Consumer's Guide to Auto Transporting

This guide has been compiled to help you, the consumer, be better informed about the transportation of your vehicle(s). You should read it thoroughly so you will know what you may expect from the Broker and the Carrier(s) and what they expect of you.

The information contained within will hopefully help you make the right choices when picking a transport company and keep you from making mistakes resulting in loss of your time and money.

DEFINITION OF PLAYERS

Broker - A Broker is a middleman. He advertises in various media such as telephone books and newspapers; soliciting the business of those who need their vehicle(s) moved. He deals with a vast network of Carriers and is familiar with their specific routes of service.

Carrier - The Carrier is the trucking company that will actually transport your vehicle(s).

Driver - The driver is the person who actually loads and drives the truck. The driver may be an employee of the Carrier; driving a truck owned by the Carrier. Sometimes the driver is an owner-operator; one who owns and drives his own truck and is contracted to a specific Carrier.

Terminal - A Terminal is a facility where vehicles can be stored or held. It may be nothing more than an open space on the side of a building. Often times it is a fenced in area with varying forms of security. Sometimes it is a secure space within a building.

Shipper - The shipper is usually the person who calls to arrange the transportation of the vehicle(s). The shipper may or may not be the owner of the vehicle(s) and may not necessarily be the one paying for the transport. However, the shipper always will be ultimately liable for the transportation fees.

Shipper's Agent(s) - The Shipper's Agent is a person designated by the Shipper to release or accept possession of the vehicle(s). The Shipper's Agent is responsible for overseeing the inspection of the vehicle(s), for signing of documents, and for the notation of damage. A Shipper's Agent is necessary if the Shipper can not be present to perform these duties.

WHO DO I CALL?

You may wonder why you should bother with a Broker at all. Why not deal directly with the Carrier or even the Driver? After all, you might get a better price and aren't they the ones who actually have possession of your vehicle?

Consider the following:

Dealing directly with the Driver is not a wise idea. Whether he is an employee of the Carrier or an owner-operator contracted to the Carrier; the Driver is operating under the authority or license of the Carrier and is protected by the Carrier's insurance. Drivers who transport vehicle(s) without the knowledge of the Carrier, act unscrupulously and at risk to themselves and the Shipper. If the Driver has an accident or damages the vehicle(s), the Shipper may have a very difficult time being compensated. In fact, the Shipper may have to pay the Carrier's transportation fees regardless of what may have already been paid to the Driver.

The Shipper could deal directly with the Carrier. However, most Carriers transport on very specific routes. Also, they may not be able to accommodate a Shipper's specific date requirements. It is also doubtful that the Carrier's rate will be any less than the Broker's. Many of the Carrier's don't even advertise, but deal directly with the Brokers to obtain a load.

More than likely you will deal with a Broker. It is usually the Broker that advertises, not the Carrier. Advertising is very expensive and so is the telephone bill generated from it. An ad in Florida could attract the interest of Shippers going anywhere in the USA, such as the Northeast, California, Chicago, or the Northwest. A Carrier may only be interested in those shipments going to California. All other calls for service would be of no interest to that Carrier. Therefore, advertising is not a very economical way for the Carrier to find Shippers. The Broker deals with a vast network of Carriers who service many different routes. The Broker makes it his business to deal with Carriers who are properly licensed and insured. Through experience, the Broker determines the reliability of Carriers and if they conduct their business in a reputable manner. The Broker is aware of which Carriers service what routes and is able to choose the one that can best serve the Shipper's needs and time frame. The Broker is a very important and necessary player.

HOW WILL MY VEHICLE BE TRANSPORTED?

This guide deals only with the transportation of vehicles by truck. Very large vehicles such as campers, boats, small dump trucks and some very large vans are transported by flatbed trailers. Sometimes small carriers that haul only 2 or 3 vehicles are used. This is especially true if the vehicle is being picked up by a local service and brought into a terminal or delivered out from a terminal to final destination. Most often your vehicle(s) will be transported on a large carrier that is designed specifically for transporting 8 to 11 vehicles, each on its own platform. Occasionally, antique or very high value vehicles are transported in enclosed carriers that look, from the outside, like any other box trailer going down the road. Enclosed transport is considerably more expensive and is usually not a viable option.

WHAT IS DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE?

Door to Door service means that the driver will get as close as he can to where ever you want your vehicle picked up or delivered, providing there are no legal restrictions preventing access by the truck and that the transport is physically able to get in there. Keep in mind that car transports can not always go where moving vans go. Law enforcement will often let a moving van go into residential areas where trucks are not allowed, but they may not be so tolerant of car transports. Open car transports must also be very conscious of trees that can damage the cars. Finally, car transports are often built very low to the ground compared to other large trucks. Where other trucks could easily jump a curb if caught in a tight spot, many car transports would get hung up and stuck. Quite often the driver will find a shopping center or large parking lot where he can safely load or unload your vehicle(s). This is usually within a mile or two from wherever you designate. This arrangement seems to work for most people. It is always up to the driver's discretion as to where he will drive the truck since he is the best judge of where he should go with his equipment. Weather, acts of God, commotion, or military actions can also preclude access.

WILL MY VEHICLE BE DRIVEN?

You are paying to have your vehicle transported by truck. The driver may have to drive your vehicle(s) at origin between the designated point(s) of pick up and the point(s) of loading; and also at destination between the point(s) of unloading and the point(s) of designated delivery. The driver may also have to drive your vehicle(s) on and of the transport in the course of loading and unloading all the vehicles on and off the transport. However, your vehicle(s) should not be driven otherwise. The odometer mileage should be recorded at origin and verified at destination. Discrepancies should be noted and signed for by the driver.

WHAT IF MY VEHICLE IS INOPERABLE?

The vehicle must be able to drive on and off the carrier under its own power, start under it's own power, steer, and have good brakes and parking gear at the time of pick up and while in the custody of the Carrier. Otherwise, it is considered to be an inoperable vehicle. Inoperable vehicles can be a real hassle for the driver. They usually cause considerably more physical labor and require more time to load. They often cause logistic problems as well. Not only does the vehicle have to be placed where it fits, but now it has to be placed where it doesn't need to be moved and won't interfere with the loading and unloading of the other vehicles assigned to the transport. For these reasons, there are additional amounts charged for the transport of inoperable vehicles. Plus, there may be third party charges for tow truck services. Remember, the transport may not be able to obtain access to where the inoperable vehicle is parked. And for obvious reasons, the driver and employees will not push the vehicle. Since these extra charges can amount to several hundred dollars, it may be advisable to repair the inoperable vehicle before shipping, especially if it is something as simple as a dead battery.

DO I NEED TO PREPARE MY VEHICLE FOR TRANSPORT?

There are a few simple things that a shipper can do that will contribute to a more successful move.

1. In most cases the driver will drive your vehicle on and off the transport. Drivers come in all sizes. Be sure that the driver seat can freely move all the way forward and back so the driver can fit behind the wheel and/or reach the controls. Also make sure that his field of vision is unobstructed. The driver has to be able to see out all of the windows when he drives the vehicle on and off the transport.

2. Antennas can be a problem. If it is electrical, lower it. Show the driver how to lower it in case he accidentally raises it. Many antennas are detachable. If your antenna can be removed, do so and place the antenna on the floor in front of the passenger seat or in the trunk where you will remember to find it later.

3. Secure or remove any loose parts or specialty items that may fall off or be damaged during transport. This would include low hanging spoilers, fog lights, ground effects, bumper guards, and window shades.

4. If there are any tears or open seams on a convertible top, seal them so air can not penetrate. Your vehicle will quite likely be loaded on a platform that will need to be tilted at an angle that is different from the way it travels down the road. As the transport drives down the road, air can find its way into any tears or open seams, making them worse or quite possibly ripping the top completely off.

5. Prepare your vehicle for extreme temperature changes by confirming that there are adequate levels of antifreeze in the cooling system.

6. A loose and leaking battery may cause considerable damage to your vehicle and/or other vehicles on the transport. Be sure that the battery is secure, that it has tight fitting caps, and that there are no leaks. Sometimes new batteries, or ones that have just been serviced, can be a problem because the fluid levels are too high. This is especially true during very hot weather when the fluid in the battery expands. Also remember, your vehicle may be riding on the transport for a length of time at a sharp incline.

7. Leave approximately 1/4 tank of gas in the vehicle. This is enough to load and unload the vehicle and to get you to a gas station when you receive the vehicle. This is especially true if your vehicle is going to be on a boat for any part of the move. Weight is critical to the ship and they will empty your tank of any excess gas without compensation. Weight is also very important to the carrier. Gasoline weighs about 7 lbs per gallon. If all of the vehicles on the carrier have full tanks, that can really add up to a lot of weight.

8. Many vehicles are equipped with burglar alarms and anti-theft devices. You need to deactivate, or better yet, disconnect them prior to shipment. Any keys or control devices associated with the system must accompany the vehicle, along with detailed instructions on how it functions. There can be serious problems and unnecessary expenses incurred if the driver is locked out of the vehicle or the alarm goes off during transport.

9. Anything of value that is not factory installed should be removed from the vehicle. This would include stereo equipment and speakers, radios, cellular telephones and antennas, scanners, radar detectors, CB radios, etc. Pack them up and take them with you or ship them separately. Again, this is especially true if the vehicle will be on a boat at any point during the move. The people at the port will remove anything from the car that is not standard equipment, including items such as child car seats. You will not be compensated and the driver will not assume responsibility for your belongings.

10. Provide the driver with all keys. This would include keys to the ignition, doors, trunk, gas cap, alarm, etc. As the driver travels from one state to another, he passes through several ports of entry and exit. At these ports, or anywhere along the way, he may have to submit to searches by government agencies. Usually, they are searching for drugs. If there is no key to access the trunk, the government official will break the lock to accomplish his search. Also, if your vehicle is going on a boat, the port may not accept the vehicle without all of the keys.

11. Make sure that your vehicle is clean. It will probably get dirty in transport, however, the driver can write up a more accurate condition report if the vehicle is clean when he looks at it. This will definitely work to your advantage when trying to assess if any damage was done in transport.

CAN I PUT ITEMS IN MY VEHICLE?

The previous section has probably answered this question to some extent. It is not advisable to leave items in your vehicle, especially those of high value. However, probably no one will object to some items of a personal nature such as clothing , pillows and blankets, car seats, etc. if they are confined to the trunk. If there is no trunk, secure them well so they can not move about and cover them so they are not visible from the outside of the vehicle. In any event, weight must be kept to a minimum and in no way may items in the vehicle obstruct the view of the driver through any window or the movement of the driver's seat . Please understand that the driver is being paid to transport your vehicle and nothing else. No one involved in the transport of your vehicle will assume liability for anything other than the vehicle. The driver must make sure that the transport, and what it carries, complies with certain weight and height restrictions imposed by the Federal and State Governments. Seriously overloaded vehicles can adversely affect the weight of the transport unit. The Driver's paycheck is directly related to how many vehicles he can transport. If everyone loads their vehicle with items, the weight adds up and he can't haul as many vehicles. Therefore, be warned; if you overload your vehicle with stuff, the driver may refuse to transport your vehicle unless it is unloaded. This could become a real problem for you if someone else is releasing the vehicle for you or if a local pick up service has picked up the vehicle for the driver and brought it into their terminal overloaded. Sometimes a carrier will transport an over loaded vehicle for additional compensation. However, the carrier may have no choice but to leave your vehicle behind if he can't scale the extra weight. This could delay your transport until another carrier can be located. No matter what a salesperson tells you, the driver has the final say as to whether he will take anything in your vehicle. He's the one that has to pay any fines. Consider shipping your items through a shipping company such as UPS or the US Postal Service where insurance coverage is provided.

Absolutely, under no circumstances, are drivers suppose to transport household items such as furniture, appliances, TV sets, stereo equipment, computers, etc. Also, they will not transport explosives, guns, ammunition, inflammable products, narcotics, negotiable and legal papers, alcoholic beverages, jewelry, furs, money, other articles of unusual value, live pets, live plants, or contraband. Federal and state regulations prohibit auto transports from transporting such items and some states have started enforcing the rules and assessing fines. Any fine the driver receives for such a violation will be passed on directly to the shipper or his agent at the time of delivery.

Bottom line......avoid putting items in the vehicle!

WHAT PAPERWORK SHOULD I EXPECT?

Verbal agreements have limited value. You may talk to many people in the process of choosing a company to transport your vehicle(s). Remembering what each one has said can become difficult and confusing. Agreements in writing are far more reliable and in some cases required by law.

1. The Broker may not provide you with anything in writing. However, it is advisable that you at least receive something from the Broker with the basic information detailing the nature of the service you require, such as names, addresses, telephone numbers, dates of service, and costs. It is best if you can deal with a Broker that provides you with a Contract detailing all facts required to perform the service plus a full explanation of the terms and conditions under which the service will be provided.

2. Bill of Lading or Freight Bill - The driver will give you a copy of the Bill of Lading at the time the vehicle is picked up. The Bill of Lading is an important document to you. It must be signed by the driver and by you or your agent. It serves as a receipt for your vehicle and it represents the contract of carriage between you, as the shipper, and the Carrier. Examine it closely to make sure the information is accurate. It should show the name of the shipper, from whom and where the vehicle is originating and to whom and where it is delivering, plus all relevant telephone numbers. Make sure that the place of delivery is shown correctly, and that the Bill of Lading contains the name, address, and telephone number where you or some other party can be notified of costs and possible delays while your vehicle is in transit. It should also have the name, address and telephone number of the Carrier. Legally the Carrier must utilize a Bill of Lading and give you a copy of it before your vehicle leaves the point of origin. Familiarize yourself with your copy of the Bill of Lading and read the conditions on the front and back of the form carefully. Be certain you understand that portion of the Bill of Lading which sets forth the liability of the Carrier for any loss or damage to your vehicle.

3. Condition Report - Before the driver loads your vehicle, he will fill out a condition report that will note the condition of the vehicle at the time he receives it. You or an authorized representative need to verify the notations made and sign that you are in agreement with them. You should receive a copy of this condition report before your vehicle leaves the point of origin. The condition report is often a part of the Bill of Lading. The condition report is very important to you since it documents the condition of your vehicle at the time the Driver takes custody of it. Claims of damage at destination will be based on the condition of your vehicle before it was transported.

WHAT INFORMATION DOES THE BROKER & CARRIER NEED?

The more information you can provide, the smoother your move will be.

1. Definitely provide the full name, address and telephone number(s) of the shipper, the party releasing the vehicle and that of the party accepting delivery. Provide all the contacts and telephone numbers available that could be helpful. The driver will not drive about trying to locate you if you can not be contacted by phone.

2. Provide the year, make and model of the vehicle(s). Some Brokers and Carriers request the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), License Plate information, registration information, and insurance details. Some may even want to know the color of the vehicle.

3. Disclose everything you know about the vehicle(s). Is it inoperable? If so, what makes it inoperable? Will it start? Does it have brakes? Will it steer? Are there inflated tires and will it roll? Can it get on and off the transport under its own power? It is important to know if the vehicle is a sedan, station wagon, jeep, suv, van, truck, etc. Does it have four wheel drive, oversize tires, roll bars, a convertible top? Is there a camper shell or topper of any sort? Is it handicapped equipped or does it have any other unique features. Is there a tool box mounted to the body?

Many of the above conditions may result in higher transport costs. The Broker will give you a rate based on the information you provide. However, if it is later discovered that there are facts that you failed to disclose that would have resulted in higher rates, you may be assured that you will still have to pay the extra costs. The real disaster occurs when the driver arrives with space for a small vehicle and instead you have a vehicle too big for the spot. The driver is definitely not going to be happy and probably neither will you. Chances are that the vehicle will not be loaded in the time frame you were expecting if this occurs.

4. Specify when you need this transport to occur. Be very specific about any special needs, airplane schedules, etc. Some requests can be accommodated, others may require alternate arrangements on your part.

5. It is your responsibility to know where you are at origin and delivery and how to get there. Drivers are usually very good at finding their way around, but they have their limitations. Some people try to draw maps for the driver. Try to observe things about the area you are asking the Driver to come into. Make note of large parking lots, shopping centers, or streets with wide shoulders where the Driver can bring the transport and safely perform his duties. Any information you can give the Driver will make his job easier. He may be just as much a stranger to the area as you are, maybe more so.

6. The inability to speak English can sometimes be a real challenge for everyone. If you feel you may have difficulty making yourself understood, especially to the Driver, try to find someone that can help you communicate better. This is particularly important when you are making arrangements with the Driver for pickup or delivery, discussing payment, or giving directions.

7. Keep everyone informed of any changes.

SCHEDULING OF PICKUP AND DELIVERY

Scheduling a transport to pick up your vehicle on certain dates can usually be accomplished if you give notice of your intent at least a week in advance. Sometimes it can be accomplished with very little notice at all. The route on which your vehicle will be transported and the time of year involved can greatly effect the amount of notice needed to accomplish your move in the time frame you desire.

There is a great deal of auto transporting done on certain routes. Such routes would include those between Southern California and the Northeast, Southern California and Florida, and the Northeast and Florida. Because of the great number of Carriers that service these routes, it is usually not difficult to schedule the transport of your vehicle with a Carrier. However, other routes that are not as heavily traversed will have fewer Carriers servicing them. Scheduling the transport of your vehicle on these routes is more difficult and may require more notice to meet your desired time frame.

The time of year involved can also be important. The last three or four months of every year, a great many people come to Florida from the Northeast and the Midwest. Even though there are many transports servicing the route, they simply can not keep up with the great number of vehicles that need to be transported. Shippers, who arrange to have their vehicles moved back and forth every year on this route, usually make arrangements two to three months in advance. The same situation occurs in the spring when these people decide to go back north. This same scenario occurs to some degree between the Midwest and Arizona / Southern California.

Summertime is the busiest time for auto transporting in general, especially around July 4th and Labor Day. At least two to three weeks notice may be needed during this time. Holidays at the end of the year can also cause scheduling problems since Drivers are scrambling to get home in time to be with their families and loved ones.

There are other factors that cause delays both at origin and destination which are out of the Carrier's and Driver's control. Adverse weather and road conditions can cause major problems. Heavy rains and flooding, snow and ice, hurricanes, earthquakes and road construction are some of the major culprits. Mechanical problems and their repair can set the driver back hours or even days. A simple tire repair on a truck can take hours to resolve. Also, remember that the Driver is a human being that is subject to fatigue, injury and illness.

Trucking is not an exact science. Considering all of the obstacles, most moves go very smoothly. However, it is understandable why the industry will generally not guarantee pickup and delivery dates and times. They will endeavor to provide you with estimated pick up and arrival dates and keep you informed of any delays. They will not be responsible for any non-use vehicle charges including, but not limited to, car rental fees, hotel bills, etc.

So, what can you do as a shipper to facilitate the scheduling of your transport? First of all, plan as much in advance as possible, especially if your move is to occur during any of the high traffic times of the year discussed above. Also, if your move does not occur on one of the more traveled routes, you will need to allow more time for scheduling. Schedule your departure and arrival with enough flexibility to allow for possible failure on the part of the Carrier or Driver to meet exactly the scheduled date and time. Carriers and Drivers should give you at least 24 hours notice of pick up or delivery. However, this is not always possible. Be as flexible as possible. Make sure that you have given everyone good telephone numbers and contacts. Don't turn off your phone too quickly unless you have a cell phone that you can be reached at. The Driver can not and will not pick up your vehicle if he can't reach you. Try to have an alternate plan if something goes wrong. If you have designated an agent to act in your place, try to chose someone that is reliable. Know where you are at both origin and destination and be prepared to give good directions to the Driver. If the Driver is to collect payment from you, make sure that you have the funds in the manner agreed upon prior to hearing from the Driver. Worthless contacts and telephone numbers, poor directions, and not having the proper funds on hand when the Driver calls to make delivery, can delay your shipment and that of others.

HOW AND WHEN DO I PAY?

Payment is made in a variety of ways depending on the company with whom you have scheduled your transport. Some companies will accept major credit cards. Most companies require payment by a Bank Cashier's Check, Bank Money Order, Certified Check or Cash and will not accept personal checks.

Many companies require a deposit, especially on routes that are extremely busy as described previously, or on transports that occur on less frequented routes. In both cases, the reservation requires a commitment by the Carrier that he may be hesitant to give without a financial commitment by the shipper to proceed with the move. This may also hold true for full truck loads where an entire transport and Driver must be reserved. Therefore the deposit is usually non-refundable.

Prepayment or payment at Origin is often required when the vehicle is inoperable, over ten years old, or the Driver determines that the vehicle is in such a condition that it may not even be worth the cost of shipping. Specialty vehicles that are of little value to anyone besides the shipper and a select few, may also require prepayment or payment at Origin. Otherwise, most companies permit payment at origin or destination.

If payment is made at Destination, the Driver will not take the vehicle off the transport until payment has been collected. Federal laws regulate these procedures. Even if the vehicle is damaged, payment must be made for the completed transport.

It is very important that you follow directions exactly with regards to how and when to pay for your transport. To do otherwise can cause delays in pickup and delivery and result in additional storage charges and/or delivery fees.

WHAT DETERMINES THE COST OF MY TRANSPORT?

In most cases the base fee for transporting a vehicle is not determined by the number of miles between origin and destination or by the weight of the vehicle. It is more commonly based on supply and demand. A more heavily traveled route means more shipments, more Carriers to service the route, and thus more competition and better per mile rates. Conversely, the more out of the way the route, the fewer the shipments there will be available to transport. Thus there will be fewer Carriers willing to service the route; resulting in less competition and a higher per mile rate.

Typically, trips that are shorter average a higher per mile rate than longer trips. Thus the rate to transport between Southern California and Dallas, TX may be almost as high as the rate to transport between Southern California and Florida.

Besides the base fee for transporting your vehicle, there are additional charges for inoperable vehicles and oversized or very heavy vehicles. The section titled "WHAT IF MY VEHICLE IS INOPERABLE?" explains in great detail what the extra costs for transporting an inoperable vehicle could be and why. Vehicles considered to be oversized by the industry would include vans, mini vans, suvs, station wagons, jeeps and trucks as well as many of the larger, heavier old classics. Racks, extensions, oversized tires, caps and camper shells, and handicap equipment can also cause a vehicle to be classified as oversized. Boats, trailers, campers and other special items require special treatment and price consideration.

Rates quoted by the industry are for open carriers. Transport in an enclosed carrier would cost considerably more. Transportation charges include one pickup and one delivery. If your vehicle is placed in storage because you can't or won't accept delivery, the transport is considered complete at that point. It could then cost you more money for storage fees and/or delivery out from storage.

WHAT IF I CAN'T BE THERE AT ORIGIN OR DESTINATION?

It is necessary that someone be at origin to release the vehicle to the Driver and at destination to accept delivery.

At origin, someone must verify the notations made by the Driver on the condition report, sign the paperwork, receive copies of the paperwork, approve charges, and give the Driver the keys. At destination someone must carefully inspect the vehicle for damage, sign the paperwork that the vehicle has been received in good condition except as noted, and take possession of the vehicle. If you can not be there, you need to appoint someone to act as your agent.

You are responsible for the actions and decisions of your agent. What they do is as final as anything you would do, so choose wisely. If you have no one with whom you feel you could entrust this responsibility, you may find it worth the extra expense of using the services of a local Terminal.

If you can not be at origin at the time of pickup, you can drop your vehicle at a terminal. Most terminals will hold your vehicle for a relatively minor fee until the Driver arrives. Be sure you get a receipt from the terminal and a copy of the condition report. If you can not be at destination at the time of delivery, the driver can drop your vehicle at a local terminal. Again, the terminal will hold your vehicle for a small fee until you are able to pick it up. Many terminals also offer local pickup and delivery services if you find it difficult to drop the vehicle off at their terminal or are unable to pick it up directly from the terminal .

IS MY VEHICLE FULLY INSURED?

Brokers do not insure your vehicle(s). They endeavor to only use reputable Carriers that maintain proper authority and insurance and that have a record of good performance. It is the Carriers who maintain cargo insurance to cover the cost of repairs if they damage any vehicles. Cargo Insurance policies vary from Carrier to Carrier. Typically they carry a policy that covers the entire load for a set amount of money. If one vehicle is damaged, the policy will cover that vehicle up to that amount. If several vehicles on the load are damaged, there is only that amount of money available to cover all of the vehicles damaged. Regardless the amount of insurance the carrier has secured to protect itself, it is liable for all covered damages and loss as dictated by its own Bill of Lading.

To keep the cost of transport reasonable for the public, the Carriers limit the amount of liability assumed. The total amount of liability assumed by the Carrier for each vehicle transported is usually directly related to the amount and type of Cargo Insurance maintained by the Carrier. The Carrier’s Bill of Lading may state more specifically the total amount of liability being assumed by the Carrier for the transport of each vehicle.

Industry wide, there are some damages that the Carriers will generally not assume liability for. These damages are considered to be part of the risk of having your vehicle transported. Quite often the Carrier can do nothing to prevent these types of damage nor can the Carrier foresee that there will be a problem.

Following are some of the things that the Carriers will not be responsible for and which may be excluded specifically in the Carrier's Bill of Lading:

Damage caused by leaking fluids, battery acids, cooling systems anti-freeze solution, industrial fallout, or from acts of God. (leaking fluids include those emitted from your own vehicle, other vehicles on the transport or any other source)

Damage which can not be detected due to the excessive dirty condition of the vehicle

Damage that occurs while loading and unloading inoperable vehicles due to defective, worn or improperly attached parts

Damage to tires

Damage to or loss of loose parts or special equipment (including fragile or protruding accessories, low hanging spoilers, fog lights, bumper guards, window shades, convertible or detachable tops or caps) when they are not properly secured or stored in advance of pick up by owner/shipper so as to prevent loss or damage. Any part of the vehicle that falls off in transit is the owners responsibility, including damages to any other vehicles which were caused by said occurrence (this includes the leaking of fluids). The owner/shipper is responsible for preparing the vehicle for shipment.

Mechanical functions, exhaust assembly, alignment, frame, suspension, transmission, drive train, rear end, wiring system, window motors, power steering, air bags, brake cable or brake systems, tuning of engine, vehicle computerized systems, alarms, and anything that is mechanical or electrical. These items are excluded because inspection of them is not practical at the time of shipment.

Damage caused by freezing or overheating of the cooling system and/or batteries. Protection from freezing and overheating will be furnished by and at the expense of the owner/shipper. The owner/shipper will perform such service himself.

Damage caused by and/or resulting from any type of weather conditions (snow, rain, ice, wind, floods, fire, tornadoes, hurricanes, sand storms, etc.).

Costs or expenses resulting from the malfunction of the vehicle. This includes towing or repair charges.

Damage to antennas.

Loss or damage to any radio equipment, tape playing recording radio, CB radio, cellular phone, or other sound reproducing or transmitting/ receiving equipment.

Damage to any vehicle that cannot be driven on and off the transport under its own power or that lacks good brakes and parking gear. Service charges to jump start vehicles or to tow them on and off the transport are also excluded.

Not responsible for vehicles with no brakes, vehicles that are repossessions, or vehicles that can not move on their own power.

Articles left in the vehicle. Carrier(s) are not licensed to carry household goods or personal items. Any costs, damages, storage, waiting time, or citations issued to Carrier(s) due to or caused by excess weight of personal items in vehicle(s) will be the sole responsibility of the shipper.

Damage of the interior or exterior of the vehicle(s) due to loading of personal items.

Auto rentals will not be honored for reasons including, but not limited to, delays, damage or accidents.

DO I NEED INSURANCE?

Though the service being provided may be door to door, keep in mind that the transport may actually load or unload the vehicle(s) a couple of miles or so away from the actual point of pick up at origin or delivery at destination. If the Driver has to drive your vehicle(s) between these points, he has no insurance to cover himself or you. Many Brokers and Carriers require that the vehicle(s) be covered by liability insurance provided by the shipper/owner. Also, the vehicle(s) would not be covered for physical damages that might occur while being driven. If your vehicle is not insured, be prepared to have someone shuttle you to the transport where you can release the vehicle to the Driver or accept delivery from the Driver. As mentioned previously, there are damages for which the industry will not assume liability. If any of the exclusions cause you concern, you may consider consulting your insurance agent as to what your own insurance may cover.

WHAT IF THERE IS DAMAGE?

After your vehicle is unloaded, check the condition of your vehicle against your copy of the original condition report that you and the driver signed. If there is damage, point it out to the driver and mark it on your copy of the condition report. The driver will ask you to sign the Bill of Lading and Condition report acknowledging receipt of your vehicle. Before signing either one, be sure to have the driver note any new damage in writing on the Bill of Lading. If the driver will not make such notations, make them yourself before signing. Remember, telling the driver about these things is not enough. Do not sign any delivery papers for the driver until delivery is completed. When you sign the delivery receipt, you accept your vehicle in apparent good condition, except as noted on the receipt. Signing the Bill of Lading at destination, without notation of damage, shall be evidence of satisfactory delivery of the vehicle. You have a responsibility to examine your vehicle for damage no matter what time the vehicle is delivered or the weather conditions. The Driver has the same responsibility when he accepts the vehicle from you at origin. Obtain a receipt of the delivery documents/ Bill of Lading from the Driver. Ask the Driver the procedures for submitting a claim. In addition to noting claims in writing at the time of delivery, most Carriers require that claims be submitted in writing within 15 days of delivery with pictures of specific damages claimed. All claims for damage are subject to the specific trucking company rules as set forth in their Bill of Lading. Read the Carrier's Bill of Lading thoroughly and be sure to follow directions completely.

The Carrier is the party responsible for the actual transport of your vehicle(s) and any resulting damages. The Broker will assume no responsibility for damages and can not settle any claims. All claims must be taken up directly with the delivering motor carrier. The Broker will furnish the shipper with the name, address and telephone number of the carrier used for transport and will assist the shipper by providing any other necessary information, including any insurance information they may have on file. If there is any problem regarding a trucking delivery, Federal regulations require that all outstanding freight charges must be paid without deduction. You cannot offset any claimed damage or loss against any sums due nor can you charge back a credit card or stop payment on a check as a result of any dispute. To do so can put you in violation of specific transportation laws. Pursue any remedies in the courts.

WHEN ARE TERMINALS USED?

As previously detailed, Terminals can act as your agent if you are unable to be at origin or destination to release or accept your vehicle. Terminals can also become the agent for the Carrier if problems arise and the Driver is unable to make delivery. If for any reason beyond the control of the Carrier or the Driver, you or your agent can not be contacted, are unavailable, fail to have COD funds, or refuse delivery when the truck attempts delivery; the Driver and Carrier may at their option unload your vehicle at a Terminal of their choice and delivery will be considered to be complete at that point. You will be liable for all Terminal fees. The vehicle will be released to you upon receipt of all transportation and Terminal fees. Any re-delivery arrangements and charges are your responsibility.

HOW TO CHECK OUT YOUR TRANSPORT COMPANY

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How to check out your Auto Transport Company

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IN SUMMARY

Most Brokers, Carriers, and Drivers are reputable businessmen who will not promise more than they can lawfully do. However, you should consider the following suggestions:

Choose the company you use with care.

Be sure that the agreements between you and the company you use are in writing.

Provide the Broker, Carrier and Driver with as much information as possible, especially good contact names, telephone numbers and addresses.

Schedule your departure and arrival with enough flexibility to allow for the unexpected.

Make sure you read and understand the terms of the Carrier's Bill of Lading.

Examine the notations on the condition report and verify that they are accurate.

Be sure to get a copy of the Bill of Lading and Condition Report from the Driver at origin.

Examine your vehicle carefully upon delivery no matter what time of the day or night it is or what the weather conditions may be.

If there is damage, be sure it is noted on the delivery papers and get a copy that is signed by the driver. Promptly file your claim in writing with the Carrier in accordance with the rules of the Carrier's Bill of Lading.

Be sure to follow directions as to how you are to pay for the services rendered.

WHAT IS A CAR HAULER?

Author unknown --edited

Mention "Truck Driver" to the general public and the cartoon image of a burly, half-educated, unshaven, brawling lout is conjured up. Deserved or not, that is the unfortunate stereotype. But what really is a truck driver, and particularly a car hauler?

A car hauler is a guy who is expected to put anywhere from six to eleven vehicles in a space 65 feet long and 13 1/2 feet high. This space is about three times the size of a normal house garage. He positions 195 linear feet of cargo in this 65 foot space by manipulating 23 valves, which activate 46 hydraulic cylinders, which in turn place head ramps, cantilevers, stands and decks in position to complete the loading puzzle. He is working with tolerances which consider three inches "all kinds of room", and he practices his art in all kinds of weather. When he is through with the loading process, he finds himself with a package which from the standpoints of height, length and weight, is at the fringes of the legal limits.

He is the biggest thing on the road with bridges, tree limbs, detours, and road construction posing a constant threat. He performs his job in all types of weather and road conditions. Frustrated commuters see him as an obstacle to be gotten around at all costs. He usually deals with shippers he has never been to before. Although he may be lost, or caught in bumper to bumper traffic, or faced with overhead objects which may pop up at any time; he receives the amount of sympathy normally reserved for reptiles. Other motorist cut in front of him, cut inside of him, tailgate him and stop suddenly in front of him.

With the complexities of loading behind him, possibly terrible weather conditions, and maybe even a break down or two, he frequently arrives at his destination only to find outrageous unloading conditions and hostile receivers. Yet, he is expected to maintain his composure because public relations are also a big part of his job. And when he finally gets his last vehicle off, he starts the process all over again with another load.

The next time you are inclined to think of our drivers in that old cartoon image....ask yourself if you could do his job. Not many of us can, and for you to continue to do your job, he (God, bless him) must continue to do his. Being a professional car hauler is not given to many and one who has made it, is entitled to all of your respect and admiration.

Salutes these professional Car Haulers that keep this industry moving.