Choosing an International Shipping Company
March 5, 2014
Today’s post is specifically for our international fans. We know we have a global following, and that the logistics of buying a classic car get even more complicated when the car has to be shipped around the world. So here’s to you! We hope this bit of insight helps…
While searching for your favorite classic car at Pomona, you stumble upon the one (or at least a car that can be restored to become the one). And you’ve come prepared. You’ve got the cash in hand, and the seller is ready to make a deal. The hardest part, it seems, is that the car has to be safely (and legally) shipped overseas to reach its new home in Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Sweden, or?? First things first, finding the right international carrier who will make your dream car’s journey virtually hassle-free.
Tips for Choosing the Right International Carrier
- Ask questions and get quotes: Contact several companies to get an idea of just how much it will cost to ship the car home. And always read the fine print before committing to a particular shipper. There will often be additional charges that might not be obvious in the early decision making stages. Make sure the quote clearly outlines the services that are included, such as door pick up, delivery to a certain place (point of export, be it transporter’s warehouse, port or dock), marine shipping insurance, crating (for motorcycles), loading, fumigation, container drayage, all necessary paperwork, customs clearance, export declaration, bill of lading, etc. Ask each shipping company exactly what they require to ship the car, and what their price includes. You’ll also want to ask about their process, to get an idea of how protected your car will be.
- Check the BBB: The Better Business Bureau has had some ups and downs recently (specifically, a cash for grades scandal here in Southern California). But, generally, the BBB is a trusted source for information regarding businesses based in the United States, and they’ve just opened a new full service office in Los Angeles. When having your car or truck shipped, check the BBB to see if there have been any complaints against the shipping carrier. Once on the BBB site, simply type the company name in the search field. The BBB will provide a grade for the company, information on when and if the company has been “BBB Accredited,” and details on any consumer complaints that they’ve received.
- Check with the FMC: The Federal Maritime Commission can also help you determine a shipping company’s legitimacy. The FMC is an independent federal agency responsible for regulating the U.S. international ocean transportation system for the benefit of U.S. exporters, importers, and the U.S. consumer. From the FMC’s website, you can download a list of Ocean Transportation Intermediaries who have complied with their regulations. Just click on the “OTI List Download” link near the top right of the page. Then search the downloaded Excel file for the specific shipping carrier that you’re interested in using. If the shipping company is on the list, you know that they’re licensed, bonded, and meeting the FMC’s compliance standards.
Always do your homework, and get referrals whenever possible! Buying a classic car should be an exciting and fun experience. Don’t let the experience go sour by choosing the wrong shipping company.