{"id":8362,"date":"2018-07-27T20:13:04","date_gmt":"2018-07-27T20:13:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/?p=8362"},"modified":"2025-09-03T15:22:43","modified_gmt":"2025-09-03T15:22:43","slug":"from-a-autos-to-z-zebra-mussels-top-questions-to-ask-your-transporter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/tips\/from-a-autos-to-z-zebra-mussels-top-questions-to-ask-your-transporter\/","title":{"rendered":"From A (Autos) to Z (Zebra Mussels), Top Questions to Ask Your Transporter"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you list an item on uShip \u2013 unlike the Yellow Pages, for example \u2013 you have the luxury of choosing between thousands of feedback-rated transporters, all eager to compete for your business. But as you consider carriers\u2019 quotes, especially if you don\u2019t ship every day, it\u2019s hard to know what to look for and what to ask to ensure the right provider for you. Here, we’ll discuss what to ask your transporter.<\/p>\n

Shipping categories vary widely on uShip<\/a>, \u00a0ranging from vehicles to households, and animals to heavy equipment, with lots of variety in between. While there are a set of common denominator questions that span all categories — things like dates, pricing and insurance — there are key questions to be considered that are unique to each category type. Keep reading to get specific pointers for your shipments.<\/p>\n

The auto transport industry plays a crucial role in the U.S. economy. In 2022, there were approximately 14.33 million<\/a> single-unit and combination trucks registered, accounting for 5% of all motor vehicles registered. These trucks traveled a total of 331.27 billion miles that year.<\/p>\n

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But first things first, there are some universal rules that apply to any shipping. Follow these suggestions to make the listing and quoting process smoother for everyone:<\/p>\n

Cross-Category Questions:<\/h2>\n

Which dates work for you?
\nIs this the lowest price you can offer?
\nWhat insurance coverage do you provide?
\nWhat\u2019s included in this price?<\/p>\n

What to Avoid:<\/h2>\n

Avoid transporters who encourage you to book off uShip. In doing so, you forfeit the benefits, security and transparency that comes with booking on uShip, putting yourself and your shipment at risk.
\nAvoid engaging in any conversation not related to your shipment. Your listing exists for you to find the right transporter for the job. Everyone has a better experience when the discussion remains focused.
\nAvoid discussing details transporters can find in your listing. Discussions like these clutter your listing and make important Q+A information harder to find. However, if there\u2019s a particular point to emphasize \u2013 limited access at delivery or a key date for example \u2013 certainly don\u2019t be shy about calling those out.<\/p>\n

The Specifics:<\/h2>\n

Every type of shipment comes with its own challenges and considerations. If you\u2019re shipping an item in one of these common categories, consider the questions below before choosing your transporter.<\/p>\n

Shipping Vehicles:<\/h2>\n

Will my vehicle be shipping a closed or open trailer?
\nWhat is the limit of personal items to be inside the vehicle?<\/p>\n

Shipping Heavy Equipment:<\/h2>\n

Do you have a forklift, ramp, or lift gate?
\nWill my item be towed or on a flatbed trailer?
\nAre there any permits needed for my equipment to be hauled?
\nIf yes, who obtains the permits and what are the costs?
\nDo you have any specific pickup or delivery requirements, such as a loading dock?<\/p>\n

Shipping Household Goods + Household Moves:<\/h2>\n

Do you provide loading and unloading service?
\nWill my items be blanket wrapped?
\nWill you be assembling and reassembling my item?
\nWhat is the setup of your vehicle? (e.g. do you have an open trailer or enclosed truck?)<\/p>\n

Shipping Animals + Pets:<\/h2>\n

What is your prior experience moving animals?
\nHow many animals do you transport at once?
\nHow often do you stop for breaks?
\nWhat type of vehicle will my animal be transported in?
\nDo you require specific paperwork such as health records?<\/p>\n

Motorcycle Shipping:<\/h2>\n

Will my motorcycle be in an open or enclosed trailer?
\nHow will it be secured? Will it be secured on the trailer?<\/p>\n

Boat Shipping:<\/h3>\n

Do you have a trailer or do I need to supply it?
\nAre you familiar with prepping a boat for transport?
\nWhat permits are needed for hauling my particular size boat?
\nAre you familiar with procedures around zebra mussels going into certain states?<\/p>\n

Fun fact: Zebra mussels<\/a> are a significant concern in aquatic transport due to their invasive nature. They were first discovered in the Great Lakes in 1988 and have since spread to various water bodies across the United States. Their rapid reproduction can lead to severe ecological and infrastructural impacts.<\/p>\n

Remember, if you need help during any part of your listing or shipping process, our expert member support team is here to help. Whether it\u2019s optimizing your listing for more quotes, or navigating the process of selecting a transporter, just contact us and we\u2019ll help you keep things moving smoothly. If you need assistance, give us a call at 800.698.7447 or email support@uship.com<\/p>\n

TL;DR: Things to Ask Your Transporter<\/h2>\n