If you have leased a vehicle and need to relocate to another city or country, figuring out how to ship the rented automobile can be tricky Shipment of Leased Automobiles. This long-form article provides an in-depth overview of the steps involved in transporting a leased car, important factors to consider, and tips to make the process smooth.
Read on to gain a comprehensive understanding of your options when shifting a car you are leasing to another location.
Contact Your Leasing Company
The very first thing you must do is inform your leasing provider that you will be shipping the car to a new place. Different leasing agreements have different rules regarding relocating a rented vehicle, so be sure to carefully check your contract. Most lease contracts require you to get prior approval from the leasing company before shipping the car. Without permission, you may be violating the terms of your agreement.
When contacting your leasing provider, gather information on any restrictions or additional fees involved in moving the car. You may need to pay an administrative charge, provide proof of insurance for the transport, or meet other conditions. Discussing the relocation plans with the leasing company upfront helps ensure a smooth process and avoids any potential penalties later on.
Choose a Transportation Method
With approval to ship the leased vehicle, the next step is deciding how to transport it. There are generally three main options:
| Transportation Method | Details |
| Drive yourself | Cheapest option but takes time and depends on your availability to drive. You’ll need valid auto insurance and registration at the new location. |
| Enclosed auto transport | Professional car carrier hauls the vehicle in an enclosed trailer. More expensive than driving but faster and covers long distances easily. |
| Open auto transport | Similar to enclosed transport but the vehicle is transported on an open car-hauling trailer exposed to elements. Cheaper but risks damage from weather. |
Factors like budget, distance, timelines, and car condition determine the most suitable choice. Read transporter reviews, check insurance coverage and get quotes from at least three carriers before hiring one.
Prepare Necessary Shipping Documents – Shipment of Leased Automobiles
With the transportation method decided, prepare the requisite documents for shipping the leased vehicle. This includes obtaining permission paperwork from your leasing company, carrying your driver’s license and current vehicle registration, insurance documents and titles/leasing contract copies.
If using a professional auto transport company, they may need the signed title/contract along with a power of attorney form authorizing them to deliver the car on your behalf. Discuss paperwork needs fully in advance to ensure a smooth handover at both delivery points.
Inspect the Car Thoroughly Before Shipping
In the days leading up to the transport, carefully examine the leased car internally as well as externally for any pre-existing damages. Take detailed photos and make a condition report noting even minor blemishes, dents or scratches. This serves as vital proof in case any additional damage occurs during shipping.
Also check fluids, tire pressure and that basics like wiper blades and lights are functioning properly for a safe journey. Load sufficient fuel for the trip as well. You want the vehicle to be in prime working condition before handing it over to the transport company.
Arrange Insurance for Transit
Hiring a reputed professional auto carrier does not completely eliminate risks of mishaps during transportation. It is mandatory to purchase cargo insurance, especially if valued belongings are left inside the car, to cover any losses. Transport companies generally offer transit policies but check if your regular auto insurance provides coverage too.
Understand policy details like liability limits, claim procedures, exclusions clearly. Opt for adequate coverage matching the car’s market value. This safety net gives peace of mind in case anything untoward happens like accidents, theft or weather damage while in transit.
Handle Delivery Logistics – Shipment of Leased Automobiles
Once the car is picked up and en route, stay in touch with the transport company about estimated arrival dates. Meanwhile, make lodging arrangements if needed for receiving delivery at the new location. Inform family or colleagues there about expected delivery schedules too.
At destination, inspect the car immediately on arrival. Note any issues on the condition report and get the transporter’s signature for acknowledgment before signing off on delivery. This leaves no room for disputes over responsibility for pre-existing versus transit-caused problems later.
With these key steps followed diligently, transferring a leased vehicle between cities or countries goes smoothly. Always keeping the leasing provider informed and having proper documents ready ensures compliant shipment of the rented automobile every time. Let me know if any other queries arise regarding this aspect.
