For your real-time location and ETA, please contact your driver directly.
In the auto transport industry, drivers provide live status – they know the exact road position, traffic, and delivery ETA. You should have received the driver’s phone number at dispatch. If not, contact us and we’ll connect you immediately.
Auto transport tracking works differently from package delivery. Unlike FedEx or UPS, which have dedicated drivers and fixed routes, auto transport uses independent carriers – professional truck drivers who own their equipment and run multi-stop routes across the country. This is why real-time GPS tracking is rare in our industry, and why direct driver communication is actually the most reliable way to know exactly where your car is.
The 5 Shipment Stages
Stage 1: Booked
Your shipment is in our system. We’re actively matching your route with a verified carrier from our network. Expect carrier assignment within 1-5 days of booking for standard shipments, or 24-48 hours for expedited service.
Stage 2: Carrier Assigned
A specific carrier has accepted your shipment. We send you the carrier’s USDOT/MC numbers, the driver’s direct phone number, and a pickup window. This is typically the point where we collect the broker fee (per your ZeroDown Guarantee, no money is owed before this).
Stage 3: In Transit
Your vehicle is on the truck and moving toward its destination. This is the stage where drivers are the best source of status. They can tell you the current city, any weather delays, and a realistic delivery ETA. Call or text them directly using the contact you received at dispatch.
Stage 4: Out for Delivery
The driver is within 24 hours of your destination and will call to coordinate the exact delivery time and location. Have someone available at the delivery address with a clear parking area for the carrier truck (it’s large – 75-80 feet long).
Stage 5: Delivered
Your vehicle arrives. Do a thorough walk-around inspection against your pickup photos and the Bill of Lading. Sign only after you’re satisfied. Pay the cash-on-delivery amount (if any) in certified check or credit card as agreed. Welcome home, car.
Why You Should Contact Your Driver Directly
We know it sounds counterintuitive to tell you the best tracking method is calling someone instead of pressing “refresh” on a tracking page. Here’s why it’s actually better:
Drivers know the road situation. A GPS dot on a map doesn’t tell you about the three-hour weather delay, the weighing station inspection, or the mechanical issue that changed the route.
Drivers know the real ETA. A GPS system estimates arrival based on speed and distance. Your driver knows they have three more drop-offs before you and can give you the realistic time.
Drivers can accommodate changes. Need to change your delivery address or timing? Your driver can often accommodate with a phone call. A tracking dashboard can’t do that.
Text messages work. If you’re at work and can’t talk, text your driver. Most are responsive and helpful.
That said, if you can’t reach your driver, that’s a problem we want to know about. Call dispatch at (279) 300-3808 and we’ll make contact on your behalf within the hour.
What to Do If You Haven’t Heard From Your Driver
Check your pickup/delivery window. Drivers typically call 24 hours before pickup and delivery. If you’re outside those windows, they may not have updates yet.
Try a text message first. Drivers are often easier to reach via text than phone call because they’re behind the wheel.
Verify you’re calling the right number. Make sure you have the driver’s cell, not the carrier’s main line which may go to voicemail.
Contact dispatch. If you’ve tried the above and still can’t reach the driver, call us at (279) 300-3808. We’ll contact them directly and get back to you within 1 hour.
In an emergency. If you believe there’s been an accident, theft, or major problem, call dispatch immediately. We have 24/7 emergency contacts for all our carriers.
Tracking FAQ
Can I track my car with GPS in real time?
Some of our premium carriers offer live GPS tracking as an add-on service. For most standard shipments, drivers provide real-time updates via phone/text, which is actually more informative than a GPS dot. If real-time GPS is critical for your shipment, mention it when booking and we’ll match you with a GPS-equipped carrier.
How often should I expect updates from my driver?
Typical communication pattern: one call at pickup to confirm, one call mid-transit (especially on multi-day routes), and one call 24 hours before delivery. Drivers will respond to texts and calls, but they may not proactively update daily – they’re driving 10+ hours a day.
My driver isn’t answering. What do I do?
Try texting first. If still no response after 2 hours, call dispatch at (279) 300-3808. We’ll reach the driver directly and get you an update within the hour.
Can I change my delivery address after pickup?
In many cases, yes – especially if the new address is near the original. Call dispatch as soon as you know about the change and we’ll work with the driver to accommodate. Rerouting may affect delivery timing and sometimes pricing.
What if my delivery is delayed?
Delays happen – weather, mechanical issues, other deliveries running long. Your driver will communicate the revised ETA. For significant delays (24+ hours), dispatch will reach out proactively. If a delay causes financial hardship (missed flights, rental car costs), let us know and we’ll work to make it right.
Is my car insured during transport?
Yes. Every Autos Mover shipment includes the carrier’s cargo insurance, verified before dispatch. We provide the insurance certificate on request. If you find damage at delivery, photograph it thoroughly and note it on the Bill of Lading before signing.
After hours emergency: (279) 300-3808 – voicemail monitored 24/7
Autos Mover is a DBA of Skyline Transportation. USDOT #4232458, MC #1637675. Licensed, bonded, and insured in all 50 states. BBB-accredited A+ business.
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