800.950.5268
Frequently Asked Questions concerning shipping your automobile, truck, suv, motorcycle or boat from SecureCarrier Co. LLC:
Why should I use a Broker?
There is usually no difference between the rates quoted by a Broker and those of a carrier. Most car haulers travel very specific routes and may not be able to accommodate your pickup point, destination, or schedule. Many people aren't aware that if the carrier they choose is unable to service their requirements, that carrier may broker the transportation to different transport companies anyway. As a Bonded Broker, we deal with a large network of carriers who service many different routes. We deal only with reputable carriers who are properly licensed and insured, and we act as the liason between the carrier and you, the customer.
How does the entire process work?
Once we have received your information and deposit, the transport of your vehicle will be scheduled according to the dates on your shipping order. After a truck has been assigned, you will receive a call from the driver to schedule the pick up time and date. When the driver picks up your vehicle, he will do a detailed inspection of your vehicle on the Bill of Lading. You will both sign this form and you will receive a copy. The same Bill of Lading will be present on delivery so you can re-inspect the car. The driver should again call you 12 to 24 hours in advance to schedule an approximate time for delivery. The transporter will take every precaution to deliver you vehicle without incident; however, if damage should occur, you must report this damage upon delivery on the Bill of Lading.
*** It is important that you and the transport driver sign the Bill of Lading document. Claims cannot be processed by our insurance company if damage is not noted at time of delivery. ***
What is a bill of lading or a freight bill?
The Bill of Lading or Freight Bill serves as a receipt for your vehicle and it represents the contract of carriage between you, as the shipper, and the Carrier. 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 should show the name of the Shipper, the origination contact and location and to whom and where it is delivering, plus all pertinent telephone numbers. Review the Bill of Lading to make sure that the place of delivery is shown correctly, and that the Bill of Lading contains the name, address, and telephone number where the Shipper or authorized agent can be notified of problems and possible delays while the vehicle is in transit.
The Bill of Lading 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.
What is a condition report?
The Condition Report is a part of the Bill of Lading. The Condition Report documents the condition of your vehicle at the time the Driver takes custody of it. 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.
The Shipper or authorized agent will need to verify the notations made and sign that you are in agreement with them. The Shipper should receive a copy of this Condition Report before the vehicle leaves the point of origin. Claims of damage at destination will be based on the condition of your vehicle, as reported, before it was transported.
How long does the entire process take?
Well, that depends on the route. Some routes can take as little as three days, while many cross-country trips can take as long as 14 days to be completed. A good rule of thumb is to figure 325 miles per day—so, if your total transport mileage is 3100 miles, it'll take roughly 10 days to get there. Trucks have a lot of stuff they have to do; they have to stop at all weigh stations, can only drive a certain number of hours, etc. But don't worry; when a car is picked up, it will be delivered. We will contact you if anything changes regarding your delivery time or date.
Is there a guaranteed pickup date?
When you book with SecureCarrier Co LLC, we will do our very best to accommodate the dates that you have provided for us. Generally, instead of giving you an exact pickup date, we'll give you a 2-3 day pickup window. This allows some extra time for the truck to get to your house, because as we all know things can happen. Most of the time the truck will be there on the date provided, but things can change. If that's the case, either SecureCarrier Co LLC or the carrier will contact you to notify you of any changes.
How can I get my vehicle ready for transport?
Well, the main thing is make sure that the inside is clear of all loose change and trash. This is important to note because things can come loose and possibly damage the vehicle. Shells and bed liners of pickup trucks must be bolted down, or else they may fly off. All external protruding objects such as CB and radio antennas or fog lights must be retracted or removed because they may snap off during transport. Make sure that you have less than a quarter tank of gas in the vehicle; this makes the vehicle lighter and safer for the trucks.
