October 8, 2024

Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes When Shipping a Car in Edmonton

Using a car hauler is by far the easiest way to ship a car in Edmonton, however, if you’ve never shipped a car before, it’s easy to overlook a few things that can cause unnecessary headaches. Knowing what to do and what to avoid can help ensure your vehicle’s journey – and you’re experience – is a smooth ride. Let’s dive into five of the most common mistakes people make when shipping a car in Edmonton and how to navigate them like a pro.

1. Not Researching the Car Hauler Service

We get it – life is busy, and finding a car hauler can feel like just another chore. Many people assume all car haulers are pretty much the same. But that’s the first mistake people make. Just like any other service, some companies take genuine pride in delivering the best possible shipping experience to their customers, while others are more concerned with getting paid than playing fair.

Skipping this research phase could lead to late deliveries, poor customer service, or worse – unexpected fees. To avoid these types of situations, take your time! Read online reviews, ask for recommendations, and compare quotes from a few different companies. Don’t just settle for the first car hauler you find. You want a company that’s reliable, transparent, and highly rated. You’ll also want to make sure they’re fully insured, which brings us to the next point.

2. Ignoring Insurance Coverage

Insurance is one of those things that often gets skipped over when shipping a vehicle because, let’s face it, no one likes dealing with insurance companies or the idea of paying extra fees. But when it comes to shipping your car, ignoring additional insurance coverage, or at the very least verifying existing policies, could cost you big time.

Here’s the thing: while most car haulers carry some level of insurance, it may not cover everything. All carriers in Canada are required to have transportation insurance, however, this generally only provides coverage while your vehicle is in transit. If your car is damaged while someone is driving it between lots or part of the journey is delegated to a third party, your car might not be covered. Always ask the hauler what’s included in their coverage and if is it enough to protect your vehicle. If not, consider buying additional coverage. It’s one of those better-safe-than-sorry situations, and the peace of mind is worth it.

3. Not Preparing Your Car for Shipping

There are two ways people fail to properly prepare their vehicles for transit. The first is simply handing over your car as-is; the second is loading it up with everything but the kitchen sink before the car hauler picks it up.

The right way to prep for vehicle shipping is to start by giving your car a good wash. Why? It’s much easier to spot any dings or scratches before shipping when your car is clean. Next, check for any leaks and make sure the battery is fully charged. You’ll also want to take photos of your car from all angles – just in case there’s any damage during transit.

And remember how we talked about insurance? Car haulers in Edmonton will usually ask you to remove all belongings and personal items before shipping. This is because while their transportation insurance covers your vehicle, it will not cover its contents.

4. Choosing the Cheapest Option

We all love a good deal, but when it comes to shipping your car, choosing the cheapest option could cost you more in the long run. While it’s tempting to save a few bucks by picking the lowest-priced service, these companies may not offer the best quality service and often make up for cut-rate quotes with hidden fees upon delivery.

Instead of just looking at the price tag, consider the value you’re getting. A slightly more expensive hauler with great reviews, reliable service, and solid customer support can save you a lot of stress down the road.

5. Failing to Plan for Delivery Times

One of the most common mistakes is underestimating how long it can take for your car to be shipped, especially if it’s going across provinces. Many people assume their car will arrive right away, only to find out it could take several days or even a week, depending on the distance and the hauler’s schedule.

This can throw off your plans if you don’t prepare for it. To avoid being left without a vehicle for longer than expected, always ask the car hauler for an estimated delivery window and factor in potential delays. If you rely on your car for daily activities, consider arranging for a rental or temporary transportation until your vehicle arrives.