1. Who we are and what we do
Big Apple Car Shipping ("we") is a licensed property broker. We arrange the transport of your vehicle by independent, FMCSA-licensed and insured motor carriers. We do not own the trucks. The carrier assigned to your shipment is responsible for the physical transport and carries the cargo insurance that covers your vehicle in transit.
2. Quotes and pricing
Quotes are based on the information you provide: route, vehicle year, make and model, whether it runs, trailer type and dates. The quoted price includes carrier transport, our brokerage fee, fuel, taxes, door-to-door service where accessible, and the carrier's standard cargo insurance. Prices may change if the information provided was inaccurate (for example an inoperable vehicle quoted as running, or a vehicle that is modified, oversized or carries additional items), or if you change the route, dates or trailer type after booking. We will tell you about any change before it applies.
3. Booking, deposit and payment
A booking is confirmed when you accept a quote and provide payment details. A deposit is charged when a carrier is assigned to your shipment; the remaining balance is paid directly to the carrier at delivery in the form stated on your confirmation (typically cash, certified funds or an approved electronic method). Payment in full is required before the vehicle is released.
4. Pickup and delivery windows
Pickup dates are windows, not appointments. We will give you an estimated first-available date and a typical window (usually one to five days) and the carrier will call ahead to agree a time. Transit times are estimates based on distance and typical conditions and are not guaranteed. Delays caused by weather, traffic, road closures, mechanical breakdowns, inspections or other events outside our control do not entitle you to compensation beyond any guaranteed-date service you have specifically purchased, whose terms will be stated on your confirmation.
5. Door-to-door service and meeting points
Carriers will get as close to your address as is legal and safe for their equipment. Where a street is restricted to trucks, too narrow, or otherwise inaccessible, you agree to meet the driver at a mutually agreed nearby location such as a large parking lot.
6. Your responsibilities
- Have the vehicle ready at pickup with no more than a quarter tank of fuel, in the operating condition described at booking, with a working battery and tires, and with any alarm disabled.
- Remove toll transponders, parking permits, loose or detachable exterior items, and all personal belongings of value. Personal items are shipped at your own risk, are not covered by cargo insurance, and carriers may refuse or charge for excess items.
- Ensure you or an authorized adult with keys is present at pickup and delivery to sign the bill of lading.
- Provide accurate contact information and be reachable during the pickup and delivery windows.
7. Inspection, bill of lading and claims
At pickup the driver completes an inspection report on the bill of lading noting the vehicle's condition; please review and sign it. At delivery, inspect the vehicle before signing and note any new damage on the bill of lading. Damage not noted at delivery is presumed not to have occurred in transit. Claims for transit damage are made against the carrier's cargo insurance; we will provide the carrier's insurance information and assist you with the claim. Our liability as a broker is limited to the brokerage fee paid to us.
8. Cancellations
You may cancel at no charge at any time before a carrier is assigned. Once a carrier has been assigned and the deposit charged, cancellations may forfeit the deposit to cover carrier dispatch costs. If we are unable to assign a carrier within a reasonable time of your first available date, you may cancel for a full refund of any amount paid to us.
9. Inoperable, modified and oversized vehicles
Vehicles that do not start, steer, roll and brake require winch loading and are subject to an inoperable surcharge. Lifted, lowered, oversized, dually or heavily loaded vehicles may require special equipment and pricing. Please describe your vehicle accurately at booking.
10. Communications
By providing your phone number and email you agree that we and the assigned carrier may contact you about your shipment by phone, text and email. SMS consent terms are described in our privacy policy; reply STOP to opt out of texts at any time.
11. Limitation of liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, we are not liable for indirect, incidental or consequential damages, including loss of use, rental cars, missed flights or lost income, arising from delay, damage or any other aspect of the transport service. Nothing in these terms limits liability that cannot be limited by law.
12. Governing law
These terms are governed by the laws of the State of New York and applicable federal transportation law. Disputes will be brought in the state or federal courts located in New York.
13. Changes
We may update these terms; the version in force when you book applies to that booking. Questions about these terms can be sent to quotes@bigapplecarshipping.com.