When it comes to relocating or simply transporting a vehicle across the sea, car shipping services become invaluable. Among these services, Matson car shipping stands out as a household name, especially when shipping to and from the Hawaiian Islands, mainland USA, Alaska, Guam, and beyond. Matson has built a reputation over the years for providing safe, reliable, and efficient transportation of vehicles across the Pacific.
Whether you’re moving for military deployment, personal reasons, or business, understanding the capabilities and limitations of a car shipping service is crucial. This blog post aims to delve into Matson’s history, services, customer experiences, pricing, and more to help potential customers make an informed decision.
Matson Car Shipping History and Services
Matson, a shipping titan, has been navigating oceans since its inception in 1882, providing a vital link for Pacific communities and businesses. With its roots deeply anchored in maritime tradition, Matson has evolved to offer a plethora of services, from container shipping to logistics and supply chain solutions. Specializing in car shipping, Matson fulfills the unique needs for transportation across the ocean, ranging from personal vehicles to oversized industrial machinery.
Services Include:
- Container shipping optimized for safety and efficiency
- Special services for shipping household goods for relocations
- Transportation of oversized cargo that requires careful handling
- Multimodal transport options, including rail and highway
- Warehousing, distribution, and international freight forwarding
This wide array of services showcases Matson’s commitment to addressing various shipping requirements, reinforcing its expertise in the industry.
The Pros and Cons of Matson Car Shipping
Pros:
- Extensive Experience: Matson’s longevity in the shipping industry brings with it a wealth of experience and a tradition of excellence.
- Regional Coverage: Broad regional service areas include Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, Micronesia, and the South Pacific, offering flexible shipping solutions.
- Diverse Options: A multitude of shipping options allows for various customer needs to be met, from individual cars to bulk commercial shipments.
Cons:
- Service Issues: Occasional delays and service disruptions have been noted by customers, which can affect overall satisfaction.
- Mixed Reviews: Customer reviews highlight a mixture of positive and negative experiences, suggesting inconsistencies in service quality.
Matson’s Booking and Shipping Process
Booking with Matson is streamlined to be as user-friendly as possible. Customers can easily make bookings online or by phone, with customer service agents ready to assist. The process involves selecting a shipping date, providing vehicle details, and finalizing the logistical aspects. Active-duty military service members are eligible for a $100 discount, which can be obtained by checking the relevant box during the online booking process or by mentioning it to the service agent.
Personal vehicles must be delivered to a Matson port facility, where they undergo pre-shipping inspections and are then loaded onto the vessels. The company’s well-defined shipping schedule and trackable container status ensure that customers can stay informed about their vehicle’s transit status.
Customer Experiences and Reviews
An analysis of customer feedback on platforms such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Yelp reveals a broad spectrum of experiences. Positive reviews often commend Matson’s timely deliveries and straightforward booking process, while less favorable reviews mention instances of property damage and delays in shipment arrivals.
Notably, Matson has proactively engaged with customer complaints, showcasing a commitment to resolving issues that arise. Such engagement is a critical aspect of maintaining trust and demonstrating dedication to service quality.
Pricing Information
Cost is a crucial factor for many when selecting a car shipping service. Matson’s pricing is competitive, with details transparently displayed on their website, offering clarity before booking. Factors like vehicle size, shipment route, and additional services can influence the total cost. However, Matson provides a clear breakdown of these costs, facilitating budget planning for prospective customers.
Noteworthy is Matson’s $100 military discount for active-duty service members, which acknowledges and supports the armed forces community’s frequent relocation needs.
Conclusion
Selecting the right car shipping service is critical for a stress-free experience, and through its extensive services and regional coverage, Matson car shipping presents a strong option for consumers. While every service has its pros and cons, effective communication, transparent pricing, and a proactive customer support framework place Matson in good standing in the shipping industry. With this comprehensive review in mind, those in need of a reliable vehicle transport service can weigh their options and potentially trust Matson to deliver their car safely and efficiently.
FAQS
How can I prepare my vehicle for ocean transport? To prepare your vehicle for ocean transport, remove all personal items, ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full, deactivate alarm systems, and check that the battery is secure and has a charge. It’s also important to clean the vehicle inside and out to help the inspection process.
What factors affect the cost of shipping a vehicle? The cost of shipping a vehicle can be affected by several factors, including the size and weight of the vehicle, the distance of the transport route, the time of year, and the level of service required, such as door-to-door delivery or terminal-to-terminal shipping.
Is my vehicle insured during transport? Transport companies typically offer insurance for your vehicle during transit. However, it’s essential to understand what is covered by this insurance and consider purchasing additional coverage if the provided policy does not meet your needs.
Can I ship personal items in my car? Most car shipping companies advise against shipping personal items in your vehicle as they are not liable for personal items and these may cause damage to the interior if not properly secured. Additionally, weight restrictions could apply.
How long will it take to ship my vehicle? The time it takes to ship a vehicle depends on the distance, route complexity, and shipping method. International shipments will generally take longer than domestic ones, and weather conditions can also affect transit times. It’s best to check with the shipping company for an estimated delivery window.