We all know that the auto transport industry is very competitive. If you haven't ever had to ship your car there is a learning curve involved.

We all know that the auto transport industry is very competitive. If you haven't ever had to ship your car there is a learning curve involved.

Here are some tricks of the trade, to keep you from getting ripped off, or hit with hidden charges, fees, or other expenditures.

1. Do not "Bargain Shop" when choosing an auto transport company. This will ensure that your car will not be loaded on any carrier without a salesman calling you the day your supposed to have your car scheduled only to raise your quote price.

The phrase "you get what you pay for" holds water in this industry. Choose a price that's in the middle of the quotes you receive.

2. Federal law requires auto shipping companies have liability and cargo insurance, however that doesn't mean that they all have it. Do your homework.

3. If the auto shipping company asks for a deposit, they are probably not legit. Although, you may have to provide a card to reserve a spot, similar to reserving a hotel room, letting them charge you before they do the shipping is generally the mark of a scam.

It should happen once the truck has been scheduled and you are provided the carriers contact information as well as dates and estimated times for pickup and delivery.

4. Plan Ahead. Shipping takes time (usually around 3-5 for scheduling and 5-9 days for shipping), forgetting that will drastically increase your costs. Save yourself some money by understanding the shipping time frames.

Follow these guidelines and you will get the best deal possible when shipping your vehicle.