What happens when you ship a car
When you ship a car, a transport company picks it up from your location, loads it onto a truck or trailer with other vehicles, and delivers it to your destination. You don't drive it there yourself. The car stays with the carrier the entire time, and you pay a flat fee based on distance and vehicle type.
Most people use car shipping when they move to a different state, buy a car from out of state, or need to get a vehicle somewhere without putting miles on it. The process takes one to two weeks for most routes, though expedited options exist if you need it faster.
Key Takeaways
- Open transport (your car visible on the trailer) costs less than enclosed transport, which protects against weather and road debris.
- You need the car's title, registration, and keys before pickup, and the carrier will inspect the vehicle and document its condition.
- Costs vary by distance, vehicle size, and whether you choose door-to-door delivery or terminal-to-terminal pickup and drop-off.
- Booking through a broker who coordinates with multiple carriers usually costs less than calling a carrier directly.
- The car should have less than a quarter tank of fuel, be in working condition, and have no loose parts or roof racks removed.
Choosing between open and enclosed transport
Open transport is the standard option and the cheapest. Your car rides on an open trailer alongside five to nine other vehicles. It's exposed to weather, dust, and road debris, but damage is rare because carriers are insured and professional. Most people use open transport for local moves or when cost matters most.
Enclosed transport puts your car inside a covered trailer, protecting it completely from weather and road hazards. It costs 40 to 60 percent more than open transport. Choose enclosed if you're shipping a luxury car, a classic vehicle, or a brand-new purchase you want to arrive in showroom condition.
A third option, terminal-to-terminal, saves money by having you drop the car at a carrier's depot and pick it up at another one instead of paying for door-to-door delivery. This works if you have access to both terminals and can handle the extra trip yourself.
Getting quotes and booking
Contact at least three car shipping companies or brokers and provide the same information to each: your vehicle's year, make, model, and current condition; your pickup location (city and state); your delivery location; and your preferred delivery date. Brokers don't own trucks themselves — they match your shipment with carriers who do — and often have better rates because they coordinate multiple shipments.
The quote should include the total price, pickup and delivery windows (usually a range of days, not a specific time), whether the price is may provide or subject to change, and what's covered by insurance. Ask whether the price includes fuel surcharges or if those are added later. Get the quote in writing before you commit.
Booking typically happens online or by phone. You'll provide payment information, sign a contract, and receive a confirmation with a pickup date range. Most carriers ask for a deposit (usually 25 to 50 percent of the total) at booking, with the balance due on delivery.
Preparing your car for pickup
Before the carrier arrives, make sure your car has less than a quarter tank of fuel — carriers need room to move the vehicle on the trailer and don't want to transport excess weight. The car must be in running condition; if it doesn't start, the carrier may refuse it or charge extra to tow it onto the trailer.
Remove or find any loose items: roof racks, bike racks, antennas, or custom parts that could fall off during transport. Close all windows and sunroofs. If your car has a custom paint job, dents, or existing damage, take photos and point them out to the driver before pickup — the inspection report documents the car's condition, and you'll need that record if you file a damage claim later.
Have your keys, title, and registration ready. The driver will need the keys to load and unload the vehicle. You don't need to be present during pickup in most cases, but confirm with the carrier whether someone needs to be home.
What to expect during transport and delivery
Once your car is picked up, the carrier will provide you with a tracking number. Some carriers offer real-time GPS tracking through an app or website; others send updates by email or phone. The truck will make stops to pick up and drop off other vehicles, so your car may not travel in a straight line to its destination.
Delivery happens within the window you agreed to at booking. The driver will call or text you a few hours before arrival to confirm the time. When the car arrives, inspect it before signing the delivery paperwork. Check for new damage, verify the mileage hasn't changed significantly, and make sure all your belongings are still inside. If you spot damage, document it with photos and note it on the delivery form before signing.
Pay the remaining balance at delivery, usually by cash, check, or card. Keep all paperwork — the bill of lading, inspection reports, and delivery confirmation — for your records.
Understanding costs and insurance
Car shipping costs depend on distance, vehicle size, transport type, and current demand. A cross-country shipment of a standard sedan on open transport typically ranges from $800 to $1,500, but prices vary by season and fuel costs. Luxury vehicles, oversized trucks, or enclosed transport will cost more. Local moves within a state usually cost $300 to $800.
Most carriers include basic liability insurance in their quote, which covers damage caused by the carrier's negligence. The coverage limit varies — ask what the maximum payout is. If your car is worth more than the coverage limit, consider purchasing additional insurance through the carrier or your own insurance company before pickup.
Read the contract carefully for exclusions. Most carriers don't cover damage from weather, road hazards, or pre-existing damage. They also typically don't cover personal items left in the car, so remove anything valuable before pickup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship a car that doesn't run?
Most carriers won't transport a non-running vehicle because they can't drive it onto the trailer. Some will tow it for an extra fee, usually $150 to $300. Call carriers directly to ask about their policy for inoperable cars before booking.
What if my car gets damaged during shipping?
Document the damage with photos when ready and report it to the carrier in writing within the timeframe stated in your contract (usually 7 to 10 days). File a claim with the carrier's insurance. They'll investigate and either repair the damage or pay you. Keep all paperwork and photos as evidence.
Can I pack belongings inside the car during shipping?
Most carriers allow personal items inside the car, but they won't cover them if they're lost or damaged. Remove anything valuable, sentimental, or fragile. Don't pack the trunk so full that it prevents the car from being loaded or unloaded safely.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking two to four weeks ahead gives you better rates and more flexibility with pickup dates. During peak moving season (May through September), book earlier if possible. You can book with shorter notice, but prices may be higher and availability limited.
What's the difference between a broker and a carrier?
A carrier owns and operates the trucks. A broker coordinates shipments between customers and multiple carriers. Brokers often have lower prices because they consolidate shipments, but you have less direct contact with the person moving your car. Either option is legitimate.