Relocating for work, school, or family reasons often means figuring out how to transport a car from one state to another. Some people choose to drive the distance themselves, but for many, hiring a professional auto transport company is the safer and more practical option. Shipping a car prevents wear, saves time, and often costs less than people expect once fuel, lodging, and days on the road are added up. The process may feel unfamiliar at first, but when broken down into steps, it’s a straightforward routine haulers complete every day.
The cost of moving a vehicle depends on distance, trailer type, and the size of your car. Open carriers, those long double-deck trailers you see on highways, are the most affordable choice. Enclosed carriers cost more but provide extra protection from weather and debris. If you want a realistic picture of what you’ll pay, this breakdown is a useful reference: car shipping costs.
Step-by-step car shipping guide
Here’s the typical sequence most haulers and customers follow:
- Research companies. Look up licensed, insured carriers or brokers with a steady record of on-time deliveries.
- Request quotes. Compare written estimates. Note the differences between open and enclosed trailers.
- Book the service. Lock in a pickup window that works with your move schedule.
- Prepare the car. Wash it, take dated photos, disable alarms, and remove personal items.
- Inspection at pickup. Walk around the car with the driver and sign the Bill of Lading noting the condition.
- Transport. The car stays secured on the trailer until delivery. The driver checks tie-downs during stops.
- Inspection at delivery. Review the car against your photos and paperwork before signing off.
If you want a full preparation checklist with added details, review this resource: how to ship a car. Following these steps keeps surprises to a minimum.
The interstate auto transport process starts at pickup. The driver arrives within the scheduled window, loads the car using ramps or lift gates, and secures it with straps or chains at the wheels. Proper positioning balances weight across the trailer. Once on the road, drivers stop periodically to check the load, especially on long routes. The car itself stays parked and untouched until delivery.
The delivery is the second stage of the interstate auto transport process. Trucks may not always fit down residential streets, so drivers often arrange handoffs in large lots or wide streets nearby. At delivery, you walk through another inspection with the driver, confirm mileage, and compare notes on the Bill of Lading. This step closes the job and ensures everyone agrees on the vehicle’s condition.
There are some state-to-state moving tips that help smooth things out. Book early if you need specific dates. Carriers fill schedules quickly during peak seasons, and last-minute bookings usually cost more. Build some flexibility into your plan, since traffic and weather can push arrival times a few hours either way.
Another set of state-to-state moving tips relates to preparing the car. Leave only a quarter tank of fuel. Fold mirrors, remove racks or antennas, and check that the battery holds charge. If the car has quirks—like a sticky trunk or weak brakes—tell the driver in advance. This saves time during loading and keeps the process safe. A few minutes of preparation on your side makes a real difference.
FAQ: Common mistakes when shipping a car
Is the lowest price always the best choice?
Not always. The cheapest quote may come with vague pickup times or poor insurance coverage. Look for a balance of price and reputation.
Can I leave personal items inside the car?
No. Carriers typically don’t insure belongings inside the vehicle, and extra weight can raise costs or cause damage.
What if I don’t take photos before shipping?
Without photos, it’s harder to prove pre-existing condition. Always take dated pictures before pickup.
Do I need to be there at pickup and delivery?
Yes, or you can authorize someone you trust. The inspection process requires a signature both times.
How much gas should be in the tank?
About a quarter tank is ideal. It’s enough for moving the car on and off the trailer without adding unnecessary weight.
What’s the most overlooked step?
Disabling alarms. An alarm going off mid-transport can drain the battery and frustrate the driver.
Understanding how to transport a car from one state to another doesn’t require industry knowledge. It just takes some planning, preparation, and a reliable hauler. With clear steps, a realistic timeline, and attention to details like fuel levels and inspections, you can ship your car without stress and focus on the bigger parts of your move.
