Shipping cars by rail saves in fuel, mileage and driver expenses.
Shipping a car by rail over long distances in Canada is a time-saving and convenient way to avoid vehicle wear, mileage, fuel costs and driver expenses. Canadian vehicle transport companies operate coast to coast, offering a combination of services including door-to-door pick up and delivery. Vehicles are shipped using special ramps and rail cars designed to prevent damage during loading, transport and unloading.
Instructions
Planning, Preparation and Shipment
1. Plan route to transporter. Consider how your vehicle will be transported to a carrier's point of rail departure. If you live close to a major terminal, you can save money by driving the vehicle yourself. If distance or convenience is an issue, you can have the company pick up your vehicle from a residence or business.
2. Get quotes from as many companies as possible. Ask that rates include all taxes and fuel charges, with no hidden surprises. Request firm pricing on terminal-to-terminal and door-to-door services, or a combination of both depending on your needs. Inquire about additional insurance options. A carrier's basic cargo insurance usually carries a hefty deductible.
3. Reserve a shipping date. Most auto transport companies in Canada require at least two to five days notice before vehicle shipment. This time is used to arrange payment and shipping details. Booking further in advance increases chances for securing preferred pick up and arrival dates. Once a date is reserved, you will likely be required to prepare your vehicle for shipment using a checklist provided by the shipper. This will include the following points:
-Wash the vehicle
-Top up coolant and transmission oil
-Check tire pressure
-Make sure emergency brake is functioning
-Demobilize alarm systems
-At least 1/4 tank of gasoline
-Provide one set of keys with vehicle
-Lower or remove antennae
-Remove stereo face plates and GPS devices
-Remove low spoilers, fairings and air dams
-Secure caps and canopies properly
-Remove any non-permanent racks
-Do not leave personal belongings in vehicle
Items such as racks and antennae can be stored in the vehicle's trunk.
4. Have your vehicle inspected. Transport company surveyors perform the vehicle inspection at the point of departure, as determined in the shipping agreement. The inspection is performed to guarantee that both parties are aware of the vehicle's condition prior to shipment.
5. Allow three to 25 days for delivery. You will be notified of your vehicle's arrival and can arrange to pick it up at the destination terminal or to have it delivered via flatbed tow truck to a residence or business.
Be sure to inspect your vehicle upon delivery against the point of origin inspection report. Any damage resulting from shipment must be documented on the Bill of Lading with a signature from a shipping representative. Insurance companies will refuse a claim unless it is properly documented at the time of delivery.
