The Process

How Auto Transport Works

Shipping a vehicle nationwide is simpler than you think. Here's exactly what happens, from your first quote to the moment your car arrives at its destination.

Step 1: Get your free quote

Start by getting a free instant quote. Either online or by calling us at (888) 857-0040. We'll need a few details:

  • Pickup location (ZIP code or city)
  • Delivery location (ZIP code or city)
  • Vehicle year, make, and model
  • Whether the vehicle runs and drives
  • Preferred transport type (open or enclosed)
  • Your preferred pickup date window

Our instant quote tool estimates the price based on your route, vehicle type, and transport method. Your quoted price is locked for 30 days through our TruePrice Guarantee.

Step 2: Book your shipment

Once you approve the quote, we dispatch a vetted, fully insured carrier on your route. Because we work with a network of 30,000+ carriers, we can usually find one within 24-72 hours, sometimes same-day for major routes.

No upfront payment. You don't pay anything until your vehicle is on the carrier and heading to its destination. Once booked, you'll receive:

  • The carrier's name and DOT/MC numbers
  • Proof of insurance and operating authority
  • Pickup window (typically a 2-4 hour block)
  • Driver's direct contact information

Step 3: We pick up your vehicle

On pickup day, the driver will:

  • Walk around the vehicle with you and document its condition on a Bill of Lading (BOL)
  • Photograph any pre-existing damage or wear
  • Have you sign the BOL, a copy stays with you
  • Load the vehicle using soft straps and wheel chocks
  • Provide an estimated delivery date

Make sure the vehicle has no more than 1/4 tank of fuel, is washed (so damage can be easily spotted), and has any personal items under 100 lbs secured below the window line.

Step 4: Track your vehicle in transit

Once your vehicle is on the road, you can reach the driver directly for status updates. Carriers typically call 1-2 hours before delivery to confirm the drop-off window. If you need additional support, our Car Shipping Hotline is open Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 7 PM Eastern.

Step 5: Delivery and final payment

On delivery day, the driver will:

  • Call 1-2 hours before arrival to confirm your location
  • Unload the vehicle and walk around it with you
  • Note any new damage on the BOL (rare. Carriers are fully insured)
  • Have you sign the delivery section of the BOL
  • Collect the final payment: cashier's check, money order, or card

Inspect the vehicle carefully before signing anything. If you spot new damage, note it on the BOL before you sign. That's the starting point for any insurance claim.

What if something goes wrong?

Occasionally, delays happen: weather, traffic, or unexpected mechanical issues. If anything goes wrong:

  • Call your driver first. They're the fastest source of updates
  • Then call support at (888) 857-0040 (Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 7 PM Eastern), or our Car Shipping Hotline at (888) 885-0991
  • For damage claims, document everything on the BOL and photograph it immediately

Our team will help you file a claim and work with the carrier's insurance on your behalf. We don't consider the job done until your vehicle is delivered and you're satisfied.

Preparation

What you need before pickup

A few simple steps to make your pickup go smoothly.

Fuel level

Keep the tank at 1/4 full or less. Carriers don't allow more for weight and safety reasons.

Wash the vehicle

A clean vehicle makes it easy to spot damage on the Bill of Lading and photo documentation.

Remove personal items

Leave no more than 100 lbs of secured items below the window line. Never leave valuables.

Payment ready

Have a cashier's check, money order, or credit card ready for the carrier at delivery.

Common Questions

How-it-works FAQs

Pickup usually happens within 24-72 hours of booking on major routes. Remote or rural pickups may take slightly longer. If you have a hard deadline, let your advisor know. We can often expedite.

Not required, but strongly recommended. Being there lets you inspect the vehicle, sign the BOL, and exchange keys. If you can't be there, designate a trusted person and let us know in advance.

You pay when your vehicle is delivered, not before. A portion goes to the carrier directly, and the brokerage balance is paid at delivery by cashier's check, money order, or credit card.

Delays happen: weather, traffic, or mechanical issues. The driver will contact you if the window shifts. If you're concerned, call support at (888) 857-0040 (Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 7 PM Eastern) or our Car Shipping Hotline at (888) 885-0991 and we'll follow up with the carrier.

Consumer Resources

Know your rights as a shipper

The U.S. Department of Transportation publishes two free guides that every vehicle shipper should read before booking.

Ready to get started?

Get a free quote in under 60 seconds, or call our Car Shipping Hotline to speak with a dedicated transport advisor. Zero upfront payment, fully insured carriers.