Chicago’s traffic snarls not only during rush hour but most times of the day, and finding parking is an exercise in frustration, with garages charging upwards of a dollar per hour downtown. The best way to navigate this bustling city is by public transportation.
Companies in the area can improve employee commutes by offering shuttle bus services to and from home, the office, and meeting spaces. Here are seven tips for selecting the right transportation company.
Reputation
It’s essential to evaluate your specific transportation needs and the capabilities of different companies. For example, if you’re looking for sprinter bus transportation in Chicago, finding a company that prioritizes safety and has an excellent reputation is essential. To do this, ask friends and family for recommendations or do online research. Many websites provide reviews of different transportation companies so you can get a feel for their customer service and quality of work.
Working with reputable auto transportation companies in Chicago, IL, can save you time and money in the long run. They have the expertise and equipment to handle your vehicle safely and securely so it arrives at its destination in pristine condition. Plus, they offer various services to meet your requirements, from door-to-door shipping to expedited delivery. They also provide accurate car transport quotes based on your individual needs. This allows you to compare the costs of various companies and choose one that best fits your budget. They’ll even keep you informed throughout the shipment process by providing real-time updates on your shipment status.
Experience
Local trucking companies that serve Chicagoland typically operate within a 100-mile radius and have years of experience dealing with routes, weather conditions, traffic, and other issues specific to the region. As a result, they are much more likely to get cargo to its destination quickly and efficiently without having to deal with lengthy idling sessions or detours. This is particularly important for shippers who opt for less-than-truckload services. In contrast, larger national freight companies often take longer to deliver cargo due to their inexperience with local road conditions.
Capacity
As the economy continues to recover, growth in shipping needs is accelerating. This means that capacity is a key determining factor in choosing the right transportation partner. The last thing you want is to have your shipment management needs hindered by a service provider that can’t handle your current volume and frequency.
In 2013, over seven million domestic intermodal container shipments originated or terminated in the Chicago BEA area. This ranked metropolitan Chicago as the top BEA for intermodal shipment volumes among significant freight hubs in the U.S., outpacing the New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle BEA areas.
A transportation management company with extensive experience will be well-versed in navigating the ins and outs of the industry. They’ll have the knowledge to parse through numerous rate RFPs and benchmark them against actual market data to find you a competitive price. They will also have relationships with transportation vendors, meaning they can often negotiate better rates based on their working history. This can save your business both time and money in the long run.
Insurance
Whether your vehicle is shipped open, enclosed, or terminal-to-terminal, all reputable car transport companies offer insurance coverage for your vehicle during transit. This is a crucial aspect to consider when selecting a business because it comforts you in knowing that you will be protected in case of damage.
Additionally, reliable auto transport companies have strict safety measures to ensure your vehicle is securely loaded and unloaded at the pickup and delivery locations. This protects the car from any potential damage during shipping and ensures that your vehicle is delivered in the same condition it was left in.
When selecting a transportation company in Chicago, compare services and prices to ensure you get the best possible deal. Most reputable companies will provide accurate and detailed quotes based on your transport needs. Ask questions about the selection to understand the cost breakdown and any additional fees fully. In addition, look for a company that offers door-to-door shipping options to make the process even easier.
Pricing
The vehicle’s destination and mode of transportation can significantly impact the cost of car shipping. However, it is essential to consider all the costs of shipping your vehicle to make an informed decision.
For example, when it comes to auto transport in Chicago, you should be aware of the differences in pricing between open and enclosed trailers. Empty trucks are cheaper than enclosed, but your car will be exposed to weather and road conditions. Additionally, your car will share space with other vehicles on the truck.
As the nation’s freight hub, Chicago has seen significant growth in intermodal jobs. Metropolitan Chicago has the highest concentration of freight jobs of similar U.S. metros.