Importance of Verifying Carrier Transport Records, Insurance, and Reliability
Many people often ask why it is important for them to verify carriers’ transport records before working with them. Well, the answer is simple- the carriers you choose can make or break your business.
Your vehicle is always at risk during the shipping process no matter the delivery location. That’s why verification is important to ensure your vehicle is in good hands and will arrive on time and intact.
As capacity tightens in the industry, some auto transport carriers will be tempted to cut corners or operate below the required standards in order to meet customer’s demands. This is a dangerous and unsafe process that can affect your vehicle. Besides, an auto transport carrier should care about their client’s vehicles and be effectively equipped to haul them because it is a personal asset.
When an auto transport carrier has a good transport record, it ensures smooth operations, protects its reputation, and keeps its clients satisfied. Verifying the reliability and trustworthiness of a carrier is key in ensuring the safety and smoothness of your vehicles.
Working with an irresponsible auto transport carrier can have serious consequences such as accidents, delays, and many more.
In this blog, we will take a closer look at how you can efficiently verify a carrier’s transport records, insurance, and reliability. With this information, you are able to choose the perfect carrier and have an ideal car shipping experience.
Different Ways to Verify of Carrier Transport Records
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provides a Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System, which allows you to check the carrier’s safety history and compliance with federal regulations.
The Department of Transportation number is a unique identifier issued to carriers that operate in the United States. The number is used to verify the credentials of auto transport carriers and track their safety, compliance, and registration with the Department of Transportation.
By checking a carrier’s USDOT number, you can be sure they are registered and authorized to transport freight across the United States.
The Motor Carrier number is another identifier issued by the FMCSA to auto transport carriers operating for hire, allowing them to move vehicles from one state to another.
The number ensures auto transport carriers are authorized to operate and have the proper authority to transport freight under federal law.
Insurance Verification
Insurance is an important process when shipping your vehicles as it protects you from potential losses due to damage, theft, or other unforeseen events. Thats why it is essential to verify the auto transport carrier you want to use has adequate insurance coverage.
The first step in verifying a carrier’s insurance is to ask for a copy of their certificate of insurance. This document will show the terms and coverage limits of their insurance policy. You should look for the following information:
● Insurance coverage limits: Ensure that the carrier’s policy covers the full value of your vehicles, especially if you’re shipping valuable cars.
● Types of coverage: Check what types of incidents are covered by the insurance, such as theft, natural disasters, accidents, or damage during handling.
● Policy expiration date: Ensure the policy is active and not expired. An expired insurance policy can leave you exposed in case something goes wrong.
It is also important to verify if the insurance is provided by a reputable insurance company. You can verify the carrier’s insurance provider by contacting the insurance company directly or by checking for the insurer’s financial rating through organizations.
Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is one of the most important documents in the shipping process. It serves as a contract between the shipper and the carrier and outlines the terms and conditions of the transport. These include the type of vehicle, the delivery destination, and the condition of your car when you drop it off for transport.
The BOL acts as proof of the agreement between you and the carrier, making it an essential document for ensuring accountability. If any issues arise during the shipping process, the BOL can be used as evidence to support claims, whether for damages, delays, or disputes over terms.
It’s also a key document for insurance purposes, as it provides a detailed record of the shipment. Having a signed, accurate Bill of Lading is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring that the auto transport carriers adhere to their obligations.
How Freight Brokers Help with Verification
Working with an auto transport broker will help streamline your ability to verify a carrier’s reliability. Since brokers are responsible for connecting customers with carriers, they know all the necessary regulations carriers must need to meet them.
Brokers verify the credentials of auto transport carriers, such as insurance, safety records, licenses, USDOT, and many more. Using a freight broker offers the following advantages:
Industry Expertise
Freight brokers have specialized knowledge and experience in verifying carriers and understanding the nuances of shipping regulations. This expertise helps ensure that you’re working with carriers who meet all necessary requirements.
Time Savings
Brokers save you time by doing the research and other necessary work for you. They can quickly verify records, review insurance policies, and assess carrier reliability, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.
Reduced Risk
By working with a freight broker, you significantly reduce the risk of choosing an unreliable or unqualified carrier. Brokers ensure that the carriers they recommend meet all regulatory and safety standards, helping you avoid costly mistakes.
Access to a Wide Network
Brokers have established relationships with a wide network of carriers, which gives you access to multiple options for shipping. This increases your chances of finding a carrier that meets your specific needs while still adhering to all necessary standards.
Key Takeaway
Everybody shipping their car deserves a smooth, stress-free, and timely experience. As we have discussed above, verifying the auto transport carrier’s transport records, insurance, and reliability is the only way to be sure your vehicle is in good hands. This will also significantly increase your chances of having a successful shipping process.
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When it comes to towing car from one state to another, it is important to consider all the options you have before making a final decision. Also, your decision should depend on how much time and effort you want to invest, as well as the distance you’re traveling.
US Car-Go Freight is an auto transport company that helps car owners ship their cars across the United States. Contact us today to tow your car seamlessly to your desired destination.