How to Avoid Being Ripped Off By Auto Shipping Companies?
Fraud can happen to anyone anywhere, and it is not limited only to one industry. Still, scamming incidents prevail much more in online businesses since the internet is considered a major outlet for scammers to devise their schemes.
Unfortunately, the auto transport industry is only one target for scammers to profit from. Swindling auto transport companies operate in several ways, using different types and forms of scams. In this article, we will explain these scams and demonstrate how to avoid being ripped off by auto transport companies.
How fake auto transport companies operate
Fake auto transport companies try to mislead their victims by observing the work methods of reliable auto transport companies, i.e., they imitate their work practices. For example, they can have smooth-tongued people acting as customer representatives or a website that looks legit enough to make customers believe them.
Most of the time, unreliable auto transport companies steal the content and information of other reputable companies and copy them to their site to create their fake version. They pretend to have a real business so that clients trust them and give them their money. Sometimes scammers play their games masterfully, making it hard to be caught. However, it’s not impossible.
Kinds of auto transport scams
Scammers find different ways to disguise themselves and trick their victims. We will mention below some of the common scams in the auto transport industry.
Bait and switch
Dishonest auto transporters promise their customers to move their vehicles at very low prices. However, when things get real, customers pay a deposit. Once the car is shipped, bait and switch scammers ask their clients to pay extra money for their vehicle’s shipment.
They would fabricate stories about unexpected issues or that they couldn’t find a carrier to haul their vehicles at that low price, forcing their victims to pay more. At this point, customers find themselves stuck with such companies, and they will either pay the required amount to have their cars moved or lose the deposit they paid in case of cancellation.
Buyer-fishing scam
This scam targets those selling vehicles where scammers propose to purchase a vehicle, sometimes at a good price. Then, when it comes to shipping the car, they would ask to transport it with a shipping company they claim to be approved. Sadly, these people are not interested in purchasing the car, and the shipping company they suggest is their own fake company. They do so to succeed in obtaining their customers’ credit information, making them pay a considerable deposit and steal all their money without providing any service.
Fake seller scam
Another way scammers try to rip off clients is by claiming they sell vehicles. For example, they would offer lower prices to get their victims’ attention, leading customers to pay for the car via an untraceable payment method. Eventually, car buyers discover they have been scammed and lost money.
Avoid being ripped off
One major thing we always recommend to avoid fake auto transport companies is not to pay any large deposits in advance, nor provide them with sensitive information, like credit card information or social security number. The following are some ways to ensure the reliability of an auto transport company:
Choose an experienced company
Usually, a scamming business only stays so for a short time. In other words, they cannot prove to have years of experience in the industry. So, choose an auto shipping company with a good reputation that has been in the business for at least three years.
Knowing that the company you are hiring to move your vehicle has been in business for years removes any doubts about it being fake. So, clients can rest assured that their vehicles’ shipment will go easily and smoothly.
Customer reviews matter
Customer ratings and reviews platforms are one of the best tools on the internet to get an idea of the service you are paying good money for. Customer reviews tell a lot about a business, and one can easily determine the reliability of an auto transport company based on previous customers’ experiences.
In addition, fake auto transport companies won’t exist on official platforms like Better Business Bureau (BBB). So, if you can’t find reviews for a company after researching it on a reliable rating platform, it is a telling sign to dismiss hiring it. In some cases, if they have had some reviews, all would surely be negative. So, make sure to read reviews to ensure the reliability of the auto shipping company.
Don’t buy into unrealistic prices
Scammers always propose shipping a vehicle at an unbelievable price because they care about luring customers. This is why it is always recommended to research the market, obtain multiple shipping quotes, and compare them based on services, offered value, and price.
If an auto shipping company gives a shipping cost under market value, it will probably be fake. Reliable auto transport companies always offer an online shipping quote calculator for free that will give customers instant estimates about the shipping costs depending on the information they provide.
Tempus Logix has been in the business for eight years and has moved over 45,000 vehicles nationwide. The company has a wide network of carriers exceeding 25,000 companies to cover all types of shipping services across the country. Additionally, the company’s website provides an AI-based auto shipping cost calculator offering instant and accurate auto shipping quotes.
In the end, people unfamiliar with how the auto transport business works might find it difficult to discern reliable auto transport companies from fake ones. We hope this post will help them learn more about scammers and how to avoid them.
Tempus Logix Celebrates National Car Care Month
National Car Care Month is an annual event to raise awareness about the importance of car maintenance. During Car Care Month, car owners are advised to perform various routine maintenance tasks on their vehicles, such as the following:
- Check and top up fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.)
- Inspect tires for wear and tear
- Replace worn-out windshield wiper blades
- Check and replace air filters
- Check the battery and electrical system
As a company committed to providing quality auto shipping services, Tempus Logix believes National Car Care Month is an opportunity to educate its customers about the importance of regular car maintenance.
“We believe it’s our responsibility to educate our customers about taking care of their vehicles. Having shipped over 45,000 vehicles for the last eight years, we have access to lots of car owners across the United States and can influence them positively.”
CEO of Tempus Logix, United States
During National Car Care Month, Tempus Logix will offer various promotions and discounts to encourage its customers to take care of their vehicles. The company will also share helpful tips and advice on its website and social media platforms to help customers maintain their cars.
“We understand that car maintenance can seem daunting to some customers. However, we hope to make it easier for them by providing helpful tips and advice.”
CEO of Tempus Logix, United States
Environmental and sustainability issues are becoming increasingly important in the automotive industry. As more and more people become aware of the impact of their actions on the environment, there is a growing interest in adopting more eco-friendly practices when it comes to car maintenance.
Tempus Logix’s initiative during National Car Care Month will shed light on basic environmental and sustainability issues related to car maintenance. One aspect of this initiative would be to educate car owners on the importance of using eco-friendly products when performing routine maintenance tasks. For example, using synthetic motor oil specifically designed to be more eco-friendly to help reduce the amount of pollutants released into the environment.
Another aspect of this initiative would be to promote alternative solutions to traditional car maintenance practices. For example, using public transportation or carpooling to help reduce the number of cars on the road.
“At Tempus Logix, we believe that car care should not come at the cost of the environment. By promoting environmental sustainability, we are taking care of not only our customers’ vehicles but also our planet.”
CEO of Tempus Logix, United States
Tempus Logix has a vast database of customers across the country; add to that our network of 25,000 shippers and car carriers. We aim to leverage our networking power during National Car Care Month to spread the word about car maintenance and the importance of protecting the planet.
In conclusion, National Car Care Month is an important event for Tempus Logix as a company committed to providing quality auto shipping services. Through its various promotions, discounts, and partnerships, the company raises awareness about the importance of car maintenance and promotes environmental sustainability.
The Importance of Reputation and Reviews in Auto Shipping
The auto shipping industry has grown significantly in the past decade, with more and more people looking for reliable car shipping services to move their vehicles. Consequently, understanding the importance of reputation and reviews for auto shipping companies is becoming more relevant than ever.
Reviews can help customers make informed decisions when choosing a car shipping service, and auto shippers can also use them to improve their reputation and attract new customers. Customers and businesses can benefit from improved customer satisfaction and better business outcomes.
This article explains the importance of reputation and national reviews for auto shipping companies. It also spotlights the good reputation Tempus Logix gained throughout the past eight years.
Why Reading Reviews is Essential Before Making a Choice
Choosing the right auto shipping company can seem overwhelming as one needs to make sure that they are selecting a reliable and trustworthy company for the safe transportation of their vehicle. Hence, reading auto shipping reviews from other customers is one of the best ways to make an informed decision.
Reviews of auto transport companies provide valuable insights into the quality of their services. They help understand what kind of services they offer, their customer service policies, and online reputation management practices. By reading these reviews, one can know which auto transport companies are reliable and trustworthy and which should be avoided at all costs.
The Different Types of Ratings & Reviews to Look Out For
When looking for an auto shipping provider, it is important to consider the different types of ratings and reviews that customers have left. Understanding these ratings and reviews can help potential clients find the best auto transport company.
Customer testimonials or reviews
Customer testimonials and reviews play an important role in marketing an auto transport company. They are also a key factor in the decision-making process of potential customers, as they provide an unbiased look at the quality of service offered.
Not only do satisfied customers provide valuable insight into how transportation services work, but they also serve as a source of validation for potential customers. For instance, by reading about positive customer experiences, potential customers can develop trust in the auto transport company and feel encouraged to hire their services.
Comments or feedback
When considering the various vehicle shipping options, take a moment to read comments or feedback from customers who have already had success with an auto transport company. This could provide good insight into whether or not they are the right company.
Reading comments or feedback on a company’s site from people who have already used their services gives a better understanding of the company’s quality of service, customer satisfaction ratings, and reliability.
Star rating platforms
There are many star rating platforms that can provide customers with feedback from other customers who have availed of the services of a particular auto transport company. Platforms such as Transport Reviews, Better Business Bureau (BBB), Angie’s List, and more provide an excellent source of information for potential customers looking to hire an auto transport service.
These ratings can be used as a reference to make an informed decision when choosing an auto transport company. Not to mention that accessing customer reviews and ratings of different companies can help car owners find the best auto transport service provider and better understand which company could be most suitable for their needs and budget.
How to Maximize Your Experience with the Right Auto Transport Company?
Choosing the right car transport provider is essential to ensure the vehicle arrives at its destination safely and on time. With so many companies offering car transport services, it can be difficult to choose the right one. To ensure the best experience, comparing different providers and considering factors such as price, customer service, insurance coverage, and delivery times is important.
What Hundreds of Clients Say About Tempus Logix?
Tempus Logix is one of the best auto transport companies out there. The company’s commitment to customer service and its comprehensive network of carriers across the United States make it stand out among competitors.
Tempus Logix has been in the business for almost a decade and knows how to meet customers’ needs. Tempus Logix strives to provide a safe and reliable experience, from door-to-door delivery services to secure auto transport.
For many clients, Tempus Logix has been the go-to choice for exceptional service and quality. Customer reviews speak volumes about our commitment to excellence and ability to consistently deliver a safe and secure transportation experience. From individual car owners to corporations, clients have praised Tempus Logix for its superior customer service, competitive rates, reliable transport solutions, and timely deliveries.
The company has a total rating of 4.9/5 on Google and Facebook, and is one of the best auto shipping companies on BBB. Additionally, many comments are publicly available online. These only a few examples:
- The Tempus Logic is the best brokerage in the car transport industry that I have ever used.
- I was a little skeptical about shipping with a broker, but it worked out well for us. We had an Avalanche shipped from TX to IL
- Excellent service! Great communication, I knew each step of the way.
At Tempus Logix, the team of friendly professionals ensures that every request is handled efficiently while providing all the necessary information to make an informed decision when choosing an auto transport provider.
The Challenges of Auto Shipping in Remote and Rural Locations
Living in a rural area is always a good idea; that’s to say, nature’s beauty, fresh air, and remarkable quiet are great advantages that no one would say no to. However, that isn’t the one and only side of rural life; instead, there’s another dark one which includes poor services, expensiveness, distance, and uneven roadways.
The prior downsides impose additional restrictions and make life hard for the rural areas’ population. For example, auto transport services could be arduous, and that’s for many reasons, which we are about to discuss.
1. No Door-to-door Auto Transport Service
Poor road surfaces, deep potholes, and steep roads are regular occurrences in rural and remote areas. As a result, the massive, bulky trailers won’t, by no means, find their way to the houses there; thus, inhabitants won’t be able to enjoy the luxury of the door-to-door shipping service.
Consequently, they must agree with the auto transport company on a median location where both the clients and trailers can reach. In such a case, a car owner will be obliged to go for the terminal-to-terminal auto transport service and drive their car for long distances, exposing it to different road hazards and dangers.
2. Long Distances and Additional fees
Even though auto transport trailers can never reach clients’ houses, they must undertake a long journey to arrive at the pre arranged pickup and delivery locations. Long distance means long drives, and long drives impose additional risks on the transport trailers; as a result, auto transport companies will impose higher fees than any other locations that
might not require all these challenges and efforts.
3. Risky Drives
Driving on the roadways of rural or remote areas isn’t only challenging for the huge auto transport trailers. Rather, it’s also hazardous for car owners themselves. For clients to be able to deliver their vehicles to the pickup location, they will expose their cars and themselves to dangerous road conditions.
Chances of accidents or car breakdowns are there, especially if the weather is awful with mud, snow, frost, etc. So, drivers must be highly cautious and attentive not to run through an accident or cause any damage to their car.
How to Deal with Challenges of Auto Shipping in Rural Areas?
The challenges mentioned above are unavoidable, and anyone who lives in a rural or remote area must deal with them. However, the impact of these challenges could be limited by following the next tips:
1. Hire a Good Auto Transport Company
Transporting cars to and from rural areas requires an advanced level of proficiency, as dangers and hazards are greater than in any other place. So, hiring a reliable, reputable auto transport company is a must for someone concerned about their vehicle’s safety.
It’s noteworthy that not all auto transport companies operate in remote areas, so one must conduct comprehensive research. Besides its ability to operate in rural areas, a dependable auto transport company must have:
- An advanced fleet of trailers, ready and eligible for reaching such critical areas
- Certification from the FMCSA
- Long years of experience
- Positive reviews from past clients
Tempus Logix is among the leading service providers in the US. They’ve been transporting different types of cars to and from various areas nationwide.
6. Go for the Enclosed Trailer
The chances of car damage are high with rural roadways’ poor, deteriorated conditions. So, experts always recommend investing in additional safety precautions by renting an enclosed trailer.
This type of trailer provides shipped vehicles with complete protection against any damage. It comes for a higher fee than its counterpart, an open trailer; however, it’s worth the investment.
7. Get the Vehicle Ready for the Trip
Hiring the right auto transport company isn’t the only thing to do to guarantee a safe shipment. Instead, there are further preparations required on the client’s part. As a first step, a car owner must prepare their car documents, including vehicle registration information, proof of insurance, a driver’s license, etc.; not all auto transport companies require all these documents, so one must ensure that before sending their car out.
Then, a thorough wash must uncover all issues on the car’s body; these include dings, scratches, dents, paint chips, discolorations, and anything that affects the external. This step will facilitate documenting the car’s pre-shipping state and be able to deliver a comprehensive report for the auto transport company. Documenting the car’s state by taking photos and videos is the safest and most convenient way to compare its pre-shipping state with its post-shipping one.
Removing external accessories and loose parts is recommended if the car isn’t transported in an enclosed trailer.
The bottom line
No matter a remote or populated location, auto transport processes are complicated and require collaborating with a qualified team of carriers. Transporting within a rural, remote area comes with additional restrictions; no one can deny that; however, hiring the best auto transport company and properly preparing the vehicle for shipping will make the process go smoothly.
Towing Safety Tips: How to Protect Your Car On The Road?
If you’re considering using your tow vehicle to transport your cargo, it may be worthwhile to familiarize yourself with proper towing procedures. Successfully towing a trailer, car, or any load necessitates being prompt, alert, and attentive. Although it may appear daunting or stressful, it becomes effortless once you prepare well.
In this article, we will first explain some terminologies about towing trailers, introduce the equipment used in the towing procedure, and provide some safety tips to help drivers protect their vehicles on the road.
Towing terminology and equipment
One can only learn how to safely tow and drive a towing vehicle by acquiring some commonly used acronyms and expressions related to safe towing regulations. These expressions refer to the towing vehicle and trailer, and we will explain related terms separately.
Trailers terminology
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) refers to the weight of an empty trailer
- Cargo Capacity refers to the weight limit a trailer can carry, including any items loaded inside
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) indicates the maximum amount a trailer can safely weigh
- Tongue Weight or Hitch Weight indicates the weight a trailer puts on the towing vehicle, which, depending on the kind of trailer, could be 10 to 20% of a GVWR
Note: If we add up the cargo capacity and unloaded vehicle weight, we will get the GVWR for a trailer.
Towing vehicles terminology
- Empty Weight is the weight of an empty towing vehicle
- Cargo Capacity, again, is the weight a towing vehicle can carry, like passengers, fluids, cargo, etc.
- GVWR also refers to the maximum amount a towing vehicle can safely weigh. It is calculated the same way by adding up the empty weight and the cargo capacity
- GCVWR, which stands for Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating, is the overall weight of a towing vehicle combined with the maximum weight of the towed trailer
- Towing Capacity is the max weight limit of a trailer a towing vehicle can tow
Towing Equipment
People must know about towing equipment and its functions to tow a trailer to a towing vehicle properly. We will start by introducing the parts of a trailer and how they generally work during the towing process.
- The Tongue is part of the trailer connected to the tow vehicle’s hitch, which helps support and balance the trailer during the towing process
- The Coupler is attached to the tongue and is a safe connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer
- The Hitch secures the trailer by providing resistance against forward motion when attached to a tow vehicle
- Locking Pins help ensure everything is secured during transportation by preventing unwanted movement between parts of the trailer assembly
A trailer has a tongue that stretches out to connect to the towing vehicle and a hitch that distributes weight when the tongue is pressed down. At the end of the tongue, a coupler attaches to the trailer’s hitch receiver, which should fit the ball mount of the towing vehicle. Finally, the hitch is secured to the ball mount using locking pins.
Safety chains keep the trailer connected to the towing vehicle if it detaches from the coupler. Remember that safety chains should be crossed under the coupler to keep the tongue from getting disconnected. In addition, the chains should match the combined weight of the trailer and the towing vehicle.
Towing safety tips
Now that we have introduced the terminology related to towing vehicles and equipment used for correct and safe towing, everyone should still know some tips about towing and driving a towing vehicle.
The first thing to do is check the vehicle’s towing capacity, typically found in the owner’s manual. Remember that it is important to review all the instructions and safety tips specific to the towing vehicle before towing anything to it.
Now, load the trailer properly to ensure it is well balanced and avoid overloading or towing above the vehicle’s capacity, as it could lead to damaging the vehicle, towed trailer, and cargo.
Loads must be secured tightly and properly distributed to avoid concentrating the weight in one place, making driving the vehicle dangerous. Avoid putting items too far toward the front or back of the trailer. Instead, keep them distributed on both sides of the trailer and over the axles. Remember to check for the vehicle’s condition before towing anything to it.
Check for tires’ condition and pressure as well as for blind spots. Readjust mirrors by installing extension mirrors to see down the trailer’s top side. Most importantly, ensure that brake lights and turn signals are working properly, so drivers can see the trailer and know when you want to turn, slow down, or stop.
It goes without saying that towing vehicle drivers should drive much slower than they normally do, watch out for obstacles, and scan the road before turning. It is recommended to perform a driving test in a location with plenty of space to practice driving the vehicle with its towed cargo before driving it on a real road.
If you are planning to tow another vehicle to your towing vehicle, you can avoid all the headaches and unnecessary overwhelming hassle by hiring a professional auto transport company to handle the task safely. Tempus Logix boasts years of experience and only works with qualified veteran drivers ready to move your vehicle from anywhere across the States.
Finally, towing a vehicle, a trailer, a boat, or anything to your vehicle can initially seem daunting. However, the process will go smoother and easier after preparing the right equipment, consulting an expert, and using the correct techniques.
Auto Shipping for Car Collectors: Protecting Your Investment During Transport
Car collectors are always on the hunt for good cars, so they’re ready at any time and price to get the car they view as a good investment and make their business ball rolling. However, for this ball to roll, collectors can’t restrict themselves to one area; rather, they must expand their circle and operate across the United States.
However, with this inevitable need for expanding, transporting cars to and from clients and sellers becomes unavoidable. So, in this article, we will spotlight some of the most effective tips for protecting a collector’s car during transport.
1. Secure Cars in Bad Conditions in an Enclosed Trailer
Car collectors might buy vehicles with oil leakage or dead batteries and purchase cars in very miserable conditions, viewing them as a great challenge. Vehicles of these kinds are fragile, and any damage, no matter how minor, might negatively affect them and kill any possibility of fixing and reselling them.
So, if a car collector wants to ship a car of this type, they must be extra careful and not settle for any carrier’s type; rather, they must ensure additional safety by going for an enclosed trailer.
Even though it might seem a little absurd: shipping a broken car in a sophisticated vehicle is for the collector’s benefit; they won’t have to deal with additional damages and issues.
2. Hire a Dependable Auto Transport Company
Whether the shipped vehicle is in good or bad condition, any car collector expects high-quality service. This good service won’t be granted to any car without collaborating with a reputable, dependable company. So, one must take the time to research available auto transport companies and confirm whether they match the essential standards or not. These standards include:
- Registration in the FMCSA
- Long years of experience
- Fair pricing
- A collaborative team of customer service
- Advanced, sophisticated auto transport trailers
All the above criteria are found in Tempus Logix, a dependable auto transport company with over eight years of experience in the industry.
3. Go for Door-to-door Auto Transport Service
Some car collectors gather their cars in an inventory, while others work on a narrower scale in their house garage. However, no matter the case, car collectors must opt for the safest pickup and delivery options by going for the door-to-door shipping service.
This service ensures the car collector the most convenient and stress-free transport; they won’t need to drive a weak vehicle anywhere in dangerous circumstances. Instead, the auto transport company will handle the process from A to Z without troubling the client with any phase of the process.
4. Properly Prepare the Car for Shipping
Even though the auto transport company plays a crucial role in the safety of the shipped car, a client is equally responsible for their car’s safety. The clients’ part of the deal involves thoroughly preparing their investment, and that’s by washing its exterior and noting any visible issues.
This step will guarantee the client’s right to claim insurance coverage in case of an accident. Furthermore, emptying the gas tank is recommended to lower the shipping fee and minimize fire risk during transport.
In addition, all car issues might be manageable by the auto transport company; however, the leak problem harms the trailer and any other vehicles onboard. So, to avoid additional fees and ensure the safety of all the shipped vehicles, the oil leakage issue must be addressed first.
5. Opt for the Best Deal
Service providers in the auto transport industry rely on different factors and take many considerations for calculating their auto transport quotes. As a result, prices must differ from one company to another, with some providing high, unreasonable quotes and others providing reasonable, fair ones.
So, clients must do their homework by ordering quotes from many service providers and hiring the most reasonable after comparing them. It’s also noteworthy that many auto transport companies offer special, competitive discounts for car collectors. Thus, it’s worth the trouble to research and gather information from all available, reliable auto shipping companies.
6. Keep an Eye on the Weather Forecast
Weather is one of the most influencing factors that might contribute to the failure or success of the shipment. Some auto transport companies postpone their trips in severe weather conditions, such as extreme heat, rain, snow, etc. In contrast, others proceed, no matter what, exposing the shipped vehicles to severe weather conditions and risks.
So, to ensure the shipped car’s safety, one must pay close attention to the weather forecast during the shipment’s day and react accordingly. Experts suggest going for an enclosed trailer during harsh weather conditions, as these trailers keep the shipped cars safe no matter the weather.
Conclusion
Car collectors view their cars as a very profitable investment, so they’re always hesitant to make any move that threatens their safety. Even though they might seem risky, auto transport services could go as smoothly as possible by following the tips we put together above. Car collectors must always remember that the success of the shipment is a collective effort between them and the auto transport company.
Tempus Logix Reaches A new Milestone With 45,000 Vehicles Shipped
We are thrilled to announce that we’ve reached a new milestone by shipping over 45,000 vehicles across the United States since we started doing business eight years ago. This is a significant achievement for our company, which has been steadily growing and expanding its services over the years. As a testament to our commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction, we always receive positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients.
Even though 45,000 vehicles shipped may seem like a small number compared to some of the bigger players in the industry, we at Tempus Logix take immense pride in achieving this milestone in such a short period of time.
“Our success is a direct result of our dedication to providing exceptional service to our clients. We take pride in knowing that we have helped thousands of clients ship their vehicles safely and efficiently across the country. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that every shipping process is handled with care and attention to detail, from the initial booking to the final delivery.”
CEO of Tempus Logix, United States
As the demand for auto shipping services continues to grow, Tempus Logix is poised to meet the needs of even more clients in the coming years. Our extensive network of over 25,000 carriers and experienced logistics professionals makes the company well-equipped to handle any auto shipping request, from individual vehicle shipments to large-scale commercial projects.
“Our focus has always been on providing the best possible service to our clients, and we’re proud to have reached this milestone of 45,000 vehicles shipped. We understand that shipping a vehicle can be stressful and complex, and we’re committed to making it as easy and hassle-free as possible for our clients. Our team is always available to answer any questions and provide expert guidance throughout shipping.”
CEO of Tempus Logix, United States
In addition to its core auto shipping services, Tempus Logix offers value-added services to make the shipping process even more convenient for its clients. These include door-to-door shipping, expedited shipping options, and continuous tracking. The company also offers competitive pricing and encouraging discounts to make its services accessible to more clients.
As the company looks towards the future, its focus remains on providing its clients with the highest level of service and continuing to grow and expand its services. With its strong reputation for quality and reliability, Tempus Logix is well-positioned to become the go-to choice for anyone needing auto shipping services in the US. Whether shipping a car across the country or town, you can count on Tempus Logix to deliver your vehicle safely and on time.
Top 8 Tips for Buying a Car at an Auction
A car auction is a great place for buying a used car for half of its worth; the incredible selections a buyer gets when shopping from an auction are unparalleled, as well. And regardless of whether one is looking for a classic or regular car, auctions, in all their types, cater to every buyer’s needs.
But to get the best out of a car auction and ensure that they do not get confused or played, there’s some advice a buyer must bear in mind. Here’re the top eight tips to remember before going to a car auction.
1. Establish a Realistic Budget
“How much am I willing to pay for a vehicle?” is a very important question to ask before looking for a car in an auction. Considering a price range will help narrow down the options and direct buyers to vehicles that match their budget and expectations.
However, before establishing a budget, a buyer must look through vehicles’ prices in an auction and how much they must allocate to guarantee they find a car up to their budget.
2. Study Available Options in Advance
Any auction, no matter how small, will boast a variety of cars of different models, sizes, capacities, etc.; this variety, actually, might distract a buyer and make them scratch their head about which is the perfect vehicle to purchase.
This scenario can be avoided by preparing for the auction in advance; a buyer can access the available vehicle in an auction online through an auction website. By that, one will get the chance to study available options, scale them down, and settle for a number of cars to examine them closely.
3. Consult a Professional
Those who shop from auctions aren’t necessarily experts who know each and every part of a car and know how to identify the good from the bad. Instead, they could be ordinary people with humble knowledge of the wide field of cars.
So, going to an auction with that humble knowledge and determination to purchase a vehicle might not bring a buyer the best outcomes; they might be deceived. Thus, a buyer must consult a professional by bringing them on board to the auction or consulting them online; an expert might only spot many hidden issues and unconsidered car problems.
4. Keep your Ears Open
Before an auctioneer listens to bids, they will read out details and descriptions about the car. Having open ears and paying attention to each word an auctioneer says at this point is crucially important, as it might make or break the deal.
5. Be Flexible
It happens that one finds their dream car in an auction and pins all their hopes, and allocates all the money they have and don’t have for it. Some buyers get increasingly carried away that they’re willing to pay way more than the car’s actual worth only because they don’t want anyone else to own it.
However, that’s dangerous and might cost them a fortune. So, one has to be prepared for such scenarios and be ready to let go of a great car to keep their budget balanced.
6. Be Patient
No matter how tempting the vehicle and its price might be, the gravest mistake is to bid too soon and accept the initial bid. What happens is that the auctioneer needs an initial price to start with; this price is usually high and will be reduced as long as no one accepts the bid. So, it’s better to be patient and wait till the price is more affordable.
7. Don’t be Deceived
Sellers work so hard to make their cars look attractive, new, and tempting, and that’s by polishing, painting, and glazing it, in an attempt to make it look new. The car’s exterior, however, shouldn’t be all that matters; rather, it should be given an eye after examining its mileage, the accidents it has been involved in, engine, battery, etc.
8. Hire a Reliable Auto Transport Company
One must be prepared to go to an auction with a car purchase in mind. If lucky enough to get matched with a good car, a buyer must have a plan for delivery to its new place. Some people resort to affordable solutions by driving their new car home; however, when the auction is distant, and this solution isn’t on the table, hiring an auto transport company is the safest option.
Dealing with a dependable auto transport company at this stage is critical, as no one would be happy getting their new car damaged on the way. Tempus Logix, an eight-year-old auto transport company, is a good option for delivering a car to its new home. The company operates across the United States and has long experience shipping all types of vehicles.
The Bottom Line
Purchasing a car from an auction could be a great challenge, especially for someone shopping there for the first time. However, by getting to know the process and the most important tips we put together in the article above, the purchase will go way smoother and more convenient.
March Madness: Get Your Car Shipped With Our Discounted Prices
Are you looking to move your car in March? You’re in luck because Tempus Logix offers a special March Madness Auto Shipping Promotion just for you. We are excited to offer discounted rates on our auto shipping services for the entire month of March.
As a trusted name in the auto shipping industry, we take pride in our ability to deliver your vehicle safely and on time. With our auto shipping promotion, we want to make our services even more accessible to our clients across the US.
“We understand that the cost of moving can add up quickly. That’s why we’re thrilled to offer our March Madness promotion, allowing our clients to take advantage of our top-quality service at a discounted price.”
CEO of Tempus Logix, United States
How to Get Your Discount
To take advantage of this promotion, simply contact our customer service team to schedule your car shipping. Additionally, we’ll provide you with a personalized quote based on your specific shipping needs, including the type of vehicle, distance, and any other special requirements you may have.
Expert Service and Technology
Our team of expert auto shippers is dedicated to ensuring that we deliver your vehicle safely and on time. We use the latest technology and safety features to guarantee your car is in good hands.
“At Tempus Logix, we’re committed to providing exceptional customer service. With our discounted rates, there’s never been a better time to choose us for your auto shipping needs.”
CEO of Tempus Logix, United States
Special Discounts for Students and Military
You can receive significant discounts as a student using Tempus Logix for your car shipping needs. Specifically, you may be eligible for a discount of up to 7% for a one-way shipment and, furthermore, up to 12% for a round-trip shipment. Additionally, if you collaborate with other students to organize your car shipment, we offer even greater discounts.
We would also like to express our sincere appreciation for the exceptional service of our active-duty military members. As a token of our gratitude, we are pleased to offer up to a 10% discount on military auto transport services for all active-duty members. At Tempus Logix, we proudly support our military and their families.
Returning Client Discounts
Returning clients of Tempus Logix are a crucial part of our success, and we strive to reward their loyalty with special discounts and incentives. We understand that shipping a car can be expensive, especially for those who frequently use our services. That’s why we offer discounts for returning clients as a way of saying thank you for their continued trust and support.
“At Tempus Logix, building strong client relationships is essential to our success.Our goal is to provide top-quality service at a fair price. Our discounts for returning clients are just one way we demonstrate our commitment to this goal.”
CEO of Tempus Logix, United States
Contact Us Today
Don’t let the cost of moving your car stress you out. Contact us today and take advantage of our March Madness promotion. We value your business and want to make your experience seamless and affordable. Let us handle the logistics of shipping your car so that you can focus on the more important aspects of your move.
Auto Transport Guide: Shipping a Car with an Open Carrier
People might need to move their vehicles cross-country for several reasons, so they hire a trustworthy auto transport company. From relocating and vacationing to moving online purchased vehicles, people are mostly concerned with having their cars shipped with no mistakes made.
There are two popular types of auto shipment in the auto transport industry. People either haul their vehicles using enclosed trailers or by using open carriers. With each method, the shipped car will reach its destination intact.
Yet, people keep wondering about the difference between each auto-hauling method. Thus, this guide looks at the open auto transport method from different areas. Here are the main topics this guide discusses:
- What is an open-air trailer?
- Types of open carriers
- Open auto carriers pros and cons
- When to use open auto transport and when not to use them?
- How long does open auto transport take?
- Open auto shipment costs
Now, let’s dive deep into each topic so readers learn about everything related to open carrier auto shipping.
What is an open trailer?
Open trailers are the standard shipping method for loading vehicles into an uncovered carrier with no sides and roof coverage. This type of auto transport is the most common in the auto-hauling business. Usually, when customers ask for an auto shipping quote, they will be given the shipment cost using an open carrier unless they specify another method of car shipment.
Almost 90% of the entire fleet in the U.S. is open carriers, which makes it a faster and easier car-hauling method. Open carriers’ availability allows more flexibility when scheduling auto-shipping dates and enables shorter pick-up and delivery times.
Open automobile transport companies are registered, insured, and licensed by the US Department of Transportation.
They are regulated by the same law enforced by the USDOT and FMCSA and follow the same safe and efficient auto shipping standards
Types of open carriers
Open carriers come with different types, sizes, and weight capacities. Open carriers can generally carry up to 12 vehicles at a time, and other open auto carriers can haul fewer vehicles. Here are the three types of open carriers in the auto transport industry.
Double-level multi-car carrier
Double-level multi-car carriers are the most popular option for open carriers. They are the most effective and cost-effective choice, and they can transport ten to twelve cars at once. Open car carriers are lighter than other types of carriers, they use less fuel, which lowers their fuel expenses. Most modern carriers have hydraulic ramps for easy and fast vehicle loading and unloading.
Single-level multi-car carrier
Single-level multi-car carriers can load one to three vehicles simultaneously, making them a good option for hauling luxury, sports, and classic automobiles. This type of open carrier is perfect for expedited services. Despite being designed for short distances; they are also used to haul cars over long distances.
However, they are less popular than the standard double-level carriers, but these single-level carriers are a faster option since they can load cargo quickly. Hence, the fewer hauled vehicles, the more auto-hauling prices will increase.
Dully trucks with a single-level tow trailer
Like the single-level multi-car carrier, trucks with a tow trailer can haul between one and three vehicles. Such open carriers are easy to operate, providing express deliveries and ensuring faster service. In addition, as with the previous open carrier, less cargo capacity leads to fewer bookings and auto-hauling waiting times.
Furthermore, dully trucks are ideal for local and short-distance deliveries. They are also perfect for low-clearance vehicles, vehicles with special modifications, SUVs, and inoperable cars.
The pros and cons of open car carriers
Having introduced open carriers and their different types, we will now dive deeper into what differentiates open auto carriers from other carriers by listing the pros and cons of using them for auto hauling.
The pros of open carriers
Open carriers provide several advantages, such as:
- Cost-effective: open auto carriers are cheaper and more affordable for auto shipment due to three main factors. First, they are lighter in design and require less fuel, thus reducing overall fuel costs. Second, most open carriers are designed to haul 10 to 12 cars, which allows for splitting fuel costs between hauling and shipping. Finally, because customers commonly choose open carriers, they have become cheaper.
- Flexible scheduling: many available open carriers on the road facilitate finding a carrier and scheduling pick-up and delivery times, allowing for more convenient shipping options.
- Suitable for all types of vehicles: open carriers can accommodate any vehicle, whether it has special modifications or not. Being open from the sides, open carriers make room for cars with special modifications, large or heavy vehicles.
Open carrier cons
On the other hand, there are still some downsides to using open auto transport.
- Exposure to the elements is a major drawback of open auto carriers. When shipping cars with an open trailer, they will be exposed to various elements on the road. Debris, dust, and severe weather can cause damage to the hauled vehicles. Still, exposure to external elements shouldn’t be an issue for standard vehicles driven regularly, as they are often exposed to the same elements on the road.
Customers concerned about their cars’ safety can request a ‘top load’ service where vehicles are loaded on the upper deck of the carrier. This option also protects the vehicle from leakage from other cars on the same carrier. Another useful tip is using a protective cover to keep the car clean and in proper condition.
In all cases, open carriers provide enough insurance coverage if the vehicles sustain damages while in transit. So, customers can file a claim with the auto shipping company responsible for the damage to be reimbursed for full repair costs.
- Less security: with open carriers, cars won’t receive optimal security measures and will be exposed to external elements and the preying of thieves. So, hire a company that takes the necessary precautions to prevent such accidents.
When is it recommended to use open carriers?
While open car carriers are not always the ideal option, there are still several occasions when using open auto transport can be a good and efficient method. First, open carriers are perfect for regular family vehicles that are not of a high value or require careful attention while handling.
Also, open auto transport is good for people on a tight budget who cannot afford the more expensive auto-hauling services and want to save money. Fortunately, open auto transport charges reasonable prices for a convenient and efficient service.
Finally, people in a hurry or booking at the last minute can choose open auto shipping, as they won’t have to wait long to find an empty spot for their vehicles on an open trailer. Open car carriers guarantee immediate booking and fast scheduling.
When not to use open carriers?
In some cases, open auto transport is not the best choice on the market. This is especially true when shipping high-end vehicles for long distances. Vehicles with sentimental, historical, or collector value also need special hauling equipment, special handling, and great care and attention. Of course, no one owning such valuable assets would want to expose them to road elements or theft.
How long does open auto transport take?
The duration of auto transport depends on many factors, including shipping distance, the routes that auto transporters need to take, the stops they need to make to load and unload vehicles, weather conditions, route availability, etc.…
In any case, expect a faster auto shipment when using open car carriers because they are more common and available. Generally, vehicles transported over 2,000 miles could take four days to reach their destination, as open carriers drive roughly 500 miles daily.
However, distance is the major determinant of auto-hauling time. Short-distance trips could take a couple of days, while the period for longer-distance auto shipping could take weeks.
After all, those looking for faster deliveries can either book reasonably ahead of time – say 2-4 weeks in advance – or choose an auto shipping company that offers expedited auto shipping services.
At Tempus Logix, we pride ourselves on providing timely auto shipping services. We also provide auto transport options and work with over 25,000 insured and licensed carrier companies. Our clients are consistently pleased with the services we offer and we work hard to win over new ones. Allow us to turn you into one of our satisfied customers if you haven’t used our services before
Open auto shipping costs
The costs of shipping a car using open carriers are also subject to several factors. Again, distance and shipping locations play a role in determining the shipping costs. Shipping for short distances costs less as costs per mile decrease for shipping over long distances.
The vehicle’s dimensions, weight, state, make, and model are further considerations. Because they occupy more room aboard the carrier, heavier or larger vehicles may be more expensive than smaller ones. Also, shipping inoperable vehicles comes at higher prices, requiring special equipment and additional labor.
Nevertheless, shipping vehicles via open car carriers are still the cheapest option, as open auto transport prices range between $500 and $1200 and more depending on the covered miles and the previously mentioned factors. Hence, the costs of auto shipping using open carriers are less than 30% to 40% than other auto shipment methods.
Knowing open auto transport costs
To obtain an accurate auto shipping cost, customers can contact an auto shipping company by phone or use an auto transport cost calculator that most reliable auto shipping companies provide on their websites, such as the calculator provided by Tempus Logix.
Our auto shipping quote calculator is AI-based and gives accurate instant and no-obligation auto shipping costs for free. You only have to fill out shipping locations, provide your vehicle’s details, and choose the preferred transportation type to get a free auto shipping quote.
Moreover, customers are recommended to obtain multiple auto shipping quotes from several companies, compare them, and then choose the most reasonable one. This way, they can find the best price and service that match their needs.
Wrapping up
All in all, customers gain several benefits when using open carriers to haul their vehicles. Open carriers are the first means of auto transport used in the industry, and they are more popular, convenient, faster, and economical. Still, the auto shipping experience can only be perfect when hiring the right auto transport company that makes relocation easy.
