How to Ship a Car – Broker vs. Carrier Company

Shipping a car from one place to another is not a simple task. Imagine all the paperwork, documents, and legal things you have to go over just to get a car delivered to a buyer. While it’s not rocket science, even if there are a lot of options to choose from in shipping a car, but all the trouble may not be worth the time, especially if you’re always on the go.

Carrier Company

It may appear that shipping a car is a long and tedious process. The truth is that how to ship a car is pretty simple. All you need to do is to go directly to a carrier company. While it may be the cheaper option, if you are not familiar with the intricacies of shipping a car, then you may encounter a lot of things that are new to you. Patience and proper coordination is needed when talking directly to a carrier company. You may be tempted to just go with the first company you talk to, because everything just seems to confusing. But it is still best to do research and talk to around 3-5 companies to make sure that you are not being overcharged.

Broker Company

Another option in obtaining more information on how much to ship a car is through a broker. Technically, a broker is a middle man, a coordinator, or a third party. They are the best person to talk to when you want to learn how to ship a car fast. Though the title of a broker may sound negative to some, using a broker in shipping a car can take a load off your shoulders. They take care of the insurance, carrier company coordination, the legal documents, clearances and other forms of documentation you need for the transaction. Basically, a broker makes your life easier so that you can focus on more important things like work, business, and family. If your broker is good and has a wide range of contacts, he will also be able to recommend the carrier companies with the best car shipping rates. Going with the second option of having a broker sounds good, but be sure that your broker is trustworthy. Remember that he is looking out for his commission as well.

Price Difference

Auto transport quotes are always cheaper when you go directly to the carrier company or moversbecause there is no brokerage fee included. Another thing you might want to consider when checking the prices coming from the carrier is the insurance coverage. Usually, the price from the carrier or cross country moving services company does not include the insurance, documentation, and other legal paper work, which you still have to request. On the other hand, the price coming from a broker will appear to be a bit higher, but it is understood that all forms of paperwork, legal documents, and fees are already included in the price.

Additional Information

As with anything, it is important that you check the reputation of the company that you are dealing with–whether they’re the carrier company or the broker. For starters, you can check the carrier’s company through their USDOT numbers if they are certified. For the broker company, it can be easily checked through their MC number. Also, aside from their certificates, ask your friends, family, relatives, or people you know if they’ve work with certain companies. You can also check on their reviews online.

Remember that when shipping your car, it’s not only the price that matters. You also need to check the company’s quality of service and their track record for getting vehicles to their specified destination on time and undamaged.