Quote (Estimate) - Meaning and Definition

2/21/2025

A quote in auto transport is an estimate provided by a transportation company that details the cost of shipping a vehicle from one place to another. This estimate helps customers understand how much they might need to pay for the service.

Meaning of a Quote in Auto Transport

A quote is an estimated price for transporting your vehicle. It is not a final or binding contract but gives you a good idea of the expected cost.

Factors Involved

The quote takes into account several factors, such as:

Distance:
How far the vehicle needs to be transported.
Vehicle Type:
The kind of vehicle being shipped (e.g., car, truck, motorcycle).
Delivery Time-frame:
How quickly you need the vehicle delivered.
Additional Services:
Extra options like enclosed transport for added protection or expedited delivery for faster service.
Market Conditions:
Current fuel prices and demand for transport services.

Why Quotes Matter

Cost Planning:
Quotes help you budget for the transport service.
Comparison:
You can compare quotes from different companies to find the best deal.
Understanding Services:
A quote outlines what services are included, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

What to Do with a Quote

Review Carefully:
Look at what’s included in the quote and make sure you understand the terms and conditions.
Ask Questions:
If anything is unclear, ask the transport company for clarification.
Compare Options:
Get quotes from multiple companies to ensure you’re getting a fair price.

A Quote is an Estimate by Definition

A quote is an estimated cost for transporting your vehicle, considering various factors like distance, vehicle type, and additional services. It’s an essential tool for planning and comparing auto transport services. Always review quotes carefully and understand the terms before booking your vehicle transport.

Definition of 'Quote'

verb

repeat or copy out (a group of words from a text or speech), typically with an indication that one is not the original author or speaker.
"he quoted a passage from the Psalms"
give someone (the estimated price of a job or service).
"the agent quoted him a fare of $180"

noun

a quotation from a text or speech.
"a quote from Wordsworth"
a quotation giving the estimated cost for a particular job or service.
"quotes from different insurance companies" [1]

What to Look Out for

A quote, by definition, refers to an estimate of the cost of goods or services, often provided by a business before any work is completed. Make sure to be cautious, as some non-reputable companies may use this term deceptively in a bait-and-switch tactic. They lure customers in with an attractive, low estimate and later increase the final price significantly once the service or product is delivered. To avoid this, it's important to seek quotes from trusted sources and be aware of any terms and conditions that could result in unexpected charges.