How to Ship a Car: The Ultimate Guide

Planning a move across the country? Buying a classic car from out of state? Or maybe you’re a snowbird heading south for the winter? No matter the reason, getting your car from Point A to Point B when you can’t (or don’t want to) drive it yourself can feel like a daunting task. Shipping a car involves more than just handing over the keys and hoping for the best. From choosing the right transport company and understanding the different shipping options to preparing your vehicle for the journey and navigating the necessary paperwork, there are many factors to consider to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Shipping a car is often the most practical and cost-effective solution compared to putting hundreds or even thousands of miles on your vehicle, not to mention the added expenses of gas, hotels, and meals on the road. Plus, it saves you valuable time and energy, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move or simply avoid a long and tiring drive. But with so many options available, it’s crucial to understand the ins and outs of the car shipping process to make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

What are the most frequently asked questions about shipping a car?

What’s the cheapest way to ship a car?

The cheapest way to ship a car is generally by using open transport, choosing the slowest delivery speed, being flexible with pickup and delivery locations (often using terminal-to-terminal service), and booking your shipment during the off-season.

To elaborate, open transport, where your car is shipped on a trailer alongside other vehicles and exposed to the elements, is significantly less expensive than enclosed transport, which provides more protection. Opting for the standard or slowest delivery speed will also lower the cost. Expedited shipping incurs extra charges. Furthermore, if you’re willing to drop off and pick up your car at designated terminals rather than having it delivered door-to-door, you can save money, as this reduces the transport company’s operational costs. Finally, consider the time of year. Car shipping prices fluctuate based on demand. The summer and winter months, especially around holidays, typically see higher prices. Booking during the less busy spring and fall seasons can often result in significant savings. Remember to get quotes from multiple car shipping companies to compare prices and services before making a decision.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Preparing your car for shipping involves a series of steps to protect your vehicle, document its condition, and ensure a smooth transport process. This includes cleaning the car, removing personal belongings, addressing mechanical issues, documenting existing damage, disabling alarms, and minimizing fuel.

Thorough preparation is essential to avoid disputes or complications during the car shipping process. Start by thoroughly washing your car, inside and out. This allows you to accurately assess and document any existing scratches, dents, or other damages with photos and videos. Remove all personal belongings from the vehicle, including items in the glove compartment, trunk, and under seats. Car shipping companies typically don’t insure personal items left inside the car, and their presence could also cause delays or raise security concerns. Before shipping, it’s wise to address any mechanical issues your car may have. While the car is being transported, problems could worsen or cause issues for the carrier. Ensure the car has a functioning battery, inflated tires, and sufficient fluids. Also, disable any alarms or anti-theft systems to prevent them from going off during transit and potentially draining the battery. Lastly, reduce the fuel level to about a quarter of a tank; this minimizes weight and reduces the risk of fuel leaks or spills during transport. Document the fuel level in your pre-shipping inspection photos.

Should I use an open or enclosed car carrier?

The choice between an open or enclosed car carrier depends primarily on your budget and the level of protection you desire for your vehicle during transport. Open carriers are the more economical option and are suitable for most standard vehicles. Enclosed carriers offer superior protection from the elements and road debris, making them ideal for luxury, classic, exotic, or otherwise valuable vehicles.

Consider open car transport as the standard option. Your car will be loaded onto a multi-car trailer along with other vehicles heading in the same direction. While your car will be exposed to weather conditions like rain, snow, and sun, as well as road grime and dust, this is how the vast majority of cars are shipped, including new vehicles from the factory to dealerships. The potential for damage is relatively low, and reputable transport companies carry insurance to cover any damages that may occur during transit. Enclosed car transport offers a significantly higher level of protection. Your vehicle will be shipped inside a fully enclosed trailer, shielded from the elements, road debris, and prying eyes. This is particularly important for vehicles with delicate paint jobs, valuable modifications, or low ground clearance. While enclosed transport is considerably more expensive (often 40-60% more), it provides peace of mind, especially for owners of high-value automobiles. If you’re shipping a vintage car, a sports car, or a vehicle that holds significant sentimental value, the extra cost of enclosed transport may be well worth it. Choosing between open and enclosed transport involves balancing cost and risk. For everyday vehicles, open transport is generally sufficient. However, if your car is special, valuable, or you simply want the highest level of protection, enclosed transport is the better choice.

What insurance coverage is provided during car shipping?

Car shipping companies are legally required to carry insurance that covers damages to vehicles during transport. This insurance typically includes coverage for damage caused by accidents, theft, vandalism, or other incidents that occur while the vehicle is in their possession.

Most reputable car shipping companies offer basic insurance coverage as part of their standard shipping rates. This coverage usually has a deductible, which is the amount you would pay out-of-pocket before the insurance covers the remaining repair costs. The specific amount of coverage and the deductible can vary between companies, so it’s crucial to carefully review the insurance policy details before choosing a shipper. Be sure to inquire about the policy limits, what types of damage are covered (e.g., damage caused by weather vs. damage caused by loading/unloading), and the claims process. You may also consider supplemental insurance from a third-party provider. This can offer broader or higher coverage limits, potentially providing extra peace of mind. Document any pre-existing damage to your vehicle with photos or videos before shipping, as this will be important when filing a claim if damage occurs during transport. Always inspect your vehicle thoroughly upon delivery and note any new damage on the Bill of Lading before signing it. This document serves as a record of the vehicle’s condition at delivery.

How long does it typically take to ship a car?

The average car shipping time within the continental United States ranges from 1 to 14 days, but this is just an estimate. Several factors influence the transit time, making it difficult to provide an exact timeframe without specific details about the shipment.

The total time for car shipping is influenced by factors like the distance of the journey, the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the season, and the specific routes taken. Longer distances naturally require more time. Open transport is generally faster because carriers can load more vehicles, while enclosed transport may take a bit longer because these trailers are less common. Also, routes to or from rural locations or those with limited highway access might add to the overall delivery time. Seasonal fluctuations in demand and weather conditions (especially during winter) can also introduce delays. Finally, the carrier’s schedule and efficiency also play a crucial role. Carriers often consolidate shipments along specific routes to maximize efficiency, which may involve slight detours or waiting times in certain locations. Therefore, it is best to obtain a realistic estimate from the car shipping company based on your specific needs and desired level of service, understanding that unforeseen circumstances such as traffic, weather, or mechanical issues can occasionally cause delays.

How do I find a reputable car shipping company?

Finding a reputable car shipping company involves thorough research and due diligence. Start by gathering multiple quotes from different companies, checking their online reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Transport Reviews, and verifying their licensing and insurance through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. Pay close attention to transparent pricing, clear communication, and positive customer experiences.

Beyond the initial quote, delve deeper into each company’s reputation. Read reviews critically, looking for patterns of both positive and negative experiences. A few negative reviews are normal, but numerous unresolved complaints should be a red flag. Focus on reviews that address communication, on-time delivery, vehicle condition upon arrival, and the company’s responsiveness in resolving issues. Contact the company directly with any specific questions and assess their willingness to provide detailed answers and address your concerns. Verify that the car shipping company is properly licensed and insured. A legitimate company will have a Motor Carrier (MC) number, which you can use to check their safety record, insurance coverage, and complaint history on the FMCSA website. This verification process is crucial in ensuring that the company operates legally and has the necessary financial safeguards in place to protect your vehicle during transport. Don’t hesitate to ask for proof of insurance directly from the company as well. A reputable company will be transparent and forthcoming with this information.

What documents are required for car shipping?

Typically, the core documents required for car shipping include the vehicle’s title (or a copy), a valid driver’s license or government-issued ID of the person releasing the vehicle, and a signed Bill of Lading (inspection report) at both pick-up and delivery. Specific requirements can vary depending on the shipping company and whether the shipment is domestic or international.

Beyond these basics, it’s wise to confirm with your chosen auto transport company exactly what they need. Some companies may require proof of insurance, especially for high-value vehicles. For international shipments, the list expands considerably and often involves notarized documents, customs forms, and potentially an EPA form (Environmental Protection Agency) and DOT form (Department of Transportation), depending on the destination country. The Bill of Lading is arguably the most crucial document. This serves as a receipt and a record of the vehicle’s condition at the origin and destination. It details any existing damage at pick-up and allows you to note any new damage that may have occurred during transit. Scrutinize this document carefully with the driver during both pick-up and delivery, as it protects you in case of damage claims. Discrepancies should be noted and signed off on by both parties.

Alright, you’ve got the keys to smooth sailing (or, well, shipping!). Thanks for taking the time to read through this guide. We hope it’s given you the confidence and knowledge to make your car shipping experience a breeze. Remember to do your research, ask lots of questions, and trust your gut. Come back and visit us anytime you need a refresher or have more questions down the road – we’re always happy to help!