These are the ten questions we hear most from people shipping a vehicle for the first time, with straight answers.
1. How much does it cost?
It depends on the distance, the specific cities, the vehicle’s size and condition, open or enclosed transport, and the season. Anyone who gives you a price without those details is guessing. Read what goes into a car shipping price, then get an exact quote.
2. How long does it take?
There are two parts: waiting for pickup, and time on the road. Busy interstate routes get picked up fastest. Long-haul drivers follow federal hours-of-service limits, so a cross-country trip takes many days. Your quote should include both the pickup window and an estimated transit time.
3. Is my car insured?
Licensed carriers must carry liability insurance, and auto carriers typically also carry cargo insurance for the vehicles they haul. Limits vary, so ask to see the carrier’s certificate before pickup, and check what your own auto policy covers.
4. Open or enclosed?
Open is the standard, lower-priced choice for everyday cars. Enclosed is worth it for exotic, classic and high-value cars. More in Enclosed Car Shipping: Is It Worth It?
5. Will they pick up at my house?
With door-to-door service, the carrier comes as close as it can safely and legally get. If your street is too narrow or a gated community doesn’t allow trucks, you’ll meet nearby. See door-to-door transport.
6. Can I put stuff in the car?
No. Carriers aren’t licensed to haul household goods, and belongings inside the car generally aren’t covered by insurance. Ship them separately.
7. Do I have to be there?
You or someone you trust, 18 or older, needs to be at pickup and delivery to hand over or accept the keys and sign the inspection report.
8. Can you ship a car that doesn’t run?
Usually, yes. It needs a carrier with a winch, which affects the price and which carriers can take it. Mention it up front.
9. How should I prepare my car?
Wash it, take dated photos, leave about a quarter tank of fuel, remove personal items and toll tags, and fold in the mirrors. Step by step in How Do I Ship My Car?
10. How do I avoid getting scammed?
Check the company’s USDOT and MC numbers on the FMCSA website, be wary of quotes far below everyone else’s, and get the price and terms in writing before you hand over the car. Read about lowball quotes, hostage vehicle scams and last-minute cancellations.
Have a question that isn’t here? See the full car shipping FAQ or call (424) 453-1800.