Frequently Asked Vehicle Shipping Questions
Straight answers to the questions people ask most before shipping a car. Don’t see yours? Call (424) 453-1800 and ask a real person.
Jump to: Cost · Timing · Insurance and Safety · Getting Ready
Cost
How much does it cost to ship a car?
It depends on distance, the specific cities, the vehicle’s size and whether it runs, open or enclosed transport, and the season. We don’t post made-up averages. Get an exact quote for your route.
Why are some quotes so much lower than others?
Some companies quote low to win the booking, then raise the price when no carrier will take the car at that rate. A realistic quote is one a carrier will actually accept. How the bait and switch works.
Does open or enclosed change the price?
Yes. Open transport is the lower price. Enclosed costs more because the trailers carry fewer cars and there are fewer of them.
Timing
How long does car shipping take?
There are two parts: the wait for pickup and the time on the road. Both depend on your route, distance and season. Your quote includes the pickup window and transit time for your route.
How far ahead should I book?
Two to three weeks is comfortable. Book earlier for snowbird season (fall south, spring north) and summer moving season.
Can I get my car shipped quickly?
Expedited shipping gets you a priority pickup window for a higher price.
Insurance and Safety
Is my car insured during shipping?
Licensed carriers must carry liability insurance, and auto carriers typically also carry cargo insurance for the vehicles they haul. Coverage limits vary by carrier. You can ask to see the carrier’s insurance certificate before pickup.
What if my car is damaged?
Inspect the car with the driver at delivery and note any new damage on the bill of lading before you sign. Take photos. That record is what a claim is based on. Then call us at (424) 453-1800.
Who is the carrier?
We match you with a vetted, licensed carrier that runs your route. Shelby Auto Transport arranges and manages the shipment; the carrier moves the vehicle.
Getting Ready
How should I prepare my car?
Wash it, take dated photos of every side, leave about a quarter tank of fuel, remove personal items and toll tags, and fold in the mirrors. See each step.
Can I put things in the car?
No. Carriers can’t haul household goods in a vehicle, and personal items generally aren’t covered by insurance.
Do I have to be there at pickup and delivery?
You or someone you trust, 18 or older, needs to be there to hand over or accept the keys and sign the inspection report.
Can you ship a car that doesn’t run?
Tell us when you ask for a quote. A non-running vehicle needs a carrier with a winch, which affects which carriers can take it and the price.
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Still Have Questions?
Get a price in a couple of minutes, or call and talk it through.