If car insurance is a bigger part of your budget than you would like, it is time to shop around for insurance. It is a good idea to get car insurance quotes every year or two. Sometimes extra charges start slipping in, and getting new quotes can help you spot those charges. One family had extra rental car coverage, but when they purchased a third vehicle, an agent suggested that they could avoid the extra coverage expense if they were willing to give each other rides if needed.

You can get insurance quotes on the Internet or through phone calls. Before you start, gather the information you need. Write down the VIN numbers of each vehicle, as well as the make, model, and body style letters and numbers, (examples: GL, GLX) optional features, and type of alarm. Most makes and models have several different body styles, and which one your car has affects your insurance.

You will also need the birth dates and driver’s license numbers for each driver, as well as a good idea of their driving record. A ticket or accident you do not know about can raise your rates after the quote is given, and some companies have a larger surcharge than others.

You need to have your current policy available, if you have one, so you know the amounts of coverage you already have. You may want to change that coverage, but for the initial quote you want to compare exactly the same items you already have. That way you can tell if there is truly a difference between prices.

Make sure you get your quotes from reputable insurance companies, especially if you do an Internet search. There are many that promise lower rates, but have poor service records. Ask friends and read reviews to learn about a company’s reputation.