About Shipping Vehicles

There are times when it might be necessary to ship a vehicle.  If you are relocating a far distance from where you currently live, or if you are buying or selling a car online, you might need to ship your vehicle from one place to another.  While the vehicle transport company that you choose handles most of the details, there are some things you should know before you ship a vehicle.

• Contact an auto transport company.  You can find a company in your area by performing an Internet search.  Discuss things such as price, insurance, time of transport and pick up and drop off arrangements.  Contact the company as far in advance as possible.  This makes it easier for the company to accomodate your scheduling needs. 


• Arrange for the vehicle to be picked up.  If you have elected to purchase door-to-door service, the vehicle will likely be picked up from your home.  In some cases, however, you may need to meet the transport company at a specified location.  You will likely be contacted by the transport company within 24 hours of when the mover will arrive, so the timeframe can be short.  If you must meet the mover, arrive with plenty of time to spare so that you do not miss your pick up. 


• Be present for all vehicle inspections.  A transport company will inspect your vehicle upon pick up and drop off.  The inspection information will be written on your Bill of Landing.  This is to ensure that your vehicle arrives at the destination in the same condition it was in when the vehicle was picked up.  Transport companies provide these inspections to minimize their damage liability.  If you are buying or selling a vehicle, you and the other party will want to be present for each inspection.  If you are simply relocating the vehicle, arrange to be present when the vehicle is both picked up and dropped off so that you can go over the inspection with the mover.  When your vehicle is dropped off, you or the buyer will need to sign the Bill of Landing to confirm the condition of the car at drop off.


• Be patient as your car is transported.  The timeframe for a vehicle transport can vary, and the transport company can give you an idea as to when you should expect your vehicle to arrive.  In general, the further the distance the longer the transport time.  Cross-country transports can take up to two weeks.