When trying to locate and choose an interstate car transport company, you will find you have several options. You can always search through your local telephone book, contact friends or family members who may have used interstate car transport services before, word of mouth, or you can find plenty online just searching Google. It is a very easy process. All you need to do is type in words such as interstate auto transport, automobile transport, auto shipping, car hauler and so on.

First thing you should do when choosing an interstate car transport company is to compare the charges and services offered by each transport company. You will be able to obtain free quotes from multiple interstate car transport companies online. It is essential that when filling out quotes you put pickup and delivery dates, pickup and destination locations, year, make and model of vehicle, additional information such as extended cabs, kits, large tires, etc. You need to specify whether the car is operable or inoperable. Specify the car transport service desired such as opened or enclosed trailer. Open trailer transport is usually 60%-70% cheaper than having your car shipped in an enclosed trailer. Providing all this information will give you the most accurate quotes, and no surprises later.

Once you received your quote, find out which payment methods are acceptable. Generally, auto shipping companies require a deposit by credit card or certified funds, while remaining balances are made on delivery. Be aware of companies offering the lowest rates, this can sometimes causes delays in your pickup and delivery times because transport drivers often shy away from lower paying loads, to accept the higher paying vehicles to transport.

Second, always verify their transport credentials and check the Better Business Bureau for complaints, comments and grade rating, this can all be done online. Make sure they are experienced by checking company age with the FHWA. All interstate car transport companies should be insured, have insurance certificates, and bonded if acting as Broker. Be sure they are registered with the USDOT with a MC number assigned to them. The transportation company should have skilled professional drivers who can handle your vehicle through various weather conditions and road hazards. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions and read your transport contract thoroughly. Always have a written agreement with any interstate car transport company, never rely on verbal agreements. Be sure when the driver inspects your vehicle, your right there to confirm everything he documents on the bill of lading.