Are auto transport brokers necessary?
First of all, I want to preface this blog with the fact that our company has been a carrier since 1991. We have paid thousands of dollars in broker fees over the years, and like many other carriers, we have had our share of complaints with brokers charging too much and making promises that they can’t keep.

Many ask why brokers are necessary. Are they just increasing the costs? Well, the answer is yes and no.
Despite the bad reputation that brokers have earned in the industry, the truth is that brokers are vital to keep business flowing. Most carriers don’t have the time or capabilities to find enough customers to keep their trucks full. The odds of a customer finding a carrier working the route they are looking for in the time requirement that they need is next to impossible. You could imagine calling dozens of carriers and asking them if they are going to your destination and if so, will they have a truck in your area on a certain day.
Not likely.

Ok, so brokers are important, then why the bad reputation?
Partly because everyone wants to cut out the middle man, and partly because of the promises they make in order to close the deal in this highly competitive market. Consider the “get 10 free quotes instantly” factor and you can imagine the competition that brokers are up against. Most customers just want the lowest quote to ship their vehicle. Therefore, brokers will often give bottom rates, but then have trouble turning around and finding a carrier to ship the vehicle at that price. This leads to angry customers waiting longer than expected to have their car shipped.

So how do you stay clear of bad brokers?

• First, I would check their customer reviews on www.transportreviews.com.
• Next, Ask how long have they have been in business? Do they have a website with their company license information?
• Then, I would pay attention to their customer service. Are they professional?

In the end it always seems to come down to money, and the question is; will the customer pay the extra $50-$100 initially for a dependable transport. By neglecting the research, many sacrifice dependable transport and simply look at the cheapest rate. Like most products and services, you get what you pay for. Hiring a dependable company with a proven track record will gain not only timely service and a good price, but peace of mind.

Lepke Auto Transport works hard to give you a very competitive price for transporting your vehicle without sacrificing the quality and customer service that you desire.