Tips to avoid common car shipping mistakes
Car shipping is a complicated process with many phases, requiring different kinds of expertise. We understand that car shipping could also be quite an overwhelming and stressful process as well. We have noticed at times where even experienced customers who have dealt with auto transport have difficulties with it. In such a scenario, it is quite common to make mistakes while dealing with car shipping.
We, at Car Shipping Dubai – CSD, are seasoned veterans in the car shipping business with more than 10 years of experience in car shipping and related logistics. With our experience, we know the ins and outs of the car shipping process and our expert team will assist you every step of the way in the shipping process of your vehicle, all the while guaranteeing the safety and on-time shipping of your prized vehicle.
With our storied past and vast experience, we have noticed several common mistakes that people and even car import / export companies make when conducting auto transport. So we at Car Shipping Dubai – CSD, have compiled this article, listing several common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Picking the right shipping company
One of the most common mistakes people make is poor company research. Picking the right car shipping company is arguably the most important decision you will have to make within this whole process. Poor research leads to hasty decisions and it can only get worse after that.
Company research should be conducted very thoroughly and this includes looking at the history of the company, user reviews, its recognition within the industry, offered services, customer service and the price ranging. Making this decision correctly will allow you to relax and get on with your life while the shipping business is handled expertly by your chosen company.
Not having insurance
Covering your car with Insurance prior to car shipping is an absolute must. This could potentially cause many extra expenses that are not within your control and within your budget. Damages from towing, damages while shipping and damages while in storage are some of the probable scenarios that you should make sure your insurance plan covers for.
This partially goes in line with the above mistake as well as most of the reputed companies who provide a good service offer insurance plans to their customers. This way, the company themselves will cover for any damages incurred while shipping. This makes the whole process rather smoother as well as there is no extra third party involved.
However, in-case you feel the offered insurance plans are not sufficient, you can always look for an external insurance plan along with the ones offered by your preferred car shipping company.
Last Minute Bookings
Regrettably, this is one of the most common mistakes people make that we encounter. It is a mistake that puts you and us as the service providers in a real pickle. Ideally, you are advised to place your booking for car shipping at least 2-3 weeks prior so that it is easier for us to find a convenient carrier for you.
Last minute bookings might work out, it depends on what mode of auto transport you are looking for and their availability. However, it is almost always at an extra cost compared to a booking made 2-3 weeks early. Booking makes it easier on all parties involved as we can make the necessary arrangements in time and make sure that you get the best service for the money you spend.
Unprepared vehicle
This is usually a mistake that goes hand in hand with last minute bookings. For car shipping, there are certain requirements and quality standards that your vehicle needs to meet. In-order to proceed with car shipping and even pass customs inspection, several steps must be implemented to prepare the car with the regulations. For it to be accepted in the destination country, the quality checks given below must be implemented. While there are several more requirements for specific countries, below are general requirements applicable to a majority of countries when shipping cars.
- Undercarriage should be specially cleaned and should be free of foreign soil.
- No personal belongings and other cargo should be present in the shipment.
- Cleaning your vehicle inside and out.
- Making sure all lights are working.
- Checking tire pressure and treads.
- Ensuring all fluids are topped off.
- Repairing any damage or dents.
Not making any sort of preparation of the vehicle can lead to many problems within the car shipping process and worse case scenario, might not even pass the customs inspection and as a result, your car could be deported. All these are scenarios that you would rather avoid so it is advisable to prepare your vehicle for car shipping.
Not indicating all the features of your vehicle
This might seem like a small mistake that can easily be overlooked, however in car shipping, this is a massive mistake that can change everything. This, more commonly referred to as ‘Vehicle misrepresentation’, can lead to a lot of problems down the line. When conducting car shipping, we provide carriers to place your vehicle in while auto transport, based on the size and model of the car. However, If it is different from the mentioned size, there is a chance it might not fit and this could be a very costly mistake.
Even misinterpreting minor details such as engine capacity and year of manufacture can have dire consequences as customs officials in many countries inspect these details and would definitely deport your vehicle if the correct details are not provided as these countries only allow vehicles within a range of engine capacities and age.
A reputed and experienced car shipping company will help you in avoiding these simple mistakes and many more. At Car Shipping Dubai – CSD, our expert team is always one call away and will eagerly assist you in any department when it comes to car shipping. We deliver the service from our side of the process as smoothly as it could be and our track record proves it. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us and arrange your shipment right away!