***Read and Learn from a Rookie...
CPP
Submitted this review about
MJ Parker Trucking
Review made Live: 11/12/2011 6:08:00 AM
OK, so after a 3 year search for a sports car that I always wanted, I made the plunge and bought a nearly new Porsche 911 cabriolet in Florida. The car is immaculate in every way. But the problem was, it was in Florida and I live in Ohio! So, after buying it, the decision came to pick an auto transport company. Now I will tell you that I am very, very particular about cars. But I had never shipped a car before, and was really nervous about bringing my new baby home in the same condition as I bought it.
The dealer I bought the car from had suggestions for carriers, but I decided to visit this Transport Reviews website. I learned a lot - in particular the added safety of an enclosed carrier, and the fact that with a convertible, it is recommended that you always ship them on the top row of the carrier trailer to ensure no fluids from autos above leak on to the soft cloth top. I started to feel a little more educated and confident in what I was doing. So, I reviewed the ratings and reviews, and ultimately requested individual quotes fom several companies. I did this instead of using the "one form" quote system on this website for fear of getting hammered with e-mail quotes from companies not up to my standards - that worked pretty well to limit the barrage of e-mails.
I requested quotes from 5 companies - all highly rated and with excellent reviews. The quotes came back varied by about $500 between high and low. Now I am not one to be "penny-wise and pound-foolish," so I bagan to consider the diffences between the companies. One of the companies had all "paid" customer reviews, I don't know what that's about, but it made me question whether their excellent ratings were legit (BTW, a trubute to this website that they require that be disclosed). I then began asking questions about insurance because one shipper used that as a differentiator as to why I should pick them. As it turns out, you have to watch what kind of insurance they are talking about. Many of the carriers indicate they carry between $750,000 - $1 milion of liability insurance. Sounds like this is somewhat of a "so what," because I am told that is REQUIRED of all transporters, and is not the insurance you need to be worried about as a customer, because it covers damage or injury the truck causes to others - not your baby riding in the back. What you DO want to ask about is whether they carry CARGO INSURANCE and how much.
I learned this all from Joanne Parker, who I ultimately picked for my transport (FYI - Joanne's company - MJ Parker Trucking - had the highest rating for carriers at the time on this website, and also had the best quote by a few dollars over the next company). Joanne indicated $250,000 of cargo insurance is pretty standard for quality carriers. But MJ Parker trucking is also a broker, and Joanne found me a carrier that maintains $500,000 - Curves Ahead Trucking. Also turns out Curves Ahead hauls lots of exotic and restored vehicles for many of the prestigious auto auction houses. so they know how to take care of a car. My car was picked up and delivered - both on time. I got a call from the Curves Ahead driver (Bo) the day before, about 2 hours before my delivery, and as soon as he arrived at the rendevous site. BTW, I arranged for delviery at a grocery store parking lot about a 1/2 mile from my house, since I live on a cul-de-sac. I also reccomend you do this if you live on anything other than a nice wide street (something at least 4 lanes), and without trees around. These trucks are huge and will have a hard time getting to you. Moreover, they are tall and wide, and will clip any overhanging trees around the street. While the cars are enclosed and safe, those tree clippings will make a big mess that you may have to clean up to appease your angry neighbors. Well, The Curves Ahead truck was so big, it could not even fit in that parking lot, but instead had to deliver my car while parked on a loop road next to the grocery store. But the car came off the truck perfect - just how I left it! I AM HAPPY.
MJ Parker Trucking has the highest rating for a reason, and that is Joanne Parker. The other reviews about them aren't lying. This lady comes across as very honest - no "BS" or flash from "canned" e-mail quotes and responses. Just a great communicator who knows you're nervous about getting your car delivered on-time and in good condition. She makes you feel more comfortable the more you deal with her. I RECOMMEND HER HIGHLY.
