5 Questions to ask car moving companies before you sign the deal

In the Indian logistics industry, there is a wide gap between organized car transport companies and local brokers. Many “office-only” firms simply take your booking and outsource it to the cheapest truck driver they can find. This lack of control often leads to delays, hidden costs, and, in the worst cases, vehicle damage. By taking the time to interview car moving companies, you ensure that you are dealing with an asset-based partner who is directly accountable for your vehicle. A professional car shipping company will welcome your questions, as they have the infrastructure and processes to back up their claims. This due diligence is the only way to guarantee a “zero-stress” relocation experience. 

This is the most important question you can ask. The best car moving companies own and maintain their own fleet of specialized trucks. Asset ownership means the company has direct control over driver training, vehicle maintenance, and safety protocols. Brokers, on the other hand, have no control over the quality of the truck that actually carries your car. If a company owns its fleet, they are more likely to provide consistent timelines and higher safety standards. When searching for car transport companies, always prioritize those that are “asset-heavy,” as they offer a much higher level of reliability and accountability throughout the journey. 

Every car shipping company will mention insurance, but you need to dig deeper. Ask if the insurance is “comprehensive” and whether it covers external damage, fire, theft, and natural calamities. It is also vital to ask about the claims process—who is the insurance provider, and how long does a settlement take? Professional car movers will provide you with a formal insurance certificate before the car is picked up. Avoid companies that offer “in-house” insurance without a third-party tie-up, as these claims are often difficult to process. Knowing you have a solid financial safety net is essential for your peace of mind. 

Many customers assume that the large car carriers will come directly to their house. However, in most Indian cities, large trucks are restricted in residential areas. Ask the car moving companies how they handle the “first and last mile.” A professional car shipping company will use a smaller flatbed tow truck to pick up your car from your doorstep and take it to a main transit hub. Beware of companies that ask you to drive your car to their warehouse or use “driver-only” pickups for long distances. A true door-to-door service should be seamless and minimize the actual driving of your vehicle. 

In the age of digital logistics, real-time tracking is a non-negotiable feature. Ask if the car transport companies provide a live GPS link or an app where you can see your vehicle’s location 24/7. This transparency ensures that the driver is following the planned route and taking the necessary safety stops. It also allows you to plan your arrival at the destination city more accurately. If a company tells you that they will “call the driver for updates,” it is a sign of outdated infrastructure. The best car movers utilize technology to keep the customer informed at every single kilometer of the journey. 

A professional car shipping company will always perform a detailed inspection before taking possession of your vehicle. Ask if they provide a digital “Condition Report” with photos and videos. This report should note every existing scratch, the odometer reading, and the fuel level. This document is your legal protection; it ensures that the car is delivered in the exact same state it was picked up. If the car movers are casual about the inspection or don’t provide a signed copy of the report, it is a major red flag. Documentation is the foundation of trust in the vehicle relocation industry. 

At CAR MOVER Group, we encourage our customers to ask tough questions. We are proud of our status as one of the leading car moving companies in India, and we have nothing to hide. Our team is trained to provide clear, honest answers about our fleet, our insurance, and our tracking technology. We believe that an informed customer is a happy customer. As a dedicated car shipping company, we have built our reputation on the pillars of transparency and safety. When you choose to car transport your vehicle with us, you are choosing a partner who values your trust as much as your automobile.

Our operations are backed by a massive, self-owned fleet of 250+ specialized carriers, making us a top choice among car transport companies. We offer a truly national car transport network with 24/7 GPS tracking and comprehensive transit insurance. Our unique USPs, such as our “Key Retention” policy and digital condition reports, are designed to give our customers total control. We don’t just move cars; we provide a professional logistics ecosystem that prioritizes safety above all else. At CAR MOVER Group, we are committed to setting the highest standards for car movers in India, ensuring every journey is a success.

Why should I ask car moving companies about fleet ownership?

Asking about fleet ownership helps you determine if you are dealing with a direct service provider or a broker. Companies that own their car carriers have better control over safety, maintenance, and delivery timelines. It ensures that the car transport is handled by the company you actually hired, leading to much higher accountability.

What is a red flag when talking to car transport companies?

A major red flag is a price that is significantly lower than all other quotes. This often indicates hidden charges or a lack of proper insurance. Other red flags include a lack of a physical office, no GST registration, and a refusal to provide a formal “Condition Report” during the car transport pickup.

Does a car shipping company provide insurance for the car’s interior?

Generally, transit insurance provided by car moving companies covers the vehicle’s exterior and mechanical integrity. It does not cover personal items left inside the car. This is why professional car movers always advise customers to remove all belongings before the car transport process begins.

How do car movers handle delivery in narrow streets?

Professional car movers use a two-tier delivery system. The large interstate carrier stops at a safe point outside the city or at a hub. From there, a smaller flatbed tow truck is used for the final doorstep delivery. This ensures your vehicle is moved safely without the risk of the large truck getting stuck in narrow residential lanes.

What documents should car transport companies provide after booking?

After booking, a reputable car shipping company should provide a formal booking receipt, a copy of the transit insurance policy, and a detailed “Condition Report” signed by the driver. You should also receive a tracking ID or link to monitor your vehicle’s progress throughout the car transport journey.