I hired Southerland to transport my car from DC to LA. Their form contract did not specify how long it would take. Therefore, I called them and asked. I was told it would take around 10 days for my car to be picked up. I ordered the service and sent in a cashier's check (they don't take credit cards and now I know why) for the amount.
Its been almost 3 months and my car still has not been picked up yet. I've called and e-mailed the company repeatedly and they keep saying my car will be assigned to the first available carrier (this is what they spit out before they hang up on me). However, they will not tell me when that is. It's funny how before they receive your payment, pick up is 10 days but after they get your money, they cannot specify when your car will be picked up.
The company also says if I cancel, they will not return $200 of my fee for the processing charge. Furthermore, if I try to challenge the $200 processing charge, they will hold me liable for another $150 for their time and expense. I do not believe any of these charges are valid, however, if you do decide to take them to court, Southerland has conveniently provided a venue clause in their form contract which requires you to go to their place of business for any lawsuits. Therefore, it is not worth the time and expense for most people.
Don't be fooled by their professional looking website. Southerland is a bunch of crooks!!! I've checked with the Better Business Bureau and they've received numerous complaints for the same thing - promising to ship your car w/in 10 days, failing to pick up the car for a ridiculously unreasonable period of time, and refusing to return the $200 fee. Shasta County's Consumer Protection Unit has also received a number of complaints regarding the *&! @#$%! At Southerland. Don't be fooled!
Lauren
los angeles, California
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