Nobody wants shipping delays when moving a car. Whether it’s for a move, a new purchase, or whatever, you want it there ASAP. So, will delays cost you more money?
Sometimes, delays happen (bad weather, traffic, etc.). You should know how these things will impact shipping costs. This guide will cover the reasons for shipping delays, if added costs are involved, and how to deal with delays without spending too much.
Step 1: Getting Shipping Delays
Shipping delays usually happen for a few different reasons. Some are outside the transporter’s control. Some arise from things involving shipment or destination.
Why Shipping Gets Delayed
Weather: Heavy rain, snowstorms, or hurricanes can really slow things down. When it’s dangerous to travel, transporters change routes or hold off on deliveries. Our top priority is keeping everyone safe – the driver, the car, and everyone else on the road.
Traffic: Accidents and heavy traffic are just a part of life we have to deal with. But with car transport, these things can cause some pretty big delays. In that case, transporters would need to alter their routes which can cause later arrivals.
Car Problems: Mechanical issues do happen with the truck, and it can definitely make things take longer.
Paperwork Issues: If you ship overseas, things could get held up in customs or with paperwork snags.
The everyday grind: Poor planning, multiple stops, or issues with available transporters can create delays. No matter how small, delays can cause some inconveniences to the parties involved.
Knowing why delays occur can help you figure out if you might have to open your wallet.
Step 2: Extra Fees for Delays?
Now that you know the reasons for delays, let’s talk about fees. Will you have to pay more? It all relies on the situation and agreement with the transport company.
When to Expect Fees
Some companies might charge extra if the delay is your fault. For example:
Late Pick-Up/Drop-Off: If you hold up the process (not being there for pick-up or missing paperwork), they might tack on fees to cover the extra time and hassle.
Storage: If they beat you there, they may charge holding fees. If your car is ready, and you aren’t, they may put the car away in storage and charge you extra.
Changing the Plan: Changing the destination or timing mid-shipment may cause delays and added fees.
When You Probably Won’t Pay
Sometimes, delays aren’t the transport company’s fault, so they won’t charge you.
Bad Weather: Most shippers don’t charge extra for weather delays. It’s usually out of everyone’s hands, and that’s that.
Truck Trouble: If the truck breaks down and stalls the shipment, you typically won’t see any added costs.
Accidents: You should not have to worry about extra fees for accidents either.
Always Read the Fine Print
Look closely at your shipping contract and see what it says about delays. A lot of transporters have clauses about how they handle delays. Some might give you a little leeway (storage), and some don’t.
So read the contract and ask a lot of questions on the front end.
Step 3: Keeping Delays and Fees Away
The best plan is to dodge delays and fees in the first place. Here are some tips:
- Plan and Be Flexible
Shipping a vehicle takes extra time, and the more time you give, the better. By planning, you reduce the stress and worry if something goes wrong.
- Stay Connected
Good communication is key. Keep in touch with the transporter. If something changes (address, availability), let them know ASAP to keep things moving.
- Pick a Good Transporter
Go with one known for being on time. Check out reviews, driver experience, and their service. The more experience they have, the better they’ll be at handling delays, so you aren’t stuck with extra charges.
- Get the Timeline
Know exactly when to expect your car. A delivery window helps you prep for potential delays.
- Think About Insurance
Insurance doesn’t stop delays, but it can ease your mind if something happens while shipping.
Step 4: Your Car is Delayed – Now What?
Keep calm if your car is delayed, and take action:
Call the Transporter: Learn what’s going on, and get a new delivery time.
Talk Fees: If it’s not your fault, ask about added costs and get everything clear before agreeing to the next delivery.
Storage: Ask about storage if you need more time for pick-up/drop-off so you can avoid storage charges.
In Conclusion: Handle Shipping Delays
Shipping delays are part of the game, but they don’t need to cause huge issues. You can cut the chances of added costs by knowing what causes delays, being ready, and talking to your shipping company.
When shipping your vehicle, ask your transporter all about fees and tips to avoid delays. At Car Transport, we offer transparent prices and aim to deliver your car in great shape and quick. Contact us to know about our services and how we can move that car!
