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. Ask your RV transporter for both of these numbers. 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 Insurance Coverage

In addition to proper licensing and authority, all licensed RV transporters are required by law to carry at least $750,000 in liability and property damage insurance, also known as BIPD. 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. Check the terms of this insurance carefully, because there are several things that it excludes. Remember that you can always purchase supplementary insurance for a nominal cost if you want to.

Shop Around For Quotes

In order to get the best price, make sure to get quotes from several companies. Price is important, but remember that a low quote due to a transporter cutting corners when it comes to licensing or insurance may cost you much more in the long run if any problems arise in transit.

Check References and History

Before signing a RV shipping contract, look into the history of the RV transport company. 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 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 the RV shipping goes smoothly.