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Advice from an Auto Transporter

Thinking of using an auto transporter? Here's some advice from Coni of JD's Transport:

I am writing in response to your post from Liz and Passport Transport, and your rebuttal. My husband and I have owned and run our auto transport company for 30 years this June. In 1987 we began shipping cars for "snowbirds" between FL and CT after years of doing auction/dealer work.

The reason we began was because of lousy service by "brokers". I am not lumping all brokers in to that category, because we now broker, too. I do have some tips that I hope consumers will use, and I often suggest them to people who call us.

First, get a recommendation from someone who has shipped a car before. If you don't know a person who has shipped a car, call your car salesman or local moving company. It's a start. I will gladly tell someone if I can help them or not. I do NOT want my reputation sullied by giving out the name of someone who doesn't do a good job.

Second, use a company who owns their own equipment, and has control over the truck. I only broker to owner/operators, who I have found to be far more responsible then a big company with company drivers (not that they're all bad).

Third, try to use your credit card when possible, as you can dispute a charge (if it's warranted). There are legitimate delays and problems, don't jump the gun.

Fourth, check with your local Better Business Bureau. It's a common misconception that just "anybody" can join by paying the membership fee. We were called by the BBB because several people were making inquiries about our company. Since the BBB had no idea who we were -- good, bad or otherwise -- they called and put our information on file. It's been a great asset to our business.

Get details up front, don't be embarrassed to ask questions, such as:

• What can I pack in my car? Be wary of those who tell you it can be packed to the roof, even though it's what you'd like to do. This will definitely delay the truck and end up costing more because the trucks are going to be cited and pass the cost on to you.
• Ask for pick up and delivery procedures. Any company who promises "door to door" probably can't provide that service, due to the size, length and weight of the truck. They may say they'll have a small truck make the pick up and delivery, I personally shy away from this, because the more people who handle your car, the more chance of damage, and finger pointing.
• Who delivers the car? Will the truck that picks up the car will be the one who'll deliver it.
• Ask for the cell phone number of the driver who will be in possession of your car, if possible.

Be sure to get a contract and read it.

I know how many bad companies are out there, I hear about them on a daily basis myself. Sometimes things go wrong, but it's all in how you handle the situation.

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