FAQ’s

How far in advance should I schedule the transport of my vehicle?

It is best to contact us as soon as possible. We have trucks delivering vehicles all over the country. As soon as we have your information, we are able to start planning your transport. Advanced notice and flexible pick up and delivery dates usually result in lower transport costs.

How long is the quoted price available?

The quote is good for 7 days

Where will my car be picked up and delivered?

We strive to provide door-to-door service to the addresses you have provided. There are cases where our drivers must meet you at a nearby location such as a parking lot (Home Depot, Walmart, work well). This can occur if you live on a narrow street, cul-de-sac or if there are low hanging wires or tree branches. Weight restrictions and other local laws can also create the need to meet at an alternative location.

Do I need Insurance?

You need insurance on the vehicle prior to transport. Any loss due to theft or damage that occurs due to an “Act of Nature” will be covered under your policy. The carrier’s policy is in force only in situations where damage is the direct result of the driver’s negligence.

Do I need to be present when the car is picked up or delivered?

Yes, you or a designated person will need to be present. Our drivers will perform an inspection of the vehicle and will need an authorized signature on the inspection and the bill of lading.

How do I prepare my vehicle?

The following preparations will make your transport a more pleasant experience:

Car Wash: In order to expedite origin inspection by your carrier, please provide the vehicle in clean condition. This allows for quick and fair evaluation of the vehicle prior to shipment, and establishes the standard for condition on delivery.

Antennas: Antennas should be lowered or removed. Temporary antennas for cell phones or CB radios should also be removed.

Keys: U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that one set of all keys for the vehicle be provided to the carrier, including the ignition, trunk, and glove box keys.

Alarms: Alarms should be turned off for transport. If there are special instructions required to start a car in order to disarm the alarm, please inform your Shank Bros. representative picking up your car. Shank Bros. is not responsible for drained batteries resulting from an alarm that has not been turned off.

Racks: Remove any luggage, bike, or ski racks that are not permanently attached to the car.

Leaks: The vehicle must have no obvious fluid leaks.

Battery: The vehicle battery must be secure in the mounting bracket.

Covers: All exterior spare tire covers, grill covers, or car covers must be removed.

Pre-existing Conditions: Shank Bros. will not be responsible for damage caused by any pre-existing condition or for parts which come loose in the moving process. For example, imperfections in glass (a nick, chip, crack, or other imperfection) can worsen during transport.

Climate: Make sure your car is prepared for any climate. Replenish coolants, transmission oil, anti-freeze and other fluids, as needed. Shank Bros. is not responsible for preventable damage caused by Acts of Nature.

Spoilers: Spoilers, fairing, air dams or other low hanging items should be removed, or sufficient clearance assured.

Caps/Canopies: Caps and canopies on pickup trucks must be properly secured to the box of the truck to ensure safe delivery.

Personal Items: Do NOT leave or transport anything valuable in your vehicle. Shank Bros. is not responsible for anything loose inside your vehicle including cell phones, radar detectors, garage door openers, E-Z Pass, removable radios, household goods, sunglasses, etc. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) prohibits the carrying of personal items on a truck licensed only for carrying automobiles. Stored personal items can also increase the overall weight of your vehicle, and could cause damage during transport. Any items left in your vehicle are subject to removal by the DOT at inspection stations.

Gas: The gas tank must have a minimum of 1/8 tank of fuel, but no more than 1/2 tank of fuel.

How will I know when you will arrive to pick up or deliver my vehicle?

Shank Bros. will stay in contact with you throughout your transport. Not only will our office contact you, but the driver will also give you advanced notice of their arrival.

Who will drive the car onto the transport vehicle?

Insurance rules require that the car be placed on the transport equipment by the transport driver.

When do I pay for my service? What methods of payment do you accept?

You pay the flat rate broker fee online only after your car has been assigned a carrier and a pickup date is scheduled. After we receive payment you will be emailed the carrier’s contact information. The balance of the transport fee must be paid in cash or certified check to the driver at time of delivery.