Vehicle transport is a crucial service that helps many people relocate cars, trucks, motorcycles and other vehicles across long distances safely and efficiently. However, there are still some widespread myths and misconceptions about the auto transport industry that prevent customers from fully understanding their options. In this article, we will review and debunk eight of the most common myths to provide clarity around this important service Vehicle Transportation Services.
Myth #1 – All Carriers Are the Same – Vehicle Transportation Services
One of the biggest misconceptions is that auto transport companies are completely interchangeable and provide identical services. However, carriers can differ significantly in terms of equipment, driver experience, transit times, included services and insurance coverage. It’s important for customers to carefully research multiple carriers to find one that offers the right combination of safety, reliability and value for their needs.
Myth #2 – Open Car Carriers Are Less Secure
Some consumers mistakenly believe that enclosed car haulers provide superior security compared to open carriers. In reality, both carrier types can transport vehicles safely when operated by experienced, reputable companies. Open carriers actually allow for easier visual inspection of vehicles during transit. Drivers on enclosed haulers may not notice potential issues as readily. The security of a transport largely depends on the carrier’s operational standards and tracking technology rather than the equipment type alone.
Myth #3 – Vehicle Transport Is Always More Expensive Than Driving
| Expense | Driving Yourself | Transporting |
| Gas | Higher | Lower |
| Tolls/Parking | Higher | Lower |
| Lodging | Higher | Lower |
| Driver’s Time | Higher Cost | Lower Cost |
As this table illustrates, transporting a vehicle professionally often costs less than driving it yourself due to fuel, lodging and time savings. Factoring in the reduced stress too, auto transport is frequently the most practical financial choice.
Myth #4 – Carriers Won’t Pick Up Older Vehicles – Vehicle Transportation Services
While most transport companies specialize in moving newer cars, many also handle older models from the 1990s or earlier. The age of a vehicle itself does not preclude it from being hauled. Rather, carriers evaluate elements like repair/maintenance records, overall condition, working features like brakes/lights and empty weight. As long as safety standards are met, qualified drivers can transport vehicles built decades ago cross-country as successfully as late models.
Myth #5 – Transport Damage Is Very Common
Statistics show that well under 1% of transported vehicles incur any damage during professional transport. With skilled teams who regularly move tens of thousands of automobiles, reputable carriers have stringent policies and loss prevention systems in place. Though incidents can occasionally happen, damage is actually quite rare when entrusting a vehicle to an established auto transporter. Proper packaging and handling methods coupled with driver accountability makes transport one of the safest relocation options.
Myth #6 – Cars Must Be Empty During Transport – Vehicle Transportation Services
It’s a widespread misconception that vehicles can only be hauled if they contain absolutely nothing. In reality, carriers permit personal items to be left inside as long as they are properly secured. Loose objects pose a risk of damaging the vehicle or endangering drivers in transit. But carriable items like floor mats, car seats and secured luggage are normally okay to transport. Operators provide guidelines on what types of cargo are permitted versus prohibited.
Myth #7 – Long-Distance Transport Takes Multiple Weeks
With their nationwidefleets andoptimized routing, many reputable auto transport companies can deliver automobiles across the entire contiguous United States within 7-10 business days. While longer routes involving ferries or remote locations may extend times somewhat, cross-country trips are seldom drawn out over weeks as commonly believed. Customers scheduling well in advance also have the flexibility to choose fasterpreferred delivery windows when available.
Myth #8 – Carriers Don’t Handle Exotic, Luxury or Classic Vehicles
Luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Tesla are routinely transported alongside more mainstream nameplates. In addition, specialists exist who focus exclusively on relocating antique, collectible and one-of-a-kind exotic automobiles. With tailored secure equipment and the experience moving irreplaceable high-value vehicles, these professionals transport luxury models, classic cars and unique rods/customs across the country every day. Proper insurance is also available to protect such specialized transport.
By separating fact from fiction, hopefully this article provided useful insights into the auto transport field. Customers can feel confident using a reputable carrier’s services for any vehicle relocation needs large or small after dispelling these common misperceptions.
