Outlook for Car Carriers in 2010, Treading Water the Way to Go

Business was not looking good for pure car carriers or anyone else in 2009. During the year, approximately one in five vehicle carriers were taken out of service in response to the decrease in demand. Many of the larger, older vessels will likely never be used again and will be set off to the scrap yard.

However, in 2010 it looks like there may be a need for many companies to plan for business to improve. The question will become how companies will look to handle the increase in business with so many vessels currently out of service. Do they bring old vessels back into service or make the commitment to future business by committing finances to new vessels?

Transportation companies will look to be more caution with what they spend while the automotive industry is still in flux. Efficiency and economies of scale will be the order of the day for companies as they look to survive the recent decline in business in anticipation for the inevitable upturn.

Companies that are able to tread water may be in the best position once the decline passes. However it will take cautious spending and sound operational cost management in order to do so. The decline will help those that are able to weather the storm as it makes it easier for companies to phase out older car carriers that are no longer economical to operate. They will be in good position to take full advantage of the economy once it finally improves.


http://www.joc.com/2010/h%C3%B6egh-autoliners-inc

Handling Damages When Shipping Cars, shipping cars, transportation company

Car shipping is almost always a simple and reliable affair. Your car is picked up on time for a reasonable price and it is delivered when it was promised and in the same condition in which it left your care. But how do you handle those rare instances when your car shows up at its destination with a scratch on the paint or a tear in the upholstery…or even missing an expensive rim?

First of all, whenever your car is picked up by a car shipping representative, make sure you complete an original inspection report. This will make note of pickup and delivery instructions, the mileage of the vehicle and the condition of it. Go over the car carefully with the car shipping representative, making note of any paint or body damage, the condition of the mirrors and all the windows, and the condition of the interior. Detailing the condition of your car protects you as well as the transportation company.

Then, when the vehicle is delivered to its ultimate destination, use that inspection report to go over the vehicle again. Take your time in going over your car, making note of any new damage on the inspection report. Point out any damage to the driver who delivered your vehicle and then have him sign the inspection report. This will generally be your only recourse in being reimbursed for repairs of damage that occurred while your vehicle was in the care of the transportation company. Finally, contact the transportation company to discuss the situation. Any reliable company will work with you to make sure your vehicle is repaired in a manner that is acceptable to both of you.

Source:
http://www.autotransportreviews.com/tips.php

Importing Cars to the U.S., Preparing the Vehicle

Once all appropriate documentation has been gathered for the vehicle that is being imported into the United States from a foreign country, that vehicle should be prepared for overseas shipping. First the vehicle should be cleared of all personal items, just as it would be if it was being shipped across—inst4ad of into—the country. Empty the cab, the trunk, and don’t forget the glove compartment. This requirement is not only for U.S. Customs (any personal items would have to be declared upon entry) but to avoid the theft of those items in transit. Even though it will likely be transported in a secure area of the ship, it’s better not to take chances. And, in many cases, the transport service will not allow personal items to be shipped inside the vehicle.

Next, the owner should verify that the vehicle doesn’t leak coolant, oil, battery fluid, or any other type of fluid. Fuel can leak, too—and it’s combustible—so the owner should make sure that there is less than one-quarter of a gallon of fuel in the gas tank. Any loose parts, such as the antenna, should be removed. Mirrors should be folded back. Vehicle alarms should be disabled, as well.

Finally, whether it is a car, truck, or motorcycle, the vehicle should be thoroughly cleaned, as it is important to avoid bringing dangerous pests such as insects or rodents into the United States. This cleaning must include the vehicle undercarriage as well as the exterior and interior.

All of these steps will make it more likely that the vehicle will be delivered in its original condition.