How Car Shipping Works
Learn the complete car shipping process from quote to delivery
The Car Shipping Process
Get Multiple Quotes
Request quotes from 3-5 reputable car shipping companies. Provide pickup/delivery locations and vehicle details.
Compare and Book
Compare prices, services, and reviews. Choose your preferred company and sign the contract.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Clean your car, document existing damage, remove personal items, and ensure 1/4 tank of gas.
Vehicle Pickup
Driver inspects and loads your vehicle. You receive a copy of the condition report.
Transit Period
Your vehicle is transported to the destination. Track progress and stay in communication.
Delivery
Inspect your vehicle upon delivery, compare to pickup condition, and complete payment.
Types of Car Shipping
Open Car Transport
- • Most affordable option
- • Vehicles exposed to weather
- • Fastest availability
- • Best for standard vehicles
Enclosed Car Transport
- • Premium protection
- • Weather and debris protection
- • Best for luxury/classic cars
- • Enhanced security
What Affects Car Shipping Costs?
Distance
Longer distances generally cost more, but price per mile decreases for longer hauls.
Route Popularity
Popular routes like CA to FL cost less due to higher carrier availability.
Vehicle Size
Larger vehicles take up more space on the carrier and cost more to ship.
Season
Summer and snowbird season (fall/winter to Florida) have higher demand and prices.
Pickup/Delivery Type
Door-to-door service costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping.
Vehicle Condition
Non-running vehicles require special equipment and cost $150-300 more.
Ready to Ship Your Car?
Get quotes from verified car shipping companies