Shipping a car can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Whether you’re relocating, buying a vehicle online, or embarking on a long journey, understanding the car shipping process is essential to ensure a hassle-free experience. This guide breaks it all down—step by step—so you can ship your vehicle with confidence.
From choosing the right shipping method to budgeting for costs and tracking your car’s location, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about how car shipping works.
1. How Car Shipping Works
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping
Before handing over your car to a shipping company, it’s important to prepare it properly to avoid delays or complications. Follow these steps to get your car ready for transport.
- Clean Your Vehicle: Wash your car thoroughly, both inside and out. A clean vehicle helps you quickly notice any dents, scratches, or other issues before shipping.
- Inspect and Document Condition: Take photos of your car from all angles to record its current state. Share these with the shipping company and keep them as proof to compare later.
- Remove Personal Items: Make sure to remove all personal belongings from your car. Most shipping providers prohibit personal items when transporting vehicles.
- Check for Leaks and Mechanical Issues: Ensure there are no leaks, flat tires, or underlying mechanical issues that could complicate the transport process.
- Leave a Quarter Tank of Fuel: Having just enough fuel helps with loading and unloading but avoids adding unnecessary weight to the shipment.
- Disable Alarms: If your car has an alarm system, turn it off to avoid disruptions during transit.
Shipping Methods to Consider
Choosing the right shipping method depends on your budget, urgency, and the specific needs of your vehicle. Here are the most common options:
- Open Transport:
- Your car is shipped on an open carrier, exposed to weather elements.
- Most affordable option, suitable for standard vehicles.
- Enclosed Transport:
- Your car is shipped in an enclosed carrier for maximum protection.
- Best for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
- Door-to-Door Shipping:
- The car is picked up and delivered as close as possible to your specified addresses.
- Offers convenience, though it could cost more than terminal-to-terminal.
- Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping:
- You drop off and pick up your car at designated locations.
- Usually less expensive but can be less convenient.
Choosing a Reliable Car Shipping Company
Selecting the right company is crucial for a smooth shipping process. Here’s how to ensure you make the best choice:
- Research Customer Reviews: Look up online reviews and ratings from sites like Better Business Bureau or Trustpilot.
- Verify Licensing: Ensure the company has the necessary licensing through the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare quotes from different companies to find a balanced option that fits your budget.
- Check Insurance Coverage: Confirm the company’s insurance policy to know what damages are covered during transit.
2. The Cost of Car Shipping
Factors That Influence Shipping Costs
Several variables affect the price of shipping your car, including:
- Distance: Longer trips naturally cost more.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles require additional resources, increasing the cost.
- Shipping Method: Enclosed transport is pricier than open transport.
- Pickup and Drop-off Locations: Shipping between popular urban centers is cheaper compared to remote areas.
- Seasonality: Demand for car shipping spikes in summer and around the holidays, often raising prices.
- Delivery Speed: Expedited shipping services come with higher charges.
Average Price Ranges for Different Shipping Services
While prices vary based on the above factors, here’s a general guideline for domestic car shipping within the U.S.:
- Open transport for a standard sedan over 1,000 miles: $800–$1,300.
- Enclosed transport for a luxury vehicle over 1,000 miles: $1,500–$2,200.
- Door-to-door shipping typically adds $100–$200 to the overall cost.
3. International Car Shipping
Special Considerations for Overseas Shipping
Shipping a car overseas adds layers of complexity, from customs protocols to marine insurance. Keep these factors in mind as you plan:
- Research Country-Specific Rules: Each country has unique rules for importing vehicles, so research these carefully.
- Shipping Containers: You’ll typically choose between shipping your car in a container or via a Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) service.
- Marine Insurance: Invest in marine insurance for added peace of mind during long transit.
Documentation and Customs Requirements
For international car shipping, you’ll need to prepare the following documents to clear customs:
- Vehicle Title
- Bill of Sale
- Export Declaration
- Copy of your ID or Passport
- Insurance Papers
Always double-check with your shipping agent for a complete list of documents.
4. Tracking Your Shipment
Importance of Shipment Tracking
Tracking your shipment ensures peace of mind and allows you to stay informed on where your car is at all times.
Different Tracking Methods Available
- GPS Tracking: Some shipping companies offer real-time GPS tracking accessible via an app or website.
- Direct Updates: Others frequently email or text updates about your shipment’s status.
- Customer Support Calls: Contact the shipping company directly for updates, especially during key transit stages.
5. Receiving Your Vehicle
What to Expect Upon Delivery
When the shipping company delivers your car, follow these steps to ensure everything is in order:
- Inspect your vehicle for damage, using your pre-shipping photos as reference.
- Check that all agreed-upon terms, such as delivery location and timing, were met.
- Ask the driver to walk you through the delivery paperwork before signing off.
Steps to Take After Receiving Your Car
If you notice any damage, make a note of it on the Bill of Lading (BOL) before signing. Contact the shipping company immediately to discuss rectification or insurance claims.
Final Thoughts for a Smooth Shipping Experience
Shipping your car doesn’t have to be complicated. With proper preparation, the right shipping method, and a reliable carrier, the process can be safe, affordable, and stress-free.
No matter if you’re relocating to a new state or purchasing a car halfway across the world, these tips will set you up for success. Have you shipped a car before? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below! Alternatively, if you have questions, feel free to post them—we’re happy to help.
