Auto Central Transport

Is Auto Central Transport Legit? Comprehensive Review of Costs and Services

Introduction to Auto Central Transport

Auto Central Transport is a car shipping company with a long history, having been established in 1926. With nearly a century of experience, the company operates under the Motor Carrier (MC) number 230816 and the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number 357848. Despite its long-standing presence in the industry, Auto Central Transport has received mixed reviews regarding its service quality and customer satisfaction.

Company Credentials and BBB Accreditation

Auto Central Transport is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and holds an F rating, based on 10 customer reviews averaging 1 out of 5 stars. The lack of accreditation and the low rating suggest that the company has struggled to meet customer expectations and resolve complaints effectively. The F rating is indicative of significant issues in customer service and overall business practices.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

BBB Reviews

The company’s F rating on the BBB website, derived from 10 reviews, reflects considerable customer dissatisfaction. Common complaints likely include delays, poor communication, and issues with vehicle handling. The low rating indicates that many customers have had negative experiences with the company.

Yelp Reviews

On Yelp, Auto Central Transport holds a rating of 1.3 out of 5 stars based on 10 reviews. This low rating underscores a pattern of customer dissatisfaction, with frequent issues related to service reliability, communication, and delivery times. Yelp reviews provide valuable insights into the company’s customer service performance.

Trustpilot Reviews

Trustpilot reviews present a similarly concerning view, with a rating of 1.3 out of 5 stars based on 97 reviews. The large number of reviews on Trustpilot highlights widespread customer dissatisfaction, with many customers reporting significant problems with the company's services. Trustpilot reviews offer a comprehensive look at the recurring issues customers face.

Service Offerings

Open Transport

Auto Central Transport offers open transport services, where vehicles are shipped on open carriers. This method is cost-effective and suitable for standard vehicles. However, it exposes vehicles to weather and road conditions, which can be a concern for some customers.

Enclosed Transport

For added protection, the company provides enclosed transport services. Vehicles are transported in enclosed trailers, shielding them from weather elements and road debris. This option is ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.

Door-to-Door Service

Auto Central Transport offers door-to-door shipping services, meaning vehicles are picked up from and delivered to specified locations. This service provides convenience and reduces the hassle for customers, although its execution appears to have faced criticism in reviews.

Expedited Shipping

For customers who need faster delivery, the company offers expedited shipping services. This service prioritizes the shipment, significantly reducing transit time and ensuring quicker delivery, albeit at a higher cost.

Pricing and Cost Factors

The cost of shipping a vehicle with Auto Central Transport varies based on several factors:

Distance: Longer distances generally result in higher shipping costs.

Vehicle Type: Larger or heavier vehicles typically incur higher shipping fees.

Transport Type: Enclosed transport is more expensive than open transport due to the added protection.

Urgency: Expedited shipping services come at a premium due to faster delivery times.

Customers are encouraged to request personalized quotes to get accurate estimates tailored to their specific needs.

Customer Experience and Issues

Customer feedback is crucial for evaluating the quality of services provided by Auto Central Transport. The overwhelmingly negative reviews on BBB, Yelp, and Trustpilot suggest significant challenges in the company’s service delivery. Common complaints include delays, poor communication, and vehicle damage during transit. These issues highlight the importance of thorough research and consideration before choosing their services.

Additional Services

Insurance Coverage: Auto Central Transport includes insurance coverage in their services, offering protection against potential damages during transit.

Tracking Services: The company provides shipment tracking options, allowing customers to monitor the progress of their vehicle in real-time.

Customer Support: Despite the negative reviews, the company claims to have a dedicated customer support team aimed at addressing inquiries and concerns.

Conclusion

Auto Central Transport presents a mixed picture in terms of service quality and customer satisfaction. The company’s F rating from the BBB, along with low ratings on Yelp and Trustpilot, indicate significant areas for improvement. Prospective customers should conduct thorough research, compare quotes, and read multiple reviews to make an informed decision.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a car shipping company involves careful consideration of various factors, including credentials, customer reviews, service offerings, and cost. Auto Central Transport’s mixed reviews highlight the importance of due diligence before engaging their services. Customers are advised to weigh the positive and negative feedback carefully to ensure their vehicle is transported safely and efficiently.