Diving Deeper with AAS LLC USA: Your Questions Answered on Auto Shipping

In our last post, we introduced AAS LLC USA as a reputable and affordable option for auto transport. But before you commit your valuable vehicle to a cross-country journey, it’s wise to get a deeper understanding of the process, especially when dealing with a broker.

Here are the critical next-level details and frequently asked questions about shipping your car with AAS LLC USA.

1. Understanding the Broker-Carrier Relationship

AAS LLC USA is a licensed auto transport broker, not a carrier (the company that physically owns and drives the truck). This is a crucial distinction:

Broker’s Role: AAS LLC USA’s primary job is to find a reliable, insured, and licensed carrier from their network willing to transport your vehicle for the agreed-upon price and timeline. They handle the sales, customer service, booking, and administrative work.
Carrier’s Role: The carrier is responsible for the physical pickup, transport, and delivery of your vehicle.

Why does this matter?

Flexibility: A broker can often find a better price or an available truck faster because they access a wider market of carriers than a single company with its own small fleet.
On-Time Performance: While AAS LLC USA will give you a pickup and delivery window, the exact timing is ultimately controlled by the assigned carrier and variables like road conditions, weather, and traffic. Brokers rarely offer guaranteed dates, and AAS LLC USA is no exception—their generous rental car reimbursement is their solution for significant delays.

2. The Step-by-Step Shipping Process

What happens after you get that binding quote and decide to book?

Quote and Booking: You receive a binding quote (no surprise price hikes) and book the service. Critically, you pay no upfront deposit until a carrier is assigned.
Carrier Assignment (The Waiting Game): AAS LLC USA works to find a carrier that matches your route, timeline, and transport type (open vs. enclosed). Once a carrier is found, you are notified, and your deposit is then processed. This step can take a few days, depending on your route and time of year.
Vehicle Inspection (Bill of Lading – BOL): When the carrier arrives for pickup, you and the driver will thoroughly inspect the vehicle. Every pre-existing dent, scratch, or imperfection is noted on a document called the Bill of Lading (BOL). This document is your proof of the car’s condition before transport. Do not skip this step!
Transport and Tracking: The carrier transports your vehicle. AAS LLC USA provides tracking for some cross-country routes, but for others, you’ll need to contact your assigned dispatcher for status updates.
Delivery and Final Inspection: The carrier calls ahead to schedule the final delivery. Upon arrival, you and the driver must conduct a final inspection and compare the car’s condition against the original BOL.
Final Payment: If the vehicle is in satisfactory condition (no new damage), you pay the remaining balance directly to the carrier, typically with cash, certified funds, or another pre-arranged method.

3. Insurance and Damage Claims: The “Damage Free or We Help Pay” Policy

This is arguably the most important section. Every licensed carrier is required to carry liability insurance that covers damage to your vehicle during transport.

Carrier’s Primary Insurance: This is the insurance that is supposed to cover damage sustained during the move. The damage must be noted on the BOL at the time of delivery to be valid.
AAS LLC USA’s Deductible Coverage: This is where their unique perk comes in. AAS LLC USA offers a $500 credit toward your insurance deductible if your car is damaged and the carrier’s primary insurance does not cover the valid claim. This provides an excellent safety net, as dealing with a carrier’s insurance claim can sometimes be a lengthy or challenging process.

Key Takeaway: Document everything on the Bill of Lading at both pickup and delivery. If you see new damage, you must note it on the BOL before the driver leaves. This is the only way to validate a claim.

4. Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipment

To ensure a smooth process, you have a few responsibilities:

Clean the Car: Wash your car before pickup. A clean surface makes it easier for you and the driver to thoroughly inspect for and mark all pre-existing damage on the BOL.
Minimal Fuel: Leave no more than a quarter tank of gas in the car. This reduces the vehicle’s weight and is a requirement for safety.
Remove Personal Items: Carriers are typically only insured for the vehicle itself, not for personal belongings inside. Remove all valuables and anything that is not permanently attached. If you must leave some items, limit them to under 100 lbs in the trunk and confirm with your broker and carrier first.
Address Mechanical Issues: Ensure the emergency brake works and the battery is charged. If the car is inoperable, be sure you booked the specialized “inoperable vehicle transport” service.

By understanding the roles, the process, and the protection offered, you’ll be well-equipped to use AAS LLC USA’s services and enjoy an affordable and reliable vehicle transport experience.