Car shipping can be very stressful during the planning process and even more so during the actual car shipping process itself. That's why it's a good idea to do everything in your power to avoid costly mistakes while transporting your vehicle. Here are some Do's and Don'ts when you engage in vehicle shipping in Dubai that you may not have heard of before.
Book the appointment a week early
It is important to book with any of the best shipping and logistics companies in UAE at least a week before you want your car shipped. This is for the simple reason that it takes time to organize an automobile transporter and to find a carrier who will take your vehicle. Make sure to book the appointment as early as possible to avoid any last minute rush, which can be expensive in many ways.
Clean your car
As you prepare for shipping your vehicle to/from Dubai, the first thing you should do is clean it inside and out. This will make it easier to spot any new damage when the vehicle arrives. You will also want to remove any personal items, tollway transponders, cell phone holders, EZ Passes and anything else that could be stolen or damaged while the vehicle is in transit.
Have a realistic timeframe in mind for the delivery
When you're shipping a car across the country, it's important to have a realistic timeframe in mind for the delivery. Your Dubai air cargo shipping carrier will offer you an estimate for that timeframe when you book your transport. It should fall between two and four weeks, depending on where your vehicle is being shipped from and to. If you need your vehicle by a specific date, make sure you discuss it with your carrier beforehand so that they can accommodate your needs.
Don't fill your gas tank.
You should have less than a quarter tank of gas in your car when it is being shipped. This is for two reasons:
Gas is heavy. The weight of your car determines how much you are going to pay for shipping and if you fill up the gas tank, it can increase the weight by approximately 100 pounds or more. You should only leave about ¼ of a tank full when shipping your car so that it does not affect its weight.
It is not safe to transport a vehicle with a full tank of gas. If there were to be an accident, the fuel could leak or even explode.
Prepare for inspection
Prior to engaging in vehicle shipping in Dubai, it is important that you note any damage that is currently on your vehicle. You will need to note this on a written or typed inspection report. It is suggested that you take photos of all angles of the vehicle as well as close-up images of existing damage like scratches or dents. This will help if there are any disputes later down the line. It can be used as proof if something happens while shipping that causes more damage or if there was a misunderstanding about what was already damaged. This can save you time and money down the line so it is very important when shipping your vehicle.
Make sure you are insured for the value of your vehicle.
If you are shipping your vehicle for the first time, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Don’t forget that you may need to include extra costs for certain services such as residential pick-up or delivery, fuel surcharges, and insurance. Also, if you have any modifications or special features added to your car, be sure to let your auto transport company know.
You may not be able to see what is going on beneath the surface of your vehicle, but unfortunately there is potential danger lurking below the hood. Your car can sustain a lot of damage during shipment, especially if it is a long distance move.
In order to make sure that your vehicle will be safe during transit, choose a carrier from shipping and logistics companies in UAE that has proper insurance coverage and make sure you are insured for the value of your vehicle. The truck driver should have insurance coverage as well as the company who is transporting the car.
You should also check that the carrier has all of their license and permit paperwork in order before they transport your car.
Remove Aftermarket Electronics
Aftermarket electronics installed in a vehicle should always be removed prior to shipping for a variety of reasons. For example, auto transporters are not responsible for loss or damage to personal property left in the vehicle during transport. This means that if your stereo is damaged during transport you cannot recover its repair or replacement cost from the auto transporter.
Further, aftermarket electronics may interfere with the way a carrier loads your car onto their truck, which could cause damage to your vehicle during transport. In some cases, drivers may refuse to load a car with aftermarket items installed if they believe it will interfere with loading or unloading the car itself. Finally, carriers do not have insurance coverage for aftermarket items left in the vehicle. Items like GPS navigation systems, DVD players and entertainment systems are all easily removed from a vehicle for transport.
Reputable Shipping And Logistics Companies In UAE
One of the most important things that you need to keep in mind when shipping your vehicle is to make sure that you find a company that is professional and reliable. There are few shipping and logistics companies in UAE offering you a very transparent and seamless car shipping process.
In short, it is essential that you fully understand the duties and steps involved in shipping a vehicle before beginning the process. Neglecting these details can result in a damaged or totaled vehicle, or one that arrives at its destination much later than expected, both of which you want to avoid. Vehicle shipping in Dubai is not a quick process, but learning proper protocol and following certain rules can get you through the shipping process safe and sound.
FAQs
Are there any restrictions regarding the brands and models of vehicles that it can transport?
Make sure that the chosen from the long list of shipping and logistics companies in UAE can transport your vehicle. It sounds silly, but it is worth checking. Some companies handle only small cars, while others specialize in heavy trucks. Some carriers might not be able to transport certain makes or models (even if it is just a minor restriction).
Will you require an enclosed or open car carrier?
If you are shipping a luxury or classic vehicle, you may want to opt for an enclosed carrier. However, if cost is a factor then an open carrier may suit your needs just fine.
How do I know what is the actual "door-to-door" shipping quote?
If these shipping and logistics companies in UAE actually offer door-to-door service, it does not mean that your vehicle will be picked up at your house and delivered directly to your desired destination address. Instead, it gives the auto shipping company the option to deliver to either location, but either way, they have some flexibility in where they can drop off and pick up your vehicle.