International Shipping and Car Safety

Relocating is a major undertaking, especially if you are bringing your personal belongings and your car with you. If there is an ocean between you and your new home, this will involve maritime shipping and entrusting all your possessions to relative strangers.

To make sure that your cargo and car are in good hands, all you need to do is some research before you choose your shipping company.

Freight-forwarding is a competitive industry, and an unreliable business with a trail of dissatisfied customers is unlikely to last very long, so one that has been in existence for a reasonable amount of time is usually a good choice.

While it is not absolutely essential, choosing a local company can be of benefit, as you will be able to visit their premises and check their credentials, and therefore get a better sense of their professionalism and customer service.

Belonging to trade associations is also a good indication, as this means that the company is willingly adhering – and held – to certain standards. A shipping business should also be able to produce a valid government-issued license and insurance policies.

Trustworthy companies will break down what their quote is made of and will be able to explain anything that is unclear. Always be wary of lump-sum quotes which remain vague about what is or isn’t included, or of any reluctance to address your questions – you may well be talking to a business who either isn’t knowledgeable or is trying to overcharge you.

Last but not least, when your car is collected, ask to see the driver’s driving license and certificate, as well as your car’s bill of lading, and take a copy (or a clear picture) of all those documents.

With those simple steps, you can reduce the risks of unhappy surprises.

For further information on vehicle shipping, contact us, phone us on +64 9 303 0075, or get a free quote.

Click here to see our reference guide to making car shipping stress free with our tried and tested 1-2-3 step process.