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The Car Shipping Process Explained

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If you are a first-time auto transport customer, you may be wondering exactly how the car shipping process works. After all, your car is a valuable possession so you want to be sure you completely understand how car shippers operate. Simply put, car shipping companies transport vehicles from one location to another via a trailer. This is a safe and convenient way to transport your vehicle a long distance. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the right shipping company and there are also some things you should know in order to prepare your vehicle for shipment. This guide will help you understand the step-by-step process for shipping your vehicle.

Step 1: Have Your Vehicle and Shipment Information Ready

When you begin shopping around for quotes, the first thing shipping companies are going to ask you is what kind of car you will be shipping. Make sure you know the exact make, model, and year of your vehicle. You also need to know the exact destination points for pick-up and delivery. In addition, you need to be prepared to include information regarding whether or not your vehicle is operable or inoperable, or even oversized. Finally, if you require any additional services such as expedited shipping, enclosed transport, or door-to-door delivery you will want to discuss these services. This information will ensure you get the most accurate estimate.

Step 2: Get Shipping Quotes

Shop online and gather quotes from a few different car shipping companies. Compare prices and services until you find a company that suits your needs and budget. Remember, however, that the cheapest quote doesn’t always mean the best value. Like many other industries, you get what you pay for so look for quality in addition to the price. Be sure to check the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website to verify proper licensing, registration, and insurance. You can also check the company’s safety record here as well.

Step 3: Choose Open or Enclosed Transport

You will now select between using an open or enclosed carrier. Open-air carriers are the most common transportation method and they are cheaper. However, your car will be exposed to the outdoor elements which could be a concern for some customers. If you are shipping a brand new, luxury, antique, or exotic car you may choose to pay a little extra for enclosed transport to ensure your vehicle is protected from the outdoors.

Step 4: Choose Door-to-Door or Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

Next, you will need to specify whether or not you prefer door-to-door shipping. This service is certainly most convenient and can usually be handled for an additional cost. However, some delivery locations have restrictions on shipping trailers because of laws, poor road access, or low-hanging trees. Furthermore, if you are in a rural location, door-to-door services may not be offered. In these instances, your vehicle may be delivered to the nearest terminal. Be sure to discuss these options with your shipping company.

Step 5: Prepare Your Car for Shipment

There are a few things you will need to do in order to prepare your car for shipment. Start by removing all personal belongings from inside the vehicle. You also want to use up most of your gas, leaving your tank no more than ¼ full. This reduces your car’s weight and makes it safer for shipment. You should also wash your car inside and out prior to shipment. Once your car is washed, take photos of your vehicle’s exterior and make a note of any dents, dings, or scratches. This visual proof of your vehicle’s condition will make it easier to note any damage that might have occurred during shipment.

Step 6: Your Vehicle will be Picked Up

On the date of your scheduled pickup, a carrier will arrive to load your vehicle onto their trailer. You will need to have proof of vehicle ownership in order to ship your vehicle. At this time, you will exchange contact information with your carrier so you can stay informed with delivery information. You will also inspect your vehicle’s condition and make a note of it on the Bill of Lading. At this time, you will sign your final contract and hand over your keys.

Step 7: Your Car Will be Delivered

Upon delivery, you will do a final inspection of your vehicle’s condition and sign the Bill of Lading. This is when you would make a note of any damage that could have occurred. Once you have signed the Bill of Lading, you will make your final payment and take your vehicle.

Should You Shrink Wrap Your Car for Protection for Shipment?

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Perhaps you are moving across the country and you want to make sure your vehicle arrives without damage. Maybe you are purchasing a brand new car online and you want to ensure it is delivered in pristine condition. It might even be that you are shipping your exotic car to a car show and you want to take extra precautions to protect it. When you are shipping a car, you may be concerned about the potential damage that could occur during the transport process. Though the damage is not expected, things do happen and many people don’t like to risk possible damage to their vehicle. Therefore, you may be wondering if protective shrink wrap is necessary when shipping your car. The fact is, car shipping is expensive and some people may not want the extra financial burden of adding shrink wrap. However, shrink wrap is the best way to ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination damage-free. Here are some of the benefits of shrink wrap so you can decide if it's right for you.

Protects Your Paint

If you are shipping your car on an open-air trailer, it will be exposed to the outdoor elements for the duration of transport. It’s possible that your vehicle could get scratched from flying road debris. Small rocks and debris are the number one cause of chipped paint and damage to vehicles during transport. The protective shrink wrap will repel these elements and prevent scratches and damage to your car. It’s also possible that your paint could get damaged in bad weather such as snow or ice. If you are shipping your car during the winter months, you may want to take extra precautions by wrapping your car prior to shipment.

You Can Avoid Repair Costs

Investing in shrink-wrap may seem like a lot of extra money on the front end, but it pays off. If your car gets damaged during shipment, it could end up costing you several hundred or even a few thousand dollars for repairs or a new paint job. If you just bought a new car, the last thing you want is to be spending extra money on repairs. Likewise, if you have an antique or exotic vehicle, you want to ensure it remains in mint condition. The best way to maintain your car’s value is to keep it protected from any potential damage.

Easy to Install and Remove

Shrinkwrap for your vehicle is easy to install and does not require any preparation. The wrap is glueless, so it will not leave any sticky residue. Removing the protective wrap is also easy and can be done by the customer without tampering with the vehicle.

An open hauler is great for transporting your car across the country, but it will not protect your vehicle from debris on the highway or weather conditions while traveling. Therefore, if you are concerned about these potential hazards and want to ensure your car arrives in perfect condition, you may want to consider shrink wrap. Though it is not necessary, it does provide additional protection and peace of mind.

How to Use a Direct Auto Shipping Company for Your Vehicle Transport

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Direct auto shipping, also known as door-to-door service, is a convenient and hassle-free way to have your vehicle picked up and delivered to your destination. The other option is to have your vehicle picked up and delivered at a terminal, which could be several miles away depending on your location. When you are in need of shipping a car, you want the process to be as simple as possible. That’s why direct auto shipping is such a popular choice for many people. This convenient service definitely has its advantages, so let’s take a closer look at how the process works.

When to Choose Direct Auto Shipping

Door-to-door service is by far the most convenient option, but that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. It works best for people who live in a major metropolitan city with wide streets that can easily be maneuvered by a large auto trailer. This would not be an ideal option for someone living in a rural area with dirt roads or windy roads. In addition, there is a higher demand for car shipping services in major cities, meaning it’s more convenient for the carrier. You also want to keep in mind that direct auto shipping is more expensive, given the added convenience of the service. The shipper is using their fuel and time to deliver your vehicle directly to you, so this is reflected in the overall shipping cost.

How the Process Works

Find a Shipping Company

If you know you want direct shipment, look for a company that offers door-to-door service. Though many companies will give you the option, some only offer terminal to terminal shipment. Therefore, you want to inquire specifically about the service and make sure it is available in your location.

Choose Your Transport Method

Next, you will have the option to choose between open and closed transport. As the name suggests, open-air transport means your car is shipped on an open-air trailer that will be exposed to the outdoors. This is the most common and affordable option. If you choose enclosed transport, your car will be shipped in an enclosed trailer where it is sheltered from the outdoor elements. This is a more expensive option, but it may be ideal for luxury, brand new, antique, or exotic vehicles that may require additional protection.

Meet the Driver

Another advantage to using door-to-door shipment is that you get to personally meet the driver. You will have the opportunity to see your vehicle loaded on and off the trailer and you can ask the driver any questions you may have. You may also be able to get their contact information, which can be helpful for estimated delivery times as well as general peace of mind.

You Must Be Present at Pickup and Delivery

You will need to be present when your vehicle is picked up so you can show proper identification, registration, and proof of ownership. You will also need to be present upon delivery to handle payment and to sign the Bill of Lading.

Considerations When Shipping a Car Overseas

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Are you planning an international move? If so, you might be interested in bringing your car along, in which case you would need to utilize international car shipping services. It is important to begin planning and preparing well in advance so you can come up with a transportation plan that best fits your needs and budget. Though it may seem overwhelming, shipping a car overseas is actually a straightforward process. Here we will take a look at everything you will need to know in order to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

How Much Will it Cost?

Perhaps the biggest consideration will be the price of having your car shipped overseas. The price will depend on several factors. First, you will need to consider the distance from your home to the nearest seaport. The U.S. Ports of entry are located in L.A., San Francisco, Miami, Jacksonville, New York City, Norfolk, Charleston, Wilmington, and Baltimore. It could cost you several hundred dollars or over a thousand dollars depending on how far you are located from the closest seaport. Next, you will need to consider the distance to the foreign country. Obviously, the greater the distance, the higher the shipping cost.

Overseas Taxes and Charges

When estimating the cost, don’t forget to take into consideration import duties and customs taxes, along with delivery fees in the foreign country. There will be different tariffs and duties that are calculated based on the value of the vehicle and the size of the engine. An experienced international shipping company should be able to inform you about these additional costs.

Know the Laws and Regulations Regarding Importing Vehicles

Every country has different laws regarding what types of vehicles may be imported and exported. Keep in mind that many countries will not allow the importation of cars over a certain age. Prior to scheduling shipment, you should check with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements for importing and exporting motor vehicles.

Finding the Right Shipping Company

The last thing you need is to feel rushed to find an international car shipping company. There are quite a few different companies out there that offer this service so you will definitely want to do plenty of research to find the right one for your needs. As with most things these days, your search will likely begin online. Here are a few things to consider when looking for a reputable car shipping company:

  • They offer services from your current location to your new one
  • They are properly licensed, bonded, and insured (The company should be licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission. You can verify licensure on their website.)
  • They only work with third parties who are also licensed, bonded, and insured
  • They have several positive reviews (check online as well as with the Better Business Bureau)
  • Their price is reasonable. (be cautious of prices that are too low, as this can sometimes be a red flag)

Gather Your Documents

Next you will need to consider what documents are required for international car shipment so you can be sure you have everything ready to go. As with most other international shipments, there is paperwork involved. You will need to provide the following documents to the U.S. Port of Entry at least 72 hours before the date of transport:

  • Original Title along with two notarized copies of the original document
  • Bill of Sale
  • A Shipper Export Declaration
  • A copy of your U.S. passport

Keep in mind that different ports have different paperwork requirements so check with your shipping company to ensure you have the required documents.

Types of Overseas Car Shipping Methods

You will need to consider which method of shipment will work best for you. There are two main car shipping methods for overseas transport. The first is Roll On, Roll Off (RORO) in which your car is driven onto a ship, secured, and transported. This is the cheapest method of transport, but your vehicle will be in the open and exposed to the weather elements. The second mode is a shipping container. It costs more, but is the preferred method because it offers much greater safety and protection because your car is securely fixed inside a metal container for the duration of the journey.

Challenges You Face When Shipping a Car

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Auto shipping is a convenient option for transporting your vehicle across a long distance. However, that’s not to say it doesn’t come without its challenges. Your vehicle is a valuable and highly-priced item so you want to be sure it is in the right hands and you are well prepared. Any time you are moving a valuable possession, it can be fraught with stress. Although you cannot anticipate every problem you may encounter with auto shipping, there are certainly a few challenges that are more common than others. Here are some of the most common challenges you may face with auto shipping and how to overcome them.

Potential Risk of Damage

Though it is not expected, there is always the possibility that your car could get damaged during the shipping process. Between loading and unloading vehicles onto trailers and then driving those trailers over bumpy roads, there is always a chance that your car could incur damage. It’s also possible that damage could occur from heavy rain, ice, snow, or flying debris on the roadway. The best way to avoid potential damage is to choose a company that provides the right equipment and experience to handle your vehicle safely. As for the weather, you can always opt for an enclosed trailer if you are shipping a luxury, antique, or brand new vehicle that may require additional protection.

Delayed Delivery

Delayed delivery is one of the most common challenges that can arise with car shipment. Though car shipping companies try their best to deliver your car on the expected delivery date, there are a lot of factors that can affect shipping times that are completely out of anyone’s control. For example, your driver could encounter bad weather, traffic jams, road closures, or even unexpected maintenance issues with the trailer carrying your vehicle. Keep in mind that it is impossible for any company to provide an exact delivery date, but try to work with a reputable company that has a history of timely delivery.

Scams and Fraudulent Estimates

Unfortunately, not all companies are legitimate and there are scammers out there. The best way to avoid being scammed by a fraudulent company is to do your own research ahead of time. Confirm the company’s licensing and registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This is also a good resource for checking their safety history. Inquire about insurance and make sure your vehicle is covered in the event it gets damaged. You also want to read reviews and ask around to see if friends or coworkers can provide a reference. Finally, ask for your estimate in writing and verify that there will not be any additional fees or charges.

Poor Communication

Lack of communication is another common challenge in auto shipment and unfortunately can interfere with the shipping process. To avoid this, be sure your car meets the travel-specific requirements ahead of time and let the carrier know if there are any concerns or issues. You should also request to exchange contact information with the driver so you can stay up-to-date with your car’s delivery status.

What Should You Know About Car Shipping Rates?

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If you are planning to ship a car, the first question on your mind is probably, “How much will it cost?” Unlike other products and services, there is not a single fixed rate for auto shipment. There are actually a number of different factors that come into play when determining how a car’s shipping price is calculated. Auto-shipping is also a supply/demand business, which means rates will fluctuate based on demand. Let’s delve a little deeper into how shipping rates are calculated and what factors affect shipping prices.

Factors That Determine Shipping Rates

1. Distance: As one might expect, the farther you are shipping a car, the more it will cost you. Longer trips usually cost less per mile, but since there are more miles to be traveled you can expect this to be reflected in the price.

2. Vehicle Size and Type: Another important factor that will determine shipping costs is the make, model, and size of the vehicle being shipped. Since auto carriers have weight restrictions, larger and heavier vehicles will cost more to ship than smaller vehicles.

3. Vehicle Condition: If your vehicle is inoperable, you can expect to pay a higher price to ship it. That’s because inoperable vehicles require special equipment to load and unload the vehicle on and off the carrier. There is usually an additional charge of about $200 for vehicles that are not in working condition.

4. Location of Shipment: Another factor that affects shipping rates is the location of pickup and/or delivery. Heavily traveled routes such as those between major cities will cost less because there are likely to be other vehicles for carriers to pick up and drop off along the way. On the other hand, if you are delivering a vehicle to a rural area that is not heavily traveled, you can expect to pay a premium price.

5. Type of Carrier: Most shipping companies will give you the option of choosing between open and enclosed transport. Enclosed transport is more expensive because the carrier can hold fewer vehicles.

6. Time of Year: Given that this is a supply and demand industry, truckers will set prices based on demand. During certain times of the year, car shipping is in higher demand and this can sometimes affect shipping rates in those areas.

7. Fuel Costs: Gas and diesel prices can also affect shipping rates. Just as with the airline industry, if fuel prices go up so do the prices.

8. Expedited/ Rush Service: If you need your car delivered in a hurry, there are expedited shipping options that will increase the rate. On the other hand, if you are more flexible with your delivery date, you can save a lot of money.

Average Rates to Ship a Car

The typical car shipping cost can range anywhere from $500 to $1500. On average, the cost is about $2.92 per mile for distances under 200 miles and $0.78 per mile for distances over 1,000 miles. These numbers can give you a rough estimate of shipping costs, but the only way to get an accurate quote is by requesting a personalized estimate.

Should I Ship My Car or Sell it and Buy a New One?

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When you are moving across the country, you may be wondering how to get your car there without having to drive it. Better yet, you may be wondering if it’s more convenient and cost-effective just to sell it and buy a new one. While there are pros and cons to both options, it ultimately comes down to a few important factors. Here we will take a closer look at your options as well as specific factors that may determine which decision is right for you.

Option #1: Shipping Your Car

Moving across the country is stressful enough, and thinking about the logistics of getting your car there can make things all the more overwhelming. The good news is that auto shipping is a convenient, simple, and safe option for transporting your car thousands of miles. If you choose to ship your car, you can easily schedule the pickup and delivery of your car and you can rest easy knowing that your car will be safely delivered to your new home. That said, you may be wondering if it’s worth the cost to ship your car. In most cases, shipping a car is significantly cheaper than buying a new one. There are several factors that will determine the exact price but the average cost to ship a sedan across the country is around $1200-$1500. When you consider the cost of purchasing a new car, it’s easy to see that shipping is far more cost-effective.

Option #2: Sell Your Car and Buy a New One

Your second option is to avoid the hassle of shipping your car altogether and selling it instead. Then, you can buy a new car when you arrive at your new location. In some circumstances, this might make sense if you were planning to upgrade your car anyway. This might also be a feasible option if you are in need of cash right away to help with moving expenses. Keep in mind, however, that you will need to figure out transportation until you purchase a new car.

Things to Consider:

Personal Plans for the Car: Is your current car older and in need of several repairs? If so, you might feel like the time is right to simply sell that car and purchase a new one. After all, it won’t make much sense to pay shipping costs for a car that you plan to turn around and sell in a couple of months anyway.

Convenience: There is no doubt that shipping a car is an easy and convenient way to transport your car across the country. Once you do your research and find a reputable shipping company, you simply call to schedule your pickup and delivery. You can even arrange to have your car picked up and delivered right to your door. This can be a much more convenient option than fussing with finding a buyer.

Cost: There is no doubt that shipping will be more cost-effective than selling your car and buying a new one. Given that the average cost to ship a car across the country is around $1500, you are almost certainly going to pay much more to buy a new one.

Current Availability: Given the current market conditions for new and used cars, you might have a very hard time finding a car. Inventory for both new and used cars is at an all-time low and prices are on the rise as a result. For this reason, it appears that shipping your car will be your best option.

The bottom line is that shipping or selling your car really depends on whether or not you have plans to upgrade your vehicle. Despite the cost to ship your car, you will still be saving money and you can make the process easier and more convenient by shipping your car. Unless your car is nearing the end of its life or you simply want to upgrade your vehicle, it almost always makes more sense to ship your car.

Should I Contact More Than One Company When Shipping a Car?

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Transporting your car from one part of the country to another is no small feat. That’s where shipping companies come in handy. They handle all of the logistics of getting your car from Point A to Point B so you can focus on other things, perhaps like moving. That said, your car is one of your most prized possessions so you don’t want to hand it over to just anyone. You want to be sure you are working with an auto shipping company that is reputable, trusted, and reliable. Furthermore, you want to be sure you are getting a fair price for the shipment. For all of these reasons, it is important to do your research and contact more than one shipping company before choosing one for the job. Here are just a few things to consider when looking for an auto transport company.

Reviews

First and foremost you want to check out various companies’ reviews before settling on one. You can browse reviews on the internet, check safety reports through the U.S. Department of Transportation, talk with the Better Business Bureau, and finally, speak with the company themselves and ask for references. The more you research reviews, the more likely you will find yourself worthing with a reputable shipping company.

Rates

As you would with many other services, it is important to shop around and compare prices. Call multiple car shipping companies and request a personalized quote based on your specific vehicle and needs. You also want to make sure this quote includes everything, so you aren’t surprised by unexpected fees and charges.

Compare Insurance

Auto transport companies are required by law to have up-to-date insurance. However, you should never assume they do. Ask for proof and check the details regarding the policy. Compare coverage between companies and find out how each one handles damage claims.

Check for Proper Licensing

While most auto shipping companies are who they say they are, there are unfortunately some scammers out there. Therefore, you want to ask around and make sure each company you speak with can provide you with U.S. Department of Transportation number (DOT) as well as a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) number. It is required by law that auto shippers be properly licensed, and these numbers can be used to check for verification and safety history.

Compare Services

Different car shipping companies might have different services available for shipping. For instance, some companies offer the option to choose between open and enclosed transport. Others may give you the option to choose between door-to-door pickup and delivery versus terminal-to-terminal. Be sure to speak with different companies to find the one that provides the exact services you need.

Can You Pack a Car That is Being Shipped

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If you are embarking on a long-distance move, you will likely be bringing plenty of things with you. If you plan on shipping your car, it might seem reasonable to pack it up with some of those belongings. However, is shipping a car with personal items possible? Let’s take a closer look at the answer to this common question.

The Department of Transportation hasn’t specifically outlawed shipping a car with personal items. Though it is technically legal, many auto shipping companies prefer that you don’t do it. Most companies have their own preferences for shipping a car with items inside so you will need to check with your specific shipping company. For those that do allow it, there are typically stipulations involved with shipping personal items.

What factors affect what I can bring?

Weight Limit: Auto carriers have strict guidelines with regard to weight. Since they are usually carrying multiple vehicles, you need to be mindful of the carrier’s overall weight. If the carrier is too heavy, the driver could be subject to fines. This is one reason many shipping companies do not allow for personal items to be shipped inside the vehicles.

Risk of Theft: In addition to weight regulations, many carriers are also conscious of the risk of theft. On an open carrier, people can see inside the vehicles. When the driver takes breaks, it’s possible that people will notice your personal items and valuables inside your vehicle and try to break-ins. This is yet another reason why packing personal items is usually frowned upon.

Even if an auto transport company does allow you to pack some personal items in your car, it may not be the best idea. For starters, as mentioned before, this puts you at a greater risk of theft. In addition, your items are likely to shift during transport which could result in damage both to the items and the interior of your vehicle. Finally, there is no guarantee that your car will arrive on time so you don’t want to be stuck without items that you need. For these reasons, it is best not to pack personal items inside your car during shipment.



What Should I Ask a Car Shipping Company?

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Hiring a car shipping company is a safe, easy, and convenient way to make a move less stressful. However, before handing your keys over to a shipping company, you want to be sure you are hiring the right company for the job. You also want to make sure you understand the process. How can you go about finding the right auto shipping company? Research is key in finding a reputable company that prides itself on exceptional customer service. Therefore, you need to know which specific questions to ask so you can find a company that aligns with your needs and budget. Here are some of the most important questions to ask before shipping your car.

1. Are you licensed and registered?

When researching auto transport companies, the first thing you want to do is verify that you are dealing with a company that is properly licensed and registered. It is required by law that auto transport companies be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. In doing so, they receive a DOT number that can be used for verification purposes and to check the company’s safety reports. In addition to a DOT number, interstate auto transport companies should also be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can access this information and check for verification by going to the FMCSA website.

2. What services do you offer?

Obviously, auto transport companies are in the business of shipping cars. However, there are several different shipping options available for customers to choose from. For example, some companies ship via open trailers only while others offer the option for open or enclosed transport. Some have the ability to ship non-operable vehicles while others do not. Finally, some offer door-to-door pickup and delivery while others only offer terminal-to-terminal services. Find out what specific services the company offers so you can decide which is right for you.

3. How much does it cost to ship my car?

The prices for car shipping will vary depending on a number of factors. Things like make, model, size of your vehicle, time of delivery, and method of delivery (open or enclosed carrier) can impact the cost of shipment. However, if you provide this information to the shipping company, they should be able to give you a free quote for shipping. Just be sure to make sure the quote that is provided includes everything so you aren’t faced with hidden fees and charges.

4. Are you insured?

Insurance is important when it comes to shipping a car. Although it is unlikely that your car will be damaged during transport, it is still a good idea to make sure your car is properly insured just in case. Most reputable car shipping companies will provide some insurance coverage, so you will need to find out those specific details to make sure it is adequate.

5. How long will it take to ship my car?

When it comes to car shipping timeframes, most companies will offer you a window for delivery. It is nearly impossible to determine an exact date, given that things like weather, traffic, maintenance problems, and other unforeseen circumstances are bound to happen. However, the shipping company should be able to give you an estimate. If you are in a time crunch, be sure to inquire about expedited shipping.

6. How do I prepare my car for shipment?

There are certain steps that need to be taken prior to shipment. These include cleaning your car, taking photographs of your vehicle, performing routine maintenance, removing exterior accessories and personal belongings, and leaving the gas tank only ¼ full. Be sure to ask the shipping company for specific instructions on preparing your vehicle for shipment.

7. What documents do I need?

You will need the right documentation to ship your vehicle so be sure to ask what documents are required. This will ensure that your transport goes smoothly and there are no delays with delivery.