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Frequently Asked Questions
Auto Transport and Shipping Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find answers to the most asked questions about car transport services.
- Top Questions
- Pickup and delivery
- Cost, Payment & Cancellation Policy
- Types of Car shipping Services
- Insurance & Personal Items
- Additional FAQ
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How long does it take to ship my car?
The average shipping time depends on the distance. The time frame breaks down to pick up window and delivery time.
- The pick- up window in general is 1-5 business days from the date the vehicle is ready to be shipped (see First Available Date). Be aware that it might take longer to get a trucker assigned if the pick-up location is in a rural / remote area.
- The delivery time after pick up depends on the distance. For details please see Transit time.
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What is First Available Date?
The date the vehicle is ready to be shipped (loaded), however this is not necesserily the exact pick up date. Depending on truck availability at that particular time we may be able to assign a truck to load your vehicle on your First Available Date, but if not within our usual pick up window of 1-5 business days starting from that date. For more details see pick up date and time.
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Transit Time
Distance / Miles Calendar Days 0-100 1 to 2 300-600 2 to 4 600-1000 3 to 5 1000-1500 4 to 6 1500-2000 5 to 7 2000-2400 6 to 8 2400 and up 8 to 10 -
How do I know when is my pick up date and time?
After a truck has been assigned / dispatched we will email you a "Dispatch notification" with the estimated pick up / loading date, along with the trucker's phone number. Regarding the time, the trucker usually calls a couple of hours ahead of time to notify you of his approximate arrival at your address. Special arrangement could be made upon request.
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Can you guarantee a delivery date and time?
Yes we can. However, you have to decide if you need the car by a certain date or on a certain date. Based on that we can get you a customized quote.
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How do I pay for my auto shipping?
We require a small partial payment of $199 by placing the order and we accept all major credit cards and Paypal. The remaining balance you will pay with cash or certified funds at the time of delivery directly to the truck driver.
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Can I pay in full with my credit card?
Yes you can. If you want to pay in full online you can do that at booking by choosing the 'Regular price' option that will allow you the convenience of one-time payment in full with a credit or debit card, as well as Paypal.
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Can you guarantee a pick up date and time?
Yes we can. However, you have to decide on your pick up window - whether you need the car picked up by specific date or on specific date, which will determine the extra cost involved to guarantee your time frame. Please, call our office for a customized quote if you need guaranteed pick-up / delivery date(s).
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What is Door-to-Door auto transport?
This means that the auto transport truck driver will pick the vehicle up and drop it off as close to your home as he can legally and safely get. Many cities have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into some residential areas. Transport trucks are enormous and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to your home is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees, speed bumps or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet the truck at a large parking lot nearby such as a grocery store. You will receive a call directly from the auto transporter if these alternative arrangements are necessary.
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Is the booking deposit refundable?
If you cancel your order prior to the assignment of a carrier, the deposit paid will be refunded in full. However, if you decide to cancel the order after a truck has been assigned ( see Paragraph 10 of how we notify Customer for dispatch in our Terms and Conditions ) to that order the deposit will NOT be refunded.
- Can't find what are you looking for? Click here for more FAQ's.
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How long does it take to ship my car?
The average shipping time depends on the distance. The time frame breaks down to pick up window and delivery time.
- The pick- up window in general is 1-5 business days from the date the vehicle is ready to be shipped (see First Available Date). Be aware that it might take longer to get a trucker assigned if the pick-up location is in a rural / remote area.
- The delivery time after pick up depends on the distance. For details please see Transit time.
-
What is First Available Date?
The date the vehicle is ready to be shipped (loaded), however this is not necesserily the exact pick up date. Depending on truck availability at that particular time we may be able to assign a truck to load your vehicle on your First Available Date, but if not within our usual pick up window of 1-5 business days starting from that date. For more details see pick up date and time.
-
Transit Time
Distance / Miles Calendar Days 0-100 1 to 2 300-600 2 to 4 600-1000 3 to 5 1000-1500 4 to 6 1500-2000 5 to 7 2000-2400 6 to 8 2400 and up 8 to 10 -
How do I know when is my pick up date and time?
After a truck has been assigned / dispatched we will email you a "Dispatch notification" with the estimated pick up / loading date, along with the trucker's phone number. Regarding the time, the trucker usually calls a couple of hours ahead of time to notify you of his approximate arrival at your address. Special arrangement could be made upon request.
-
Can you guarantee a delivery date and time?
Yes we can. However, you have to decide if you need the car by a certain date or on a certain date. Based on that we can get you a customized quote.
-
Can you guarantee a pick up date and time?
Yes we can. However, you have to decide on your pick up window - whether you need the car picked up by specific date or on specific date, which will determine the extra cost involved to guarantee your time frame. Please, call our office for a customized quote if you need guaranteed pick-up / delivery date(s).
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How far in advance should I book my auto shipping service?
There is no lead time required to book our car shipping service. You can book for immediate shipping, but preferably you should book a few days in advance. Please read more about First Available pick up date.
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Do I have to be there when the car is picked up/dropped off?
At pick up / delivery either you or someone else, over the age of 18, has to be there to sign the Bill of Lading / Condition Report.
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How can I track my vehicle while in transit?
Tracking of your vehicle is done by phone and / or email during business hours.
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How do I know when is my delivery date and time?
Delivery date will be sent to you along with the pick-up in your "Dispatch notification" email. The phone number for the trucker delivering your car will be included, and the trucker will call you a couple of hours in advance to let you know the approximate time of delivery. Special arrangements could be made upon request.
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Can I change my First Available Date?
Yes, you can change your First Available Date, but you can do so before a trucker has been dispatched / assigned on your transport order.
- Can't find what are you looking for? Click here for more FAQ's.
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How do I pay for my auto shipping?
We require a small partial payment of $199 by placing the order and we accept all major credit cards and Paypal. The remaining balance you will pay with cash or certified funds at the time of delivery directly to the truck driver.
-
Can I pay in full with my credit card?
Yes you can. If you want to pay in full online you can do that at booking by choosing the 'Regular price' option that will allow you the convenience of one-time payment in full with a credit or debit card, as well as Paypal.
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Is the booking deposit refundable?
If you cancel your order prior to the assignment of a carrier, the deposit paid will be refunded in full. However, if you decide to cancel the order after a truck has been assigned ( see Paragraph 10 of how we notify Customer for dispatch in our Terms and Conditions ) to that order the deposit will NOT be refunded.
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How long is the quoted price good for?
Our online Calculator is live and its reflecting the current market conditions, thus the price may change at a certain point. The only sure way to book the price you see is to place an order online at the moment you are receiving the quote.
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How much does it cost to ship my car?
The car transport cost depends on a few components:
- Type of vehicle - size and weight
- Condition - running or not running. Under running car we understand that the engine starts and the car moves on its own power. Not running is a car that does not start including dead battery
- Type of trailer / transport method - open or enclosed
- Distance / mileage
- Location - metro or rural area
- Modifications - lowered, lifted, larger tires, racks on top etc.
- Seasonal Fluctuations i.e. - 'Snowbirds' season affecting in / outbound Florida routes. Please refer to our snowbirds section for more details and special discount for snowbirds car delivery services.
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What do I do if I need to cancel my auto shipping? Do I get refund?
Every cancelation needs to be submitted in writing to info@montway.com, per our cancellation policy. For deposit refund see 'Is the booking deposit refundable?'
- Can't find what are you looking for? Click here for more FAQ's.
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What is Door-to-Door auto transport?
This means that the auto transport truck driver will pick the vehicle up and drop it off as close to your home as he can legally and safely get. Many cities have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into some residential areas. Transport trucks are enormous and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to your home is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees, speed bumps or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet the truck at a large parking lot nearby such as a grocery store. You will receive a call directly from the auto transporter if these alternative arrangements are necessary.
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What is Top load?
Most car carriers are double 'deckers' . Top load means that your car will be loaded on the top deck and to guarantee this it will cost extra ($75 on average). Top load prevents from possible fluid leaks from vehicle above yours. Also, there is a less chance for small rock chips. This is an optional service. Your car may end up on the top level for the regular price (no extra charge), without even requesting it, but it is not guaranteed.
*Disclaimer: If you request the Top load: A trailer with a single deck is still considered Top load as it guarantees that there will be no car above yours. -
What is the difference between open and enclosed car shipping?
- Open is the most commonly used car shipping method. The car sits on a trailer exposed to outside elements such as rain, sun, dust etc. It is a safe and secure way of transporting your vehicle. New cars are mainly delivered to dealers by open trailer. With open car shipping you have the option to request Top load for extra protection.
- Enclosed is more desired collector cars transport and used for classic cars, luxury, vintage, custom and sports automobiles. The vehicle is not exposed to weather elements and flying objects (prevents from possible rock chips).
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What type of truck trailer will transport my car?
That depends on your choice of car shipping service. It will be either open or enclosed trailer hauling multiple vehicles.
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What methods of car shipping services do you offer?
Montway Auto Transport offers open and enclosed car shipping.
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Is your service Door-to-Door?
Yes it is. We only offer door-to door car shipping. For more details please read What is Door-to-Door auto transport?
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What types of motor vehicles do you ship?
Montway Auto Transport ships all standard types of vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, pick-up trucks, minivans and regular cargo and passenger vans.
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My vehicle is inoperable / non-running, can you transport it?
Yes we can transport inoperable car, but the car must roll, break and steer. If the car does not roll or steer, we can still transport it, but there must be a forklift provided at pickup and delivery. In addition, it's easier if the vehicle is located in a wide open area, accessible for a big truck.
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My vehicle is modified / oversized, can you transport it?
Yes we can. You have to call our office for a customized quote. The price you will get from our online quote calculator is based on a standard, not modified vehicle.
- Can't find what are you looking for? Click here for more FAQ's.
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Can I transport personal items in my car?
In general you're not allowed to have personal items loaded in your vehicle while in transit on a car carrier moving across state lines. However we've determined that having one suitcase OR box in the trunk only is not an issue and the trucker will accept it without extra charge. If you're in a need to have more items loaded in your vehicle, please contact our office for customized quote.
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What if I pay extra and have my items shipped inside the car?
This can be arranged, however those items inside the car are not insured. You are simply paying for the extra weight.
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Is my vehicle insured during transportation?
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured while is being transported.
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What do I do if my car is damaged during the transportation process?
At the time of delivery the trucker will present you with a Bill of Lading / Condition report. If there are any damages:
- Mark it down on the Bill of Lading / Condition report in the appropriate section - customer exceptions at delivery
- Take pictures
- Contact our company to request the Certificate of Insurance
- File a claim
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What is the type of insurance policy my vehicle is insured under?
The type of the insurance policy your vehicle is insured under is Inland Marine cargo. This insurance policy protects goods while in transit on land. It is an outgrowth of the ocean marine insurance and it compensates for losses and damages to the objects being moved.
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Do I have to pay deductible?
No, you don't.
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Are personal items in the car insured?
Personal items inside the car are not covered by the carrier's cargo insurance.
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What if there is a damage to my car caused by my personal items?
Any damages to the interior caused by personal items are not covered by the carrier's cargo insurance. Be advised that personal items can damage the interior of your car due to possible shifting caused by vibrations on the road.
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How is the car value determined under the Inland Marine insurance policy?
The car value is determined based on the actual cash value of the vehicle at the time of the loss.
- Can't find what are you looking for? Click here for more FAQ's.
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Do I leave gasoline in my car?
Yes, you should have some gasoline in the tank, preferably 1/4 of the tank.
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What to do to prepare my vehicle for transport?
- The vehicle should have clean exterior so the trucker can make a proper inspection.
- Empty your vehicle from any personal belongings.
- Remove all loose parts attached to the body, any non-permanent luggage, bike or ski racks.
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Is Montway Carrier or Broker?
We are carrier and broker. Both of our licenses are posted on the home page of the website.
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Should I expect any additional mileage on my vehicle?
No. Your vehicle will be driven only for loading and unloading on the car carrier trailer. You can note your mileage on the Bill of Lading / Condition Report at the time of pick up.
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How do I recognize a good company in front of bad one?
You need to verify that the car shipping company is USDOT licensed and properly insured. A reputable company will have their licenses posted on their website and directly linked to USDOT / FMCSA for you to verify. You should also look for the BBB membership seal with an 'A' rating, and make sure it is an Accredited business with the Bureau. Last but not least, you should read some car shipping reviews on third party review sources such as TransportReviews, ResellerRatings etc.
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Where will my car be picked up and delivered?
The car will be picked up / delivered from / to the address specified by you. For more specific information please see Door-to-Door auto transport.
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Can I trust your car movers with my high-value vehicle?
Yes. We hire only prescreened truckers who are qualified and have experience in the car moving industry. We constantly monitor their safety score with FMCSA and reputation rating on the National Central Dispatch Board.
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How long has Montway Auto Transport / Carriers been in business?
Montway was established in 2006 as a family owned company and it still is. For more details about Montway Auto Transport / Carriers history please read our About Us section.
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What is the difference between a trucking company and a Broker?
A trucking company owns the trucks, has company drivers and they serve a very limited number of routes / areas. On the other hand, a Broker has a huge network of car carriers servicing the whole country. Most of the time a Broker can get you a better deal just because they have established relationships with carriers who rely on their freight all the time. Another advantage of using a broker versus trucking company is that it's the broker's responsibility to verify the USDOT authority, federal licenses and cargo insurance of the trucking company that will transport your vehicle. A Broker is an expert in the industry and will guarantee that your car is shipped by legitimate trucking company.
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Will I receive car shipping contract?
With Montway Auto Transport everything is in electronic format and your confirmation email is your car shipping service contract.
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Where can I find reviews for Montway Auto Transport?
We are a five star rated company on several major transport reviews platforms. Visit our Montway auto transport reviews page to read real customer stories, get informed about other people car shipping experience and access independent feedback sources online for more in depth information about Montway.
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