Full Service Auto Transport: What You Need to Know Before You Book

Introduction

When it comes to moving your vehicle, full service auto transport promises a hassle-free and secure way to get your car from point A to point B. It handles everything from pickup to delivery, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on time. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need to relocate their car—whether it’s for a new job, a cross-country move, or transporting a luxury vehicle.

Here’s what you need to know about full service auto transport:

• Convenience: Door-to-door service means you don’t have to worry about dropping off or picking up your vehicle.
• Safety: Both open and enclosed transport options protect your vehicle during the journey.
• Flexibility: Service options for all types of vehicles including cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, and even golf carts.
• Peace of Mind: Full insurance coverage and real-time tracking keep you informed every step of the way.

We’ll delve deeper into each of these points, ensuring you have all the information needed to make the best decision for your transport needs.

What is Full Service Auto Transport?

Full Service Auto Transport means your vehicle is picked up from your location and delivered straight to your desired destination. It’s designed to make car shipping as easy and stress-free as possible.

Services Included

Door-to-Door Delivery: Your vehicle is picked up from your place and delivered directly to your new location. No need to drive to a terminal or meet halfway.

Enclosed Transport: This service is perfect for luxury, vintage, or exotic cars. Your vehicle travels in a fully enclosed carrier, protected from weather and road debris.

Open Transport: The most common and cost-effective option. Your vehicle is shipped on an open-air carrier. It’s safe and suitable for standard cars, trucks, and SUVs.

Insurance Coverage: Your vehicle is insured against damage during transport, giving you peace of mind.

Types of Vehicles Transported

Cars, Trucks, and SUVs: Whether you have a compact car or a large SUV, full service auto transport has you covered.

Motorcycles: Safely and quickly transported to any destination within the United States.

Boats and Yachts: Specialized services ensure your boat reaches its destination safely and on time.

Golf Carts: No matter where you need your golf cart, it will be delivered quickly and securely.

Heavy Hauling: For oversized projects requiring multi-axle trailers, full service auto transport can handle it.

Special Services

Military Transport: Discounts are available for military veterans. It’s a way to say thank you for your service.

International Shipping: Need to ship your vehicle overseas? Full service auto transport can handle international logistics as well.

In the next section, we’ll look at how to prepare your car for auto transport to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

How to Prepare Your Car for Auto Transport

Preparing your car for full service auto transport is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Here are some essential steps to follow:

Empty Your Gas Tank

For safety reasons, your gas tank should be no more than a quarter full. This reduces the vehicle’s weight and minimizes the risk of leaks during transport.

Tip: Plan a short drive or two before the big day to get your gas level just right.

Secure the Exterior

Ensure that the exterior of your car is secure. This includes folding in your side mirrors and retracting the antenna. If your car has any loose parts like spoilers or fog lights, make sure they are properly fastened or removed.

Story: One customer found that securing their car’s exterior prevented minor damages during a long-distance move. They were glad they took the extra time for this step!

Remove Personal Items

Your car should be empty of all personal belongings. This includes detachable electronics like GPS devices, toll tags, and custom stereo systems. Personal items are not covered by transport insurance and could add unnecessary weight.

Fact: Most carriers’ cargo insurance won’t cover any damage to items inside the car.

Deactivate Toll Tags

Deactivate or remove toll tags to avoid unnecessary charges. Your car may pass through toll roads during transport, and active toll tags could rack up fees.

Tip: Place your toll tag in a safe place and remember to reactivate it once your car is delivered.

Special Notes for the Driver

Leave a note for the driver with any special instructions. This could include details like the car’s quirks, alarm system instructions, or any other important information.

Example: “The car alarm is sensitive; here’s how to deactivate it if it goes off unexpectedly.”

By following these steps, you can ensure that your car is well-prepared for its journey. In the next section, we’ll explore the different types of auto transport services available to you.

Types of Auto Transport Services

When it comes to full service auto transport, you have several options to choose from. Understanding these options can help you make the best decision for your needs. Let’s break down the main types of services: open transport, enclosed transport, door-to-door, and terminal-to-terminal.

Open Transport

Open transport is the most common and cost-effective method for shipping a vehicle. Your car will be transported on an open-air carrier, similar to the ones you see on highways carrying multiple cars.

Pros:
– Cost-effective: Generally less expensive than enclosed transport.
– Availability: Easier to book due to higher availability.

Cons:
– Exposure: Your car will be exposed to weather and road debris.
– Security: Less secure compared to enclosed transport.

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport is ideal for high-value vehicles like luxury, antique, or exotic cars. Your vehicle will be transported in a fully enclosed trailer, protecting it from the elements and road hazards.

Pros:
– Protection: Shields your car from weather, dust, and debris.
– Security: Offers a higher level of security for valuable vehicles.

Cons:
– Cost: More expensive than open transport.
– Availability: May be harder to book due to lower availability.

Door-to-Door Transport

Door-to-door transport is the most convenient option. The carrier picks up your vehicle from your specified location and delivers it directly to your new address.

Pros:
– Convenience: No need to drop off or pick up your car from a terminal.
– Time-saving: Saves you the hassle of extra travel.

Cons:
– Accessibility: Not all neighborhoods can accommodate large carriers. Narrow streets, low-hanging trees, and tight corners may restrict access.

Terminal-to-Terminal Transport

In terminal-to-terminal transport, you drop off your vehicle at a regional storage facility, and it is picked up from another terminal near your destination.

Pros:
– Flexibility: Offers flexible drop-off and pick-up times.
– Cost: Can be less expensive than door-to-door services.

Cons:
– Convenience: Requires you to travel to and from the terminal.
– Storage Fees: May incur additional storage fees if your car stays at the terminal for an extended period.

By understanding these options, you can choose the service that best fits your needs and budget. In the next section, we’ll dive into the factors that affect the cost of full service auto transport.

Cost Factors in Full Service Auto Transport

When it comes to full service auto transport, understanding the cost factors can help you budget more accurately. Several elements influence the price, from the distance your car needs to travel to the type of vehicle you’re shipping.

Distance

The farther your vehicle needs to go, the more it will cost. Long-distance moves generally have a lower price per mile, but the total cost will still be higher due to fuel and labor expenses. For example, moving a car 500 miles might cost around $1,467, but the price could rise to $2,114 for a 1,500-mile trip.

Vehicle Type

Larger and heavier vehicles, like trucks and SUVs, require more space and fuel, driving up the cost. Smaller cars are generally cheaper to transport. If your vehicle is inoperable, expect to pay more because special equipment will be needed to load and unload it.

Transport Type

There are two main types of transport: open and enclosed.

• Open Transport: This is the most common and affordable option. Your car will be transported on an open trailer, exposed to the elements. It’s perfect for standard vehicles but not ideal for luxury or antique cars.

• Enclosed Transport: Offers more protection, making it the best choice for high-value vehicles. Your car will be shielded from weather and road debris. However, this service can be significantly more expensive.

Seasonal Demand

The time of year you choose to move can affect the cost. Summer is peak season for auto transport, which means higher prices due to increased demand. If you can wait until fall or winter, you may find lower rates. According to Forbes, shipping a vehicle in the off-season can save you money.

Understanding these cost factors will help you make an informed decision and avoid unexpected expenses. Next, we’ll explore how to choose the right auto transport company.

How to Choose the Right Auto Transport Company

Reputation

When choosing a full service auto transport company, reputation is key. A company with a strong track record is likely to provide reliable and professional service. Look for companies that have been in business for several years and have a history of satisfied customers. For example, Liedkie Moving and Storage partners with trusted carriers to ensure the highest level of service.

Customer Reviews

Customer reviews offer valuable insights into a company’s performance. Check out platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Positive feedback on these sites can give you confidence in your choice. For instance, Handy Hands Labor in Albany has received high praise for their efficiency and friendliness.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage is crucial for protecting your vehicle during transport. Make sure the company offers comprehensive insurance that covers potential damages. Liedkie Moving and Storage ensures every car is fully insured, providing extra peace of mind for customers.

Licensing and Registration

Verify that the auto transport company is properly licensed and registered. Reputable companies should be registered with the Department of Transport (DOT) and have a USDOT number. You can check this information on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. This step ensures that the company meets legal and safety standards.

By focusing on these factors—reputation, customer reviews, insurance coverage, and licensing—you can confidently choose the right auto transport company for your needs.

Next, we’ll discuss how to track your vehicle during transport.

Tracking Your Vehicle During Transport

Once your car is on its way, you’ll want to keep tabs on it. Full service auto transport companies often provide tools and methods for tracking your vehicle. Here’s how you can stay updated:

My Vehicles Dashboard

Many transport companies offer a My Vehicles Dashboard. This online tool lets you monitor your car’s journey in real-time. You can log in anytime to see the current location of your car, estimated delivery time, and any updates from the driver.

Benefits of My Vehicles Dashboard:
– Real-time tracking: Know where your car is at any moment.
– Notifications: Get alerts for key updates, like pickup and delivery.
– Ease of access: Available 24/7 from any device with internet access.

VIN Search

Another way to track your vehicle is through a VIN search. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code for your car. By entering this number into the transport company’s tracking system, you can get detailed status updates.

How to use VIN search:
1. Locate your VIN: Usually found on the dashboard or inside the driver’s door.
2. Enter the VIN: Use the tracking feature on the transport company’s website.
3. View updates: See the latest information on your vehicle’s location and condition.

Status Updates

Status updates are regular notifications you receive about your car’s transport progress. These can come via email, text message, or phone calls, depending on your preference.

Types of status updates:
– Pickup confirmation: When your car is loaded and on its way.
– In-transit updates: Periodic updates on the location and status.
– Delivery confirmation: Notification when your car has arrived at its destination.

By using these tracking methods, you can have peace of mind knowing exactly where your vehicle is during its journey. This transparency is one of the key benefits of full service auto transport.

Next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about full service auto transport.

Frequently Asked Questions about Full Service Auto Transport

How do I prepare my car for auto transport?

Preparing your car for auto transport is crucial for a smooth and safe journey. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Empty the gas tank: Keep it about a quarter full. This reduces weight but still allows for short drives if needed.

2. Secure exterior parts: Remove or secure loose parts like antennas, spoilers, and side mirrors.

3. Remove personal items: Take out all personal belongings. Items left inside can shift and cause damage.

4. Deactivate toll tags: This prevents unnecessary charges during transport.

5. Special notes for the driver: If your car has any quirks (e.g., difficult ignition), let the driver know.

Following these steps ensures your vehicle is ready for a safe and efficient transport.

What is the difference between open and enclosed transport?

Open transport and enclosed transport are the two main methods for shipping vehicles. Each has its pros and cons:

Open Transport:
– Cost-effective: Generally cheaper due to higher availability.
– Popular choice: Most common method, used for standard makes and models.
– Exposure: Vehicle is exposed to weather and road conditions.

Enclosed Transport:
– Higher cost: More expensive but offers more protection.
– Ideal for luxury or vintage cars: Protects from the elements and road debris.
– Limited availability: Fewer carriers offer this service.

Choosing between these options depends on your vehicle’s value, your budget, and your preference for protection.

How can I track my vehicle during transport?

Tracking your vehicle during transport provides peace of mind and transparency. Here are the common ways to track:

1. My Vehicles Dashboard: Many companies offer an online dashboard for real-time updates.

2. VIN Search: Use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to get status updates.

3. Status Updates: Companies provide updates like:

4. Pickup confirmation
5. In-transit updates
6. Delivery confirmation

By using these tracking methods, you can know exactly where your vehicle is during its journey. This transparency is one of the key benefits of full service auto transport.

Conclusion

Choosing full service auto transport can make your move stress-free and efficient. It provides peace of mind by ensuring your vehicle is handled with care and professionalism. From luxury cars to motorcycles and boats, this service covers a wide range of needs.

At Liedkie Moving and Storage, we pride ourselves on offering top-notch auto transport services. Our experienced team, competitive pricing, and commitment to customer satisfaction set us apart. We handle everything from planning to delivery, so you can focus on other aspects of your move.

Ready to make your move hassle-free? Contact us today to get a personalized quote and learn more about how we can help with your auto transport needs.

Feel free to reach out to us with any questions. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to assist you 24/7. Let’s make your move a success!