Car Shipping Tips: What to Know Beforehand

Shipping your car can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. From picking a reliable company to understanding transport options and costs, a little preparation goes a long way. This guide walks you through the key steps to make your car shipping experience smooth, affordable, and worry-free.

What You’ll Learn

In this article, we will answer:

• What should you know before shipping your car in 2026?

• How to estimate the cost and timeline for car shipping?

• How can you choose a reliable auto transport company?

Overview

Shipping a car can seem complicated, but knowing the basics makes the process much easier. The right choice depends on your needs, your vehicle type, and the level of protection or convenience you want. Cost and Timeline Factors Car shipping costs vary based on distance, vehicle size, transport type, season, and demand. Delivery usually includes a one to five-day pickup window and a few transit days, depending on traffic and weather. Transport Methods Open Transport: The most affordable option for everyday cars, but it offers limited weather protection. Enclosed Transport: Costs more but provides extra protection and security for classic or luxury cars. Choosing a Company Broker vs. Carrier: A carrier owns the truck, while a broker arranges and manages the shipment. Questions to Ask: Check their USDOT/MC numbers, insurance, cancellation policy, and pickup success rate. Insurance and Documentation Insurance Coverage: Carriers must carry cargo insurance, and your auto policy may add extra protection. AmeriFreight also offers an optional gap protection plan for added peace of mind. Documents Needed: Bring your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and Bill of Lading (BOL). The title is only needed for dealer or auction shipments. Avoiding Scams and Preparation Red Flags: Watch for fake low quotes, missing DOT numbers, cash-only payments, or no written contract. Before Pickup: Clean your car, take photos, check fluids, keep the fuel at one-quarter tank, remove valuables, disable alarms, and note the mileage. Inspect and sign the BOL at pickup and delivery.

How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car? (Overview)

There’s no single price for shipping a car. Costs for auto transport fluctuate constantly, behaving more like airline ticket prices than a fixed retail price.

The final price depends heavily on a few key factors:

• Distance and route: Shipping a vehicle coast-to-coast typically costs more than regional transport. Popular metro-to-metro routes may offer lower rates.

• Vehicle type: Larger or heavier vehicles cost more to ship.

• Transport method: Open carriers are more affordable than enclosed trailers.

• Flexibility: A wider pickup window can reduce your rate.

• Season and demand: Prices often rise during summer and holidays.

• Vehicle condition: Inoperable vehicles may require special equipment and added fees.

Popular Routes and Their Sample Shipping Costs

To give you a clearer picture, here are some sample quotes based on popular routes, with separate estimates for open and enclosed transport:

Pro Tip: Use our car shipping cost calculator for a custom quote based on your vehicle and route.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car? (Timeline & Ranges)

When planning your move, you need to understand that the auto transport timeline has two parts: the driver assignment window and the transit days.

1. Driver Assignment Window (Pickup): This is the time it takes for a carrier to be dispatched to your location. It’s typically a one to five-day range.

2. Transit Days (Delivery): This is the time the carrier is actually driving the vehicle. This is subject to weather, traffic, required rest stops, and other deliveries.

Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport: Pros & Cons

The type of trailer you choose is one of the biggest factors in cost and protection. Here’s a table comparing open and enclosed car transport:

Car Shipping Broker vs. Carrier: What's The Difference?

Understanding the difference between a car shipping broker and a carrier is critical to choosing the right company and setting proper expectations.

• Auto Transport Carrier: The company that owns the truck and physically drives your car. Carriers are responsible for vehicle transport and carry primary cargo insurance.

• Auto Transport Broker: A company that coordinates shipments. They act as your agent, finding and vetting a reliable carrier, managing the paperwork, and tracking the shipment.

A good broker vets the carrier’s safety records, primary cargo insurance, and driver reputation to ensure a safe transition.

Checklist: What to Ask Your Broker

Before you choose a broker, ask the following questions:

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  MC/USDOT Number: Do they provide their own and the carrier's numbers?

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  Proof of Insurance: Can they instantly verify the carrier’s cargo insurance?

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  Vetting Process: What is their minimum safety rating for carriers they work with?

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  Cancellation Policy: Are the terms clear and in writing?

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  Pickup Success Rate: What percentage of their orders are successfully picked up on the first attempt?

Is Car Shipping Insurance Enough? Coverage Basics

Understanding how coverage works is an important part of preparing for a smooth, secure shipment.

• Carrier Cargo Insurance: All carriers are required to carry valid cargo insurance as mandated by federal regulations. This coverage typically applies to physical damage to the vehicle while in the carrier’s care, including accidents or issues during loading and unloading. Coverage terms and exclusions vary by carrier, so it’s important to document your vehicle’s condition and review the Bill of Lading carefully.

• Your Personal Auto Policy: Depending on your provider and plan, it may offer additional coverage, particularly for weather-related damage. Contact your insurance company before transport to understand how your comprehensive policy may apply during shipping.

• Extra Peace of Mind: AmeriFreight offers the optional AFTA PLAN, a third-party-administered gap protection plan designed to help cover certain out-of-pocket expenses not typically included in carrier insurance. It’s designed to give you added support and reassurance throughout the shipping process.

What Documents Are Needed to Ship a Car?

The transport process requires minimal paperwork, but you need to be prepared. 

• Driver’s License/Photo ID: For identity verification at pickup and delivery.

• Vehicle Registration: Proof that you own or are authorized to ship the vehicle.

• Title: Usually not needed, but required if you are shipping to or from a dealership/auction (to prove transfer of ownership).

• Proof of Insurance: Recommended to have handy, even if your personal policy is secondary.

• Authorization Letter: Required if a third party (like a friend or relative) is present for pickup or delivery instead of you.

How to Avoid Car Shipping Scams

While most companies (broker or carrier) are reputable, knowing how to avoid car shipping scams will save you money and stress.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Bait-and-Switch Quotes: Suspiciously low quotes, only to increase drastically after you’ve booked (due to "last-minute" carrier demand).

• Refusal to Provide MC/USDOT: Unlicensed entities will not have a USDOT (Department of Transportation) or MC (Motor Carrier) number.

• Pressure for Wire Payments: Legitimate brokers/carriers accept credit cards and checks. Unlike credit cards, wire transfers typically offer little to no fraud protection, which is why reputable companies prefer secure payment methods.

• No Written Terms or BOL: Never agree to a shipment without a written contract and a detailed Bill of Lading.

The Ultimate Checklist for Preparing a Car for Shipping 

This checklist for preparing a car for shipping is your key to a smooth, damage-free experience.

Before Pickup

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  Deep Clean & Inspection: Thoroughly wash the exterior.

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  Document Condition: Take extensive photos and video of the exterior, wheels, glass, and interior. Note all existing damage (scratches, chips, dents) on a diagram.

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  Check Fluids, Tires, Battery: Ensure the vehicle is in good operating condition and the battery is charged.

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  Fuel Level: The tank must be no more than one-quarter (1/4) full. Less fuel means less weight.

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  Remove Personal Items: Per DOT regulations, personal belongings are not covered under vehicle insurance.

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  Disable Alarms: Ensure the security alarm is disabled or provide the driver with instructions on how to turn it off.

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  Remove Loose Parts: Remove antennas, bike/ski racks, and any spoilers that can be removed.

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  Spare Key Ready: Provide a complete set of keys to the carrier.

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  Odometer Reading: Record the exact mileage at pickup.

At Pickup & Delivery

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  Inspect & Sign the Bill of Lading (BOL): At both pickup and delivery, make sure two copies of the Bill of Lading are signed, one for you, one for the driver, and that all vehicle details and damage notes are recorded clearly.

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  Re-Inspect at Delivery: Compare the car to your pre-shipment photos and the BOL. Note any new damage on the BOL before signing the final delivery acceptance.

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  Claim Path: If damage occurred, file a claim immediately (within the carrier's stated window) using the noted BOL and your pre-shipment evidence.

Final Thoughts: Ship Your Car the Smart Way

Shipping your car doesn’t have to be stressful. It’s all about knowing what to expect and choosing the right partner. By planning ahead, comparing transport options, and working with a trusted company, you can enjoy a safe, smooth, and affordable experience from pickup to delivery. 

Ready to Ship a Car?

With more than 20 years of experience in the car shipping industry, AmeriFreight Auto Transport has built a strong reputation for reliability through excellent customer care. We have coordinated transport with vetted carriers for thousands of car owners nationwide. Our team will help you find the best transport option for your vehicle and budget.

Get your free instant quote now.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does it cost to ship a car?

Costs can vary depending on factors like distance, vehicle type, and shipping method. Use our online calculator for a personalized estimate.

How long does it take to ship a car coast-to-coast?

Shipping a car coast to coast typically takes between seven and 14 days of transit time, after a carrier has been assigned (one to five days). Bad weather or traffic can add a few extra days to the total timeframe.

Is car shipping insurance enough, or do I need more?

Before shipping, it's important to review the carrier’s cargo insurance details and consider whether additional protection may benefit your vehicle’s value and needs.

Can I leave personal items in my vehicle?

No. Per DOT regulations, carriers are not licensed or insured to transport personal items in vehicles. For safety and insurance reasons, it’s best to remove all belongings before pickup.

Do I need to be present at pickup/delivery?

Yes, you or an authorized adult must be there to sign the Bill of Lading and confirm the car’s condition.

What’s the best way to transport a vehicle cross-country?

Shipping your car is usually the easiest and most cost-effective option, saving time, gas, and wear on your vehicle.

How do I avoid car shipping scams?

Research the company’s reputation and verify its USDOT and MC numbers to ensure it’s properly licensed.

What is a Bill of Lading, and why is it important?

The Bill of Lading (BOL) is the official contract for the inspection and transport of your car. Only sign it once all vehicle damage (if any) is accurately noted.