Shipping your car across the country (or even just across the state) is a big deal — and choosing the right auto transport company can make all the difference. At MAB Movers, we believe an informed customer is a happy customer.
To help you feel confident and in control, here are the top questions you should ask any car shipping company before booking your vehicle transport.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is non-negotiable. Always make sure the company is:
- Licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
- Registered with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
- Fully insured in case of damage or accidents during transport
💡 Pro Tip: Ask for the MC (Motor Carrier) number and verify it at FMCSA.gov.
2. What Type of Transport Do You Offer — Open or Enclosed?
Most companies offer:
- Open transport: The standard, more affordable option
- Enclosed transport: Premium service for high-value, classic, or exotic cars
- Knowing which option fits your vehicle and budget is key.
3. Is This a Broker or a Carrier?
Many auto transport companies are brokers — they connect you with vetted carriers. Others operate their own trucks. Both can be reliable, but you should understand the difference.
At MAB Movers, we’re a licensed broker, which means we give you access to a wider network of trusted, insured carriers across the country.
4. What’s Included in the Quote? Are There Hidden Fees?
Transparency is everything. Make sure your quote includes:
- Fuel costs
- Insurance coverage
- Pickup/delivery fees
- Additional charges for inoperable vehicles or rural areas
- 🚫 Watch out for lowball quotes that lead to surprise fees later.
5. What Kind of Insurance Coverage Is Provided?
Ask for:
- The type of insurance your vehicle will be covered under
- The coverage limits
- What’s not covered (e.g., personal items inside the vehicle)
- How the claims process works in case of damage
6. What’s the Pickup and Delivery Timeframe?
No company can guarantee exact timing due to variables like weather and traffic, but they should provide a reliable window:
- Pickup window (1-5 days is common)
- Estimated delivery time
- Delays policy
- Ask if expedited shipping is available if you’re on a tight deadline.
7. How Do You Handle Vehicle Inspections?
Reputable companies will perform a Bill of Lading inspection at both pickup and delivery. This protects you and the carrier by documenting your car’s condition before and after shipping.
8. Can I Track My Shipment?
Some carriers offer real-time tracking, while others provide driver updates via phone or text. Knowing how you’ll stay informed adds peace of mind.
9. What Happens If My Car Is Damaged?
Even with the best care, rare incidents happen. Make sure you understand:
- The claims process
- Who to contact
- Required documentation (photos, Bill of Lading, etc.)
10. Why Should I Choose Your Auto Transport Company?
Finally, ask them to explain what sets them apart. At MAB Movers, we pride ourselves on:
- Fast, transparent quotes
- A nationwide network of licensed, insured carriers
- Top-tier customer service
- Real-time support from booking to delivery
🚀 Get Peace of Mind with MAB Movers
Ready to ship your car the smart way? Start with a FREE quote at 👉 www.mabmovers.com. We’re here to make the process easy, safe, and stress-free — every step of the way.
