|
Welcome to American Patriot Auto Transport, Inc
As former independent owners and operators of the Haulin’ Hermits, Inc,
our experienced staff knows the stress that is incurred with moving a vehicle.
Whether it’s a few states away or coast to coast, the stress is still
there and our team is dedicated to make it as worry free for our customers
as possible.
Our mission at American Patriot Auto Transport is to provide quality auto
relocation services to transport your vehicle in a timely, safe and professional
manner.
As a Bonded Broker, we have full authority to transport your vehicle within
the United States and even have an experienced staff to help assist you with
any international move.
We offer competitive pricing with our customers, but at the same time, (because
of our background as a carrier) we know what it takes to get your vehicle moved
in the timeliest manner.
When talking with our office, you will not be shuffled from person to person.
You will have your own personal agent assigned to work with you and help meet
your personal needs. Your agent will also track the progress of your vehicle
while in transit and update you with a status or any delays upon your request.
Common questions that customers ask.
How far in advance should I schedule my vehicle pickup?
The more notice we have the better. Trucks are picking up and delivering vehicles
all over the country. With advance notice, we can better schedule your vehicles
pickup.
How long does it take to transport my vehicle?
To transport a vehicle coast to coast usually takes 7-10 days. The most important
issue for people to understand about the process of car shipping is that this
industry is not like UPS, Fed-Ex, or even the Postal Service. Pick-up and deliver
dates are estimates, typically not guarantees. Unforeseen problems from mechanical
break downs, traffic, and weather all contribute to delays. Ironically, the
biggest delays for vehicle shipping companies are typically caused by their
own customers. Customers fail to show up on time, try to change pick-up or
drop off locations at the last minute etc. Patience is required, and most companies
want to get your vehicle to you as soon as you do. Make sure you have realistic
expectations about when your vehicle will be picked up and delivered.
How do I pay?
While some auto transport brokers require the full amount up front, we require
a $200 deposit prior to shipping. The balance remaining is always required
at time of delivery. You will need to have a CASHIERS CHECK or CASH ready when
the truck arrives. Some vehicle shipping companies may allow you to pay with
a credit card upon delivery, but this is not common. Payment methods should
be determined at the time of booking in order to avoid any confusion with the
carrier. If you choose to pay the carrier in CASH, make sure you get a receipt.
How will my vehicle be transported?
Open trailers are either partially or fully exposed to the elements. There
are many different types of open trailers, ranging from small three car carriers
to the large 11 car carriers that you often see on the Interstate. Enclosed
trailers are protected from the elements and your vehicle is basically shipped
in a mobile garage. Most cars can be shipped either on an open trailer or in
an enclosed trailer. It all depends on what you want to spend.
Why does a truck, SUV, or van cost more than a regular sedan?
Auto transporters are restricted by the United States Departments of Transportation
on the overall weight that can be placed on their trailers. Because of the
size of the larger vehicles, they take up more space, fuel to transport, and
a larger chunk of the max weight they are allowed. This is why there is a small
price difference of $50-$100 for these types of vehicles
Question: How is the transport supposed to work?
Auto transport is very simple. You should receive a call from the carrier any
where from 10 to 24 hours in advance of your pick-up date. The driver will
arrive, review the vehicle with you, and load it on the truck. The reverse
happens at the delivery point. The driver calls in advance, you'll walk around
the vehicle for damage, and take delivery.
Will the carrier deliver right to my house?
All of the quotes provided by American Patriot Auto Transport are for door-to-door
car shipping. Door-to-door should really have an asterisk after it, as it does
not always mean a truck will be able to pull up to your front door. Door-to-door
means that the truck driver will get as close to your specified pick-up or
delivery spot as he can legally and safely can. Large towns and cities often
restrict large trucks and prohibit them from entering into some residential
areas. Auto shipping trucks can be up to 80 feet long and drivers will need
lots of room to maneuver and turn around. When access to your residence is
restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees, speed bumps, or tight turns,
the driver may ask that you meet the truck at a large parking lot nearby, such
as a grocery store, school or shopping mall. Remember that auto carriers are
very protective of all the cars they transport and make this determination
with your vehicles best interest in mind.
|