How to Obtain a Car Insurance Quote

When you're looking for an auto insurance policy, it's best to get a quote from more than one insurance company. With today's technology and a little patience, it is extremely easy to shop around and find the lowest car insurance rates in your area.

Collect Your Documentation

Make sure you have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Also get your driver's license and, depending on what state you live in, you might also want to know your credit score. Also check with the DMV to see what they have in regards to your driving record. These will all help you and the insurance company get a more accurate quote right away.

Make a List

Locate as many auto insurance companies you can find that service your state or city. Look online for them as well. While calling or visiting the websites of all the companies you find is impractical, be sure to put a large number of companies on your list - at least 10 or more.

Shop for Quotes

Visit all the companies on your list. Either call them or visit their website and give them the information they need to give you a car insurance quote. Some companies can give you a quote immediately, but in all cases the quote will be just an estimate. The more accurate information you have available, however, the more accurate the estimate will be.

Negotiate With Brokers

If you speak with an insurance broker - that is, someone who offers you coverage with one of several different insurance providers that they represent - then ask about their broker fee. This is a fee that they tack on top of the base cost of your insurance policy, and it is a form of middleman fee or overhead. Contact several brokers in the area to see who has the lowest broker fee, and bring this up with other brokers to see if you can get them to lower their fee even further.