Five Things Worth Checking Before Sending Your Vehicle Across State Lines
Today’s topic: Things to check before interstate car shipping.
Transporting a car across state lines sounds simple, but it is not as easy as hiring a company to pick up the vehicle and deliver the keys back to you.
Whether you are relocating because of a new job, buying car from another state or shipping a vehicle back home to a family member, there are some things you should know and do to make the process as smooth as possible.
Interstate Car Shipping: Things To Consider
Here are some tips that may help you.
1. Research The Transport Company’s Reputation
Not every vehicle transport company will have the same reputation and you will want to choose a company that offers good customer service and support and has good feedback and testimonials from previous customers. [Source: Federal Trade Commission]
A good interstate car shipping company should be able to tell you about what others have experienced with the transport company and what you can expect during the delivery process.
It is also wise to check the licensing and registration information, especially if it will be an interstate car transfer.
2. Know What Is Included In The Quote
Prices may drastically vary depending on the distance, size and weight of your vehicle, destination, pick-up and delivery dates, and type of transport.
A cheaper quote is not always better.
Before purchasing a car shipping quote, make sure you know if insurance, fuel surcharges, pick-up and delivery fees are included in the price.
If you are planning to transport your car to Austin, a comparison of transport company quotes may help you understand what is included in the charge and which vehicle shipment option works within your budget.
Always request a breakdown of charges before payment.
3. Check Insurance Coverage Carefully
Insurance coverage is one of the most important areas of your long-distance vehicle move.
While a reliable transport company should have the required insurance, every business will have a different level of insurance.
Make sure to ask what type of damage is covered and if there is a deductible.
It is also wise to speak with your vehicle insurance provider and ask if they offer additional coverage when the car is in transport.
This way, you know the extent of the protection and you will be calm if an accident occurs.
4. Prepare Your Vehicle For Collection
A little preparation goes a long way and you should take a few steps to be as prepared as possible for the car transportation company to come and pick up your car.
Start by cleaning your vehicle so that existing scratches, dents or other imperfections will be obvious.
Take pictures of your car from all angles and save these photos for your records.
Make sure to remove all personal items, valuable items and attachments that may be on your car.
It is also important to check the battery, tire pressure and other fluids and make sure to inform the driver about any car problems.
Keeping the vehicle’s fuel tank half full or empty may also be a recommendation from your selected transportation company.
5. Confirm Pickup And Delivery Arrangements
Make sure you understand the pickup and delivery instructions.
Ask if the vehicle shipping company will come to your house or if they have a drop point. Ask them if they provide door-to-door delivery or if you are expected to meet the transfer crew at the designated drop-off location.
Do not forget to ask about the projected delivery window and the tracking process. Furthermore, you should also be aware of who must be present when the car is picked up and delivered.
You never know when a traffic accident or bad weather may occur and delay the time of pickup or delivery.
Being flexible can help make the process go a lot smoother.
Auto Transport Brokers vs. Carriers: Who Are You Actually Hiring?
When you search online for interstate car shipping services, 9 out of 10 companies you contact are brokers. Not the carriers themselves.
It’s important to understand the difference between the two so you can manage your expectations when it comes to time frames and communication.
- Auto Transport Brokers: These are businesses that do not have their own fleet of cars. They take your order and post it on an industry bulletin board (Central Dispatch). This helps to find a qualified carrier to transport your vehicle. Additionally, they offer competitive pricing. They can help you find available drivers for unique or difficult moves.
- Carriers: These are trucking firms who operate and own the trucks used to move the vehicles.
- The Golden Rule: Always get the contact information and MC of the carrier that will transport your car after your broker books your order.
Open vs. Enclosed Interstate Car Shipping: Weighing The Costs And Risks
One of the biggest decisions you have to make when shipping your car is deciding whether you want your vehicle transported on an open or enclosed trailer. It comes down to your vehicle and your budget.
| Feature | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
| How it Works | Your car is loaded onto a multi-car, double-decker trailer exposed to the elements. | Your car is placed inside a fully covered, weather-protected trailer. |
| Best For | Standard daily drivers, older vehicles, and budget-conscious moves. | Luxury, classic, vintage, exotic, or brand-new high-end vehicles. |
| Pros | Cheaper and easier to book because open trailers represent roughly 90% of all fleets on the road. | Complete protection from highway debris, weather, dirt, and prying eyes. |
| Cons | Exposed to rain, sun, dust, and potential paint chips from road gravel. | Costs 40% to 60% more than open shipping and has less booking availability. |
The Bill of Lading (BoL): Your Most Important Legal Safeguard
Many people who are shipping cars for the first time think of the Bill of Lading (BOL) as a receipt.
This is actually not the case – the BoL is a legal contract and your main protection if your vehicle is damaged while in transport.
- Inspection Baseline: When the driver arrives to collect your vehicle, he or she will inspect the car for any existing dents, scratches, or imperfections. These should be noted and included on the BoL (bill of lading). Do not rush this step. Walk around the car with the driver and make sure he has written down the exact condition of the car. Both you and the driver must sign the BoL.
- Delivery Match: When your car has been delivered, you will need to double-check the condition of the vehicle against the copy of the BOL you have from the day of pickup.
- Golden Rule: If you see new damage to the car, this should be written on the BOL before you sign it and before the driver leaves. If you sign a BoL with no damage noted, your car insurance company will deny the claim, so make sure to speak to an agent before you sign the papers.
Final Thoughts
Sending your car across state lines doesn’t need to be a headache. Do a little research into transport companies, compare quotes, understand your insurance, prepare your car for pick-up, and confirm delivery details to make the process as easy as possible.
