/ By Admin / Logistic/ 0 Comments

How to Choose the Right Shipping Company for Your POV: A Step-by-Step Guide

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?

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

/ By Admin / Logistic/ 0 Comments

Insuring Your Vehicle: Understanding Options for POV Shipping

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.

/ By Admin / International/ 0 Comments

The Cost of Shipping a POV Internationally: A Guide for Military Service Members

Relocating internationally is a common occurrence for military service members. Among the logistics to handle, shipping a privately owned vehicle (POV) is often a major concern. This process includes multiple factors that contribute to the overall cost. Here, we’ll delve into the specific expenses involved in international POV shipping for military service members.

  1. Shipping Service – “Door to Door” or “Port to Port”

    When shipping your POV, you can choose between “Door to Door” or “Port to Port” services. A door-to-door service includes a trucking service to collect your vehicle from your residence and delivers the vehicle directly to your locations but comes at a higher cost. If you’re looking to save, consider dropping off at the origin port and picking up at the destination port yourself. Your choice may boil down to cost versus convenience.

  2.  Enclosed or Open Carrier Trucking

    Should you opt for door pick up or delivery, you must decide between an open or enclosed transport service. While enclosed transport is more expensive, it offers better protection against weather and road debris. Open carrier service is more economical but leaves your vehicle exposed to the elements.

  3. Vehicle Size

    The size of the vehicle has a direct impact on the cost. Larger vehicles like a Ford F150 will inevitably cost more to ship compared to smaller ones like a Ford Taurus.

  4. Destination Import Fees

    International shipping involves various destination fees such as port charges, import customs clearance, and sometimes import duties. These can add to the overall shipping cost.

  5. Marine Insurance Coverage

    This optional fee is highly recommended. Without marine insurance, your vehicle is not covered for damages during international shipping. We always suggests checking with your current auto insurance provider, as you may already have this coverage included in your auto policy. USAA typically includes this coverage.

  6. Unexpected Fees

    You always want to budget for unexpected fees. In a post COVID world, shipping delays have become the norm and so you want to consider rental car expenses, if you must wait for your vehicle’s arrival.

  7. Military Discounts and Agreements

    Always inquire about military discounts or special agreements that might be in place with shipping providers. Some companies specialize in military POV shipping and offer competitive rates.
    International POV shipping is a complex but manageable task for military service members. By understanding the various expenses, from shipping services to unexpected fees, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget and needs.
    Communication with your shipping provider is essential throughout this process. Your thorough understanding of these factors ensures a smoother transition and provides peace of mind that your vehicle will reach its new home safely and affordably.
    Remember to consider both cost and convenience and to consult with experts in military transportation to tailor the process to your specific circumstances. Your vehicle is an important part of your life; understanding how to ship it effectively is key to a successful international relocation.

Discover the ins and outs of international military car shipping costs in our comprehensive guide. For service members, moving vehicles abroad involves unique considerations. Learn about factors influencing pricing and tips to ensure a seamless experience. Navigate the world of military car shipping with confidence.

/ By Admin / International • Moving • Uncategorized/ 0 Comments

Motorcycle Shipping Tips: Three Things to Do Before Shipping Overseas

TIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHIPPING

There’s nothing more exhilarating than opening the throttle and taking your motorcycle out on the open road — unless, of course, that  road is one you’ve never seen before. Your motorcycle is often the best way to explore another country because there’s nothing between you, the scenery, and the feeling of being out in the open. That’s why many motorcycle enthusiasts take their bikes with them when they travel overseas. However, a motorcycle isn’t exactly carry-on luggage, which means you need to understand the process of shipping your motorcycle overseas before you can take advantage of the freedom it will give you on your adventure.

Here are a few tips for international motorcycle shipping that will help get your bike to your destination safe and sound.

STRIP IT DOWN

The best way to help ensure your bike doesn’t get damaged in transit is to remove anything extra and strip it down to the essentials. That means removing any saddle bags, mirrors, and anything else that might become loose or snagged on anything during the trip. By doing so, you’ll reduce the risk that your bike may be damaged while being shipped.

CHOOSE CRATING

You have two main options when shipping your motorcycle overseas. You can have your bike crated, which means it essentially is packed in a container during shipping. Or, you can choose open shipping, which means your motorcycle will be strapped down but still exposed to the open air. The choice is yours, but typically crated shipping is better for motorcycles because it means there’s less chance that your motorcycle will be damaged by the elements during the trip. A lot can happen on the ocean, after all.

PICK THE BEST SHIPPING COMPANY

Not all auto transport companies are created equal, so when shipping your motorcycle overseas, be sure to do your homework. Always ask the shipping company how much experience it has with shipping motorcycles specifically, because they’re different than other vehicles or large items. Make sure you ask about the shipping company’s insurance and whether or not it is bonded and licensed. Also, be sure you get more than one quote so you can compare prices.

My Second POV understands what it takes to transport motorcycles safely overseas. If you’re preparing for an international deployment where you and your bike can enjoy the open road, contact us today to get a free quote.

/ By Richard Hunting / Contract Logistics • Special Offers/ • • • • • / 0 Comments

Shipping Your POV Abroad: Fact vs Fiction

Shipping a car overseas isn’t something most of us do very often or ever, so when the occasion arises you’re likely to have some questions. If you search for the answers, you’ll have to sift through a good amount of misinformation to find them. The unfortunate truth is that some stubborn myths have developed around the process because it’s so often misunderstood. If you’re considering having your 2nd vehicle transported internationally, take a moment to be sure you’re not falling for one of these common misconceptions.

Myth #1 — The farther the trip, the more it will cost you

Although it’s true that mileage is one of the biggest factors in the cost of shipping a car domestically, this isn’t always the case with international moves. Container size and rates to the port of arrival are more influential in this case. If you’re sending your vehicle to a port that’s used frequently, you may end up spending less.

Myth #2 — You can’t expect door-to-door service

It will be expensive compared to picking up your car from a terminal, but you can have your automobile sent directly to your final destination. You will need to ask the transport company whether or not this is possible, but don’t assume that it’s impossible.

Myth #3 — You’ll have to pay exorbitant customs, fees and taxes

Paying some taxes and duties on your vehicle is to be expected, but they might be more affordable than you expect. For example, cars more than 25 years old are rated lower than newer automobiles.

Myth #4 — You can ride along with your vehicle

Shipping a car internationally is a bit more involved than riding the ferry. If you’re expecting to cruise to your new home with your vehicle below deck, think again. Cargo vessels don’t allow passengers, so you will have to put your faith in the transport company to do everything possible to protect your car.

Myth #5 — You can fill up your car with other belongings

Moving to a new country can be costly, and you may be looking for ways to save a few dollars. Although you may be allowed to ship your car with some personal items inside, you’ll need to observe certain restrictions. The driver’s seat must be clear, and all windows need to be unobstructed. You also should avoid placing liquids and obviously dangerous items inside, as they will result in your container being pulled off the boat and inspected at an additional charge.

Don’t let bad information throw a wrench into your relocation plans. Be aware of these common myths and you’ll make the process of shipping your vehicle overseas easier and less stressful.

/ By Richard Hunting / Uncategorized/ 0 Comments

Top 3 Things to Do Before Shipping Your Vehicle

There are many instances in which having your car or truck shipped from one place to another makes more sense than driving it there yourself. You may be relocating to a foreign country. Your family might be moving cross country and need your second car to be there when you arrive. Or perhaps you purchased a vintage automobile at an auction and don’t want to risk any damages in transit. Whatever the reason, sorting out the process ahead of time can save you time and frustration. This car shipping guide offers three key tips that will help.

  • Make sure your transport company is registered with the DOT

    Transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. They also need to have a Motor Carrier Number with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can check the carrier’s status on the websites of these agencies or ask the company to provide you with proof. If it isn’t willing to do that or doesn’t appear on the government databases, that’s a red flag that the company probably shouldn’t be entrusted with your vehicle.

  • If you’re shipping internationally, look for FMC registration

    If you have to arrange for an overseas shipment, one of the most important car transport tips you can follow is to make sure the provider is registered with the Federal Maritime Commission. This ensures that the company you choose has been thoroughly vetted and is licensed. Without that registration, you may be taking an unnecessary risk with one of your most valuable assets.

  • Prepare your vehicle properly

    Taking time to prepare the car is one of the most essential car shipping tips because it can protect you against damages. Be sure to remove all loose items from the interior and the trunk. If there are any aftermarket exterior features such as spoilers, remove them and ship them separately. Give the car a good cleaning inside and out and take photos to verify its condition before shipping. Finally, empty all but a quarter of the gas in the car’s tank. The company may require this, but it also will reduce the vehicle’s weight and your costs.

  • We’re here to help

    As a recognized leader in the logistics world, My Second POV knows more about transporting vehicles than just about anyone. When you choose to work with us, you’ll receive expert service and the highest level of professionalism. To learn more about how we can help you, get in touch with us today and let us arrange for a safe and smooth trip your vehicle.