Should the seller or I arrange shipping?

You can do either. Arranging it yourself lets you compare prices and verify the company.

How do I avoid a fake shipping scam?

Choose and verify the shipper yourself, and don't send money to a company the seller insists on.

What documents does the driver need?

Usually a booking confirmation and a release from the seller. Dealers may ask for your ID or a signed authorization.

What if the car isn't as described?

Note transport damage on the bill of lading, and contact the seller about condition issues separately.

Shipping a Car You Bought Online

Bought a car online from another state? How to coordinate pickup with the seller, handle paperwork and inspect the car when it arrives.

Estimates clearly labeled
Independent company rankings
Free to compare

Choose and verify your own shipper
Coordinate release with the seller
Inspect before signing at delivery

Free · No obligation · About a minute

Get a car shipping quote

What makes this move different

Beware fake shipping companies
Never pay a shipping or escrow company that the seller chose for you.
Seller coordination
Share the carrier's name and window with the seller, and confirm pickup hours.
Paperwork
Some dealers need a release form or a copy of your ID for the driver.
Storage deadlines
Ask whether the seller charges storage if the car isn't picked up by a certain date.

Common situations

From a dealershipCompare the dealer's delivery offer with your own quotes.
From a private sellerConfirm the seller will be present, and inspect with the driver.
From an online retailerCheck what delivery is included and where the car is stored.
Car that doesn't runTell the shipper so a winch-equipped truck is sent.

Before you book

Confirm sale, payment and title terms in writing
Verify the shipping company yourself
Share pickup contacts and hours with the carrier
Ask the seller to photograph the car at pickup
Inspect carefully at delivery before signing

Compare Quotes

Transport options

Open transportMost popular
The standard, most affordable way to ship most cars.
Enclosed transportExtra protection
Covered trailers for high-value, classic or new cars.

Popular routes

All routes

Estimate your route

How it works

1. Tell us your routeEnter pickup, delivery, vehicle and dates.
2. Compare optionsSee estimates and licensed companies side by side.
3. Choose and bookConfirm price, pickup window and terms in writing.
4. Get it deliveredInspect at pickup and delivery, then sign.

Helpful guides

Useful resources

Online Car Purchase Shipping: FAQs

Should the seller or I arrange shipping?
You can do either. Arranging it yourself lets you compare prices and verify the company.
Ship a car after an online purchase
How do I avoid a fake shipping scam?
Choose and verify the shipper yourself, and don't send money to a company the seller insists on.
Avoid car shipping scams

What documents does the driver need?
Usually a booking confirmation and a release from the seller. Dealers may ask for your ID or a signed authorization.
What if the car isn't as described?
Note transport damage on the bill of lading, and contact the seller about condition issues separately.

Get a quote for your move

Compare estimates from licensed, top-rated companies.

Free to compareNo obligation to bookEstimates clearly labeledHow we make money