Moving a vehicle across state lines is not something most people do every day. I’ve been in this business long enough to say that every trip feels a little different. Some customers are relocating for work, others bought a car online and need it delivered, and sometimes it’s a student heading off to school. No matter the reason, the core steps are similar. If you’ve never booked a transporter before, I’ll lay out how it usually works, and maybe where you should pay extra attention.
Steps to ship a car
The process is fairly straightforward, but I think it helps to break it down. Usually it starts with choosing a hauler, then setting up the details of pickup and delivery. Along the way you’ll prepare the car, sign paperwork, and confirm dates. None of it is overly complicated, but each step matters. Missing one can create delays that stretch out longer than you’d expect.
First comes the research. You compare carriers, look at reviews, maybe request a few quotes. After deciding who to trust, you’ll book the shipment. That’s when you set dates and talk through the addresses. Then comes the prep work on your side – cleaning the car, checking fluids, removing personal items. When the truck shows up, you walk around with the driver, mark any scratches, and sign the inspection sheet. After that, your car is loaded, strapped in, and sent on its way. On delivery day you do the same walk-around, sign off, and the job is done.
Process to ship a car
The process to ship a car is not exactly mysterious, though sometimes people expect it to be more formal than it really is. The hauler will ask for the pickup and drop-off addresses. If you live in a tight street or somewhere with restrictions, you’ll need to give an alternate nearby spot. Big trucks can’t just swing down narrow cul-de-sacs or city alleys. That’s one detail people sometimes forget until the last minute.
After the addresses and dates are set, the driver or dispatcher calls a day or two ahead to confirm. Then on pickup day, you hand over the keys, sign the inspection form, and watch them drive it onto the trailer. There’s not much ceremony to it. Payment terms depend on the company, but most will want either a deposit upfront or full payment on delivery. Keeping communication open with the driver is the best way to avoid surprises.
When the car finally arrives, don’t rush the inspection. Take your time, walk around it, check the odometer. Even though most shipments go smoothly, this is your one chance to point out damage if something happened along the way. If all is fine, you sign off and it’s finished. That’s the whole process in a nutshell, but every hauler runs it a little differently.
Prepare your car for shipping
Getting your car ready is sometimes overlooked, but it saves trouble later. At the very least, wash the exterior. A clean surface makes it easier to mark down existing scratches during inspection. Inside, clear out personal belongings. Transport trucks are not moving storage lockers, and loose items can shift, break, or cause disputes with the carrier.
It’s also smart to check tire pressure, fluid levels, and battery charge. Transporters will load and unload the car, and if it doesn’t start, that can cause delays. A small fuel reserve is needed, but keep it low – under a quarter tank is usually recommended. That reduces weight and keeps things safer on the trailer.
Arrange pickup and delivery
Pickup and delivery arrangements can feel simple on paper, but reality throws little curveballs. Drivers plan routes with multiple cars on board. That means they may ask for time windows rather than exact times. Patience is part of the deal. If your street is too tight or restricted, you might meet them at a nearby parking lot or wide intersection. It’s not always perfect, but it works.
On delivery, the same rule applies. Don’t expect the driver to pull right up to your door if the truck doesn’t fit. Having a backup spot in mind makes the day less stressful. Communication matters – keep your phone handy, stay flexible, and you’ll usually get through without a hitch. After unloading, you inspect, sign, and the car is back in your hands.
Booking auto transport – FAQ
Do I need to book far in advance?
It depends on the season. In summer and around holidays, trucks fill up fast. Booking a week or two ahead is safer, though some carriers can handle last-minute requests.
Is pricing fixed?
Not always. Rates shift depending on distance, route popularity, and current demand. To get an idea of rates, check Car shipping costs.
What type of transport should I choose?
Most people use open trailers, but enclosed carriers are available for high-value vehicles. You can read more about the choices here: Vehicle transport options.
Do I need to be there in person?
Either you or someone you trust should be at both pickup and delivery. The inspection and signatures can’t really be skipped.
After years in this field, I think the main point is to keep it simple. Work with a hauler who answers the phone, prepare your car, and don’t overthink the small details. The rest usually falls into place, even if the journey stretches across states.