Step 1
If you want to know how to ship a car, getting a quote is the first step in the process. Contact us today to get your free instant quote. Use our instant online quote calculator, and all it takes is just a couple of minutes of your time. Alternatively, you can speak directly with our shipping advisors at (800) 214-7541.
When you contact us to find out how to move a car, we’ll ask for some simple details. You’ll need to provide the city and state where you want your vehicle to be picked up, the city and state where you want us to deliver your vehicle, the make, model, and year of the vehicle. You also need to let us know whether it is running or not, how you’d prefer to ship your car, and when it will be ready for pick-up. In the auto transport industry, this is known as the First Available Pick-up Date.
When you’re choosing how to ship a car, you get to pick from open car transport and enclosed auto transport. The most common and economical way to ship your car is open car transport. The carrier uses an open trailer to transport your car, but this does leave it exposed to the elements. Don’t worry about this because it’s a very safe and secure method that 80% of our customers use.
Choose enclosed auto transport, and your vehicle will get the maximum protection possible as it will be transported in a covered trailer that protects your vehicle from dirt, debris, moisture, salt, and the weather. Such extra protection does come at a higher price. On average, it costs between 30% and 40% more than open car transport. When owners of luxury, antique, custom, classic and antique vehicles are wondering how to transport a car, enclosed auto transport tends to be their service of choice.
An essential part of how to ship your car is getting a quote. The quote you receive from us is all-inclusive. In other words, the price includes all taxes, fees, and full insurance coverage. Work with us, and you’re dealing with a transparent company that puts you under no further obligation to take the process any further. You make no upfront payment, and all our services are door-to-door, which is the ultimate in convenience.
Something else you should know when you’re working out how to transport a car is that we have a price match promise. It works like this. We’ll do our utmost to meet your expectations if the price you get is not what you expected. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if the price you get from one of our direct competitors is better because we’d appreciate the opportunity to match it.
With your booking confirmed, it’s time for us to work our magic. We’ll find the best possible auto transport carrier for your needs. We have an extensive network of trustworthy, reliable, and thoroughly vetted carriers we can call on. We’ll soon be able to find one that meets your requirements. We’ll contact you to let you know when we’ve found a suitable carrier so that we can confirm the details, let you know more about how to ship your car, and confirm your pick-up date. You’ll also receive an email with the carrier’s contact details.
How long is a quote valid for?
When you get in touch to find out how to ship a car, your quote will be valid for seven calendar days. You can update your quote or get a new one at any time.
Can you guarantee a pick-up date?
If you’re wondering how to transport a car at the last minute, you’ll be pleased to learn we can guarantee a pick-up date.
What does First Available Pick-Up Date mean?
This is the day your vehicle is ready to be picked up.
Can I get a quote if I don’t know the exact address?
Yes, you can, but we will need to know the correct pick-up and delivery city/ZIP codes.
Can I get a quote if I don’t know the exact address?
Yes, you can, but we will need to know the correct pick-up and delivery city/ZIP codes.
Step 2
How to ship your car step #2 is the pick up of your vehicle. The carrier assigned to your shipment will contact you a few hours ahead of time to let you know they’re on their way. You will need to confirm that commercial vehicles can access the pick-up location. Before they contact you, check whether there are any restrictions, overhead power cables, or low-hanging branches that will impede the carrier’s truck and trailer.
Don’t be too concerned if there is a problem, because you can easily arrange a more suitable location. You may, for example, know of a nearby street that’s wider where you could meet. A pick-up where you work or at a nearby parking lot might also be more suitable.
Upon the carrier’s arrival, you both check your vehicle for any existing damage, such as dents, scratches, or dings. You record these on the Bill of Lading and then sign it to confirm you’re happy with the information. You’ll be given a copy of this vital document for safe-keeping. When you receive your vehicle, you’ll need it to compare the condition of your vehicle.
All the necessary documentation is now complete. You’re almost ready to move on to the third step in how to ship a car. But, before that happens, you’ll be able to watch the carrier load your vehicle onto the auto transport trailer. Then they’ll be on their way.
At any time throughout your car’s journey, you’ll be able to check on its progress. You’ll receive regular updates by email, Live Chat, or phone and you can also check in with the driver.
What should I do to prepare my vehicle for transport?
It is recommended that you wash your vehicle before it is shipped. This allows you to make an accurate evaluation of your vehicle’s condition at the time of the pick-up. Another recommendation is that you remove your toll transponder and any personal belongings.
Can I change my First Available Pick-up Date?
Yes, it is possible to change your First Available Pick-up Date. You can do it by phone, Live Chat, or email before or after booking.
What is a Bill of Lading (BOL)?
A Bill of Lading is an important document because it serves as a receipt for freight services. But that’s not its only role. It acts as a record of the condition of your vehicle. The Bill of Lading is also filled out with the pick-up and delivery locations, the type of car being shipped, and the freight amount being paid for services rendered.
Step 3
How to ship a car is not a long, drawn-out process, and before you know it, the carrier will be getting in touch to let you know they’re just a few hours away from the delivery location. This is merely a courtesy call. However, they’re also informing you so you can make sure you’re available to receive your car. Don’t worry if you know you’re going to be busy because it is possible to make alternative arrangements. You can nominate a third party to act on your behalf. The only stipulation is that they have to be 18 years of age or older. The third-party could be a work colleague, neighbor, relative, or friend.
When your vehicle is unloaded, the driver will ask you to check the condition of your vehicle and compare it with the Bill of Lading. If you chose the Discounted Price payment option, now is when you hand over the final payment to the driver. You can pay in cash, with a money order or cashier’s check.
How can I track my vehicle while it’s in transit?
You can track your vehicle throughout the shipping process by phone, email, or Live Chat.
