Things to Look for In Auction Car Transport
Whether you’re buying or selling a vehicle from an auto auction, preserving its condition should always be a top priority. Having worked with many auction houses across the U.S., we know the best way to protect your purchase is by hiring a professional auto transport company.
But with so many transport “companies” online, how do you know which one to trust? Here are some key factors to consider.
Article Quick Takes
- Experience Matters
- Professional Drivers
- Pricing & Insurance
- Open Transport vs Enclosed Transport Options
- Convenience: Door-to-Door Service
1. Experience Matters
Experience is crucial when it comes to auction car shipping. A company with years in the industry has the know-how to handle vehicles of all types, including rare or high-value cars. Newer companies may lack the knowledge or care required to transport your auction purchase safely.
Look for a transporter that not only has general industry experience, but also specific experience handling vehicles coming out of auctions.
2. Professional Drivers
Professionalism from drivers makes all the difference in your experience. From the initial car shipping quote to delivery updates, communication should be clear and the process stress-free.
Experienced drivers also understand the importance of precaution, taking every measure necessary to ensure your vehicle is delivered safely.
3. Pricing and Insurance
Many customers ask, “How much does it cost to ship a car from an auction?” or “Is the quote based on the value of the car?”
The short answer: Yes, vehicle value is considered, but not to overcharge. Value affects the insurance coverage required for the transport. For example, if your car is worth $300,000 but the carrier’s minimum insurance only covers $250,000, then coverage must be increased to protect your vehicle properly.
Other factors affecting cost include:
- Vehicle specifications (size, weight, modifications)
- Type of transport service (open or enclosed)
- Distance of transport
- Scheduling and availability
Be sure to discuss all the specifics of your vehicle and move with the company so they can provide the most accurate quote for your needs.
4. Open vs. Enclosed Transport Options
When transporting vehicles from an auction, the two most common services are open car transport and enclosed car shipping:
- Open Transport: The most cost-effective option. Your car is loaded on an open carrier, exposed to the same weather and road conditions as if you were driving it yourself. This option is ideal if you don’t mind a little dust or dirt upon arrival.
- Enclosed Transport: A premium option that protects your car from weather, debris, and road conditions. Recommended for high-end, luxury, or collector cars that require extra care.
5. Convenience: Door-to-Door Service
The best companies offer door-to-door auto transport service, picking up your vehicle directly from the auction and delivering it as close as possible to your home or business.
Keep in mind that carriers can be up to 100 feet in length and weigh up to 80,000 lbs. If your delivery location isn’t large enough or doesn’t have the space necessary to safely park and unload, the driver will arrange a nearby commercial location (Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s etc.) to meet.
Example: One of our customers purchased a classic car from an auction. When it was time to deliver, the driver could not get to his address because their neighborhood streets were too narrow for a full-sized carrier. The driver and customer looked for a nearby location where the driver could safely get in and out without the risk of getting stuck.
Choosing the right auction car transport company comes down to experience and professionalism. An experienced company understands the unique requirements of vehicles coming from an auction, from handling classic cars to handling modern luxury cars. Whether you choose open or enclosed shipping, the goal is the same: safe and secure delivery of your vehicle from the auction floor to your home.
Ready to ship your car? Call Streaming Logistics at (813) 841-8908 for a free quote.