Latest Safety Measures in Car Shipping

Every now and then, the car shipping industry regulations are updated by the official departments responsible for law enforcement in the car shipping industry in the United States.

These departments are the US Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and the updates usually aim at encouraging the adoption of the most effective safety measures to protect carrier drivers and other road users.

The most basic regulations enforced by the mentioned parties include defining specific cargo weight and height restrictions, setting legal driving hours for drivers, and determining acceptable vehicle loading, unloading, and distributing practices.

First, the USDOT and FMCSA limit drivers working hours, allowing them to drive no more than 10 hours per day and 60 hours per week and requiring them to take a 30-minute break after every 8 hours of constant driving. This is believed to help drivers avoid driving fatigue, which may ultimately lead to road accidents.

Additionally, car shippers must abide by the rules for safe vehicle loading and unloading, including using the proper equipment, like ramps and dollies. Also, car shippers must proactively prevent vehicles from rolling and tipping during loading and unloading.

The USDOT and FMCSA also enforce car shipping regulations related to vehicle safety requirements and driver qualifications. These include setting safety standards for the vehicles to be shipped, requiring them to have safety chains that prevent them from shifting during transport, brakes to be in good working condition, and tires to have sufficient tread.

Indeed, drivers must be qualified to transport vehicles by motor carriers and be at least 21 years old with a minimum of two years of experience driving commercial vehicles. Drivers must complete a training course about safety, regulations, and vehicle operations before driving a car carrier.

The mentioned regulations are only a part of the rules USDOT and FMCSA enforce. Car shipping companies must follow the rules and maintain legal work practices to demonstrate reliability and safe work practices.

“Car shipping regulations are the cornerstone of effective, efficient, and secure shipping processes. They are key to maximizing carrier, cargo, drivers, and clients’ safety, especially in enabling discerning reliable car shipping companies from counterfeiting ones. Today, legally operating companies are clients’ go-to option because they prove their credibility and sense of accountability. At Tempus Logix, for example, we realize that following rules is critical for saving everyone’s rights. Therefore, our work operations are fully law binding, and we seek to meet every regulatory requirement issued by the official authorities.”

CEO of Tempus Logix, United States

Expectations of Releasing Additional Set of Safety Rules

Car shipping companies are expecting to have new changes with an additional set of rules and regulations for enhancing safety measures during shipping processes. These changes align with the recent innovations in vehicle manufacturing and the incorporation of technological advancements.

Indeed, some of the potentially forthcoming changes the USDOT and FMCSA are believed to be considering are mandating drivers to use electronic logging devices and video cameras in car carriers and equipping carriers with safety features.

First, imposing the use of ELDs, electronic logging devices, is meant to track drivers’ hours of service and prevent driver fatigue. Also, car carriers will require video cameras to record loading and unloading procedures and prevent accidents. Finally, using safety features, like roll bars and safety guards, will help protect vehicles and drivers in accidents.

Overall, rules and regulations in the car shipping industry change from time to time. They are primarily meant to enhance safety and create trustworthiness in the car shipping market.

Driving Electric Vehicles Across the United States

With the frightening consequences of global warming, air, water, and noise pollution, fossil fuel cars are becoming less acceptable and are being replaced by an eco-friendly version, electric vehicles.

Electric vehicles impose many financial and environmental benefits, and they’re the new car trend that will replace fossil fuel cars sooner or later. However, even with their publicity and good reception by many, there are still lots of question marks on how reliable electric vehicles are and if they’re eligible for the long drives that regular fossil-fuel cars undertake without the smallest damage.

So, in this article, we will answer the question that might be roaming all EV owners, “Can I drive an electric car across the United States?”

What is an electric car?

Unlike gasoline or diesel-powered engines, an electric car uses an electric motor powered by batteries. EVs are partially or fully powered by electric power, and they come in many types:

• Battery Electric Vehicles: They only employ a battery, so there’s no fuel consumption; it’s an eco-friendly, safe, and quiet option. Charging this kind of vehicle is possible by plugging it in.
• Hybrid Electric Vehicles: They consist of an engine and a motor; fuel supplies the engine with energy. This type of electric vehicle has a low dependence on fossil fuels and is eco-friendly.
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles: This type of electric vehicle supports both an onboard charger and a gasoline tank. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle emits zero emissions and is fuel efficient.

Can you drive an EV across the United States?

There’s no definite answer on whether or not an electric car can travel across the states. As mentioned above, EV types are many, and some are eligible for long drives on a single charge while others aren’t; range and charge maintenance differ from one electric vehicle to another.  

But no matter which type of electric vehicle one owns, they have to plan for the trip ahead. Many smartphone apps enable car owners for their trips by considering the drive’s length, the passengers’ number, and the luggage weight. These apps also point out available charging points along the trip. 

Tips for driving an electric car for long distances

The precautions required for driving an electric vehicle for long distances aren’t the same as operating a fossil-fuel regular one. Rather, additional proper standards are needed. Here are some:

1.      Take good care of the battery

A battery is the keystone of any electric vehicle; once it’s healthy, a car will operate safely and efficiently. So, a car owner has to take good care of their electric car’s battery, and that by:

• Regularly charge it and never leave it empty,
• Recharge the battery only to 80%,
• Park it in a warm area in cold weather, as low temperatures affect a battery’s health and might even shorten its life span,
• Cool down after a long, enthusiastic drive,
• Don’t push the engine too hard.

2.      Book a charge point

There are many electric vehicles on the road, and they will keep stopping for regular charges. So, charging points might be overcrowded. And since charging an EV’s battery from 20% to 100% takes 25 minutes minimum, the waiting time will be long. So, it’s better to book a charge point in advance; trip planning apps can be very helpful in such cases. 

3.      Watch out for the speed.

With fuel-based cars, the faster a vehicle goes, the more fuel it consumes. And with EVs, the faster a car goes, the more energy it expends. Driving at a very low speed isn’t highly recommended; one has to keep an eye on the speed meter and maintain a balance.

4.      Reduce the car’s weight

The more a car weighs, the more energy is needed to run it. Unnecessary luggage and additional weights will waste energy and compel drivers to charge their vehicles more often. 

5.      Hire a reputable and experienced auto transport company

Not everyone knows about that, but auto transport companies specialize in fossil-fuel cars; they can also transport all types of electric vehicles. So, if a car owner travels long distances using their EV, hiring an auto transport company is recommended, as it will ensure their vehicle’s safety and save them money and time. 

But car owners must remember that transporting an electric car requires more licensing, expertise, and tools than a regular car usually needs. As a result, one should look for a highly experienced and reputable company in transporting electric vehicles.

Tempus Logix is a highly professional and reputable auto transport company that has been a premium name in the industry for over eight years. It has the most seasoned team of drivers and sophisticated auto transport carriers.

The bottom line 

Driving an electric car across the states is possible by taking the proper precautions and efficiently planning for the long trip. However, if possible, the ultimate option that will save car owners trouble, money, and effort is hiring an auto transport company. By that, car owners can rest assured that their electric cars will stay safe and sound for the most affordable price.

Shipping Regular Vs. Electric Cars

When relocating from one place to another, arranging for reliable car shipping is critical to minimize relocation hassles. Indeed, car owners will have a pretty easy time preparing their cars for shipping when collaborating with the right company.

However, it is critical to indicate that shipping regular and electric vehicles are two different processes. Therefore, this article explains the process of shipping each vehicle type, highlighting the recommended methods for shipping and explaining the fundamental differences between regular and electric vehicles.

The Difference between Regular and Electric Vehicles

Although both car types, regular and electric, provide drivers with many remarkable features, they have many differences, mainly in powertrain, fuel source, performance, maintenance, and environmental impact.

However, electric cars are distinct from regular ones because they operate with batteries, which calls for taking specific precautions when shipping them across state lines.

The Process of Shipping Electric Cars

Shipping electric cars is, to some level, similar to the general car shipping process, which involves choosing the appropriate shipping method, tools, and labor and preparing the cars for shipping.

They can be shipped with open or enclosed carriers, but opting for enclosed shipping is recommended to protect them from temperature and other natural conditions that could harm their batteries.

Furthermore, electric cars’ battery pack contains hazardous materials like lithium-ion. They are flammable, can produce toxic fumes if damaged, and can set the vehicles on fire if not handled properly. Therefore, car shipping companies take extra precautions to prevent damaging the battery pack. These are mainly:

1. Properly secure the battery pack to prevent movement and damage by using the appropriate straps or tie-downs.
2. Labeling the vehicles as hazardous material ensures they are appropriately handled during shipping.
3. Charging the battery to at least 50% can help prevent it from damage, as well as emptying cars from all fluids to prevent leaks.
4. Covering the cars to protect them from external elements and keeping the battery pack cool and dry to avoid overheating.
5. Using a specialized carrier equipped to transport hazardous materials and hiring a trained driver familiar with shipping such materials.

Not all car shipping companies provide electric car shipping services since the process requires professional equipment and staff who can properly handle shipping cargo with hazardous materials.

The Process of Shipping Regular Cars

Shipping regular cars is less complicated than electric vehicles since shippers won’t be concerned about handling dangerous materials inside the cars. Regular vehicles can also be shipped with open or enclosed trailers, depending on the cars’ value and customers’ priorities and budget.

Open Car Shipping: The Ideal Option for Regular Cars

Regular cars usually don’t require special tools or labor during shipping, minimizing shipping time and costs. Most of the time, regular cars are shipped with open-air carriers for the following reasons:

1. Open car shipping is an economical option for shipping regular cars. Although cars will be exposed to road debris during shipping, that must not be concerning for these vehicles that are on the road daily because they can sustain external elements and factors.
2. This method is commonly used to ship regular cars and is more efficient because its cost matches the vehicles’ value. Indeed, open car shipping can guarantee faster delivery because of open carriers’ greater availability.

Enclosed Car Shipping: Maximizing Security for Cars of Higher Value

Enclosed car shipping is a premium service for shipping high-end cars, such as antique collectibles and more expensive cars. This method is believed to maximize security for these reasons:

1. Enclosed carriers are fully covered on sides and roofs to protect cars from potential damage from external elements, such as weather or road waste. They are designed with safety measures in mind to maximize the loads’ security.
2. Some enclosed carriers have advanced systems and equipment for seamless loading, securing, and unloading processes, such as hydraulic ramps.
3. Owners of expensive cars can have the convenience of using single-car carriers or shipping the car with only one or two other vehicles to maximize safety on the road and their peace of mind.

It is worth noting that enclosed car shipping is more expensive, and the more additional features clients choose, the higher the rates will be.

The Cost of Shipping Regular Vs. Electric Vehicles

Shipping electric cars costs more than regular ones because they need a method with higher safety features and require employing special equipment and professional staff. Moreover, electric vehicles tend to be heavier than regular cars because of the heavy weight of their batteries, which also increases shipping rates.

It is a good idea to visit the car shipping company’s website that will ship your car and use its car shipping cost calculator to obtain an accurate quote for transporting a regular or electric vehicle.

Tempus Logix is a professional, experienced car shipping company that ships all vehicle types nationwide. The company features a state-of-the-art AI-based cost calculator on its website that gives customers instant and accurate car shipping cost estimations for free.

In Conclusion

It is always in customers’ best interest to prepare themselves beforehand and know how to ship a car from A to Z, whether regular or electric, before hiring a car shipping company. Shipping regular cars and electric vehicles are two different processes, each with distinct considerations and requirements.

Tempus Logix Celebrates its 9th Anniversary

Tempus Logix is celebrating its ninth anniversary in the car shipping industry while reflecting on its early accomplishments with an ambitious eye to the future, taking the company’s performance and its clients’ experience to the next level. Since the company’s establishment, it has been committed to honesty, trustworthiness, and accountability toward its clients.

The company had a main goal of transforming individuals’ and companies’ experiences with car shipping services by filling the gaps in the car transport market and serving clients differently. It fulfilled its goals by providing customized services and incorporating technology in its work practices to maximize efficiency.

Today, after eight years of hard work and impressive achievements, Tempus Logix reaps the fruits of consistency and discipline, gaining the trust and love of thousands of customers and developing a fine reputation in the industry.

Furthermore, Tempus Logix’s CEO acknowledges the company team’s constant efforts and clients’ valuable trust, attributing them to the company’s success.

“On this important and special event, I would like to congratulate Tempus Logix’s staff and its valuable and loyal clients in the first place. Without them instilling the company’s values and carrying out its mission, we would have hardly been celebrating this event. Indeed, the company was established with a main purpose: to service individuals and corporations professionally and maintain quality standards in the shipping process. Today, we celebrate meeting our upstanding goals, looking forward to maintaining our professional code of business ethics and productive outcomes.”

CEO of Tempus Logix, United States

Tempus Logix Major Triumphs

Tempus Logix has reached significant milestones and gone through valuable experiences over eight years of service. There is no perfect time to exhibit its major accomplishments than on this occasion, so we provide an overview of what the company has been up to from the early past to the present time:

1. Over 45,000 vehicles successfully delivered and 67,000,000 miles driven: Tempus Logix has shipped thousands of different vehicle types throughout the past eight years efficiently and appropriately. It has also covered 67 million miles across multiple states in the country, gaining more experience in navigating roads with different conditions and during various weather states.
2. Ranked top car shipper on several famous platforms: Tempus Logix is recognized as a top-rated car shipping company on different platforms, from load board ones like uShip to rating platforms like Trustpilot. It is rated an excellent service provider on Trustpilot based on 482 clients’ reviews. It is also rated 4.9 on Google and Facebook and acquired an A+ rating (5.0) from the Better Business Bureau.
3. Thousands of satisfied customers: Tempus Logix prioritizes customer satisfaction and seeks to build long-term relationships with clients, maintaining excellent customer service channels. The company has a professional team ready to solve clients’ problems and answer their questions at any given time, granting it the love and trust of thousands of happy customers. Not to mention that it keenly shows its appreciation to loyal clients by providing special discounts to returning customers.
4. An extensive network of car carriers: Tempus Logix has managed to expand its network of carrier drivers, and now it has over 25,000 licensed and qualified carriers with insurance coverage of up to $ 1,000,000. It is worth noting that the company’s team always conducts stringent vetting processes for carriers before assigning one the shipment of a client’s car.

Overall, the 9th anniversary of Tempus Logix as a professional car shipping company is an opportunity to recall and celebrate the company’s successes. It is also the best time to say thanks to our valuable clients for their trust and support.

Saving Time, Money, and Hassle via Auto Shipping

People ship their cars from state to state for several reasons: gift a car, purchase or sell vehicles online, or move to a new home. Though there are also many ways people can use to move their cars, auto shipping services always prove more efficient and convenient.

Car owners can benefit from many advantages when hiring an auto shipping company. This article explains how to ship a car while saving time, money, and hassle.

How Auto Shipping Saves Time

Among the several incentives car shipping services give car owners, saving time is the most valued. Time is the most precious thing we possess and can control for our good or the opposite. When hiring a trustworthy car transport company to handle vehicle shipping, car owners invest in their time.

Furthermore, some people have very busy schedules that prevent them from caring for their car alone. They would rather rely on an auto transporter while using their time on more important tasks related to work, family, or both.

However, the question of how auto shipping can save car owners’ time remains unanswered. Here is how car shipping services allow people to maximize their time efficiency:

1. Car shipping companies make it easy for customers to order a car shipping cost and book their service online without contacting the company. Unlike traditional communication methods, online procedures are always easier and faster for clients to accomplish.
2. Once a car shipping service is booked, the company’s team thoroughly handles the procedure, from finding the right carrier to communicating shipping schedules to car owners. Car owners can make use of their time while the company arranges for their vehicle shipping. It is worth mentioning that professional car shipping companies allow their clients to provide their preferred pick-up and delivery times while booking shipping services online.
3. Even during the vehicle inspection process at pick-up and delivery, car owners can still save time by sending someone else on their behalf, who is over 18, to finish the process, accept the car, and sign the Bill of Lading.

Based on the given practices during car shipping, relying on car shipping services to move a car is the most time-efficient option.

How Auto Shipping Saves Money

Many people, especially those who haven’t shipped a car before, assume that car shipping services can be expensive. However, car shipping costs depend on several factors, making them prone to fluctuations. Therefore, car shipping can be the cheapest or the most expensive option, depending on these major factors:

1. Distance: Car shipping price is mainly influenced by the distance between the shipping locations. The further the distance is, the more fuel carriers are to consume, which, in turn, will be passed on to the client. However, car shipping companies usually charge less per mile for long-distance orders.
2. Seasonality: Car shipping seasonality is another major factor contributing to a considerable rise or decrease in the final shipping cost. Like many industries, supply and demand directly influence car shipping prices. So, car shipping rates skyrocket during the peak season as the demand for shipping services surpasses supply capabilities. On the contrary, car shipping rates significantly decrease in the off-season as the demand declines.
3. Shipping method: The shipping method car owners choose, open or enclosed,  primarily lift or cut car shipping rates. Enclosed auto shipping is the more expensive option because of its additional incentives. In addition, employing other special equipment to ship cars with special needs also increases the final shipping quote.

Although car shipping costs depend on several factors, it is certainly more cost-effective than other options, like driving and towing. Aside from the costs of fuel, accommodation, and renting or purchasing towing equipment, car owners expose their vehicles to wear and tear, which can be significantly costly in the long run.

How Auto Shipping Saves Hassle

People who appreciate convenience and peace of mind opt for professional car shipping services that save them the hassle of moving a car. Car shipping companies can guarantee a hassle-free shipping experience in several ways:

1. Car shipping companies have a special team of customer service agents who arrange shipping processes effectively and conveniently. They regularly follow up with car carriers and clients to ensure the process goes seamlessly and take care of all shipment details from A to Z.
2. Car shipping allows clients to relax while waiting for their vehicles’ delivery without exerting minimal effort. They can better plan their special journey while specialized auto shippers thoroughly handle the shipment of their cars.
3. Car shipping companies provide special services to minimize hassle for clients, such as door-to-door pick-up and delivery, where car shippers drive clients’ vehicles to and from the locations of their choice that carriers have access to.

People wondering how to ship a car without the hassle and trying to find a time and cost-effective car shipping service are recommended to consider Tempus Logix. Tempus Logix is a professional and accredited car shipping company operating nationwide. It provides high-quality shipping services for all vehicle types at the most competitive rates in the market.

In conclusion, it sometimes feels stressful to undertake car transport from state to state. However, collaborating with professional car shippers is more efficient, time and money-saving, and less hassling.

A Day in the Life of an Auto Transport Driver

Starting an auto transport driver career is an interesting endeavor, yet auto transport drivers take on certain challenges. Hitting the road for long hours sounds alluring for driving addicts and people who love adventure, travel, and discovering new places. Still, these lucrative opportunities in the American auto shipping industry come at a cost.

This article sheds some light on the typical day of an auto transport driver from the early morning to the late evening, highlighting the perks of being an auto transport driver and the challenges and responsibilities they undertake.

Auto transport drivers’ daily routines

The typical day of an auto transport driver starts by checking for the day’s schedules. Auto transport drivers may choose to start working early in the morning depending on the job requirements and the given times of pick-ups and deliveries. In this case, they typically wake up between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. since working early ensures they make their deliveries on time.

Moreover, they get up early to check for the loads and prepare them for hauling before they start driving on the road. For most drivers, the morning’s early hours are the preferable driving times for avoiding traffic.

Next, auto transport drivers carry out some tasks before hitting the road, including checking the weather conditions in their location and where they are heading. They also check for route availability and sometimes use Google Maps to find shorter, more convenient paths.

Furthermore, auto transport drivers are also responsible for inspecting the truck’s condition before driving, often checking the tire pressure and fluid leaks and ensuring the brakes work properly. Then, they ensure the loads are well secured and tied to the carrier. Finally, they fuel up their trucks for the day’s trip.

At this point, the carrier is ready to drive on. During the trip, carrier drivers stay in touch with their supervisors at the auto transport company to update them about the shipment status, and they also contact the administration if something unexpected arises during transport.

The most significant part of auto transport driver jobs is their collaboration. While on the road, the driver might receive a call from a co-worker to give them a lift or help them solve an issue.

Eventually, car carrier drivers spend the rest of their day on the road until their shift is finished. By then, they take a break or stop at a rest area providing complete truck drivers facilities, like bathrooms, restaurants, and sleeping units.

The perks of being an auto transport driver

Auto transport drivers enjoy several advantages. This type of job is especially suitable for people who love traveling, driving, and discovering new places, as auto transport drivers can explore different parts of the country while they haul loads across multiple states.

Moreover, auto transport driver jobs pay reasonably, offering considerable profit margins for independent truckers. Ultimately, the more they adhere to consistent schedules, the more stable income they earn.

In addition, auto transport drivers enjoy a sense of freedom, and they can control their working hours as long as they can deliver the loads on time. Eventually, the flexibility, good pay, and freedom make auto transport driver jobs tempting for some.

Challenges of being an auto transport driver

Aside from the advantages they enjoy, auto transport drivers also face some challenges in return. The first challenge is driving for extended periods, which can cause muscle tension and severe fatigue over time.

For this reason, the U.S. Department of Transportation regulates the allowed driver hours, obliging drivers to drive 11 hours over 14 working hours. Drivers should also take a break for half an hour after every eight hours of driving. These rules are set to ensure the safety of truck drivers and other drivers on the road.

In addition, auto transport drivers are forced to spend much time away from their homes and families. However, drivers earn a good income that allows them to spend quality time with their loved ones after work.

Additionally, navigating difficult areas and driving under severe weather conditions adds other challenges for auto transport drivers. Though experienced drivers can handle difficult situations, they can still be overwhelming for some.

Responsibilities

Auto transport drivers are responsible for keeping the loads safe and secure from the moment they are loaded into the carrier until they reach their destination. They are also responsible for inspecting the loaded vehicles at pick-up and delivery times. In addition, they should maintain the truck, regularly check for any technical problems, and keep it clean. Most importantly, auto transport drivers are expected to follow safety rules and regulations for operating large vehicles set by the USDOT.

Tempus Logix is an elite auto shipping company based in California that ships vehicles nationwide. The company works with more than 25,000 carrier drivers across the United States.

In short, car carrier drivers lead a somewhat busy life, spending a lot of time on the road, discovering different places, and meeting new people. Though the job of an auto transport driver pays well, drivers often sacrifice quality family time to perform their jobs properly.

Evaluating Car Shipping Companies via BBB Ratings

When choosing a service provider, the phrase “accredited by the Better Business Bureau” has a powerful effect on clients since it evokes a sense of trust and relief. The Better Business Bureau can greatly influence clients’ decisions, either encouraging or discouraging them from using the services of a specific provider.

Moreover, in an industry that is not heavily regulated, like auto transport, BBB ratings can greatly help people considering using auto transport services to examine the history and performance of their chosen auto shipper.

This article emphasizes the importance of researching and evaluating auto shipping companies. Additionally, it provides an overview of the Better Business Bureau, including how to evaluate auto shipping companies using BBB ratings.

The Importance of Researching and Evaluating Auto Shipping Companies

Seeking advice can help people determine whether the auto transport service is worth their money. However, evaluating an auto shipper before signing contracts has several benefits.

Avoiding scammers

Scammers tend to find ways to take advantage of unsuspecting clients. Although their tricks are more easily discovered nowadays, individuals unfamiliar with how to verify the authenticity of a service provider may still fall prey to them. Therefore, taking the time to perform due diligence, check, research, and evaluate an auto transport company’s services and performance can spare car owners from falling victim to deceptive auto transport companies.

Learning from Others

Researching and evaluating auto transport companies involves examining previous customers’ reviews. These reviews can reveal how an auto transporter values customer satisfaction based on the number of clients who leave positive feedback on different rating platforms. It goes without saying that customer reviews are a crucial factor that can either encourage people to use an auto transport company’s services or steer them away completely.

Choosing The Ideal Company

Clients can better understand what they’re paying for by researching and comparing the services and prices of several auto transport companies. This allows them to make a more informed decision based on each company’s quality of services, performance, and offers.

For instance, clients may discover that investing more money to hire a more professional auto transporter can ensure enhanced safety and efficiency. However, such decisions can only be made after extensive research and evaluation of different providers.

An Overview of the Better Business Bureau

The Better Business Bureau, a non-profit organization that provides business rating services, is widely recognized as a credible and reliable source of information by both businesses and consumers. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that accreditation and high ratings from the BBB contribute to auto transport companies’ trustworthiness.

Help Consumers Choose Reputable Companies

The BBB website provides extensive information about thousands of businesses and companies, including auto transport companies. BBB’s official website compiles this information from businesses, customers, and public data resources.

Moreover, the platform takes pride in its hard-working team responsible for verifying the validity of the information provided about each business. The team also conducts thorough background research on each company’s performance and reliability. As a result, customers can access information and ratings on various auto transport companies on the BBB website, compare them, and check their reliability.

Promote Marketplace Trust

The BBB primarily aims to promote honest and professional work practices and encourage companies to be self-regulated. BBB can fulfill this mission by assigning each company a letter rating based on the company’s performance and compliance with BBB’s work standards.

The BBB’s rating system considers several factors that determine the accountability of the involved businesses. The letter ratings range from A+ as the highest to F as the lowest. However, auto transport companies must abide by the strict BBB standards and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction to achieve an A+ rating.

Evaluating Auto Shipping Companies Using BBB Ratings

The Better Business Bureau is one of the most reliable rating platforms for researching auto shipping companies. Still, the platform recommends customers not solely rely on its evaluation but also look for additional resources for their peace of mind.

The BBB website contains a list of numerous auto transport companies, whether accredited or unaccredited that online users can browse through. After choosing a specific company, the website provides information that helps users learn about the reliability of the chosen company. For instance, every company’s profile demonstrates the company’s licenses, compliance with regulations and rules, years of experience, customer complaints, and customer reviews.

An Example of a BBB Accredited Auto Transport Company

Tempus Logix is the go-to auto transport company for reliable auto transport services and is accredited by BBB with an A+ rating! Additionally, the company has received an impressive rating of 4.9 out of 5 on both Google and Facebook, with over 1000 online reviews from satisfied clients.

Finally, it is vital to thoroughly research different auto transport companies and evaluate the quality of their services before hiring one. Indeed, the BBB is a great website to find meticulously vetted companies and asses their performance.

Top 3 Ways to Ship Motorcycle Safe and Sound

Flying down the highway and refreshing your soul with the cold air is a feeling that no motorcyclist would ever compromise with anything. However, driving your motorcycle will threaten you and the vehicle when the trip is long and the destination is far.

So, you better consider alternative solutions. Hiring a shipping company to deliver your motorbike to the destination required is the safest and most professional way to transport your vehicle. But before doing so, you must familiarize yourself with the top three ways to ship your motorcycle safely and sound.  

1.      Crated shipping

Crated shipping is one of the most popular and safe methods to ship your motorcycle safely. Your vehicle will be safe in a plywood crate shielded from all road dangers and weather conditions. Some companies require you to find a suitable crate for your motorcycle and pack it yourself. On the other hand, others manufacture and sell high-quality boxes for clients and do the job for them. 

Using a shipping crate requires the transport company to have a forklift to fit the crates on the carrier’s back safely and quickly.

The concept of a motorcycle crate is similar to the container auto transport companies use to ship cars overseas. However, the motorcycle’s crate is made of plywood, unlike the car container, which is made of hard steel. And just like both are alike in concept, they are also similar in their use. You can put some of your bags and personal items in the crate along with your motorcycle.

However, to grant your vehicle and belongings a safe trip, you must prepare your bike for the crated journey by draining all the fluids and disconnecting the battery.

2.      Open-air shipping

On the other hand, an open trailer is just like its name implies. Motorcycles on an open trailer are exposed to all road dangers, from rocks to dust. This kind of trailer is the most affordable and economical method to transport a motorcycle if your budget is tight. 

3.      Enclosed shipping

The enclosed shipping is very much like the crated shipping. However, the main difference is that crated shipping requires only one vehicle in the crate, unlike the enclosed carrier that fits many motorcycles comfortably.

The enclosed transport protects the shipped vehicle from all dangers and is temperature controlled. So, if it’s extremely hot or freezing outside, your motorcycle won’t be affected by any means. This transport method is the most expensive of the methods mentioned above.

Prepare your motorcycle for shipping

Excellent preparations are the key to a safe shipment, whether you go for the crated, open-air, or enclosed shipping. 

●       Wipe it thoroughly and take pictures 

Because shipping a motorcycle is a risky process and no one can expect what would happen during it, transport companies always offer insurance for the shipped vehicle. This insurance usually covers any damage or scratch caused by the carrier driver. However, neither you nor the driver would notice any problem with the vehicle until you do your homework.

To spot any new chips, scratches, or dents on your motorcycle’s body, you have to wipe it thoroughly and ensure you remove all dust and dirt that might be hiding past scratches. When everything is clear, and the motorcycle is completely spotless, take pictures of all existing damages and file them to the carrier driver during the pick-up. By that, you and the driver will be able to compare the motorcycle’s pre-shipping state with the post-shipping state and notice any new issues. 

●       Check, check, check

Your motorcycle must be in its best state before shipping. So, you have to check its battery, tire pressure, and fluid levels. You should also ensure that your bike is running properly. 

●       Empty its gas tank  

 According to experts, a motorcycle’s tank must be only ¼ full during transport. A full gas tank will add to the vehicle’s weight, increasing the shipping cost and complicating the transport process. So, ensure you empty your gas tank to make your vehicle as light as possible. 

Know who you should deal with 

Shipping your motorcycle safely and sound isn’t possible without hiring a professional transport company. Do extensive research and ensure these criteria are fulfilled.

●       The company must be licensed

Companies that work and don’t obey the law are not trustworthy. The FMCSA, the party responsible for regulating transport companies, enforces many rules that guarantee the shipped vehicles’ safety. So, to ensure the company will take the best care of your motorcycle, verify its legitimacy.

●       It must have good feedback from clients

Trusting a company with your valuable vehicle isn’t easy, especially if you haven’t done any business with it before. However, some people have already done so, and they share their experience openly and honestly on the company’s website. So, read past clients’ reviews and assess the company’s reliability accordingly.

●       Consider Tempus Logix

Tempus Logix is among the most professional companies in the industry, and it has shipped tens of thousands of vehicles safely and successfully. Tempus Logix also has many online reviews from satisfied clients. So, you can trust it blindly to ship your motorcycle anywhere in the US.

Conclusion

After you’ve become familiar with the top ways to ship your motorcycle safely, you can now choose the one suitable for the level of protection you want for your bike and the money you’re willing to pay.

Tips for Shipping Classic Cars in Peak Season

Whether it’s an auction, an auto show, or even a vacation, shipping a classic car will need special help from an auto transport company. But what if you needed this help during the peak season when the shipping company’s schedule is busy and the fee is big-budget?

The auto shipping industry is like any other; it’s seasonal, which means that sometimes the demand is growing, and other times it’s falling. And definitely, this alteration will result in cost changes, and the fee will boost during the peak seasons.

What to do and how to get the most reasonable price? Here’s everything you need to know.

Hire a trustworthy auto transport company 

Your classic car is a precious vehicle, and it must be worth thousands of dollars. So, you shouldn’t trust any company with it. The transport company you should hire must have long years of experience in classic car shipping and a spotless track history of implementing safe and fast transport processes.

Clients’ reviews are foolproof for a company’s reliability and will tell you all you need to know about service quality and transport safety. So, read them carefully before hiring the company.

Hiring a professional auto shipping company will save you a lot of money, even if the shipping fees are higher than any unreliable one. Because a classic car needs special handling, and if anything bad happens, the maintenance and repair work will cost you a fortune.  

Consider Tempus Logix, as it has been in the auto shipping industry for a long time and has transported classic and regular cars for many clients, including individuals, companies, car collectors, multi-branch auction houses, and many others.  

Compare quotes

Whether during peak seasons or anytime in the year, classic car shipping costs differ from one company to another. So, comparing quotes will ensure you hire the best company for the most economical fee.

Request your quote by visiting a classic car shipping company’s website and using the free calculator to provide information about your vehicle and the transport method you’re after. The cost calculator is free; you will probably find it on many companies’ websites.

Ensure you get a quote from each reputable classic car shipping company and decide on the best for your budget and needs. For Tempus Logix, the calculator is an accurate one built on machine learning and AI technologies to provide instant quotes.

Book in advance

Since the auto transport industry is seasonal, the company’s schedule gets increasingly busy during specific times of the year, including summer and holidays. Logically, the increased demand will result in a shortage of carriers and drivers.

As a result, the transport fee increases consecutively. So, if you want to guarantee a place for your classic automobile on the carrier you prefer for the economical fee your budget can afford, placing the shipping order in advance would be very smart.

We recommend putting classic car shipping orders in a month before the required delivery date. Your automobile will arrive at its destination when you want without paying extra or staying on hold.

Don’t use the enclosed trailer unless you need it

Most experts advise classic car owners to ship their vehicles in enclosed trailers to keep them safe from all possible dangers. And as a matter of fact, that’s completely correct. However, you must reconsider the open trailer since you want to cut costs.

An open trailer isn’t as dangerous as it’s known, yet it could be a perfect option in specific cases. Suppose the weather is calm and there’s no pouring rain or boiling sun, and the distance from point A to point B is short; your car will arrive safe and sound without a scratch. But remember that the open trailer is only safe if the classic car shipping company is trustworthy.

Have a flexible shipping location

The pickup and delivery location can dramatically affect the classic car shipping cost. For example, if you go for the door-to-door shipping service, the carrier will pick up your classic car next to your house and drop it off in the same place. So you won’t need to drive your car to the terminal or hire someone. This shipping service is always more costly than the other, terminal-to-terminal.

On the other hand, the terminal-to-terminal shipping service requires you to drive your classic car to a prearranged location and pick it up from the same spot. Because the terminal-to-terminal shipping service doesn’t require much effort and time from the side of the shipping company, it’s affordable. So, if your classic car is operable, the terminal-to-terminal shipping service is the option that will cut you many costs.  

Look for discounts 

Some companies, including Tempus Logix, offer competitive offers and discounts for returning clients. So, if you have ever shipped your car with the company’s help, they will provide you with a generous offer that will save you serious money. In addition, if you’re a retired or active military member, senior citizen, or a college student, many auto transport companies will be happy to give you a big discount.

Conclusion 

Classic car shipping cost grows dramatically in peak season, and it may not be affordable for all owners. However, by following the suggestions mentioned above, the price will be reasonable to some extent, and your beloved vehicle will arrive at its destination safely.

The Potential Dangers of Electric Cars Transport

More than two million electric vehicles are spread all around the US roads; electric vehicles are the environment-friendly replacement for traditional fuel-based cars. This kind of car, lithium ion-based batteries, is witnessing great acceptance by most car owners, and many consider them a safe, affordable option.

However, for this kind of car to be dominant, people need to be educated; they have to get to know this new version of cars; can they rely on them? Are they safe?

So, here we’re eliminating one of the most important concerns that occupy those who have an electric car or are thinking about purchasing one: “What are the potential dangers of transporting electric cars?”

Introduction to lithium-ion batteries, and how do they function?

A lithium-ion battery is the most popular type of rechargeable battery. This type of battery is usually used in mobile phones and laptops. Nonetheless, it has been used recently in electric cars.

A lithium-ion battery comprises a cathode, anode, electrolyte, separator, and two collectors. Each component is responsible for one part of the conversion process; lithium ions and electrons run through the cathode and anode in different directions. The migration of ions and electrons is what creates the electrical current. 

Potential dangers of lithium batteries

Cars with lithium-ion batteries are more prone to fires and explosions than fuel-based vehicles. And that’s due to the batteries’ inflammability, huge capability, and low upkeep. The thermal runaway is one of the most popular causes of lithium battery fires and explosions.

A thermal runaway occurs when one of the battery’s cells experiences an extreme, sudden, rapid rise in temperature. If one of the battery’s cells fails, it can influence another cell, and so on, until a lot of heat is produced, and things might deteriorate, resulting in a fire. A thermal runaway is usually caused by overcharging or a lack of a cooling system.

Is shipping an electric vehicle possible?

Transporting an electric vehicle doesn’t differ much from transporting a fuel-based one; the process is the same, and the fee doesn’t vary much. The lithium battery-based car will be hauled on an open or enclosed trailer, based on a client’s preferences; it will be hauled and shipped exactly the same way followed for transporting a regular car, however, with extra precautions.

How to keep an electric car’s battery safe during shipping?

A client must follow some tips to ensure safety for an electric vehicle and lithium battery. Additional standards are required from an electric vehicle’s owner, as dangers associated with EV shipping are higher. 

1.      Prepare the car

The first and most important step to undertake before sending a car out for shipping is charging it. It was stated before that overcharging a car’s battery might cause a fire or even an explosion

A minimum charge of 20% can achieve the desired result. Having the EV charged will enable carrier drivers to roll the vehicle in and out of the carrier smoothly. 

In the same case as regular fuel-based vehicles, a car owner has to document their car’s pre-shipping state, and that’s after cleaning its exterior and revealing all current issues. Dents, dings, discolorations, etc., must be noted in the Bill of Lading by handwriting, videos, or photos. 

Removing precious personal belongings or car accessories is also recommended if the vehicle is shipped on an open trailer. 

For additional safety and to be rest assured the car’s battery is at its best performance, having a mechanic run a maintenance check on the car’s battery, power inverter, charge module, etc., will prevent potential accidents. 

2.      Hire a reliable auto transport company 

Whether it’s a fuel-based or lithium-ion battery-based vehicle, depending on a fresh, inexperienced auto transport company for such a sensitive task will bring the worst consequences.

A car might be delivered to its owner scratched, dinged, etc. So, a car owner must investigate reliable, reputable auto shipping companies by going through their website, reading their previous clients’ feedback, contacting their customer service agents, and requesting auto transport quotes. If the results of investigating all those are satisfactory, a client can settle and place their auto transport order.

Tempus Logix, a leading auto transport company in the US, has already transported over 35,000 vehicles across the country. Not just that, but over 1000 satisfied clients have left positive comments about the services they received and how happy they were.

3.      Ensure the auto transport company is experienced in electric cars

Even though the chances of a lithium battery’s failure of fire aren’t high during transport, the carrier driver has to be in readiness to react in such scenarios and minimize damages.

As a result, trusting a random, inexperienced auto transport company with one’s EV won’t bring the best outcomes. A trustworthy auto shipping company must know how to operate and ship electric vehicles and have the right tools to do so. 

The bottom line

Transporting an electric car isn’t very common or accepted by car owners yet; they always have questions and exclamation marks on the subject. However, there’s nothing to be afraid of with proper preparation and collaboration with reputable service providers.