Terms of Service

1. Agreement to Terms

These Terms of Service ("Terms") constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Direct Auto Ship, LLC, a limited liability company organized under the laws of Utah ("Company," "we," "us," or "our"). These Terms govern your access to and use of our car shipping quote comparison platform, website, mobile applications, and related services (collectively, the "Platform").

1.1 Acceptance of Terms

By creating an account, accessing the Platform, or using any of our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated herein by reference.

1.2 Platform Description

Direct Auto Ship operates a quote comparison platform that enables users to:

• Compare car shipping quotes from multiple verified carriers
• Review carrier ratings, reviews, and service information
• Book transportation services with their chosen carrier
• Process secure payments through our platform

1.3 Legal Capacity and Authorization

You represent and warrant that you have the legal capacity and authority to enter into this agreement and to use our Platform services.

1.4 Updates to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Material changes will be communicated via email and platform notifications. Continued use of the Platform after such changes constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms.

2. Definitions

For purposes of these Terms, the following definitions apply:

3. Platform Services Overview

3.1 Quote Comparison Services

Direct Auto Ship operates a quote comparison platform that helps users find and compare car shipping options. We provide comparison and booking facilitation services but do not provide transportation services ourselves.

3.2 Platform Features and Services

Direct Auto Ship provides the following services:

• Instant quote comparison from multiple verified carriers
• Carrier verification including licensing and insurance checks
• Customer reviews and ratings for informed decision-making
• Secure payment processing and protection
• Booking confirmation and coordination
• Customer support throughout the shipping process
• Shipment tracking and status updates

3.3 What We Do NOT Do

Direct Auto Ship explicitly:

• DOES NOT provide physical transportation services or own transport equipment
• DOES NOT employ drivers or operate transport vehicles
• DOES NOT guarantee carrier performance or delivery times
• DOES NOT insure vehicles during transport (carriers provide their own insurance)

3.4 Carrier Verification

We verify carriers on our platform by checking:

• DOT registration and operating authority
• Insurance coverage and certificates
• Safety records and ratings
• Customer reviews and feedback
• Business legitimacy and history

However, we cannot guarantee the ongoing compliance or performance of any carrier after initial verification.

4. User Accounts and Registration

4.1 Account Registration Requirements

To use certain Platform features, you must create an account by providing accurate, current, and complete information. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials and for all activities under your account.

4.2 Account Information

We require the following information for account creation:

• Contact Information: Valid name, email address, and phone number
• Vehicle Information: Details about vehicles you wish to ship
• Location Information: Pickup and delivery addresses
• Payment Information: Valid payment method for bookings

4.3 Account Responsibilities

All Users agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete registration information
• Maintain current and accurate account information
• Secure account credentials and prevent unauthorized access
• Notify us immediately of any security breaches or unauthorized use
• Be responsible for all activities under your account
• Use the Platform only for lawful purposes

4.4 Account Suspension and Termination

We may suspend or terminate accounts for:

• Violations of these Terms or misrepresentation of information
• Fraudulent activity or abuse of the Platform
• Failure to pay for services booked
• Any activity that threatens Platform integrity or user safety

5. Terms for Users

5.1 User Representations and Warranties

As a User of our comparison platform, you represent and warrant that:

• You own the Vehicle or have legal authority to arrange its transportation
• The Vehicle is legally registered and properly insured
• You have disclosed all known Vehicle defects, damage, or special requirements
• The Vehicle contains no illegal substances, contraband, or hazardous materials
• All information provided is accurate and complete
• You will be available during agreed pickup and delivery windows

5.2 Booking Process

1. Get Quotes: Enter your vehicle and route details to receive instant quotes
2. Compare Options: Review carrier quotes, ratings, reviews, and services
3. Select Carrier: Choose the carrier that best fits your needs and budget
4. Book & Pay: Complete your booking with secure payment
5. Coordinate: Work with your chosen carrier for pickup and delivery

5.3 User Obligations

Users must:

• Prepare Vehicle for transport according to carrier requirements
• Remove all personal items from the vehicle
• Be present or arrange an authorized representative for pickup and delivery
• Inspect Vehicle thoroughly before and after transport
• Report any issues or discrepancies immediately
• Pay all applicable fees and charges as agreed
• Communicate promptly with carriers and our support team

5.4 Vehicle Condition Documentation

Users acknowledge that:

• Vehicle condition should be documented with photos at pickup
• Pre-existing damage must be accurately noted
• Failure to document damage at pickup may affect any claims
• Carrier insurance covers transportation-related damage only

5.5 Cancellation Policy

Users may cancel bookings subject to the following:

• 48+ hours before pickup: Full refund minus processing fees
• 24-48 hours before pickup: 75% refund
• Less than 24 hours: 50% refund
• After pickup: No cancellation permitted - Vehicle in transit
• Carrier cancellation: Full refund provided

6. Payments

6.1 Pricing and Fees

The price you see when comparing quotes includes:

• Carrier transportation charges
• Platform service fee
• Payment processing fees

There are no hidden fees. The price displayed at checkout is the total price you pay.

6.2 Payment Processing

All payments are processed through Stripe, a secure third-party payment processor. By using the Platform, you agree to Stripe's terms of service. Direct Auto Ship does not store credit card information directly.

6.3 Payment Protection

Our secure payment system protects you:

• Secure Processing: All payments encrypted and processed securely
• Payment Held: Funds held until delivery is confirmed
• Dispute Protection: Funds protected during any dispute resolution
• Refund Guarantee: Full refund if carrier cancels

6.4 Payment Schedule

• At Booking: Payment due upon booking confirmation
• Carrier Payment: Carrier paid after delivery confirmation
• Refunds: Processed within 5-10 business days to original payment method

6.5 Payment Disputes

In case of payment disputes:

• Contact our support team immediately
• Provide documentation of any issues
• We will investigate and resolve within 30 days
• Chargebacks handled according to Stripe's policies

7. Insurance and Liability

7.1 Carrier Insurance

All carriers on our platform are required to maintain insurance coverage including:

• Commercial Auto Liability: Minimum $750,000 per occurrence
• Cargo Coverage: Minimum $100,000 per vehicle

7.2 Insurance Verification

We verify carrier insurance at the time they join our platform. However:

• We cannot guarantee carriers maintain coverage at all times
• Insurance policies may have exclusions or limitations
• Claims are handled directly between you and the carrier's insurance

7.3 Claims Process

If your vehicle is damaged during transport:

1. Document the damage immediately with photos
2. Note damage on any delivery documentation
3. Report to our support team within 24 hours
4. File a claim with the carrier's insurance
5. We will assist in facilitating communication

7.4 Recommended Precautions

We recommend that users:

• Verify your personal auto insurance covers vehicles during transport
• Consider additional coverage for high-value vehicles
• Document vehicle condition thoroughly before transport
• Request carrier insurance certificate before pickup

8. Disputes and Resolution

8.1 Dispute Resolution Services

Direct Auto Ship provides support for resolving issues:

• Facilitating communication between users and carriers
• Reviewing documentation and evidence
• Assisting with insurance claim coordination
• Providing mediation when possible

8.2 Dispute Process

1. Report Issue: Contact our support team with details
2. Documentation: Provide photos, receipts, and relevant information
3. Investigation: We review and contact the carrier
4. Resolution: Work toward a fair resolution for all parties

8.3 Limitations

Our dispute resolution services:

• Are provided as a courtesy to help resolve issues
• Do not create additional liability for Direct Auto Ship
• Cannot override carrier insurance policy terms
• Are not a substitute for legal remedies

9. Prohibited Conduct

9.1 General Prohibitions

All Users are prohibited from:

• Using the Platform for any illegal or unauthorized purposes
• Providing false, misleading, or inaccurate information
• Impersonating any person or entity
• Interfering with or disrupting Platform operations
• Attempting unauthorized access to Platform systems
• Using automated tools or bots to access the Platform
• Collecting other users' personal information
• Engaging in spam or unsolicited marketing

9.2 Shipping Prohibitions

Users may not:

• Ship vehicles without proper ownership or authorization
• Misrepresent vehicle condition or specifications
• Include illegal substances or hazardous materials in vehicles
• Attempt to defraud carriers or the Platform

9.3 Communication Standards

Platform communications must not include:

• Harassment, threats, or abusive language
• Discriminatory content
• Spam or unsolicited marketing
• False or defamatory statements

9.4 Enforcement

Violations may result in:

• Warning notices
• Account suspension or termination
• Forfeiture of payments
• Legal action if warranted

10. Intellectual Property

10.1 Platform Ownership

Direct Auto Ship owns all rights to the Platform, including:

• Website design and user interface
• Software and underlying technology
• Trademarks, logos, and brand elements
• Content, text, and graphics

10.2 Limited License

We grant you a limited, non-exclusive license to use the Platform for its intended purpose. This license does not include rights to:

• Modify or create derivative works
• Reverse engineer or extract source code
• Remove proprietary notices
• Use Platform technology for competing services

10.3 User Content

You retain ownership of content you submit (reviews, photos, etc.) but grant us a license to use, display, and distribute such content for Platform operations.

11. Disclaimers

11.1 Platform Availability

We do not warrant that:

• The Platform will be available at all times or error-free
• All defects or bugs will be corrected
• The Platform will meet all your requirements

11.2 Carrier Services

As a comparison platform, we make no warranties regarding:

• Quality or reliability of carrier transportation services
• Accuracy of carrier-provided information
• Carrier performance or delivery times
• Resolution of disputes between users and carriers

11.3 Information Accuracy

Users acknowledge that:

• Quote prices may change based on actual vehicle and route details
• Carrier information may not always be current
• Reviews reflect individual experiences and opinions

12. Limitation of Liability

12.1 Platform Liability Limitations

Direct Auto Ship's liability is limited to comparison and booking facilitation services. We are NOT liable for:

• Vehicle damage, loss, or theft during transportation
• Carrier performance failures or delays
• Accidents or injuries during transport
• Insurance claim denials or disputes
• Carrier violations of regulations

12.2 Maximum Liability

Direct Auto Ship's total liability shall not exceed the lesser of:

• $1,000 per incident
• Total fees paid to Direct Auto Ship in the 12 months preceding the claim

12.3 User Responsibility

Users acknowledge and assume responsibility for:

• Selecting carriers based on available information
• Verifying carrier credentials and insurance
• Documenting vehicle condition
• Compliance with applicable laws

13. Indemnification

13.1 User Indemnification

Users agree to indemnify and hold harmless Direct Auto Ship from claims arising from:

• Violation of these Terms
• Inaccurate information provided
• Unauthorized vehicle shipping
• Illegal substances or items in vehicles
• Disputes with carriers
• Violation of applicable laws

13.2 Limitation

Indemnification does not apply to claims resulting from Direct Auto Ship's gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

14. Termination

14.1 Termination by Users

Users may terminate their accounts at any time by:

• Using account deletion features in settings
• Contacting customer support

Termination is subject to completion of active bookings and payment of outstanding fees.

14.2 Termination by Direct Auto Ship

We may terminate accounts for:

• Violation of these Terms
• Fraudulent activity
• Abusive behavior
• Non-payment
• At our discretion with reasonable notice

14.3 Effects of Termination

Upon termination:

• Platform access is revoked
• Active bookings may continue to completion
• Outstanding payments remain due
• Certain Terms provisions survive (liability, indemnification, etc.)

15. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

15.1 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Utah, without regard to conflict of law principles.

15.2 Jurisdiction

Any legal action shall be brought exclusively in the state and federal courts located in Salt Lake County, Utah. Users consent to the personal jurisdiction of such courts.

15.3 Arbitration

Except for claims for injunctive relief or intellectual property disputes, all disputes shall be resolved through binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association (AAA) under its Commercial Arbitration Rules.

Arbitration Details:

• Location: Salt Lake County, Utah
• Rules: AAA Commercial Arbitration Rules
• Decision: Final and binding

15.4 Class Action Waiver

ALL DISPUTES MUST BE BROUGHT INDIVIDUALLY AND NOT AS PART OF ANY CLASS ACTION OR REPRESENTATIVE PROCEEDING.

15.5 Limitation Period

Any claim must be filed within ONE (1) YEAR after the claim accrues.

16. Miscellaneous

16.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms and our Privacy Policy constitute the entire agreement between you and Direct Auto Ship regarding Platform use.

16.2 Severability

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining Terms remain in effect.

16.3 Assignment

Users may not assign their rights under these Terms. Direct Auto Ship may assign these Terms to any successor entity.

16.4 No Waiver

Failure to enforce any provision does not constitute a waiver of that provision.

16.5 Force Majeure

Neither party is liable for delays due to circumstances beyond reasonable control, including natural disasters, government actions, or technical failures.

16.6 Electronic Signatures

Electronic signatures and digital acceptance have the same legal effect as handwritten signatures.

16.7 Updates

We may update these Terms to reflect changes in laws, services, or business practices. Material changes will be communicated at least 30 days before taking effect.

17. Contact Information

17.1 Company Information

17.2 Contact Methods

17.3 Effective Date

These Terms of Service are effective as of July 25, 2025.

17.4 Acknowledgment

Thank you for choosing Direct Auto Ship for your car shipping comparison needs. We're committed to helping you find the best deal from verified carriers.