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Writer's pictureFreedom Transport Service, LLC

Unveiling the Truth: Is Car Shipping Really Safe?

Updated: Jul 1



Auto Transport semi truck driving down the highway


Shipping your car across vast distances is a task that can come with its fair share of worries. Our vehicles are more than just modes of transportation; they symbolize our independence, harbor precious memories, and represent a significant investment. So, when it comes to entrusting your car to an auto transport service, the question naturally arises: is car shipping safe? Today, we will peel back the layers of the auto transport industry, dispelling common myths, and offering an in-depth understanding of the safety measures that ensure your car's secure journey from pick-up to delivery.



The Reality of Auto Transport Safety


vehicle being strapped down on a car hauling trailer

Statistical Safety


To assess the safety of auto transport, let's start with the numbers. According to several studies, you're significantly more likely to incur damage to your vehicle driving it cross-country yourself than by hiring a professional auto transport service. In fact, a vast majority of cars shipped nationwide, including to distant Hawaii, arrive without a scratch. The lower risk is due to the rigorous safety standards adhered to by professional auto transporters. These industry protocols are designed to protect your vehicle from common road damage, theft, and adverse weather conditions.


Driving:

  1. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 36,096 fatalities in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2019.

  2. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also reports that the fatality rate per 100 million miles traveled was 1.10 in 2019.

When you consider these statistics, it's clear that driving long distances poses a certain level of risk, as the longer you're on the road, the higher your chance of being involved in an accident.


Shipping: In contrast, the risks associated with auto transport services are significantly lower.

  1. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), in 2019, the number of large trucks involved in fatal crashes was 0.164 per 100 million miles traveled.

  2. Additionally, the FMCSA reports that only around 4% of all fatal crashes involved trucks carrying cargo.

It's also worth noting that shipping a car results in zero wear and tear and doesn't add any additional mileage, which can be beneficial in preserving your vehicle's value.

Finally, all auto transport carriers are required to have insurance coverage for the vehicles they transport, which adds another layer of security and peace of mind for customers.


The Role of Professional Carriers


Professionalism and expertise are at the heart of a safe auto transport experience. Freedom Transport Service prioritizes safety, working with a nationwide network of trusted carriers who adhere strictly to safety standards and protocols.

Our carrier partners are vetted through a rigorous process to ensure they are fully insured, licensed, and bonded, offering you the peace of mind you deserve when shipping your vehicle. At Freedom Transport Service, we believe that safety is more than just a protocol; it is an intrinsic part of our customer service commitment.




Myths and Misconceptions About Car Shipping Safety


When discussing car shipping safety, it's essential to address the numerous myths and misconceptions that may mislead potential customers. One common myth is that your vehicle is likely to get damaged during transportation. As we've seen from the statistics, the reality couldn't be more different. Data specifically focused on vehicle damage during transport is somewhat difficult to find, primarily because shipping companies often don't disclose this information publicly. However, the consensus within the auto transport industry is that damage during shipping is relatively rare. As per various industry sources, estimates suggest that less than 5% of vehicles suffer any form of damage during transit. This damage includes minor issues such as small dents or scratches, often due to unforeseen incidents or environmental factors. It's important to note that reputable car shipping companies take extensive precautions to prevent damage, including securing vehicles carefully, providing thorough training for drivers. Furthermore, auto transport companies are legally required to have insurance, meaning any damage that does occur during transit should be covered. While the statistics suggest that damage during transport is infrequent, if you're particularly concerned about this, you might want to consider opting for enclosed transport, which offers additional protection for your vehicle.


Another widespread misconception is that cars are often lost during shipping. The truth is, professional auto transport services, as well as many newer vehicles on the road use advanced tracking systems that allow you to monitor your vehicle's journey in real-time, ensuring it doesn't get "lost" in transit.

There are many more such myths clouding the auto transport industry. In reality, reputable auto transport companies invest heavily in safety measures, technology, and professional staff to ensure a safe, smooth, and stress-free car shipping experience for their customers.



Truck driver driving on an open highway


Ensuring Safe Transport with Freedom Transport Service


While every auto transport broker aims to ensure safe delivery, Freedom Transport Service goes above and beyond. We understand that our customers entrust us with one of their most valued possessions.

Our safety measures include our trusted carriers conducting detailed vehicle inspections before pick-up and at delivery, using only certified and vetted carriers, and offering comprehensive insurance coverage. Additionally, we maintain open lines of communication with our customers throughout the transport process, providing regular updates and peace of mind.


Conclusion

Shipping your car doesn't have to be a nerve-wracking process. Armed with the correct information and backed by a reliable auto transport service like Freedom Transport Service, you can rest assured that your vehicle will arrive safely at its destination. As we've seen, car shipping is not only safe but often the safer option for long-distance vehicle transport. So next time you need to move your car across the country, remember: professional auto transport services are designed with safety in mind.



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