In previous articles, MetroGistics managing partner William Billiter addressed considerations for choosing the right carrier and how to secure reliable and insured transport. With so many vehicle haulers in the industry, it’s very important for dealers to partner with the right transportation provider that will deliver your inventory on time and undamaged.

New-car manufacturers have specific vehicle-transport guidelines, and while these are optional when shipping pre-owned vehicles, they provide excellent indicators of the care your transport provider takes in shipping your cars.

By asking these questions, dealers should not only be able to recognize a reputable car hauler, but also protect his or her bottom line. When vetting potential vehicle transporters, dealers should always ask the following questions in order to ensure adherence to high-standard shipping guidelines.

• Do you use straps or chains? The problem with chains arises when inexperienced drivers don’t know where the designated manufacturer holes in the frame are, or they use the wrong type of hook to secure the car.
   
• Do you use proper strap tie downs (over-the-wheel straps only)?
   
• Do you use four strap tie downs on each vehicle?
   
• Do your drivers wear proper attire? Exposed metal on belts, wallet chains, etc., can potentially scratch vehicles.
   
• Do your drivers wear clean apparel (e.g., boots, pants, jackets, etc.)?
   
• Are your drivers prohibited from smoking inside the vehicle?
   
• Are they prohibited from turning on the radio in a transported vehicle? This is very important, as drivers don’t need distractions affecting the loading/unloading of the vehicle or his/her safety and that of others nearby. 
   
• Do your drivers observe all speed limits within the loading facility?

These additional questions can help you get a better feel for if the transport provider is a good fit for you.

• Are they authorized to haul motor vehicles?
   
• Do they have good safety ratings?
   
• Do they have a good online reputation and/or Better Business Bureau rating?
   
• What is their reputation in the auto industry with new car manufacturers, used car dealers, rental agencies, auctions?
   
• Do they have courteous and professional drivers and dispatchers? Your dealership’s reputation doesn’t end with the sale of the vehicle.
   
• Do they provide daily status notifications on your vehicle? There’s nothing worse than not knowing where your vehicles are, especially if you’ve already announced a big sale.

As the transport purchaser, you have the right to ask these questions before booking a shipment. While not every transport provider will meet these very high standards, the reputable ones will have no problem answering these questions to your satisfaction.

Martha Garcia-Perry is director, account management with MetroGistics.