If you want to ship a car safely, there’s far more to consider than how to get it from point A to point B. The process requires careful planning, and you must consider several elements, particularly if you’re shipping a prized possession.
Whether relocating, buying a vehicle from across the country, or sending a classic to an upcoming show, the journey presents several risks. Understanding your options and learning the best way to ship a car means you can make an informed decision.
While open transport is a common choice, enclosed car transport is the safest and most reliable method for those prioritizing security and protection.
Being well-informed means you can pick the best auto transport companies for your car shipping experience. According to IBISWorld, there are 7,858 businesses in the vehicle shipping services industry in the United States, so you must know what to look for.
Read this step-by-step guide to discover the ins and outs of how to ship a car and understand the benefits of enclosed auto transport, the preferred choice for luxury car owners, discerning classic car collectors, and owners of valuable exotic vehicles. Also, explore how Passport Transport provides a secure and efficient shipping experience for all its customers.
If you’ve never shipped a car, it probably feels quite challenging. However, breaking the process down into a few simple steps helps you appreciate that it’s not complicated. For your convenience, we’ve created a step-by-step guide on how to transport a car.
The first and most critical step involves researching and picking the best car shipping company for the job. Factors you must consider include:
Transport methods
There are two transport methods: open and enclosed car shipping. For this guide, and because it’s the service we specialize in, we’ll explore enclosed car transport.
Enclosed car transport is a car shipping service that’s best for luxury, classic, exotic, collectible, and modified cars. With this option, your vehicle is loaded onto an enclosed trailer that provides complete protection from the weather, road debris, and traffic grime and keeps it safe from prying eyes.
License and registration
A good way to check a company’s legitimacy is to ask if it is licensed and registered. Car shipping companies transporting vehicles across state lines must be registered with the US Department of Transportation (USDOT). Registered companies are given a USDOT number, and you can verify their information using the FMCSA’s SAFER database.
Customer reviews
Once you’ve found a few companies that offer your preferred transport service and have checked their license and registration, customer reviews and feedback are the next place to look. They are a great source of real-life experiences and the best way to measure a company’s reliability.
You can visit various platforms for honest feedback, such as Google Reviews, Facebook, Trustpilot, Better Business Bureau, and TransportReviews. However, it’s best to look at a few different ones, as some lean towards more negative than positive reviews.
Here are a few tips to help you sift through the sites you visit:
Read the small print
Always choose a transparent company. They should inform you that there are no certainties in the auto transport industry, and delays can happen at any time. Bad weather still happens, trucks can break down, and traffic delays can be very unpredictable. Check whether there’s any mention of delays in the contract’s small print before you sign on the dotted line.
Now that you’ve done all the essential checks, it’s time to contact some of the top companies on your list and request a quote. Be sure to get quotes from multiple companies, as this means you can compare and have information you can use to negotiate a price with your preferred company.
When making your comparisons, remember to check whether there are any additional fees you need to be aware of and clarify what each quote includes. If the company is reliable, they will happily discuss such information.
Something else to consider is whether the company wants a deposit. It’s not a common request, but something to be wary of is a company that asks for a high deposit, as this could be a scam.
One final factor to consider is whether the company has a cancellation policy. Some companies have very flexible policies, while others have stricter ones. If you’re unsure about dates for your auto transport, it might be best to choose more flexible options.
Once you’ve chosen a shipping provider, the next step is to schedule your shipment. Companies vary, but generally, try to book at least two weeks before your preferred pick-up date. One exception is if you want to ship a car safely during the busy season, which runs from early summer to early fall. In such cases, aim to book at least six to eight weeks in advance.
When you receive your contract during the booking process, be sure to check the following details:
If there’s anything you’re unsure about, don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good company is willing to explain and ensure you understand what you’re signing.
As the day for your pick-up approaches, there are some things you can do to prepare your car for transport. The most important things to consider include:
When the day arrives for your car to be picked up, all that’s left to do is complete the paperwork and hand over the keys, and your car will be on its way. An important document is the Bill of Lading. Before loading your car, you and the driver complete a vehicle inspection. Any existing damage is noted on the Bill of Lading.
When your vehicle is delivered, you and the driver will inspect it again, comparing its condition against the Bill of Lading.
Enclosed car transport offers various advantages over open car transport for car owners who want the best possible care for their valuable vehicles.
| Feature | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
| Protection Level | Basic Protection | Superior protection from weather and debris |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Best for | Standard Vehicles | Luxury, exotic, classic, collectible cars |
| Insurance | Not fully covered | Fully covered, higher security |
| Security | Basic | Door-to-door, no unauthorized access |
The timeline for enclosed auto transport varies based on distance. Typically, shorter distances (under 800 km) can take 1-3 days after pickup. Mid-range shipments (800-2400 km) generally take 2-7 days, while cross-country moves (over 2400 km) can range from 4-10 days or longer.
Several factors can influence the final delivery time, including:
Shipping a car using enclosed transport generally costs more than open transport. This premium reflects the enhanced protection and specialized handling that enclosed carriers provide.
Several key factors influence the final cost of enclosed car shipping:
Enclosed vs. open car transport pricing differences
Enclosed transport commands a higher price due to the limited number of enclosed carriers, the specialized equipment required, and the superior protection against weather, road debris, and potential damage. Open transport is typically the more budget-friendly option.
Factors that affect the cost:
Why enclosed car shipping Is worth the investment:
While the cost is higher, enclosed car shipping is a worthwhile investment for owners of luxury, classic, antique, and exotic vehicles who prioritize the care of their valuable vehicles. The comprehensive protection against environmental factors and road hazards minimizes the risk of damage during transit, safeguarding the vehicle’s condition and value. The added security and often more personalized service provide peace of mind that is usually well worth the additional expense for these automobiles.
Shipping your vehicle requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Passport Transport streamlines enclosed car shipping through years of experience, ensuring a hassle-free process. Our industry-leading safety measures provide the utmost protection for your valuable vehicle during every stage of its journey. The satisfaction of our clients speaks volumes, as evidenced by numerous customer testimonials and real success stories that highlight our commitment to secure and efficient vehicle transport.
In conclusion, when considering how to ship a car correctly, especially for valuable vehicles, the benefits of enclosed auto transport are undeniable. The superior protection, enhanced security, and peace of mind make it the optimal choice for those who want to ship a car safely.
For a secure and efficient vehicle shipping experience that prioritizes the care and protection of your automobile, Passport Transport stands out as the best choice, providing the expertise and dedication your prized vehicle deserves.
Ready to ship your car stress-free? Call (866) 582-3185
Enclosed car transport offers the highest level of safety, protecting vehicles from weather and road debris.
It typically costs more than open transport, with prices varying by distance, vehicle size, and season.
Clean it, remove personal items, document any existing damage with photos and video, check fluid levels, ensure tires are properly inflated, and leave about a quarter tank of gas.
Transit times vary by distance, typically 1-3 days for short trips, 2-7 days for mid-range, and 4-10+ days for cross-country.
Yes, especially for high-value, luxury, classic, antique, and exotic cars, as it provides superior protection and peace of mind.
Yes, but inform the transport company beforehand as it requires specialized equipment and may incur additional costs.
Most offer basic insurance, but verifying the coverage details and considering supplemental insurance for higher-value vehicles is crucial.
Research companies thoroughly, read reviews, compare quotes and services, verify their insurance and licensing, and prioritize experience in enclosed transport.
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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