Month: <span>August 2023</span>

In today’s globally-connected world, mobility is essential. Whether you’re relocating for work, embarking on a long-term adventure, or serving in the military overseas, taking your privately owned vehicle (POV) with you is often a priority. The success of this venture largely depends on selecting the right company for POV shipping. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you make the best choice.

1. Determine Your Needs

Before diving into the sea of POV shipping companies, have a clear understanding of your requirements.

Consider:

• Destination: Are you shipping domestically or internationally?
• Vehicle Type: Is it a standard car, an SUV, a motorcycle, or a vintage vehicle?
• Budget: Establish a clear budget but be wary of prices that seem too good to be true.
• Time Frame: Do you need express shipping, or can you allow for a longer transit time?

2. Research and Reviews

Start with a general search for “POV Shipping” companies and create a shortlist.  Dive deep into customer reviews, testimonials, and ratings on independent platforms.  For Military Service members a good resource of Facebook Groups where you can typically find discussions on who other service members have used and their experience.  Look for companies with a history of reliable service and satisfied customers, especially those with similar shipping needs as yours.

3. Ask About Credentials

Reputable POV shipping companies should have the necessary licenses and credentials to operate. For international shipping, ensure they are registered with relevant maritime organizations.  They should be licensed and bonded. Always verify the authenticity of the credentials provided.  You can go to the Federal Maritime Commission Website and search for an international shipping company.  They should either have a Freight Forwarder License or NVOCC license.  If they’re not listed, then they’re more than likely not licensed, and you should be very cautious.

4. Inquire About Insurance

Insurance coverage is vital for POV shipping.  Discuss the different insurance options they offer, the claim process, and any associated deductibles.  Ensure the coverage is comprehensive, protecting against potential damages during transit.  Any reputable international shipping company should offer marine insurance.

5. Get Multiple Quotes

Contact multiple companies and request quotes.  This not only gives you a pricing range but also an opportunity to gauge their customer service quality.  Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.

6. Understand the Contract

Before committing, thoroughly read the shipping contract.  Look for any hidden fees, terms of service, and responsibilities on both sides. If there’s any ambiguity, seek clarification.

7. Check for Additional Services

Many POV shipping companies offer add-on services such as door-to-door delivery, vehicle tracking, and even vehicle cleaning upon arrival.  While these might come at an extra cost, they could provide added convenience.

8. Ask About Their Handling of Delays

POV shipping can sometimes face delays due to weather, port congestions, or other unforeseen circumstances.  Unfortunately, in the post COVID world, shipping delays have become common place but have been slowly improving as the global supply chain issues have improved.  Inquire about how the company handles such situations.

9. Finalize and Prepare Your Vehicle

Once you’ve made a selection, finalize the deal and start preparing your vehicle for shipping. Remove personal items, document the vehicle’s condition, and follow any guidelines provided by the shipping company.

Choosing the right company for military car shipping and  POV shipping is a significant decision that demands careful consideration.  By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process with confidence, ensuring that your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and efficiently.  Remember, the journey of your vehicle begins long before it hits the road or sails the seas; it starts with the right choice of a shipping partner.

Shipping a privately owned vehicle (POV) can be a daunting experience, especially when moving across countries or continents.  Among the various logistical considerations, one that stands out is ensuring that your vehicle remains protected throughout the shipping process.  As with most valuables, insurance is the safety net we rely on.  In the realm of POV Shipping, understanding your insurance options becomes even more critical.

Why is Insurance Crucial for POV Shipping?

Unlike when you are shipping your vehicle across the country with a motor carriers, which are required by law to have insurance coverage for up to $1,000,000 for vehicles it’s hauling so in the event of damages a consumer can file a claim with the trucker’s insurance company and the insurance company would pay for the damages, International Shipping doesn’t work that way.  The Carriage of Goods by Sea Act (COGSA) limits a carrier’s liability and all of the carrier’s subcontractors to a maximum liability of $500.  Any time your vehicle is in transit, it’s exposed to potential risks.  These risks can range from natural elements like weather conditions to unforeseen accidents or mishandling during transport.  With the complexities of international transport, such as loading and unloading at ports or customs checks, the likelihood of potential mishaps increases and due to COGSA, without marine insurance, your vehicle is not protected.

Types of Insurance for POV Shipping

Marine insurance – Specific to ocean transport, this insurance covers any damage that might occur to your vehicle during tis sea voyage.  It’s an essential consideration if your POV shipping involves any waterway.

1. Total Loss insurance: This insurance type covers the total loss of your vehicle only. It’s much less expensive than other types of coverage but will only payout fi the vehicle is declared a complete loss.
2. All-Risk Insurance: As the name suggests, this coverage protects against all potential damages, barring specific exclusions listed in the policy. For those looking for peace of mind, this comprehensive insurance option for POV shipping is highly recommended.

Determining the Right Coverage

When determining the type of insurance you need for POV shipping, consider the following factors:

• Value of the Vehicle: For luxury or vintage cars, a comprehensive all-risk insurance might be the most suitable, given the higher repair or replacement costs.
• Route and Destination: Certain routes or destinations might pose higher risks due to weather, piracy, or political instability. In such cases, ensure your insurance covers these specific challenges.
• Existing Coverage: Before purchasing additional insurance, check with your current auto insurance provider. Sometimes policies include coverage for transport or offer additional riders for POV Shipping. For example, USAA typically has marine insurance included in their policies for service members.

Conclusion

Protecting one of your most valuable assets during transport is not just practical, it’s essential.  As the world of POV shipping continues to evolve, so do the associated risks and complexities.  Equip yourself with knowledge, understand your insurance options, and ensure that your vehicle remains safeguarded every step of the journey.  Here at MYSECONDPOV, we always offer our clients affordable marine insurance coverage and military car shipping.  After all, the peace of mind that comes with adequate coverage is priceless.