How to Ship a Car: The 6-Step Guide for First-Time Shippers

Shipping a car for the first time isn’t complicated, but there are 6 steps that make the difference between a smooth shipment and a frustrating one. Here’s exactly how to ship a car the right way.

Step 1: Get 3 Quotes (Not Just One)

Auto transport pricing is dynamic — based on real-time carrier capacity. Get quotes from 3 FMCSA-licensed companies (verify on safer.fmcsa.dot.gov). The median quote is your benchmark. Avoid quotes 30%+ below the median (lowball bait) or 30%+ above (overpriced).

Get an instant Autos Mover quote: use our calculator.

Step 2: Choose Open or Enclosed Transport

• Open carrier — Standard, 40-60% cheaper, fine for daily drivers, sedans, SUVs.
• Enclosed — For classics, exotics, luxury vehicles over $50K.

See the full open vs. enclosed comparison.

Step 3: Book and Lock In Your Pickup Window

With Autos Mover, booking is $0 upfront. You provide:

• Pickup ZIP code and contact
• Delivery ZIP code and contact
• Vehicle year, make, model
• Vehicle condition (running / non-running, modifications)
• Pickup window (a 5-day window saves $100-$200 vs. a specific day)

You’ll get a confirmation email with the carrier’s expected dispatch window.

Step 4: Prep Your Vehicle for Pickup

1. Clean the exterior — Makes the pre-shipment inspection accurate.
2. Remove personal items — Carriers allow up to 100 lbs in the trunk below window line; items aren’t insured.
3. Disable car alarm and toll transponder — Or it’ll go off in transit / rack up tolls.
4. Leave 1/4 tank of fuel — Enough for loading/unloading, not so much it adds weight.
5. Check fluids and tire pressure — Standard pre-trip stuff.
6. Take photos — Time-stamped photos of all sides, the roof, and any pre-existing damage.
7. Note the odometer reading.

Step 5: Pickup & Bill of Lading

Driver arrives within your pickup window. The pickup process:

1. Driver inspects every panel for damage and notes it on the Bill of Lading (BOL).
2. You walk around with the driver and confirm the inspection.
3. You sign the BOL — keep your copy. This document is your insurance claim foundation.
4. Vehicle is loaded with soft tie-downs (open) or strapped on rails (enclosed).

Total pickup time: ~30 minutes.

Step 6: Tracking, Delivery, and Final Inspection

1. In transit — Call dispatch anytime for status. With Autos Mover, you can also track online.
2. 24-48 hours before delivery — Driver calls to confirm delivery time window.
3. At delivery — Walk around the car with the driver. Compare to your pickup photos. Check for any new damage.
4. Sign the delivery BOL only after inspection — Note any damage on the BOL before signing.
5. Pay the carrier — Cash, certified check, or company app (varies by carrier — confirmed at booking).

What to Avoid

• Paying any deposit before dispatch — Industry standard is $0 upfront.
• Signing the delivery BOL before walking around the car — Once signed, damage claims become much harder.
• Skipping the pickup photos — Without them, “before vs. after” comparison is your word vs. the driver’s.
• Putting personal items above window line — Visible items are theft risk and not insured.
• Booking with a company that won’t share their USDOT/MC number.

How to Ship a Car FAQs

How long does it take to ship a car?

Pickup happens 1-7 days after booking. Transit varies by distance: 1-3 days regional, 4-7 days mid-distance, 7-10 days coast-to-coast.

Can I ship a leased car?

Yes. The lease company doesn’t need to be involved — you have authority to ship the vehicle as the lessee. Just notify them of the address change after delivery.

Can I ship a car I just bought online?

Yes — this is one of the most common use cases. The seller often coordinates pickup directly with the carrier. Make sure the BOL goes to YOUR delivery address, not the seller’s.

Ready to ship? Get your instant quote or call (279) 300-3808 — Mon-Sat 8 AM-3:30 PM PST.