In the post pandemic world, where contactless services are at an all time high, and many people are still living under lockdown measures, you may wonder whether you can request contactless pickup and drop off when shipping a car. The answer is yes!Contactless Pickup and Drop-off for Car Shipping
In this article, I’m going to give you all of the details you need to know about contactless car shipping. What it is, how it works, and why so many customers are using this safer, more convenient way to ship a vehicle. If you’re shipping your car with Car Shipping Instant Quotes, I’m also going to tell you everything that you need to know about the contactless car shipping selection process with them, so that your shipment goes as smoothly and safely as possible.
What is Contactless Pickup and Drop-off?
The Basics of Contactless Services
It is considered contactless if the car is picked up and dropped off without engaging in in-person interactions (i.e., you will not need to meet the driver or sign any documents in person). The ideal process is entirely remote.
This service has several advantages:
- Health and safety: Reducing exposure may help with prevention of the spread of diseases such as COVID-19.
- Convenience: If the customer cannot meet with the driver at a particular time or place, due to conflicts with either location or scheduling.
- Peace of Mind: Some customers just do not want physical touch and prefer a no touch solution.
When a transport company ships your vehicle, you are generally not required to be present. You simply leave your keys in a lockbox or leave them somewhere the carrier has agreed to meet you. If you are being offered a free drop-off option, it is possible that they will instruct you to just park the vehicle in a secure location to meet with you without a valet.
How Does Contactless Pickup and Drop-off Work?
Step 1: Requesting Contactless Service
When you place your car shipping request, ask for contactless pickup and contactless delivery. Most recommended auto transport companies like Car Shipping Instant Quotes will be happy to oblige in the event that your car shipping type permits it (open transport vs enclosed transport).
Step 2: Providing Instructions for Pickup
The driver picking up your car without you requires instructions for the car’s parking location and the keys’ location. Options include:
- Lockbox: Leave the car keys within a lockbox that can be readily accessed by the owner/driver.
- Key Drop: If available, put the keys in a key drop box or a secure location.
- Remote Access: A keyless entry system on a car means granting access to the driver may be done remotely.
Be sure to communicate any other details to them, such as instructing them on special access, detailing the location, or providing parking.
Step 3: Confirmation and Documentation
Most of the car shipping companies will offer contracts and electronic signatures that can be sent via email or through an online customer portal for your convenience.
For example, Car Shipping Instant Quotes will email you pictures of the car (if applicable) after it has been picked up and delivered to let you know that the job was done and everything went smoothly.
Step 4: Drop-off Without Physical Interaction
Returning the vehicle is also simple. At the time of the return on the return date, the driver can drop off the vehicle in the previously provided return location. After leaving the vehicle in the space, many services will send a text, email or call the user to let them know that the car has been dropped off, sometimes including a photograph of the car at the drop-off point.
Benefits of Contactless Car Shipping
Health and Safety
Using contactless pickup and drop-off services helps you lower the risk of any disease or virus by avoiding any physical contact with other drivers, which is essential in today’s global climate.
Convenience and Flexibility
Another great advantage is convenience, in the case of contactless measures, you do not have to be present at the pickup or drop-off location. This can save a lot of time, especially if you have a busy schedule or live a large distance away from the location.
Additionally, many consumers do not have time during the work day to leave work to meet the driver at a pre-determined pick-up location. With contactless pick-up, a consumer is able to define a location for the driver to pick-up or drop-off the car without having to be physically present at the time of pick-up.
Secure and Transparent Process
For customers more concerned about their vehicle’s security during a contactless shipping method, there are secure lockboxes or other secure methods of pickup that can be arranged where the vehicle and keys are secured. Some services have a photo record of the pickup and drop-off process so that customers know there are photos of the handling of their vehicle during transport.
Are There Any Limitations or Restrictions?
Not All Locations Are Eligible for Contactless Pickup
Nearly all car shipping companies offer contactless service. However, some locations may not be able to accommodate a contactless pickup at all. Contactless service may not suit locations with restricted access or narrow streets, or those not visible from the street. For these, you may need to arrange to meet up with the driver in person.
Availability May Vary by Carrier
Not all shipping methods are offered as contactless pickups/deliveries. Enclosed transport, for example, may require more interaction between driver and customer for its premium service, including an additional layer of precautions. However, most companies like Car Shipping Instant Quotes offer you solutions that are according to your needs.
How to Request Contactless Pickup and Drop-off
If requesting a contactless pickup and drop-off, you must:
- Book Your Shipment: When requesting a car shipping quote, be mindful to check if the service allows for communication via a phone call or via a button when requesting a car shipping quote.
- Confirm Details: Ensure they confirm where the keys will be left and how the driver will access your car. Check if contracts are available and if digital signatures offer convenience.
- Keep in contact: Though a meeting with the driver will not occur, use a phone or send email. Share car condition and arrival estimates.
Conclusion: Enjoy a Smooth Contactless Shipping Experience
Contactless pickup and drop-off from the driveway of your home or nearest parking lot is now the standard for car shipping companies. You can safely and conveniently ship your car without needing to meet the carrier in person by understanding the process and services offered by Car Shipping Instant Quotes and other carriers.
Want to book your contactless car shipping with no hassle? Visit Car Shipping Instant Quotes for an easy, transparent, and flexible vehicle transport solution tailored to your needs.
