Sometimes driving just won't work. Perhaps you don't want to make the big cross-country trip with the kids in the back. Or you'd like to try train travel. Or you need to be at your new home quickly and only flying will get you there on time. Whatever the situation, there are many times when it makes good sense to have one or more of your vehicles moved professionally.
It's important to understand your options when it comes to automobile transport. Two main options exist: open transport or closed transport.
Open transport places your vehicle on a trailer without protection from the elements and within plain view — think of new cars on their way to a dealership. This is the most cost-effective option, and for most people it's a perfectly good one: driving the car yourself wouldn't protect it from the elements either.
Closed transport fully encloses your vehicle in a trailer, protecting it from the elements and from view. It costs more but offers more security, and is typically chosen by owners of expensive, rare, or otherwise prized vehicles.
When you shop for an auto transport company, compare at least a few licensed, insured carriers. You can verify a carrier's operating authority and safety record through the FMCSA, and it's worth asking your TMO/JPPSO whether your branch has a preferred vendor or mileage-offset policy for auto transport.
Helpful Hints
- Remove all personal items from the vehicle prior to pickup. The carrier will not accept responsibility for them during transport.
- Do a careful walkaround of your vehicle with the driver at both pickup and dropoff.
- Look over the Bill of Lading and make sure you understand what you're signing.
- Disable your car alarm before loading. The driver needs to be able to move your vehicle in your absence.
- Wash your car thoroughly and document its condition prior to loading. Photos are an excellent record of its pre-loading condition.
- Consult with your JPPSO/Personal Property Office/Transportation Office to ask about claiming mileage to offset your transport costs.