Shipping your car across the country—or just across town—doesn't have to be stressful if you understand what's actually happening behind the scenes. From the moment you book until your vehicle rolls off the truck, there's a clear sequence of steps that professionals follow. Here's what to expect.
Get a Quote and Compare Carriers
Start by contacting at least three auto shipping companies to get price quotes. Most will ask for your vehicle's make, model, year, condition, pickup location, and delivery destination. Typical costs range from $800 to $2,500 for cross-country transport, depending on distance, vehicle size, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. Open carriers cost less ($500–$1,500 for long distances) but expose your car to weather; enclosed trailers run $1,200–$2,500 but offer full protection.
Don't just pick the cheapest option. Verify that carriers hold active Department of Transportation (DOT) registration, maintain appropriate insurance, and have solid customer reviews. Services like Mercoly let you compare multiple trusted auto shipping providers side-by-side, so you can weigh pricing, transit times, and reputation in one place.
Book and Confirm Details
Once you've selected a carrier, you'll sign a contract that outlines pickup and delivery windows, pricing, and liability terms. Most reputable companies offer a 3–7 day window for both pickup and delivery rather than exact dates—this flexibility helps them optimize routes and reduce costs.
Confirm these details in writing:
- Your vehicle's exact pickup address and best contact times
- Delivery address and who's authorized to receive the car
- Whether you need door-to-door service or will meet at a terminal
- Insurance coverage limits for in-transit damage
- Any special requirements (e.g., inoperable vehicle, oversized vehicle, or enclosed transport)
Prepare Your Vehicle
About one week before pickup, prep your car thoroughly. Wash it so you and the driver can spot pre-existing damage. Document the vehicle's condition with photos or video from multiple angles, including the odometer reading and fuel level. This protects you if a damage claim arises later.
Perform these practical steps:
- Ensure your battery has a charge (dead batteries can prevent loading)
- Top off fuel to a quarter tank (easier than a full tank, and sufficient for short distances on the truck)
- Check tire pressure and ensure all tires are in drivable condition
- Remove custom parts, loose items, and personal belongings from inside
- Leave just enough fuel for loading and unloading; don't leave the car on empty
Driver Pickup and Loading
Your assigned carrier's driver will contact you 24 hours before arrival with an approximate time window. When they arrive, walk around the vehicle together to conduct a joint inspection. The driver will note any scratches, dents, or mechanical issues on the bill of lading—this document is your proof of the car's condition at handoff.
The driver will then carefully load your vehicle onto the trailer using a hydraulic lift or ramp system. The process typically takes 20–30 minutes per vehicle. Your car will be secured with chains or straps at all four corners to prevent movement during transit.
In-Transit Tracking and Communication
Most modern carriers offer real-time GPS tracking so you can monitor your vehicle's location online or via a mobile app. Transit times vary: cross-country shipments usually take 5–10 days, while regional moves might take 2–4 days. Drivers maintain regular communication and will notify you of any delays due to weather or traffic.
Delivery and Final Inspection
When your vehicle reaches the delivery location, the driver will contact you to arrange a drop-off time within the agreed window. Inspect your car thoroughly before signing off. Check for new damage, verify mileage, test that lights and locks function, and confirm fuel level matches what was documented at pickup.
If you spot damage, photograph it immediately and document it on the delivery receipt before signing. Report damage claims within the timeframe specified in your contract—typically 10–30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I ship a car that doesn't run? Yes, most carriers handle non-running vehicles, but you'll typically pay a premium ($200–$500 extra) and must disclose the condition upfront so the driver brings specialized equipment.
Q: What's not covered if my car gets damaged during shipping? Standard carrier insurance typically covers major damage but has deductibles (often $500–$1,000) and won't cover pre-existing damage or items left inside the vehicle.
Q: How far in advance should I book a shipment? Book 2–4 weeks ahead for standard routes; longer distances and peak seasons (summer) may need 4–6 weeks for better scheduling flexibility.
Ready to move your vehicle? Compare quotes from trusted auto shipping providers today and get your car on the road.