By CarMovers.com

Moving away to college is an exciting phase in any young person's life. More often than not, many move away with nothing more than a couple of suitcases. However, in some cases, they may also need to move their car. Now, if you own a brand new car with little mileage and it'll cost you more to purchase another one than move it, then consider moving your car. Otherwise, if you own an older car, it may save you time and effort to just sell it and buy a new one. So, if you do need to move your car and can't drive it yourself, you'll have to use a car mover. Here are some tips for all you college-bound kids needed to use car movers.

Picking a Car Moving Company:
Try to ask for referrals from friends and family for car moving companies. You may find someone through them and if you go through someone you know, then you may get some extra discounts or extra service normal customers wouldn't get.

If you don't know anyone who knows a car mover, do your own research. Go on the Internet and do a Google search. Don't just go for the first company search results. Pick 5 or 6 auto transportation companies and do more Google searching on them. See if they have a good or bad reputation on the Internet. When you do narrow down your choices, call them up and ask for a quotation. Ask to see their credentials and check if they are licensed and insured. They may also be members of associations like American Moving and Storage Association, Household Goods Forwarders Association etc. so it's important to check. Check their references.

Once you do pick one company, make sure you have written agreement and sign off only on this agreement. Usually, if you're moving across the country, the company will need about four weeks to deliver your car, so make sure this is ok and you won't need your car four weeks before your move.

Preparing Your Car:
Before you hand over your car, there are a few things you should do first. Make sure you record the condition of the car, both with written and photographic evidence and have the mover sign off on this. Also record the mileage and fluid levels. Next, remove all your possessions inside to ensure nothing gets lost or stolen. Put only copies of registration and insurance papers in the glove compartment and have originals with you. If you have car alarm, disable it. Leave about ¼ of gas in the tank as this will make your car lighter for transport.

After Your Move:
Once you receive your car, you need to make sure it is in the same condition it was in when you handed it over to them. Inspect carefully inside and out for damages and check everything against the initial inspection you did before the move. Do a test drive to make sure the car is running properly. If you do find yourself with an unscrupulous mover, take the necessary steps to get compensation for the damage or loss they have caused. You can either file in small claims court or hire a lawyer. At the very least, you should report them to the BBB or the moving associations they are a part of so you can warn future customers.

There are basic pieces of information you need to know when you are looking into companies to ship your vehicle and this guide is designed to provide you with that information and answer many other additional questions you may have...