Choosing an RV transporter can seem complex, but it is quite manageable if broken into small steps. Spend some time researching companies before you give them your business, as they will potentially be towing or driving your RV across several days and thousands of miles. RV transport is considered a specialized service, so not every company that transports cars can also move RVs. By taking some time to research and choose an RV transporter, you can ensure that you will receive your RV quickly, safely, and in the same condition that it was dropped off.
Checking Your RV Transporter’s Authority
The most important thing to verify in a potential RV transporter is that they are legally permitted to transport your RV. All motor vehicle transporters are required to have DOT (Department of Transportation) and MC (Motor Carrier) numbers on file. When reviewing the uShip profile for a potential transporter, these numbers will be displayed. The FSCMA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) maintains a website where you can verify licensing and authority information. Make sure that the information shown on SaferSys matches the information that the transporter gives you.
Verify Your RV Transporter’s Coverage
Click here for uShip’s complete guide to RV transport protection. Generally, all licensed RV transporters are required by law to carry at least $750,000 in liability and property damage insurance (also known as BIPD), in addition to proper licensing and authority. When speaking to a transporter, get the name of his insurance agent, who can fax you a copy of their insurance certificate. It is critical that you do this when screening transporters, as this insurance will cover some types of damage that your RV might incur in transit. Remember that you can always purchase additional protection for a nominal cost through third-party policies such as the uShip Protection Plan.
Consider Multiple Bids
In order to get the best price, create a detailed listing with all the specs of your RV. You will receive bids from qualified transporters who can complete your shipment. When choosing between these transporters, check out the bid details and any questions they may ask, as well as view their uShip profile. Remember that price is important, but a low quote due to a transporter cutting corners when it comes to licensing or liability coverage may cost you much more in the long run if any problems arise in transit.
Check References and History
Before accepting a bid for RV shipping, look into the history of the RV transport company and their feedback from other customers by viewing their uShip profile. Here, you can get a good picture of how long they’ve been transporting and how well they’ve done with shipments similar to yours. When talking to the transporter, ask them how long they have been in business and for a few references from past customers. Whether past customers were satisfied with a company’s service speaks volumes about what your experience might be like. The BBB (Better Business Bureau) is a good place to check if any complaints have been lodged against a company, and if so, how they were resolved. Searching the internet for a transporter’s company name can also yield helpful information.
Ask Your RV Transporter Questions
Last but not least, ask your transporter lots of questions. A good company will be patient and answer your questions, down to the ones specific to your shipment. Make sure that your RV transporter has the proper equipment to ship your RV, and inquire about the RV delivery timeline. You should always receive a written contract signed by both you and the RV transport company, but before signing it, ask questions about any parts that you do not understand or object to.
Your RV is a big investment, and before handing it over to a transporter, you will want to make sure that it arrives quickly and in good condition. By following these steps, you can be confident that RV shipping will go smoothly.
