How To Transport A Car

Getting a car from point A to point B involves considering distance, vehicle type, and your budget to find the right method. If you’re wondering how to transport a car, you have several reliable options to choose from. The best choice depends on your specific situation, whether you’re moving across the country, buying a vehicle online, or delivering a car to a family member.

This guide will walk you through every step. We’ll cover the different transport methods, how to prepare your vehicle, and how to choose a reputable company. By the end, you’ll feel confident in making the right decision for your needs.

Transporting a car is a common need for many people. You might be relocating for a job, purchasing a classic car from another state, or sending a vehicle to a student at college. The process can seem daunting, but breaking it down into clear steps makes it manageable.

The two primary categories are open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is the most common and affordable method, where your car is shipped on an open trailer. Enclosed transport provides a protected environment inside a trailer, which is ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.

You can also choose between door-to-door service and terminal-to-terminal service. Door-to-door is more convenient, as the carrier picks up and delivers your car as close to your specified addresses as possible. Terminal-to-terminal is often cheaper but requires you to drop off and pick up the vehicle at the company’s hubs.

Key Factors To Consider Before You Ship

Before you get a quote or book a service, take a moment to evaluate these key factors. They will significantly influence the cost and the best method for your shipment.

Distance and Location

The distance between pickup and delivery is the biggest cost driver. Cross-country moves are typically more expensive than regional ones. Remote or difficult-to-access locations may also incur additional fees.

Vehicle Type and Condition

The make, model, size, and condition of your vehicle matter. A non-running car will cost more to transport than one that drives. Oversized vehicles like trucks or SUVs may also have higher rates.

Your Timeline and Budget

How flexible are you on time? If you need expedited service, it will cost more. Setting a realistic budget early on will help you narrow down your options between open and enclosed transport.

Time of Year

Demand for auto transport fluctuates. The summer months and holidays are peak seasons, often leading to higher prices and limited availability. Planning ahead can save you money.

Choosing Your Transport Method

Now, let’s look at the specific methods in detail. Understanding the pros and cons of each will help you make an informed choice.

Open Air Transport

This is the most popular and economical way to ship a car. Your vehicle is secured on a multi-level open trailer, similar to those used by dealerships.

Pros:

Most cost-effective option.
Widely available with frequent departures.
Can transport multiple vehicles at once, increasing efficiency.

Cons:

Vehicle is exposed to weather and road debris.
Higher risk of minor cosmetic damage from rocks or dust.

Enclosed Transport

For maximum protection, enclosed transport is the best solution. Your car is placed inside a fully enclosed trailer, shielding it from all external elements.

Pros:

Superior protection from weather, debris, and road salt.
Enhanced security and privacy for high-value vehicles.
Often used for classic cars, antiques, and exotic sports cars.

Cons:

Significantly more expensive than open transport.
Less frequent scheduling due to specialized equipment.

Driveaway Services

Some companies offer a driveaway service, where a professional driver will physically drive your car to its destination. This can be a good option for certain shorter distances.

Pros:

Potentially faster for shorter, direct routes.
No need for a trailer or carrier.

Cons:

Adds mileage and wear to your vehicle.
You are reliant on the driver’s schedule and safety record.
Usually includes higher insurance liability considerations.

How To Prepare Your Vehicle For Transport

Proper preparation is crucial for a smooth shipping process. It protects your car and ensures there are no disputes about its condition upon delivery. Follow these steps carefully.

Wash Your Car: A clean vehicle makes it easier to document any existing damage. Take clear photos and videos from all angles, including the roof, tires, and glass.
Perform a Minor Inspection: Check fluid levels, tire pressure, and ensure the battery is charged. For non-running vehicles, inform the transporter in advance.
Remove Personal Belongings: Auto transporters’ insurance does not cover personal items left inside the vehicle. Remove all possessions, including items in the trunk and glove box.
Disable Alarms: If your car has an alarm, disable it or provide the driver with instructions to prevent it from going off during transit.
Leave About a Quarter Tank of Fuel: A small amount of fuel is needed for loading and unloading. A full tank adds unnecessary weight and safety risk.
Note Any Existing Damage: Mark any dents, scratches, or chips on the vehicle inspection report (Bill of Lading) provided by the driver. Both you and the driver should sign this document.

Finding And Selecting A Transport Company

Choosing a reputable company is the most important step. A good transporter provides peace of mind, while a bad one can lead to headaches and damage.

Research and Get Multiple Quotes

Start by getting quotes from at least three to five different companies. Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true—they often are. Provide each company with the same accurate information for a fair comparison.

Verify Credentials

Any legitimate interstate auto transporter must have a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Use this number to check their safety rating, insurance, and complaint history on the FMCSA website.

Read Reviews and Check References

Look for customer reviews on independent platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, or Google Reviews. Pay attention to how companies respond to negative feedback. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from recent customers.

Understand the Contract and Insurance

Before you sign anything or pay a deposit, read the contract thoroughly. It should clearly state the pickup and delivery windows, total cost, payment terms, and insurance coverage. The carrier should have cargo insurance, but you should also check with your own auto insurance policy to understand your coverage during transit.

The Step-By-Step Shipping Process

Knowing what to expect from start to finish can ease anxiety. Here is a typical timeline for shipping a car.

Booking and Scheduling: Once you select a company, you’ll book your shipment and pay a deposit (usually 10-25%). The company will then schedule your car into a transport route.
Pickup Window: You will receive a pickup window (often 1-3 days). The driver will contact you a day in advance to confirm a more specific time. Be flexible, as travel delays can occur.
Vehicle Inspection and Pickup: Upon arrival, the driver will conduct a thorough inspection with you. You’ll both note any existing damage on the Bill of Lading. After signing, the driver will load your vehicle.
In-Transit Updates: Reputable companies provide tracking information or updates. The driver may or may not be able to give daily updates due to driving regulations.
Delivery and Final Inspection: At delivery, inspect your car again against the initial Bill of Lading. Check for any new damage before you sign the release and pay the remaining balance (usually in cash, cashier’s check, or verified funds).

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Avoiding these common pitfalls can save you time, money, and stress.

Not Researching the Company: Choosing the cheapest option without checking credentials often leads to poor service.
Failing To Document Pre-Existing Damage: Without photos and a signed inspection report, you cannot prove damage occured during transit.
Booking at the Last Minute: This limits your options and often results in higher prices, especially during peak seasons.
Leaving Personal Items in the Car: As mentioned, these are not insured and could be lost or stolen.
Not Being Flexible on Pickup/Delivery Dates: Strict timelines can be harder and more expensive to meet. Building in some flexibility can speed up the process.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about car transportation.

How much does it cost to transport a car?

The average cost to ship a car ranges from $500 to $1,500 for open transport on a standard route. Several factors influence the final price, including distance, vehicle size, season, and fuel prices. Enclosed transport typically costs 30-60% more.

How long does it take to ship a car across the country?

For a cross-country shipment (e.g., California to New York), you can expect transit time to take between 7 to 14 days. This depends on the route, weather, and how many other vehicles are being delivered along the way. The company should give you an estimated timeframe when booking.

What is the safest way to transport a car?

Enclosed transport is the safest method, offering complete protection from weather and road debris. However, open transport is also very safe and statistically, the vast majority of vehicles arrive without any issues. Choosing a reputable, insured carrier is the most important safety factor regardless of method.

Do I need special insurance to ship my car?

The transport company is required to have cargo insurance that covers your vehicle during transit. You should ask for a certificate of insurance. Additionally, check with your personal auto insurance provider to see if your policy offers any coverage during shipping. This gives you an extra layer of protection.

Can I ship a car that doesn’t run?

Yes, you can ship a non-running car. You must inform the transport company upfront, as it requires special equipment like a winch to load it. This service is called “non-operational” transport and will generally cost more than shipping a drivable vehicle due to the extra labor involved.