Car Shipping FAQ

Car shipping costs depend on several factors including total distance, vehicle size and weight, transport type (open vs. enclosed), and seasonality. As typical reference ranges, short regional transports often run under $500 and coast-to-coast routes $1,000 to $1,500 for a sedan on an open carrier; actual carrier pricing varies by route, vehicle, timing and availability. Call with both ZIP codes and the vehicle details, and a licensed transport partner quotes your actual route.

Transit times vary significantly by distance and route conditions. A 500-mile trip usually takes 1-3 days, a 1,000-mile trip takes 3-5 days, while a cross-country transport can take 7-10 days depending on weather, traffic, and DOT weigh station stops. Expedited shipping is available through partners for a faster pickup.

Open transport is the most common industry standard and cost-effective method where your vehicle is shipped on an open-air multi-car trailer. Enclosed transport provides a fully covered, hard-sided trailer, protecting your vehicle from wind, weather, and road debris, highly recommended for luxury, classic, low-clearance, or exotic cars.

Yes. Auto Transport Pros is a referral service and does not hold transport authority itself, but every broker and carrier we connect you with is licensed and insured. The assigned carrier's cargo insurance covers the vehicle from the pickup inspection until the Bill of Lading is signed at delivery. Ask for the certificate before pickup, and note any damage on the Bill of Lading before you sign.

Generally, we advise against packing personal items. Auto transport carriers are legally restricted by the DOT from acting as household goods movers, and personal items are strictly excluded from the carrier's cargo insurance policies. You may typically place up to 100 lbs of soft goods tightly secured out of sight in the trunk, but this is always at your own absolute risk.

Yes, inoperable vehicles can be shipped, provided they roll, brake, and steer. The carrier will need to use a winch to safely load the vehicle onto the trailer, which does incur an additional winching fee. When booking, you must accurately declare the vehicle's condition so a truck is assigned that is equipped with the proper hardware.

Fees and payment terms are set by the transport partner who books your shipment, not by Auto Transport Pros. A common arrangement is a deposit by card once a carrier is assigned, with the balance paid to the driver at delivery by cash, cashier's check or money order. Confirm the amounts, accepted payment methods and whether the deposit is refundable before you book, and be wary of anyone asking for the full amount upfront.

Yes. Standard quotes are for door-to-door service as long as the locations are safely accessible for a large commercial multi-car hauler. If narrow residential streets, low-hanging trees, or strict HOA regulations restrict access, the driver will coordinate with you to meet at a nearby large open parking lot (like a grocery store or plaza) to safely load or unload your vehicle.

We highly recommend booking your vehicle shipment 1 to 2 weeks prior to your desired pickup window. That gives your transport partner time to find a carrier already running your route, which usually means a better rate. For an emergency or last-minute move, expedited shipping aims to secure a truck within 24 to 48 hours at a higher rate.

Preparation is vital. Wash the vehicle's exterior to allow for an accurate, undisputed condition report at pickup. Drain the fuel tank down to approximately 1/4 full to save on DOT weight limits. Remove all loose electronics, toll tags, garage openers, and aftermarket accessories. Lastly, disable any active alarms or immobilizer systems prior to handing over the keys.

In the logistics industry, exact dates are estimated rather than guaranteed due to unpredictable variables like severe weather systems, traffic corridors, and unforeseen DOT roadside inspections. Expect a projected pickup window of a few days. For time-critical moves, ask about expedited or guaranteed-date service, which some partners offer at a higher rate.

Yes. Once your vehicle is dispatched, your transport partner gives you the carrier's contact details, so you can check progress with the driver directly. Ask the partner at booking how they share updates during transit.