If you have never used the services of a professional auto shipper, you may be unfamiliar with car transport lingo and many common shipping terms used in the industry. Familiarizing yourself with some of these terms will help you feel more confident when dealing with companies that offer vehicle transport services.
Bill of Lading (BOL): One of the most important terms you will hear in the car transport industry is the term bill of lading. A bill of lading is an important document that a car shipping company provides that states the terms and conditions of your vehicle shipment, and it acts as a receipt that your car was picked up and delivered by the carrier.
Car Carriers: Car transport carriers can be enclosed or open, and they can offer either door-to-door transport services or terminal-to-terminal transport services. All carriers are required to attain a USDOT number and an MC number if they offer interstate vehicle transport services. Car transport carriers are also required to obtain, maintain, and show proof of the proper cargo and liability insurance coverage to protect vehicles during transport.
Enclosed Car Transport: Enclosed auto transport is the safest method of shipping a car. Most enclosed car transporters have a roof and walls that protect a car against damage caused by road debris and other hazardous outdoor elements.
Open Car Transport: Open vehicle transport is a popular and cost-effective way to ship a car. Many open trailers are multi-level and can carry several vehicles at one time. By being able to move so many cars at once, shipping companies can offer open carrier shipping at a fraction of the cost of enclosed car shipping. The only disadvantage to open car transport is the fact that a car’s exposure to outdoor elements and road debris is unavoidable. Damages caused by these elements are unlikely, but can occur.
Door-to-Door Car Transport: Door-to-door vehicle shipping is a service that the majority of auto shipping companies provide. A carrier will pick up your vehicle at a specified location such as your home or office, and will deliver your vehicle to a pre-determined location. If a transport driver is unable to get to your specified location due to instances beyond his control, i.e., local road weight restrictions or narrow roads, he will arrange delivery of your vehicle at a convenient location close to your home or office.
Terminal-to-Terminal Car Transport: A terminal is a storage facility for cars that are being picked up or dropped off for transport. If you opt for terminal-to-terminal car shipping, you would drop your car off at a terminal to await pick-up by the car transporter. You car will be delivered to a terminal closest to your destination where you will have the opportunity to pick it up at your convenience.
Car Transport Broker: An auto transport broker does all the legwork involved in shipping a vehicle. They build relationships with many carriers and know which companies are good to work with and which ones are not. They are able to secure great deals and services for their customers this way. Choosing to go with a car transport broker saves consumers time and money, and it makes the process of shipping a vehicle much easier on everyone involved.