Car transport services?

[lucky 1985]

I gotta bring my 85 El Camino from the shop working on it to my place. The distance is about 250 miles. My EC runs and drives but it is not street legal, so driving it is not an option.

I have looked at dozens of auto transport companies, and without exception, reviews for them are very negative and scary. Most reviewers complain about being hit up for more money before the driver will drop the car. Written contracts mean nothing, and deposits are NEVER refunded if you cancel. No-shows on pick-up dates and drop-off dates are normal. Some drivers insist on meeting you "close" to where the vehicle was supposed to be delivered. What other hurdles can they throw at you? I am unwilling to trust these services.

Can anyone recommend a transport company or service that you personally have used and were happy with? Any and all recommendations considered.

Thanks.

 

[LeftLaneOnly]

what state are you in might help

 

[Ribbedroof]

Almost all of the online "shippers" are actually brokers that tell you a lowball price and then try to find a trucker that will do it for less so they make $$$$ on it.

Horseless Carriage is good, but expensive

The HAMB has a few shippers that have a good reputation....might poke around in there.

If you're thinking of hiring a "guy with a trailer", be aware that IF something were to happen, their insurance is likely not going to pay for damages....that's why bonded/insured transporters are expensive.

 

[lucky 1985]

what state are you in might help

I am in Texas. Dallas to Austin are the beginning and ending points.

 

[ELCAM]

Temporary Permits | TxDMV.gov

www.txdmv.gov

 

[lucky 1985]

Almost all of the online "shippers" are actually brokers that tell you a lowball price and then try to find a trucker that will do it for less so they make $$$$ on it.

Horseless Carriage is good, but expensive

The HAMB has a few shippers that have a good reputation....might poke around in there.

If you're thinking of hiring a "guy with a trailer", be aware that IF something were to happen, their insurance is likely not going to pay for damages....that's why bonded/insured transporters are expensive.

Yep on the brokers/lowball stuff. The "Wild-West" mentality, where the driver can hold your car hostage is what really chaps my butt.

Not gonna do the gypsy-hauler thing, too risky.

 

[Tomeal]

You could rent a U-Haul truck and trailer and do it yourself.

 

[airboatgreg]

Do you have a friend in the car sales industry? They use haulers to get cars to and from auctions. They may be able to point you in the right direction. I used several over the years and never had an issue

 

[lucky 1985]

You could rent a U-Haul truck and trailer and do it yourself.

That would be a good choice if I was able, but I am not.

 

[lucky 1985]

Do you have a friend in the car sales industry? They use haulers to get cars to and from auctions. They may be able to point you in the right direction. I used several over the years and never had an issue

Good point. I've been researching hotshot delivery services.