Auto Transport

Nine9six · Nine9six's Garage

Can any of you Pelicanites recommend an affordable, reliable, auto transport compamy? I am looking to have a car shipped from NC to Cal. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Paul

Stanley · 12-05-2004, 08:24 AM

You should try doing a search, there are many threads on this topic.

asphaltgambler · 12-05-2004, 08:51 AM

My shop has NOT had any good experiences with transport companies. We are a medium sized (@110 units) used highline dealer in Northern Va. and have a presence on the web and a few major auction sites.

Frequently we have buyers out of state as far as Cali. In the paast as a courtesy for the higher $$ vehicles we will contact and arrange transport for the customer; customer pay. We make nothing doing this just trying to provide a complete hassle-free deal.

On every quote given the customer got 'bumped-up' in the end. Not occasionally. not frequently, not every other time, but EVERY time!!! The information given to the transport co's were accurate as far as location, type of vehicle, destination, etc, etc.

When it came time for the customer to pay and unload (in that order) the final tally was significantly higher. Explanations from the driver and or the company range from: Actual mileage was further than estimate, terrain /access more difficult = more time, unusual traffic delays = more time, car was a lot lower or more care needed to load/unload = more time, driver had to wait for owner or seller for vehicle access = more time. See a pattern here?? No pay=no unload. You figure it out.

You just bought your new toy and laid down major $$$ and like christmas you're giddy with anticipation waiting for that big rig to finally pull into your drive. As he backs up and parks, you are sweating with excitement! Until he gives you the news. Until the final bill is agreed upon most instances the driver won't open the door for a look.

We used a different transport company each time, same end result. Customer paid substantially more, thought we were the bad guys and soured what was a good transaction. Now we don't reccomend anyone and leave that portion up to the customer.

It's my understanding that moving companies are in the BBB's top five business complaint catagories. The main issue is that there is very little regulation, so there is very little legally that can be done. Appearantly moving companies written contracts are worthless because there is no danger of prosecution from non-performance. They go into and out of business, go bankrupt, change the name and viola back in business again!!

Be carefull!!

ErVikingo · 12-05-2004, 09:02 AM

I have succesfuly used All Enclosed Air Ride to transport cars from Idaho to Florida and DC to Florida.

I hired then thru Sherin at Transport Masters (954) 783-0034

No relationship just a satisfied customer. I got their info from an ad in Autoweek.

Nine9six · Nine9six's Garage

Thanks guys...I had heard of what asphaltgambler describes; therefore the post for recommendations.

Thanks ErVikingo. Seems you may have stumbled on the exception. Was the price as stated in the quote?

Stanley, you were by far, the most helpful...Been there, done that! Read sentence one again.

RussianBlue · 12-05-2004, 09:21 AM

It seems that DAS Dependable Auto Shippers is hugely popular lately.

They are the recommended transporter for Ebay.

I have used them over 5 times without any problems.

Talk to Richard Ext 5133 1800 826 1083

Price for enclosed will be around $900 and that's from hub to hub which is the cheapest way to go.... and what I choose.

Alex

Nine9six · Nine9six's Garage

Thanks RussianBlue...

reed930 · 12-05-2004, 11:57 AM

Try searching the archives. There are some good suggestions in there. But to sum it up: If you want peace of mind, it's gonna cost you. The big players are: Intercity, Reliable, Passport and Horseless Carriage. There are several other good companies though. Good luck.

ErVikingo · 12-05-2004, 05:37 PM

FYI, passport transport (I think) is now FedEx. That should give you some peace of mind.

BTW, the quote I got from Transport Masters was honored and service aws actually faster than quoted.

Plays with cars · Plays with cars's Garage

I used Intercity transport when I bought my car a couple of years ago. Shipped car from Huntington Beach out to Ohio; they delivered the car on time, in great shape, and with no post-quote adjustment in price. I was very impressed with the care they take protecting the cars.

cstreit · cstreit's Garage

www.bigskyexpress.com

They are more expensive than average, but the service cannot be beat.

Tell them I sent you.