The car shipping process can seem pretty confusing and complicated, what with all the moving vehicles and car shipping companies available today, but it can be even more stressful if you’re on the receiving end of a shipment and you don’t really have control over the pre-shipment process. If you’re in this situation, here are a few tips to keep in mind in order to keep your stress levels down and your organization high:
- Although most vehicle transport companies (and especially international car shipping companies) will prefer to do an inspection of the vehicle before the shipment process begins, it’s always a good idea for the sender to do his/her own inspection — including pictures — as well. As the receiver, you may not have much control over whether the sender will do this, but it’s always a good idea to ask anyway. If possible, have the inspection forms and pictures with you when you receive the car. If you drive it away and then see that it’s damaged, it’ll be harder to prove that you didn’t cause it.
- On a similar note, when you receive the car, make sure to do your own inspection of the interior and exterior, and note any dents or scratches that you see. Reputable vehicle shipping companies will usually provide documentation upon delivery of the car, so it’s important that you remember to get this documentation.
- And finally, always remember to keep the sender informed of what’s going on! Even if the entire shipping process went smoothly, it never hurts to let the other person know that the car is safe and sound.
And of course, it’s always a good idea to give some feedback about the shipping company, so that you can encourage (or perhaps discourage) other people from using the service in the future.