Table of contents
Quick answer
To ship a car, compare quotes from licensed companies, book with a clear written price and pickup window, prepare the car (clean, photographed, mostly empty, about a quarter tank of fuel), inspect it with the driver at pickup, then inspect it again at delivery before signing the bill of lading.
How car shipping works
Most cars in the U.S. travel on a multi-car truck, the same kind dealerships use. You book with either a carrier, which owns the trucks, or a broker, which finds a carrier for your route and dates. A driver picks the car up close to your address, drives it across the country alongside other vehicles, and delivers it near your destination.
The whole process usually takes one to two weeks from booking to delivery: a few days to get a truck assigned, then anywhere from one day to about two weeks on the road depending on distance.
- Get quotesEnter your route, vehicle and dates to compare prices.
- BookChoose a company and confirm the price, pickup window and terms in writing.
- PickupInspect the car with the driver and sign the bill of lading.
- DeliveryInspect again, note any damage, then sign and pay any balance.
Step 1: Get and compare quotes
A useful quote needs your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, the vehicle's year, make and model, whether it runs, the transport type you want and when the car will be ready. The more accurate the details, the more reliable the price.
- Compare at least three quotes for the same dates
- Check what's included: door-to-door service, carrier insurance and all fees
- Be skeptical of any quote far below the others; it may not attract a carrier
- Ask whether the price can change after booking
Estimate your price first
Step 2: Choose a shipping company
Price matters, but reliability matters more. A company that picks your car up on time and communicates clearly is worth a slightly higher quote.
- Look up the USDOT or MC number and confirm authority is active
- Read recent reviews and how complaints were handled
- Understand the payment terms and any deposit
- Get the cancellation policy in writing
Step 3: Pick open or enclosed transport
Open transport
The standard option. Your car rides on an open multi-car carrier.
- Lowest price
- Most trucks and dates available
- Fine for everyday cars
Enclosed transport
A covered trailer that protects from weather, debris and view.
- Best for luxury and classic cars
- Usually 40–60% more expensive
- Fewer trucks, so book earlier
Step 4: Prepare your car
- Wash the car so existing marks are easy to see
- Take dated photos of every side, the roof, wheels and odometer
- Remove personal items, toll tags and loose accessories
- Leave about a quarter tank of fuel
- Check for leaks, and make sure the battery and tires are in good shape
- Hand over a spare key if the driver needs one
Step 5: Pickup day
The driver will usually call a day ahead and again shortly before arriving. If a full-size truck can't reach your street, you may meet at a nearby parking lot.
Step 6: While your car is in transit
Carriers plan routes around several pickups and deliveries, so your car may not travel in a straight line. Federal hours-of-service rules also limit how far a driver can go each day.
Step 7: Delivery and inspection
- Inspect in good lightWalk around the car with the driver and compare it with your pickup photos.
- Note any new damageWrite it on the bill of lading before you sign, and photograph it.
- Pay any balanceUse the payment method agreed in your contract.
- Report problems quicklyContact the carrier and broker in writing the same day.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to ship a car?
It depends mainly on distance, vehicle size, transport type and season. Short regional trips often cost several hundred dollars, and cross-country open transport for a sedan commonly runs from about $1,000 upward.
Car shipping costDo I need to be there for pickup and delivery?
Someone needs to be there to hand over or receive the keys, inspect the car and sign the bill of lading. It can be a trusted friend or family member.
Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive it?
For long distances, shipping is often comparable once you count fuel, hotels, meals, time off work and wear on the car. For short trips, driving is usually cheaper.
How far in advance should I book?
One to two weeks ahead is usually enough, and two to three weeks in summer or snowbird season.
Best time to ship a carCan I ship a car for a military move?
Yes. Many companies offer flexible scheduling and discounts for service members.
Military car shipping
Sources
Written and reviewed by the Haulwide editorial team. Editorial policy
