I will not use CA Auto Express again & at this time cannot recommend. Initial problem was the fact that there was a delay in car pick-up which I won't penalize them for, since I booked through a broker & they gave the window. Once I finally heard from CA Auto & spoke to John, they gave the pick-up time which was already later than I expected, but my frustration started when they told me I had to drive my car 30 mins away to drop off my car. They said that the truck was not able to access my city, Chelsea MA which is one of the most industrial cities in Mass with semi trucks and car carrier trucks passing my house every minute of the day. I argued that trying to arrange to drop-off of my car across town in Boston during rush hour is very inconvenient. They offered a $20 compensation for the inconvenience. Once I got to the location, it was clear that the driver Albert selected that location because it was a central location for his multiple pick-ups. He reiterated the lie that his car-carrier could not navigate the streets of Chelsea. Although, while on my way I passed two similar car-carriers while driving within walking distance of my address from other companies.
Day prior to pick up, I spoke with Albert (the driver that day) to inform him that I have wall canvas paintings, a mirror, and 2 boxes with pantry items in the back. He said it shouldn't be a problem. Before I left my car is his care, I reminded him that the items were in the back. At this point, he opened the car and pushed one of the boxes and said "oh yea this will over weight. It will be an extra $150!" He said he will be given a fine at weigh stations. But how can you tell me what the fine is without knowing if it is in fact overweight? Initially I opted to just remove the boxes and throw them away (not the paintings). Once I said that, he then said ok, $100. I then thought, what's another $100 to get your car cross country. But I think this is just a tactic to get extra money. Imagine if they tell everyone this, 10 cars x 150 = $1500.
My car arrived in the window they said. Within an hour of drop-off, I called to inform them of damage to my bumper. Emailed them, as instructed via phone, on 3/21with clear pictures taken at the time their driver picked up my car and after they dropped it off. The initial call to speak with manager to ask about the process when there is damage, was filled with attitude. I asked about the process & they said they will investigate & then determine the next steps, but depending on severity may need to make an insurance claim. When I asked if it was through my insurance, they said it depends! I disputed that & said I should not have to use mine. 4/7, called to follow up & was told to call back at 10am to speak with a manager. Called again, they took a message and promised a call back. Called again 4/8 & after voicing my frustration of not even receiving an acknowledgment or an apology. Then I was put on hold & spoke with someone else who finally said we will get back to you by end of day. That last person was personable, however all the other people were short, borderline dismissive & annoyed at me calling.
Today, April 9th I receive an email saying I need to present 2-3 estimates and they will assess the situation further to let me know next steps. I think this is a tactic used in hopes that no one will go driving around to get 2-3 quotes. I'm new to a city, new job, and so who has time to drive around getting 2-3 quotes?
The worst is that Albert the driver had convinced me, even with the "overweight" debacle, to call the company directly to ship my other two cars. I voiced this to the first rep I spoke to post-delivery in hopes that they would redeem themselves in some manner, whether to just simply acknowledge the complaint, offer a compensation discount for the future cars or just not have such poor customer service, but failed each time. So now I'm here with a damaged bumper and though not tremendously extensive, and means nothing to them, it is still my personal property that got damaged in your care. Do better! read more