If you’ve never shipped a car before, it can feel a bit nerve-wracking. It doesn’t matter if you have a luxury sports car, a vintage beauty, or just your daily ride. When making a cross-state move, you want the process to be as smooth and safe as possible. And let’s be honest, handing over your keys to someone else, even temporarily, comes with a little anxiety.
The good news is that car shipping doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right steps, a bit of prep, and a reliable hauler, your car’s journey can go off without a hitch. Here are ten car shipping tips that come straight from real-world experience, not some checklist generated by a machine. These are the things people often wish they knew before arranging car transport.
1. Do Your Homework Before Picking a Transporter
There are a ton of car shipping companies out there, and they’re not all the same. Some are brokers. Some are carriers. Some specialize in antiques, while others might only deal with dealership inventory. One of the best tips for shipping a car is to understand exactly who you’re dealing with and what type of service they offer before you commit.
Before choosing, look beyond the flashy websites and ads. Read real reviews. Ask questions like :
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they specialize in your type of vehicle?
- Do they offer enclosed or open transport?
Don’t rush this part. A little research on these car shipping tips now can save a lot of headaches later.
2. Understand the Difference Between Open and Enclosed Transport
This is a big one. Open transport is cheaper and perfectly fine for many vehicles, but it does leave your car exposed to the elements like rain, dust, and road debris. If you’re shipping something valuable, rare, or newly restored, it’s probably worth the extra cost to go enclosed.
With enclosed transport, your car is shielded on all sides, like a private room on wheels. Especially important for classic cars, low-clearance vehicles, or anything that makes car lovers stop and stare.
3. Ask About Insurance
You’d be surprised how many people assume their car is fully covered during transport, only to find out later that’s not quite the case. Every legitimate car hauler should have liability and cargo insurance, but the coverage limits vary.
Before handing over your keys, this is one of the most important car shipping tips to remember:
- Get a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate.
- Ask what’s covered and what’s not.
- Consider calling your own insurance company to ask if your policy offers any additional coverage during transport.
Peace of mind is worth a few extra phone calls.
4. Prep Your Car Like It’s Going on a Long Road Trip
Even though your car isn’t driving itself to its destination, it still needs to be prepped. Think of it like you’re sending it off to boarding school for a few days. A little prep work helps avoid issues and ensures everything goes smoothly.
Here’s what to do:
- Wash it thoroughly.
- Take pictures from all angles.
- Remove personal items and valuables.
- Check the battery, brakes, and tire pressure.
- Leave only about a quarter tank of gas.
You’re not just making life easier for the driver, because you’re also protecting yourself in case of any damage claims.
5. Communicate Clearly With the Driver
When you book the shipment, you’ll probably talk to someone in an office. But it’s the actual driver who’ll be moving your car, so make sure there’s a clear line of communication.
Ask for the driver’s contact info once your car is assigned. Let them know about any tricky access points. If you’re not going to be available at pickup or delivery, assign someone trustworthy to meet them.
Drivers appreciate a heads-up, and clear communication makes the process easier for everyone involved.
6. Be Flexible About Pickup and Delivery Dates
This is one of those car shipping tips where experience really helps. Car shipping isn’t like ordering takeout, and you can’t always get an exact time window. Drivers are juggling multiple pickups and deliveries, plus things like weather, traffic, and road closures.
The best auto transport company will give you a pickup window (e.g., within 1–3 days). Be prepared for slight delays, but also hold your transporter accountable if they fall way outside the promised timeline. A good company will keep you in the loop if anything changes.
7. Inspect the Car When It Arrives
When your car is dropped off, don’t just sign and drive away. Take your time and do a full inspection with the driver present. This step is especially important if you’re shipping during peak times or harsh weather, one of those seasonal car shipping tips that can help things go smoothly. Look for:
- Scratches or dents that weren’t there before
- Tire damage
- Cracked glass or mirrors
Use the photos you took before the trip as a reference. If you do notice damage, note it on the Bill of Lading and take pictures. Then, file a claim with the carrier’s insurance as soon as possible.
Don’t rush these car shipping tips because protecting yourself here is crucial.
8. Low Clearance? Make Sure They Know Ahead of Time
This is one of the car shipping tips that often gets overlooked. If you’re shipping a car that sits low to the ground, like a sports car, race builds, or custom jobs, you must mention it when booking.
Not every trailer is equipped to handle low-clearance vehicles. Trying to load one without the proper equipment can end in disaster. Some carriers have lift gates or specially designed ramps that make it safe and easy. But they need to know ahead of time to come prepared.
9. Avoid the Cheapest Option
Look, everyone likes to save money. But car shipping isn’t the place to pinch pennies. The cheapest quote might come with hidden costs, unreliable service, or, worst of all, no-show drivers who leave you hanging last minute.
Cheap carriers often rely on volume over quality. That means less personalized care, rushed loading, and a higher risk of damage. One of the most overlooked car transport tips is to avoid picking a company based solely on the lowest price if you want things to go smoothly.
Instead of jumping at the lowest number, weigh the reputation, communication, and equipment transportation services quality. Paying a little more up front often means fewer surprises later.
10. Trust Your Gut
You’re handing over something valuable, something that maybe even irreplaceable. If something feels off during the booking process, pay attention. Are they dodging your questions? Is their insurance info hard to get? Are the reviews too generic or overly glowing?
A good transporter will:
- Be transparent
- Provide documentation without hesitation.
- Treat your car like it’s your own
You can usually tell when you’re dealing with someone who cares. Trust that instinct.
Final Thoughts
Shipping a car isn’t something most people do often, so it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process. But it really boils down to a few car shipping tips, like doing your homework, preparing your car, and working with people who take pride in their work.
The best haulers deliver peace of mind. And that kind of care shows up in the small stuff: the way your vehicle is loaded, the updates you get during transit, the smooth drop-off.
So, whether you’re relocating, selling, or sending a show car to an event, remember this: with the right tips for safe car shipping and a solid plan, your car can make the journey safe and sound, no drama, no dings, no disappointment.If you have questions or you’re ready to get your car on the move, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether you need honest advice or want to schedule transport with Specialty Hauling Svcs., which truly understands how much your vehicle means to you, help is just a call or email away. You can reach out at [email protected] or call 912-803-8356.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book car shipping?
Ideally, according to the best car shipping tips, book 1–2 weeks ahead to get the best scheduling options and avoid last-minute stress.
Is my car insured during transport?
Yes, reputable carriers provide insurance, but always ask for proof and check what’s covered.
Should I remove personal items from my car?
Yes, always empty your car to prevent damage, loss, or delays during transport.
Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?
According to the car transport tips, it’s best if you or a trusted person is there to inspect and sign off on the car.
How long does car shipping take during the peak season?
Always remember these tips for shipping a car during peak season, when delivery usually takes 1–7 days, depending on distance and route conditions.
