Very nice, but do NOT shop by price alone!
Inzune Hwang
Submitted this review about
Direct Express Auto Transport
Review made Live: 3/13/2011 11:26:00 PM
I originally scheduled my transport with All-Pro Auto Transport, aka Direct Express Auto Transport because they had a lot of 5 star ratings, were very polite & courteous on the phone, and offered a very low quote $850 on the phone, and an even lower price on their web site, $775. My toyota tacoma 2WD, no lift or anything unusual, was made available on December 30. I was told about a typical 7-10 day pickup window and other details typical of the other 15+ companies I spoke with (no kidding). A week goes by and nothing, so I call and am told everything is fine, just wait. Then, BLAM, the biggest snow/ice storm in 20yrs hits Atlanta. I figured nothing would move for at least a week, and I was right. But, I received no call or email, so I called and was told they would refund me $50 of my deposit to them to add to the carrier's bid. I was impressed they were willing to give up some profit for my order, so I sat tight. Another 5 days goes by and nothing. Another call, and another $25 refunded to add to the carrier's bid. ANOTHER week and nothing. It was suggested to meet the driver 40miles from my destination to make it more tempting for them, and I agreed. Every time I call, I got another very kind young lady telling me that the bid price looks fine and I should just be patient. I even added some of my own money to increase the carrier's bid (to a total price of $850, the original price I was quoted on the phone).
After SIX WEEKS of waiting, I could not wait any longer, I called Jr at Door to Door Transport. His original quote was a bit higher, but after hearing my story, he quoted me just $895 to stay competitive with Direct Express. (see my review under Door to Door) Direct Express was very apologetic and canceled my order right away. It did take one more reminder call to get the remaining refund but it was processed quickly thereafter.
I really appreciated the professionalism and customer service that Direct Express provided, but utlimately, I needed to get the job completed. I think a key issue was the big Atlanta snow storm, which caused my order to sit and probably look unappealing to some carriers. The final lesson for me is not to just shop based on price. Also, if things are not moving promptly, form an aggressive strategy before your vehicle's order loses any momentum.
