see if they handle you in a professional way. Check to see if they have good reviews /references. They may even recommend you to others. Online searching can enable you to receive quick quotes.Pricing- Be cautious on selecting the cheapest carrier. That usually means your losing out on another service. Get a firm quoted price. There should be no charge until you’re given the driver’s name and number. Never give an upfront deposit! As mentioned before, an enclosed transport will cost you substantially more for the same given distance.Insurance- Is the transport carrier insured? Should something go wrong, who pays? Things do go wrong, accidents happen. Make sure your transport company’s drivers have insurance on the order of atleast $100k per vehicle as for an open transport carrier.Delivery/Pickup Times- Here’s a test to see if the transport carrier is for real. Typically a transport carrier should give you a range of time for when they will pick up your vehicle. If they’re overly precise and guarantee you an exact time then it may not be quite ‘kosher’ a deal. It’s hard in this business to be exact on timing of vehicle pickup/delivery, it may be close but exact is really difficult.Cancellation fees- Some transport carriers may charge a cancellation fee to reimburse them for administrative costs and others don’t.Reliability /History -Go with a proven transport carrier. Read reviews, get referrals. For transport carriers, you can get these reviews from a site such as TransportReviews.com. They lists complaints/compliments for carriers. Check the safety record for accidents as from the Department of Transportation (DOT).

The purpose of this article is to give the reader important tips and key information connected with the domestic transporting and export of a vehicle from the United States.So, lets get started.Transport carriers fall under basically two designations. Interstate and intrastate. Interstate transporters are legally authorized to do business within all of the United States. Intrastate transporters are legally authorized to operate within a particular state. Interstate transporters are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Of course there are non regulated operators and like anything else in the majority of the cases, you get what you pay for.Most Domestic vehicle transport carriers do business through what is known as a transport broker. Auto transport brokers are also regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and are in the business of negotiating a lower price for you, their client. They usually have a network of transporters who bid for your business. Some brokers get high marks and some do not. It is recommended that you do some research on the one you intend to use. There is a website called “transport reviews.com” where you can start.It would be a good idea to check with the transporter prior to committing to an agreement or contract to determine what is required of you as the shipper. If there are unique circumstances, the question as to whether or not the transporter is equipped to handle them should be addressed. For example: Does the transporter have the resources to handle a meticulously restored antique car, open hot rod, or any other vehicle where the interior is exposed to the elements? Evaluate your situation and compose a list of the questions you might have. Also make sure you understand how payment is to be made.The following is a pre-transport checklist of some of the things a transporter may require of you and concerns you might want addressed.1. Removal of all personal items or household effects from the vehicle including any custom made or after market products such as removable cd players, dvd players and televisions or similar items not built into your car by the manufacturer.2. Making sure the battery is fully charged and securely mounted.3. Making sure all tires are properly inflated.4. Check for and make known any mechanical issues with your vehicle and notify the broker or carrier before hand. Remember that it will have to be driven on to their truck.5. If the vehicle is a convertible, notify the transporter beforehand. You may want to opt for an enclosed container.6. Make sure all fluid levels are topped off.7. Make sure your gas gauge level meet the requirement of the transporter. Call them beforehand if there are any questions.8. Disable the vehicle’s alarm system.9. Retract or remove any exterior antennas.10. Fold down any side mirrors.11. Thoroughly wash and clean the exterior of the vehicle and make notes of all nicks and scratches.12. Have available two sets OK keys. One for you to keep and one to travel with the vehicle.13. If your vehicle is not operable, is oversized, or has any special exterior modification, let the transporter know before entering into an agreement.14. What is the insurance information of the transporter in relationship to the service that you are requesting. Are they bonded and insured? If so, what is the limitation of their liability? Will this information be included in any agreement you accept and sign?The above checklist is for informational purposes only. Some of the points mentioned are those that a broker/carrier may or may not require you to consider and some are those that you may want explained to you.At the time of pickup or delivery of the vehicle to be transported, an inspection report should have been generated that reflect whether or not the vehicle is operable and whether or not there are any dents, scratches, or other noticeable discrepancies. The report should then be signed by both the transporter or their representative (usually the driver) and the shipper. If there are no changes in the condition of the vehicle or circumstance such as late delivery not the fault of the shipper, signatures of release are in order after all agreed upon fees and cost due the transporter/broker are paid. If there are any problems, make notes and first file a complaint with the responsible party that you hired to arranged the service for you and go from there. Take pictures if possible that includes the transport vehicle. You may have generated a check list and asked the driver to sign it at the time of pickup. Ask for a signature acknowledging the discrepancy at the time of delivery. In either case you will more than likely have to pay any remaining balance to get your car released.If your vehicle is being exported out of the country, I would recommend using the services of an international freight forwarder who’s services include the handling of vehicle export transactions. They should be able to handle any Customs formalities for you so long as you provide them with the required information needed. If you use their services then they should be the recipient of the vehicle on your behalf here in the US.When a vehicle is delivered to the forwarder, you should have provided him with the original or a duplicate copy of the title certified by the state DMV in which the vehicle is currently registered. The current market value of the vehicle, if it is fully operable, should be provided (the Kelly Bluebook would be a good source of reference if this is not a current sale). If the export is the results of a sale, the invoice should be provided where the invoice price is in line with the current market value of the vehicle if it is fully operable. If a vehicle has been in an accident and is in a salvageable condition, a salvage title should be presented. If the original title is being held by a lien holder such as a finance company, permission to export the vehicle must be given by the company on it’s official stationary which should be signed by an authorized representative of the company. The address and contact phone number should also be included. Your freight forwarder will advise you of any additional documentation needed to expedite your vehicle through the Custom’s export process. Communicating with them on this matter is of the utmost importance prior to you having the vehicle delivered. Once the vehicle is delivered, the meter starts to tick. For example any delays caused by your action or inaction can run up storage cost.We hope this article have answered some of your basic questions. As you can tell, this article is geared more towards personal use of a vehicle. More specialized discussions are forthcoming in future articles.

The transport services are in use from ancient times. The services are the very essence of civilization and vital for trade and travel to flourish. Transportation allows people at large to shift at a suitable location, where all the facilities for progress, development and good health are profusely present. In earlier times man and animal power was mainly used for transportation needs; but in present context there is a remarkable development in transportation industry. Nowadays, when technological advancement with computer chips is at its peak; the transport industry cannot remain indifferent and work in isolation. Read on, as the present article throws light on intelligent transportation and the various facets linked to it.Sheer delight with transportation infrastructureThe transport services are sought in almost every field. For example, it could be the transport of food stock from the area of production to the market, where it has to be finally sold out. Similarly, the manufactured goods of industries like pharmaceuticals, apparel manufacturers, furniture manufacturers, FMCG industries, and so on. In all the illustrated cases, businesses are solely dependent on the transportation services. The manufactured goods, when transported to the hand of consumer in quick succession are a sheer delight. This is because; product is fresh, new and all set for consumption. In this way, the services of transportation prove beneficial for both; the manufacturer who produces the goods and end consumer, who is finally consuming the manufactured product. Here, the infrastructure sought for transportation includes rails, roads, terminals, airports, gas stations, etc.Intelligent transportation for quality lifeThe airplane, train, trollies, trucks, ships, and vans are some of the common mode of transportation vehicle that is used for transporting goods from one place to another. In this regards, the fast moving bullet trains, hydrogen powered tram, and recently launched Apple Car – is one step ahead in serving people in smart fashion. This intelligent transportation using artificial intelligence will leads to smart city with more efficiency and quality of life.Vehicle propulsionFurther to add, decades earlier it was only fossil fuel and steam engine that was exclusively used in moving vehicles for the transportation needs. But, nowadays, electricity, wind energy, solar energy, and even the nuclear energy have come into the picture for vehicle propulsion. Here, it is important to note that transportation can only exist, so long, as there is advancement in technology. If there is no technology then, transportation cannot exist, and trade at global level cannot flourish. Last but certainly not the least, the transportation industry is directly related to the technological breakthrough, bringing zero delays, zero accidents, and total environment conservation.

Whether you’re shipping an expensive exotic car, a classic, an antique or a standard family car you can always count on successfully locating an excellent car transport company with an auto carrier package designed to fit your needs and budget.There are several different types of car transport companies that cover a wide range of services including overseas shipping and international transport, transport of custom built automobiles, luxury cars, antique autos, exotic cars, and the familiar sedan. Car transport companies are usually listed under the following titles: car transport, vehicle shipping, and auto transport. When hiring a car transport company you have to consider some issues specific to vehicle transport, unlike your other possessions cars have some precise requirements like additional car insurance and vehicle inspection reports.Be confident that the car transport company adequately insures your car. When investigating car transport companies you will want to find out the total cost first. Be prepared to provide the following information: origination/destination, departure date, and type of car. You will also want to consider what kind of car transport service you want. There are several options available with a wide variety of prices; for example door-to-door car transport, terminal-to-terminal, enclosed car transport, car carrier transport and rail service.Some car transport companies may require payment in advance, while others will require a deposit. Ask for a contract clause that waives the cancellation fee if your car is not picked up by your auto shipping company within the time frame that you agree upon. If you terminate your contract within the allotted time period, expect to pay some fee. Occasionally it is difficult for a car transport company to certify a delivery date, however some car transport companies will offer a guarantee that covers a rental car if they cannot make the agreed delivery, find out the cost and the maximum dollars per day covered.The car transport company should warn you of possible delays ahead of time. If you need an exact date for pick-up, most vehicle transport services can pick-up your car and hold it at a secure location for an additional charge.Car transport companies use various methods to move your car long distances, such as flatbed truck, car carrier, enclosed trailer and other more customized options, like single enclosed trailer or two-car non-stacking enclosed trailers.When you leave your car with a car transport company, be sure you receive an inspection report, this document supplies receiving and delivery information, current mileage, and details the condition of your car. Make sure to get everything in writing.Remember it’s not the size of a company or how many trucks they have that makes them successful; it is the skill of the employees behind the equipment and their commitment to customer service. A great car transport company will have a group of trained professionals who will come to you with experience and unique knowledge of the inner workings of the auto transport business. Just knowing the basic facts about car transport will make finding the right company a guaranteed success.

Parting with something valuable or dear is not the easiest thing for anyone, and if that thing happens to be your newly purchased dream car, that anxiety can be all the more intolerable.To make matters worse, if you happen to be relocating, or you bought your car in some other state other than yours, you would actually have to entrust some stranger or some service to transport your car back to you.To reunite with your beloved car, you must make sure to use the services of a fully licensed and insured car transport company that specializes in transporting cars. Doing thorough research on the various car transporter companies and car transport service before deciding on one will minimize the risk of any damage or mishap to your car:* Just like any other industry, the auto transport industry is marked by myriad prices and multiple car transport options. Your first task involves choosing the right kind of auto transport. Depending on the value of your car, and how badly you want to lessen the risk of damage, you have the option of an enclosed, open or fabric covered auto transporter to ship your car. The covered trailer type carriers are definitely the safest and costliest options. If you have a tight budget, you can consider transporting your car on the multi-layer carriers used by car dealers. As your car will be just one of many cars of their total cargo, they will charge you less, but your car will still remain protected during shipping nonetheless.* You also need to decide whether to go with a car transport company or with a car transport broker. A car transport broker typically does not have his own trailer while an auto transport company does. The broker has to make arrangements with the bigger car transport services to transport your car on their trucks. Brokers typically ask for an initial deposit, while the rest of the car transport payment is made, upon safe delivery of your car, to the car transport service that actually shipped your car.* Insurance is a must if you are considering transporting your car over a long distance. Generally your own auto insurance company covers the car, but sometimes the car transport companies offer a package in which the insurance costs are included. In any case, be clear of what is covered by insurance and what is not.* It is safest to deal with an auto transport company that does offer a satellite tracking service. Most major transport companies offer this service for free. Keeping a constant tab on the route and the move helps keep you informed every step of the way during the car shipping, and reassured that your car will arrive home safely.

Classic car transport is a large branch of car transport; it is a specialized field that includes car transport companies that are dedicated to the transport of antique and vintage cars. Most trailers used for the safe and efficient transport of classic cars are specially designed for smooth travel and protection from road and weather.Classic car transport companies usually employ only professional drivers who are experienced handlers of antique and exotic cars. Some popular trailer options for secure classic car transport are: six-car enclosed trailers, four-car enclosed trailers, and two-car non-stacking enclosed trailers. Most auto transporters of classic vehicles will offer delivery from door-to-door or delivery to the customer. Most classic car transport companies will accept non-running vehicles.When you are searching for a classic car transport company, ask if classic and vintage vehicle transport is their main activity or a sideline of another business. In addition, find out if they contract out transport to third parties. Make sure when you are investigating car transport companies that classic vehicles are their main focus. To safeguard your interests, also make sure they carry the best insurance coverage available.Many classic car transport companies will design an itinerary exclusive to you, this allows for greater flexibility on times of pick-up and delivery. Additionally in-transit contact between office and drivers through cell phones is a service that most classic car transport companies will provide as part of the basic transport service. Winching is also available at a modest fee.Many classic car transport companies offer worldwide vehicle transportation solutions to individuals. These classic car transport companies specialize in reliable, proficient service with frequent departures from major U.S. ports. Normally you will be assigned a very experienced customer service representative to insure the safe convey of your car.Classic car transport companies use various methods to move your car long distances, such as flatbed truck, enclosed single trailer and enclosed rail service. Your car will probably travel flat without being tied down by chains. Easy and safe loading on custom built covered trailers with full lift gates is usually a standard and most classic car transport companies have tie-down systems that provide security without harming your vehicle. Airtight sanitary environments and full air equipment for smooth travel are other popular available options. Custom equipment designed to meet your needs is often available upon request.It should not be difficult to find a classic car transport facility with a professional crew of mechanics and maintenance people who maintain an exceptional fleet of opened and enclosed transports to fit your needs and budget. Just knowing the basic facts about classic car transport will make finding the best company a sure success.

If you are planning to launch or already are a part of a company that needs to periodically deliver different goods and products to other countries or even if it’s a just one time thing, you are probably facing an important question: “Which kind of transport should I choose?”.When it comes to international transport, there are a lot of options to choose from, such as air freight, ocean freight road or rail transport. This is why it is so important to determine which is the most efficient method of transportation to suit the needs of your business. In this particular article, we are going to talk about international road and rail transport and we are going to make a short comparison between these two and between each of them and other means of international transportation.When considering speed and reliability, rail and road transportation are surpassed by air freight, but shipping your packages using train or truck transportation can be the right choice if you don’t rely on extremely fast deliveries and you can work with a longer transit line, especially since this option can be a lot cheaper.International road transport is widely used today, due to the fact that it is quite flexible, being able to reach virtually anywhere and can provide “door-to-door service”. Another advantage is the fact that it can be cheaper than other means of transportation, but only for shorter distances, meaning that doesn’t apply for international road transport. However, it also can be cheaper when talking about small-sized shipments, no matter the distance, so if you have to send small packages, choosing to send them by truck could be the right decision for you.The final advantage we are going to talk about is the fact that a truck cargo is extremely easy to load and unload, which makes the process faster than in the case of a train. The main two disadvantages of truck transportation are the fact that is can be affected by weather condition and the negative effect they have on the environment. Studies show that trucks generate five times more greenhouse gas emissions than other means of transportation. From this point of view, rail transportation can be more efficient, since trains take in one gallon of fuel to transport one ton of freight for about 484 miles and aren’t as damaging to the environment.Another advantage of rail transport and reason for which it is expected for the rail transport to flourish in the following years is the fact that it’s inexpensive and can be used to transport almost anything. Another important factor is the fact that trains ensure a more secure transit, with less accidents and higher reliability than trucks.Now that we have reached the end of our short comparison between road and rail transport, it is up to you to choose the means of transportation that will better fit the needs of your company and bring you the results you desire. If you are still having difficulties with package shipping, we recommend tapping the services of a logistics company, which can help you with all the aspects of this process.

YACHT TRANSPORT BY SHIP OR OTHER MEANS IS NOT A SIMPLE TASK.The related operations are considerable undertakings. Just think about those that underpin boat transport by sea, for example. It is therefore necessary that transport companies offering these services really have the required expertise. Improvisation is not an option when carrying out such delicate operations.More specifically, take the transport of yachts or luxury boats in general. Even a simple oversight or a tiny distraction could result in damage amounting to thousands of Euro. Thus the question arises, how should the transport of such delicate and “precious” vessels be done in particular? We can forget about the classic, simple trailer. When it comes to these cases, what is actually needed is a nice, big ship. That said, let’s look at the essential rules for flawless yacht transport by ship together.1. FAMILIARITY AND RESPECT FOR YACHT TRANSPORT LEGISLATIONPeople that own a luxury boat can easily understand why yacht transport by ship is not such a simple undertaking. Those blessed with enjoying this special vessel know all too well that it is not always easy to inspect the transport due to the size and tonnage. That is why it is crucial that people are aware of the legislation governing this kind of transport.Let’s start with the authorizations: oversized boat transfer – which refers to vessels that are wider than 3m and over 25m long – falls within the exceptional transport category, the legislation for which is covered by Articles 10, 61 and 62 of the Italian Highway Code. Therefore, anyone who owns these vessels must be aware of the peculiarities surrounding the service in question, before they entrust a company to carry out yacht transport by ship.2. CHOOSING A COMPANY THAT HAS THE APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATIONIn order to move these special vessels, companies must hold the appropriate authorising document. This must be with the vessel throughout the whole voyage, including any return trip. It is therefore crucial that the company chosen to carry out the yacht transport by ship be in possession of the required special documentation to proceed with the transport. Otherwise the transport of these kinds of vessels would be against the law.3. CHOOSING THE ROUTE: A STEP THAT SHOULD NOT BE UNDERESTIMATEDIn addition to holding a range of authorisations and documents, the company that you intend to entrust to transport your yacht by ship must possess real expertise and experience. The transport company in question must be able to find the best route for the transport of exceptional vessels, after evaluating a series of variables. These include: the size of the load, the road conditions and the presence of any shipyards that may be found on certain stretches of road.4. ENTRUST TRANSPORT TO AN AUTHORISED AND EQUIPPED COMPANYThe company that you entrust to transport your yacht by ship must have all the transit permits issued by the competent authorities. This is a crucially important detail that should not be overlooked under any circumstances: the permit is actually only issued by the competent authorities to companies that possess the experience, documentation and equipment required to carry out the service flawlessly. The company that you intend to entrust to transport your yacht by ship must also have the sufficient expertise to organise the technical repairs.Last, but not least, this company must have all the necessary tools to lift, secure and release the yacht, in order to load and unload it in the correct manner. That is why it is a good idea to turn to a company that has demonstrated, over many years, that it can successfully handle international transfers by ship, of any kind of vessel, without limits on the type, weight and size.In conclusion, we advise not underestimating your choice of company when it comes to entrusting yacht transport by ship. It is better to favour one that has proven expertise in providing comprehensive assistance throughout every step of the process, as well as sound, widespread stationing of its international hubs.