When it comes to shipping your car, either to transport it cross-country, overseas to another country, or purchasing a car online, there are a lot of considerations to think about. Of the most important considerations of car shipping is the knowledge of the shipping process itself and the effect that various shipping containers have on the car itself and its overall condition. In this article, we will discuss all you need to know about car shipping and containers, and the reasons why you should have the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the car inspected prior to purchasing a car online.
Understanding Car Transport and Containers
Car transportation entails the movement of a car from a specific location to another location, and this is normally carried out by specialized transport companies. The car is either loaded into a shipping container that is either open or closed based on the protection that is needed.
Open containers are the less expensive option with the components exposed to rain, dust, or perhaps road rubbish. These containers are less expensive to buy and are ideally suited to vehicles that are strong and less vulnerable to the elements.
On the other hand, covered containers are a better protection measure because they shelter the car away from the elements. These containers are normally applied to luxurious vehicles, unique models, or highly valued vehicles that are handled with a lot of care. Although this is a very expensive option, you have the guarantee that the car will be kept secured the entire duration that you are shipping the car.
Both options are their own strengths, and the choice between them will ultimately boil down to the character of your car and the price you are paying. Ensure that you deal with a quality transport company to provide the best shipping solution to you.
The Importance of VIN Inspection before Purchasing a Car
Before purchasing a car, especially a car imported from a distant area or a country, checking the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is extremely crucial. Each car is provided with a unique VIN number, and the VIN number includes a lot of information about the car’s make, model, engine type, year of manufacture, and the manufacture location.
When buying a car, especially if you are purchasing a used car, you must conduct a proper VIN check to check its status and record. To check car accident history you can view vininspect.com to know if the car was involved in a crash, if the title is clean, if the car was stolen, etc.
Not only will this check avoid the danger of fraud, but also the danger of acquiring a car with unknown issues, such as prior damages or unrepaired recall issues. In verifying the legitimacy of the VIN and the record of the car, you are lowering the possibilities of acquiring a problematic car that will cost you a lot of money down the road.
Choosing the Right Car Transportation Company
Selecting the best car transport service is the key to a smooth and secure transport of the car. Ensure that you look at companies with established reputations within the industry, are properly licensed, and insured. Look at reviews of the company by other customers and seek referrals to lead you to the best choice.
You should also inquire about the types of containers they have. Ask them if they have enclosed transport solutions or open transport solutions, and if they have tracking solutions so you can monitor the movement of your car to the final location. Good communication and trust are the key to leaving your car with a transport company.
Conclusion
Car transportation can proceed smoothly without a hitch if you choose the right shipping container and shipping company. If you are shipping by open containers or enclosed containers, you must also consider the protection that you must provide to the car. It is also a requirement to conduct a proper VIN check before you purchase a car to avoid ending up with a car with a tainted record. With the proper precautions and proper planning, you can transport the car without a hitch.
