Whether you’re buying a new car out of state or relocating for work, family, or personal reasons, it can be hard do decide on the right way to go about it.

Figuring out how to ship a car to your state can become a bit of a task when you see all the options out there to pick from. However, thanks to this detailed guide you’ll be able to handle the of shipping a car to another state like a pro in no time at all.

The Methods for Shipping a Car

First thing’s first. Let’s go over the methods available for shipping a car to another state. The most common methods include:

Open Transport

This is the most popular method of shipping a car. In open transport, your vehicle is loaded onto a multi-car carrier truck, which is open on all sides. This method is generally more affordable, but it does expose your vehicle to the elements and potential road debris during long distances such as those when traveling state to state.

Enclosed Transport

In enclosed transport, your car is shipped inside a fully enclosed truck, offering more protection from the elements and road debris. This method is more expensive than open transport, but it is recommended for high-value or classic cars.

Factors to Consider When Shipping a Car

Before selecting the method of shipping and the transport company that will do it, there are several factors to consider:

Distance

The distance between the pickup and delivery locations will impact the cost and time it takes to ship your car. Longer distances typically result in higher costs and longer transit times. If crossing the country, for example, it can take up from 7-9 days.

Budget

Determine your budget for shipping your car state to state, keeping in mind that some methods are more expensive than others. If you’re on a tight budget, open transport may be your best option, but if you’re willing to pay more for added protection, enclosed transport may be a better choice.

Vehicle Condition

Consider the condition of your vehicle and whether it requires extra protection during shipping to another state. If your car is in pristine condition, your dream car, or is a valuable classic, you may want to opt for enclosed transport to minimize the risk of damage.

Pickup and Delivery Options

Auto shipping companies offer various state-to-state pickup and delivery options, including door-to-door service or terminal-to-terminal service. Door-to-door service is more convenient but may be more expensive, while terminal-to-terminal service requires you to drop off and pick up your car at designated locations. Please note many auto shippers are moving away from terminal shipping.

Transit Time

Depending on your moving timeline, the transit time for shipping your car may be an important factor. Some shipping methods are faster than others, and expedited shipping may be available at an additional cost.

Insurance

Although the carrier is the one that handles claims for the vehicle and not the broker, it is important to request he carrier’s insurance. It’s also a good idea to review your personal auto insurance policy to understand what coverage, if any, is provided for shipping your car.

Choosing the Right Auto Shipping Company

With numerous auto shipping companies available, it can be challenging to decide which one to trust with your vehicle. Here are some tips to help you choose the right company:

Research

Start by researching various auto shipping companies, reading reviews, and checking their ratings with the Better Business Bureau. Look for companies that have a good reputation and a history of reliable service.

Quotes

Contact several companies to obtain quotes for shipping your car. Be sure to provide accurate information about your vehicle, pickup and delivery locations, and desired shipping method to get the most accurate quotes. Compare the quotes and the services offered by each company to make an informed decision.

Licensing

Verify that the shipping company you choose is licensed and registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can check their registration status on the FMCSA website by searching for their MC Number. No MC means the company could be a lead farm. Lead farms are not brokers and collect information only to sell it to broker

Contract Terms

Carefully review the contract and terms of service provided by the auto shipping company. Make sure you understand the details, making sure there aren’t any hidden fees, odd payment terms, and tricky cancellation policies.

Communication is Key

Choose a company that maintains clear communication throughout the shipping process. This includes providing updates on your vehicle’s location and estimated delivery time.

Customer Service is a Must

Opt for a company that offers excellent customer service and is willing to address your questions and concerns promptly.

Preparing Your Car for Shipping

Once you have selected a shipping company and scheduled your car for transport, there are a few steps you should take to prepare your vehicle for shipping:

Clean Your Car

Wash the exterior of your car and clean the interior, removing any personal items and valuables. This will make it easier for you and the shipping company to inspect your car for pre-existing damage before it’s shipped.

Document the Condition

Take photos of your car from multiple angles, documenting any existing scratches, dents, or other damage. This will serve as a record of your car’s condition before shipping, making it easier to identify any damage that may occur during transit.

Maintenance

Ensure that your car is in good working order before shipping. Check the fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery. If your car has any mechanical issues, inform the shipping company ahead of time, as they may need to take special steps like using a winch.

Fuel Level

(Courtesy) Reduce your car’s fuel level to about a quarter of a tank. This will decrease the overall weight of your vehicle and reduce the risk of leaks during transport.

Disable Alarms

If your car has an alarm system, make sure to disable it before shipping to prevent it from going off during transit. Some cars have a “transport mode”.

Remove Accessories

Remove any non-permanent accessories, such as bike racks, spoilers, or antennas, that could potentially be damaged during shipping.

In Summary

Shipping your car to another state can be a complex process, but with proper research, planning, and preparation, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

By considering factors such as distance, budget, and vehicle condition, and taking the time to choose the right shipping company and method, you’ll be able to confidently ship your car to your new destination. And with proper preparation, you’ll minimize the risk of damage and ensure that your vehicle arrives in the same condition as when it left.