If you need to move a vehicle across the country, you might be wondering, how do you ship a car? Arranging for professional auto transport means entrusting your vehicle to a carrier for a long-distance move. The process is straightforward when you understand the steps.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We will cover getting quotes, choosing a carrier, and preparing your vehicle. You will feel confident making the right choices.
How Do You Ship A Car
The core process of shipping a car involves several key stages. It starts with research and ends with your vehicle’s safe delivery. Knowing what to expect at each phase ensures a smooth experience.
You will work with an auto transport broker or a direct carrier. Their job is to match your vehicle with a truck and driver. Your job is to provide accurate information and prepare the car properly.
Research And Get Multiple Quotes
Your first step is to gather quotes from several companies. This gives you a sense of the market rate and service options. Never settle for the first quote you receive.
Use online quote forms or call companies directly. Be prepared to provide consistent details for accurate comparisons. The main factors that influence cost include:
- Vehicle make, model, and size
- Pickup and delivery locations
- Desired transport type (open or enclosed)
- Time of year (peak seasons cost more)
- Current fuel prices and market demand
Extremely low quotes can be a red flag. They might indicate hidden fees or a less reputable service. Always read the terms carefully.
Choose Between Open And Enclosed Transport
This is one of the most significant decisions you will make. The choice impacts cost, protection, and availability. Most vehicles are shipped via open transport.
Open transport carriers are the standard double-level trailers you see on highways. They are cost-effective and offer frequent availability. Your car will be exposed to the elements and road debris during the journey.
Enclosed transport is like a private garage on wheels. It provides maximum protection from weather, rocks, and dust. This option is recommended for:
- Classic, vintage, or exotic cars
- High-value luxury vehicles
- Custom builds or cars with fresh paint
- Motorcycles
The cost for enclosed shipping is typically 30-60% higher. It is worth the investment for sensitive or irreplaceable vehicles.
Understand Door-To-Door Vs Terminal-To-Terminal Service
Another key choice is between door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal service. Most customers prefer the convenience of door-to-door shipping.
Door-to-door service means the carrier picks up your vehicle from a specified address and delivers it to another. This requires accessible streets for a large transport truck. Some residential areas with low trees or tight turns may pose a challenge.
Terminal-to-terminal service involves dropping off and picking up your car at designated carrier hubs. This can sometimes reduce cost. However, it adds the inconvienience of two extra trips for you.
Discuss access with your broker to avoid last-minute issues. They may need a nearby commercial location as an alternative pickup spot.
Select A Reputable Auto Transport Company
With quotes in hand, it’s time to vet the companies. Your vehicle is a major investment, so due diligence is crucial. Look beyond the price to assess reliability.
Check the company’s operating authority and insurance. They should have a valid USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify this on the FMCSA’s SAFER website.
Read customer reviews on independent platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews. Pay attention to how the company responds to complaints. A pattern of unresolved issues is a warning sign.
Ask the company for references or proof of insurance. A professional outfit will provide this information willingly. Avoid any company that pressures you for an immediate deposit.
Broker Versus Carrier: Knowing The Difference
It is important to understand who you are contracting with. A broker acts as a middleman, connecting you with a licensed carrier. They handle the paperwork and logistics but do not own the trucks.
A direct carrier owns its fleet of transport trucks and employs its drivers. You are contracting directly with the company moving your vehicle. Both models can be reputable.
Ask upfront if you are speaking with a broker or a carrier. If it’s a broker, ask which carrier they plan to use. You have a right to know who is handling your car.
Prepare Your Vehicle For Shipping
Proper preparation protects your vehicle and simplifies the pickup inspection. Start by giving your car a good cleaning, inside and out. This makes it easier to note any existing damage.
Document your car’s condition thoroughly. Take date-stamped photos and videos from all angles. Focus on the roof, hood, windshield, and each side panel. This creates a clear pre-shipment record.
Perform basic mechanical checks. Ensure the battery is charged, and the tires are properly inflated. The car must be in good working order to be loaded and unloaded safely.
Remove all personal belongings from the interior and trunk. Transport companies’ insurance does not cover personal items left in the vehicle. It also reduces the risk of theft and keeps the car light.
Leave about a quarter tank of fuel in the car. This is enough for loading and unloading maneuvers. A full tank adds unnecessary weight and safety risk.
Disable any alarm systems or provide clear instructions to the driver. If the alarm triggers during transport, it can be a major problem. Consider providing a spare key to the driver if required.
The Pickup Process And Bill Of Lading
When the carrier driver arrives for pickup, they will conduct a thorough inspection with you. They will note any dents, scratches, or imperfections on the Bill of Lading (BOL). This document is the legal contract for the shipment.
Review the BOL carefully before signing. Make sure every mark on the vehicle is documented. Do not sign a blank or incomplete form. Keep your copy in a safe place; it is your receipt and damage record.
Confirm the expected delivery date range with the driver. Understand that transit times are estimates due to weather, traffic, and routing. The driver will provide you with their contact information.
Once the BOL is signed, the driver will secure your vehicle on the trailer. You will see how it is strapped and positioned. After this, the driver will depart with your car.
During Transit And Tracking
After pickup, the carrier is responsible for your vehicle’s safe transport. Most reputable companies offer some form of tracking. You might get updates via phone, email, or an online portal.
Resist the urge to call the driver constantly for updates. They are focused on safe driving. Your main point of contact should be your broker or the carrier’s dispatch office.
Transit times vary by distance and route. Cross-country shipments typically take 1-2 weeks. Be patient and allow for a reasonable delivery window. Delays can happen due to unforeseen circumstances.
The Delivery And Inspection Process
Upon delivery, the driver will contact you to arrange the exact time and location. When they arrive, you will inspect the vehicle together using the signed Bill of Lading from pickup.
Compare the car’s condition to the notes on the BOL. Look for any new damage that occured during transit. If you find something, note it clearly on the driver’s copy of the BOL before you sign for delivery.
Once you sign the delivery receipt, the transaction is complete. Make your final payment if you have a balance due, unless other arrangements were made. The driver will then unload your car and release it to you.
If there is a dispute over new damage, do not refuse the shipment. Instead, accept the delivery and note the damage on the BOL. Then, contact the transport company immediately to initiate a claim.
Understanding Costs And Payment
Car shipping costs are not fixed. They fluctuate based on the factors we discussed earlier. You will typically pay a deposit to book the service, with the balance due upon delivery.
Common payment methods include credit card, cashier’s check, or cash upon delivery. Confirm the accepted methods before booking. Be wary of companies demanding full payment upfront.
Get everything in writing. The quote should detail all charges, including any potential accessorial fees. There should be no surprises at delivery.
Filing A Damage Claim
In the rare event your vehicle is damaged, you must follow the proper claims process. Your first point of contact is the transport company you contracted with. Provide them with your BOL copy and photos of the new damage.
The carrier’s insurance provider will handle the claim. You may need to get repair estimates from a body shop. Cooperate fully with the insurance adjuster.
Having your own pre-shipment photos is the best evidence. This is why thorough documentation at pickup is so critical. It clearly shows what damage was pre-existing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car?
Costs vary widely, but for standard open transport across the country, you can expect to pay between $800 and $2,000. Shorter distances or routes with high demand may have different pricing. Always get multiple quotes for an accurate picture.
How Long Does It Take To Ship A Car?
For a coast-to-coast shipment, plan on 7 to 14 days in transit. Regional moves of a few hundred miles may take 3 to 5 days. These are estimates, and weather or logistical issues can cause delays.
What Is The Safest Way To Ship A Car?
Enclosed transport is the safest method, offering protection from weather and road debris. For most modern cars in good condition, open transport is perfectly safe and is the industry standard.
Can I Pack Belongings In My Car When Shipping It?
No, it is strongly discouraged and often against the carrier’s terms. Their insurance covers the vehicle only, not personal items. Packing items also adds weight and can be a theft risk.
What Paperwork Do I Need To Ship My Car?
You will need a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. The carrier handles the primary paperwork (Bill of Lading). For international or Hawaii/Alaska shipments, additional documentation may be required.