How Can I Ship a Car? | 5 Steps To Safe Transport

You can ship a car by hiring a licensed auto transport company for open or enclosed hauling, or by using specialized train services for specific routes.

Moving a vehicle across state lines or the country feels daunting at first. You might worry about scratches, hidden fees, or the car arriving weeks late. But shipping a car is a standard logistical process that happens thousands of times a day. Whether you bought a classic vehicle online, are relocating for a job, or sending a car to a college student, the right method exists for your timeline and budget.

The process involves more than just handing over keys. You must choose between brokers and carriers, decide on trailer types, and prepare the vehicle to comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) safety regulations. Getting this right saves you money and prevents damage disputes later. This guide breaks down the exact steps, costs, and safety checks required to move your vehicle successfully.

Understanding The Main Auto Transport Methods

Before you request quotes, you need to know which shipping style fits your vehicle. The industry splits transport into two main categories based on the trailer type, plus a few niche options for specific needs.

Open Carrier Transport

This is the most common way to ship a car. You have likely seen these double-decker trailers on the highway carrying 8 to 10 cars at a time. It is the industry standard for daily drivers, SUVs, and standard sedans.

• Costs are lower – Because the carrier hauls many cars at once, the cost per vehicle drops significantly.
• Availability is high – Thousands of open carriers operate daily, making it easier to book a slot on short notice.
• Exposure is real – Your car sits open to the elements. Rain, road debris, dust, and sun will hit the vehicle during transit, similar to driving it yourself.

Enclosed Carrier Transport

Enclosed transport places your vehicle inside a hard-sided or soft-sided trailer. This method protects the car completely from weather, rock chips, and road grime. It is the default choice for luxury vehicles, classic cars, antiques, and high-end sports cars with low ground clearance.

• Protection is maximum – The vehicle arrives in the exact condition it left, often with “white glove” service where drivers use floor mats and seat covers.
• Cost is higher – Expect to pay 30% to 60% more than open transport due to limited capacity (usually 2 to 6 cars) and specialized equipment.
• Scheduling takes time – Fewer enclosed carriers exist, so you may need to book weeks in advance.

Alternative Options: Train and Driveaway

Some routes allow for rail transport, primarily Amtrak’s Auto Train, which runs between Virginia and Florida. This is cost-effective if you travel with the car but has limited geographic reach. Driveaway services involve hiring a professional driver to physically drive your car to the destination. This adds mileage to the odometer but can be faster for shorter regional moves.

How Can I Ship a Car? – The Step-By-Step Process

Once you select a method, you need to navigate the booking and execution phases. Following a strict order of operations prevents common headaches like missed pickup windows or surprise charges.

1. Research Brokers vs. Carriers

The auto transport industry consists of two players: brokers and carriers. Understanding the difference is vital for your wallet and communication.

• Brokers manage logistics – They do not own trucks. They post your job to a national board to find a driver. They handle the vetting, insurance checks, and dispatching. Most internet search results lead to brokers.
• Carriers own the trucks – These are the companies physically moving the car. Working directly with a carrier can be cheaper, but they often lack the customer service staff to answer phones or track shipments efficiently.

2. Request Accurate Quotes

Avoid entering your email into generic “get 10 quotes” generator sites unless you want endless spam calls. Contact specific, highly-rated companies directly. Provide the exact make, model, year, and modifications. A lifted truck or a lowered sedan requires different equipment, and failing to disclose this will result in the driver refusing the load at pickup.

3. Verify Credentials

Never book without checking the company’s background. Every legitimate transporter must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Ask for their MC (Motor Carrier) or USDOT number.

• Check safety records – Look up the number on the FMCSA website to see their safety rating and insurance status.
• Read recent reviews – Look for reviews from the last 30 days. Old reviews might not reflect current management or driver shortages.

4. Confirm The Schedule

Auto transport rarely operates on guaranteed dates unless you pay a premium. Pickup windows usually span 1 to 3 days. Be realistic about your availability. If you cannot be there, appoint a trusted friend or family member to handle the key handoff and inspection.

Estimating The Cost To Ship Your Vehicle

Price varies wildly based on fuel prices, season, and route popularity. Shipping a car from Los Angeles to New York is often cheaper than shipping to a rural town in North Dakota because drivers prefer major routes with guaranteed return loads.

The following table provides general estimates for a standard sedan in good running condition. SUVs and trucks will cost more due to weight and size.

Distance (Miles)	Open Transport Estimate	Enclosed Transport Estimate
0 – 500	$400 – $700	$650 – $1,100
500 – 1,500	$700 – $1,100	$1,000 – $1,600
1,500 – 2,500+	$1,100 – $1,500	$1,700 – $2,300+

Seasonal Fluctuations

Timing affects the price. January and February are often the cheapest months due to lower demand. Summer is peak season, driving prices up. Another spike occurs during “snowbird” season (fall and spring) on routes moving south to Florida or Arizona, where prices can double due to competition for trailer space.

Preparing Your Vehicle For Transport

You cannot simply park the car and walk away. Drivers have strict rules about what they will carry, mostly due to weight limits and insurance liability. Proper preparation ensures the driver accepts the vehicle and helps you spot damage later.

• Wash the exterior – A dirty car hides scratches and dents. You need a clean surface to complete an accurate inspection report before the truck leaves.
• Remove personal items – Transport trucks are not licensed to move household goods. Personal items inside the car add weight and are not covered by the carrier’s insurance. If the items are stolen or damaged, you have no recourse. Plus, loose items can shift and break windows during transit.
• Check fuel levels – Keep the gas tank about 1/4 full. This is enough to drive the car onto and off the trailer but keeps the weight down. A full tank adds unnecessary pounds that can put the driver over DOT weight limits.
• Disable toll tags – Remove EZ-Pass or other toll transponders. If you leave them in, they may register tolls as the truck passes through scanners, racking up fees you will have to dispute later.
• Secure loose parts – Fold in mirrors, remove aftermarket antennas, and secure spoilers or fog lights. If you have a convertible, ensure the top is fully secured and sealed to prevent moisture or wind damage.

Avoiding Scams And Bad Brokers

The industry suffers from a reputation for bait-and-switch tactics. When you ask yourself, “How can I ship a car safely?”, the answer involves dodging predatory brokers who quote low to get your deposit.

The Lowball Quote Trap

Some brokers offer a price hundreds of dollars below the market rate. You book with them because it looks like a deal. However, no carrier will accept the job at that low price. The broker will wait until the day before your pickup, then call to say the price has increased significantly to secure a driver. You are then stuck paying the higher rate because you are desperate.

Red Flag: If a quote looks too good to be true, it is. Compare three or four quotes. Throw out the lowest outlier.

The Non-Refundable Deposit

Legitimate companies typically do not demand a deposit until they have assigned a carrier to your order. If a company demands a large upfront fee before they have even found a truck, be cautious. Read the fine print regarding cancellations. Many shady operators keep your deposit even if they fail to move your car.

Receiving Your Vehicle On Delivery Day

The delivery process is quick, but you must stay focused. The driver will arrive as close to your address as legally possible. Big trucks cannot navigate narrow residential streets, so meet them at a nearby parking lot if necessary.

The Bill of Lading (BOL)

The Bill of Lading is your receipt and inspection report. Do not sign it until you inspect the vehicle. Compare the car’s condition at delivery against the photos and notes taken at pickup.

• Inspect in daylight – Never inspect a car at night or in the rain if you can avoid it. You might miss new scratches.
• Note damages immediately – If you see new damage, write it down on the Bill of Lading before you sign. If you sign the BOL without noting damage, you are essentially signing a release form stating the car arrived in good condition. Insurance claims become nearly impossible after that.
• Make payment – Most carriers require cash or a certified check on delivery (COD). They rarely accept credit cards or personal checks upon arrival. Confirm the payment method when you book the order.

Key Takeaways: How Can I Ship a Car?

➤ Open transport is the standard budget option; enclosed is for luxury cars.

➤ Always check the carrier’s MC number on the FMCSA website for safety.

➤ Keep your gas tank at 1/4 full to reduce weight and safety risks.

➤ Remove all personal items; insurance does not cover goods left inside.

➤ Inspect your car and note damages on the Bill of Lading before signing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to ship a car cross-country?

Coast-to-coast transport typically takes 7 to 10 days. Regional moves (500-1,000 miles) usually take 3 to 5 days. Weather, traffic, and driver rest mandates can impact these estimates, so always add a buffer of a few days when planning your schedule.

Does my own car insurance cover the transport?

Generally, your auto policy covers the vehicle while it is on the ground, but the carrier’s cargo insurance covers it while it is on the truck. Check with your insurance agent to see if your policy offers supplemental coverage for transit damages.

Can I put luggage in the trunk?

Most carriers strictly forbid this because they are not licensed to haul household goods. Some drivers may allow up to 100 pounds in the trunk as a courtesy, but this is at your own risk. If the truck is overweight at a weigh station, the driver may have to remove your items.

What happens if my car gets damaged?

Mark the damage on the Bill of Lading immediately at delivery. Take photos of the damage and the signed paperwork. Contact the broker and carrier right away to file a claim against the carrier’s insurance. Do not repair the car until the adjuster sees it.

Is it cheaper to drive the car myself?

Driving is often cheaper in raw dollars but costs more in time. Calculate fuel, hotels, food, and the potential lost wages from taking days off work. Also, consider the wear and tear; driving 3,000 miles adds significant depreciation to your vehicle compared to shipping it.

Wrapping It Up – How Can I Ship a Car?

Shipping a vehicle does not have to be a source of stress. By choosing the right transport method and preparing your vehicle correctly, you eliminate most of the common risks. Understanding the logistics answers the core question of how can I ship a car safely without overspending. Start by vetting your providers, reading the contract details, and keeping your fuel low.

Whether you choose an open carrier for your daily commuter or an enclosed trailer for your vintage convertible, the key is communication. Stay in touch with your broker, be ready for the truck, and perform a thorough inspection upon arrival. With these steps, your car will arrive at its new home ready to drive.