Car Shipping: Everything You Need to Know
Discover how to transport your car in three fast, straightforward, and simple steps.
Discover how to transport your car in three fast, straightforward, and simple steps.
There are various reasons you might be curious about how to transport a car. You may have purchased your dream car online and need guidance on shipping it overseas to bring it home. Perhaps you’re moving due to a promotion or a new job and want to understand how to ship a car from one state to another. Some of you might be heading south for the winter and are looking for information on how to ship a car across the country.
Whether you're looking to learn how to ship a car domestically or internationally, we have you covered. Continue reading for all the information you need on car shipping.
3 Simple Steps to Ship a Car
Shipping a car involves three straightforward steps: First, obtain a quote from an auto transport company and schedule your shipment. Second, your car will be collected from the specified location. Finally, your vehicle will be transported and delivered to you.
Whatever your reason may be, understanding the process of how to ship a car will help ease your concerns. This is why we've developed this auto transport information page. We’ll provide all the details so you can see just how easy, stress-free, and seamless the process can be.
Step 1
Get a quote and place your order.
If you're looking to learn how to ship a car across the country or to any other location, obtaining a quote is the first step in the process. Reach out to us today for your free instant quote. You can use our online quote calculator, which only takes a few minutes of your time. Alternatively, you can talk directly with our shipping advisors at 1-804-613-3888 or utilize Live Chat.
When you reach out to us about moving a car, we’ll request some basic information. You’ll need to provide the city and state for the vehicle's pickup, the city and state for delivery, as well as the make, model, and year of the vehicle. Additionally, you should inform us whether the vehicle is running, your preferred shipping method, and the date it will be ready for pick-up. In the auto transport industry, this is referred to as the First Available Pick-up Date.
What is the validity period of my quote?
Our quotes are valid for 7 calendar days, but you can refresh your quote or request a new one at any time.
Please remember that this is a highly dynamic market, and rates fluctuate weekly. That’s why we can only offer quotes valid for a maximum of 7 calendar days. We prioritize fair pricing and aim to provide you with the most accurate estimate. You can always reach out to one of our knowledgeable car shipping advisors by phone at 1-804-613-3888 or through Live Chat to obtain a new car shipping quote and expedite your shipment process.
Is it possible to guarantee a pick-up date?
Yes, we can provide a guaranteed pick-up service.
If you need to arrange a specific shipment for your vehicle or require a last-minute transport, we can assist you. However, please keep the following in mind:
- The cost may vary because of the urgency of the request.
- We can assure pick-up dates from Monday to Friday.
- Guaranteed pick-up is primarily available for open car transport. However, in certain rare instances, we can also arrange a guaranteed pick-up for enclosed auto transport.
- We strongly advise booking your guaranteed pick-up as early as possible.
What does the term First Available Pick-up Date refer to?
The First Available Pick-up Date is when your vehicle is prepared for pickup. After we assign a carrier to your shipment, we will provide the exact shipping date.
Can I receive a quote if I'm unsure of the exact address?
Yes, you can obtain a free, instant quote using our website's online calculator, by calling 1-804-613-3888 or through Live Chat. You will need to provide the city or ZIP codes for both your pick-up and delivery locations. It’s not necessary to provide the exact pick-up and delivery addresses when you get your quote, but you will need to do so when booking your vehicle shipment.
Is my vehicle covered by insurance while being transported?
Your vehicle is protected under the motor carrier’s insurance policy from pickup until delivery. Our company always conducts a pre-screening of the motor carrier to verify that it complies with the insurance standards set by the U.S. Department of Transport (DOT) regulations.
The amount your vehicle will be insured for is determined by the motor carrier’s coverage, the type of trailer used, and the vehicle's value. Typically, open car carriers have cargo insurance coverage ranging from $100,000 to $150,000, while Enclosed car carriers provide coverage between $250,000 and $3,000,000. We can supply you with the carrier's certificate of insurance upon request.
Shipments of vehicles to Hawaii are subject to the insurance limitations of ocean freight liners. Please reach out to one of our knowledgeable car shipping advisors by phone at 1-804-613-3888 or through Live Chat for more information.
Interested in finding out the price for shipping a car with us?
Step 2
We pick up your vehicle
Step #2 in the process of shipping your car is the vehicle pick-up. The carrier assigned to your shipment will reach out to you a few hours in advance to inform you that they are en route. You must confirm that commercial vehicles can access the pick-up location. Before they get in touch, please check for any restrictions, such as overhead power lines or low-hanging branches, that might obstruct the carrier's truck and trailer.
Don't worry too much if there’s an issue, as you can easily find a more appropriate location. For instance, you might know of a nearby street that is wider where you can meet. A pick-up at your workplace or in a nearby parking lot could also be more convenient.
How should I prepare my vehicle for transport?
To get your vehicle ready for transport, we suggest you:
- Turn off any alarm systems installed in the vehicle.
- Take off all loose components.
- Fasten or take off all delicate accessories.
- Fasten or detach all installed accessories.
- Clean your vehicle so you can accurately complete the condition report when the driver picks it up and fill out the BOL;
- Take out your toll transponder, if applicable.
- If your service is standard, ensure that you don’t have over 100 lbs of personal items in your vehicle.
- Make sure to provide the carrier with a set of keys.
Is it possible to modify my First Available Pick-up Date?
Yes, you can modify your First Available Pick-up Date by calling 1-804-613-3888, Live Chat , or sending an email, both before and after booking. If you wish to change your First Available Pick-up Date prior to booking, simply generate a new quote with your preferred pick-up date. If you need to change it after booking, you will need to contact us directly. However, if you change your First Available Pick-up Date after a carrier has been assigned, your deposit will be non-refundable if the assigned carrier cannot accommodate the new date.
What is a Bill of Lading (BOL)?
The Bill of Lading (BOL), also known as the "Condition Report," is a necessary document that acts as a receipt for freight service. The carrier who picks up your vehicle will provide you with this document. The transport company will pre-fill the details about your shipment. You will need to examine your vehicle and note any visible damages with the carrier at both the pickup and delivery times.
What is top load placement?
An auto transport trailer generally features two levels (decks). Top load placement refers to loading your vehicle onto the upper level for additional protection. If you wish to utilize this service, please inform us before scheduling a carrier. Placing your vehicle on the top level will shield it from minor rock chips, dust, and possible oil leaks. This is an optional service, so please let one of our shipping advisors know if you're interested.
Step 3
You pick up your vehicle.
Shipping a car isn’t a lengthy or complicated process, and soon enough, the carrier will contact you to let you know they’re just a few hours away from the delivery location. This is just a courtesy call, but it’s also a heads-up so you can ensure you’re available to receive your vehicle. If you anticipate being busy, you can easily arrange for someone else to receive the car on your behalf. You can designate a third party, as long as they are at least 18 years old. This person could be a coworker, neighbor, family member, or friend.
Once your vehicle is unloaded, the driver will ask you to inspect its condition and compare it to the Bill of Lading. If you selected the Discounted Price payment option, this is the time to give the driver the final payment. You can settle this amount in cash, with a money order, or by using a cashier’s check.
How can I monitor my vehicle during transit?
Our specialized status update department checks in with carriers every day. You can reach our Status Update Team via phone at 1-804-613-3888 or through Live Chat.