Oct
20
Auto Shipping Brokers Versus Auto Shipping Carriers
October 20, 2009 | Leave a Comment
There are two companies in the ring. The carrier in one corner, the broker in the other. Which one are you going to put your money on?
Competitors in the ring
Auto shipping carriers are like offspring rabbits. There are so many out there it is crazy. They provide a large and convenient function for traveling vehicles, dealers, and special needs customers. You can basically do it all online or call for immediate contact; a slight problem is doing an in house meeting with them for most of the shipping companies are far away from your local area. Although this may be, it is pretty easy to take care of the quoting and rates online or over the phone. Most carrier companies have excellent customer service. Included in their rates is insurance which is imperative for your vehicle safety. They present an abundant way of travel convenience for your vehicle or equipment. Offering your vehicle to be transported via open or enclosed, by truck, LTL, freight, or boat; these are just some of the available services.
On the other hand, auto shipping brokers are individual agents operating as the middleman between you and the car hauling company. These brokers are widely used by both the trucking company and the individual shipping his vehicle. They definitely do ease the burden of both parties by bringing the clients and revenue to the shipping company and by handling the gory details of the move for the customer. The customer shipping the vehicle also enjoys the freedom of not being tied down to any one shipper and has a variety of companies and prices from which to choose. The customer can actually talk to the broker providing direct communication.
So Which One Gets the Prize?
The main difference between broker and carrier is brokers do not have their own trucks or transportation systems. Carriers have their own shipping utilities, and the cost is somewhat less expensive. Brokers are the people that find the companies for you, and get your vehicle picked up and delivered. A major problem for carriers is that their transportation services are far away from the customer and you can only use their services, but with a broker you are allowed full disclosure to a multitude of options without being tied down to any one company; as well as the benefit of relying on your broker to get the carrier to your destination quickly and easily.
Brokers are able to get your various quotes and rates and then accommodate accordingly. Brokers have the benefit of immediate interaction with the trucking or shipping drivers; it is promised with most carriers that this can happen but the reality of it is not always true. The fact is that most trucking or shipping companies don’t have the equipment to communicate directly to the driver. Plus, brokers, during communication, are working with one shipping service at a time. While the carrier companies have an abundant amount of trucks or other drivers spread around the USA or internationally, thus causing inherent lack of communication. Most carriers drop off the vehicles at terminals, yet working with a broker you have door to door service at your disposal; making it all much more convenient.
And the winner is? Everybody! Just pick the method most suitable to your needs and your pocketbook.
Visit JMN Logistics for more information on Auto Transport or follow JMN Logistics on their blog.
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