You need to ship your vehicle, first step, you take to the internet and conduct your web search, but you notice something, your results include both carriers and brokers, what’s the difference? Both state the same thing, they can ship your car when you need and also deliver it on the day you select. How do you know which option will best suit your needs?

Let’s start off with the differences between the two. Carriers operate their own fleet of trucks, while brokers work with carriers to coordinate shipments using a vast network of carriers. 

Carriers operate and move the shipments using their own trucks. Most carriers will operate within a few regions, and typically do not service the entire U.S.

Brokers work with their vast network of carriers, which range in size, so they are able to serve the entire county. There are also some brokers that own their own vehicles, making them known as broker-carriers.

The two do share some similarities as well. The obvious being they all work directly with you to coordinate the shipment of your vehicle. Both will be with you every step of the way from pick-up to delivery making sure every aspect of the shipment stays on track and you are well informed during the process. 

There are always pros and cons to both sides and also benefits that you can get from one that you can’t get from the other. Just a few examples include:

– Brokers tend to be more flexible, they are not tied to a single schedule and have more options when it comes to meeting your shipment needs since they have a large network of carriers.
– Brokers only work with carriers that are properly licensed, insured and accredited. It’s hard to verify that information when you pick a carrier on your own. 

– If you choose to book with a carrier, it will be that carrier you choose that will be handling your shipment. The route they select will be the fastest and most cost-effective route for you.
– When using a carrier you may get a lower price, meaning you’re not paying for a middleman. 

The most important part of choosing your shipping partner, is making sure you do your research no matter what option you choose. Just because you get a quote back and it’s cheaper than the others, doesn’t always mean that’s the best option.

At MotorCarTrans, we’re here to help you every step of the way, no matter what option you choose. To get your free, no obligation quote, click here.