There are many reasons why you should ship a car. Perhaps you’re relocating, buying a vehicle online, heading south for the winter, or preparing a car for a collector car show. Whatever the reason, getting your vehicle from point A to point B is more involved than simply booking a carrier and waiting for your delivery, especially if the car is classic, valuable, or one-of-a-kind. Plenty can go wrong without proper planning, from hidden costs to potential damage during transit. The following auto shipping tips will help protect your investment and avoid common pitfalls.
At Passport Transport, we specialize in enclosed auto transport designed for high-value vehicles. With decades of experience handling classic, exotic, and collector cars, we know what it takes to deliver safely and smoothly nationwide. Keep reading for 15 essential auto transport tips.
A little preparation goes a long way when shipping your vehicle. Taking the time to get everything in order before pick-up not only helps prevent delays or damage during transit but also saves you money by avoiding costly last-minute add-ons. Most importantly, it ensures your car arrives in the same condition it left, clean, secure, and protected.
Preparation is particularly critical when transporting a valuable, vintage, or exotic vehicle. If this is the case for you, enclosed auto transport is the gold standard because it fully protects your vehicle from weather, road debris, and other external risks. It’s also the preferred method for collectors and enthusiasts who want every detail handled carefully.
A little insider knowledge can go a long way in ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on schedule. Below, we’ve gathered 15 proven car shipping tips covering everything from prep work to delivery day. For first-time shippers and seasoned collectors, these car transport tips will help you navigate the process confidently and avoid unnecessary stress.
When you’re shipping a vehicle across hundreds or even thousands of miles, additional planning will make a significant difference. The following tips for shipping a car across the country will help ensure a smooth long-haul transport experience.
Not all carriers have experience delivering coast-to-coast or multi-state transport. Look for companies that specialize in long-distance transportation and have a proven track record of efficiency and safety.
For added confidence, choose a carrier offering real-time updates or regular check-ins during transportation. Some companies use GPS tracking or provide direct contact with the driver so you always know where your vehicle is.
A cross-country delivery can take 7 to 10 days, depending on the weather, carrier availability, and the route. You can also ask the carrier for a more accurate and realistic delivery window up front. Make sure you understand any factors that could cause delays.
Companies like Passport operate across the entire US, making it easier to offer more consistent scheduling and better coordination. Experience in cross-country logistics also helps avoid handoffs, reroutes, and unnecessary stops.
Long-distance shipping exposes your vehicle to a range of conditions from snow in the Rockies to heat and dust in the Southwest. Enclosed auto transport provides the best protection, especially for valuable or delicate vehicles.
The smallest mistake can lead to delays, damage, or unexpected costs. For the smoothest car shipping experience from pick-up to drop-off, try to avoid these common mistakes.
When you compare transport options, it’s bound to be tempting to go with the lowest quote, but not all carriers offer the same level of service. Always verify licensing with the FMCSA, check insurance by asking for a copy of the policy, and read reviews before committing. If a company is giving you a rock-bottom price, it signals they’re unreliable or even a scam.
The delivery inspection is just as important as the pre-shipping check. Always examine your vehicle carefully when it arrives and compare it to your pre-shipping inspection report and your original photos. If you spot any new damage, note it on the Bill of Lading and inform the carrier.
The cost of auto transport and how long it takes to ship a car vary, depending on the time of year. Summer and holidays are busy and the wait times are longer. If you want to avoid any delays or inflated prices, it’s best to plan around these times.
It’s best not to assume that all potential damage is covered by the carrier’s insurance. Ask for a copy of the policy and review the details. Pay particular attention to coverage limits, exclusion, and claims procedures. Such checks are important if you want to ensure your vehicle is properly protected.
Open carriers are more than adequate for standard vehicles, but they do expose your car to the elements, road debris, and more. If you’re shipping a valuable, rare, or fragile vehicle you want to highest level of protection and this comes with enclosed auto transport.
When it comes to transporting classic, vintage, or high-value vehicles, experience and attention to detail matter. That’s where Passport Transport stands apart.
With over 50 years of specialized experience, Passport Transport has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted names in enclosed transport. We exclusively use enclosed carriers to protect every vehicle from weather, road debris, and potential damage, whatever the distance.
Our service is completely door-to-door, with nationwide coverage and no need to drop your vehicle at a terminal. Every vehicle is handled by trained, professional drivers who understand how to load, secure, and transport rare and delicate vehicles with the care they deserve.
From private collectors to major auction houses and world-renowned museums, industry leaders trust Passport Transport to deliver their vehicles safely and on time.
If you’d like to know how much it costs to ship your car with Passport Transport, request a custom enclosed shipping quote.
The safest way to ship a car is with enclosed transport. It costs more than open transport, but the expense is worth it for classic, vintage, or high-value vehicles that require complete protection. The drivers are also experienced in transporting delicate or rare vehicles, which reduces the risk of damage to almost zero.
Off-season, typically fall or early spring is the best time to ship a car. Demand is lower and rates are more predictable and stable. If you want to save money and reduce wait times, avoid summer and major holidays which is when demand is highest.
It’s strongly advised you don’t leave items in your car during shipping as they’re not covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance. Excess weight could also break transport regulations or cause delays.
Cross-country auto shipping usually takes 7-10 days, depending on the route, weather, and the carrier’s schedule.
If you’re shipping a classic, exotic, or collector vehicle, enclosed car shipping is worth the extra cost. It offers maximum protection, greater security, and white-glove handling, making it the preferred choice for anyone who wants to avoid taking risks.
Shipping a car deserves more than a quick online booking, especially if your car is valuable or irreplaceable. With the right preparation and a trusted transport partner, you can avoid unnecessary risks and ensure your vehicle arrives in showroom condition. From choosing enclosed carriers to checking insurance details and timing your shipment right, every step you take makes a difference.
At Passport Transport, we’ve spent over 50 years perfecting the art of enclosed auto transport. Our white-glove service, expert drivers, and nationwide door-to-door delivery make us the go-to choice for collectors, museums, and anyone who values their vehicle. Are you ready to ship with confidence? Get your custom quote today and experience the care and professionalism that sets Passport Transport apart.
With over 55 years of trusted service, Passport Transport is the leader in enclosed auto shipping. We’re committed to delivering your vehicle safely, securely, and on time – every time. Get your free quote today and ship with confidence.
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