What it is
Shipping a car means hiring a transport company to move your vehicle from one place to another, usually on a large carrier truck. People do it when relocating, buying or selling a vehicle at a distance, sending a car to college, or moving a classic or seasonal vehicle.
Most transport is either open or enclosed. Open carriers are the common, more familiar option. Enclosed carriers shield a vehicle from weather and road debris and are often considered for classic, luxury or specialty cars.
Delivery may be terminal to terminal or door to door, and timing, availability and rules differ by company, route and season. Always get a written quote and confirm details rather than relying on general estimates.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, many people either drove the vehicle themselves or arranged transport through a carrier directly or through a broker who matches customers with carriers. Each route has trade-offs in convenience, flexibility and cost.
A typical process starts with requesting quotes, choosing a pickup window, and signing a shipping agreement. At pickup, the driver and owner commonly walk around the car and note its condition on an inspection report, often called a bill of lading.
At delivery, the owner usually repeats that inspection before signing off. Many people also take dated photos beforehand. Insurance coverage, payment terms and timelines vary by company, so reading the paperwork closely is a common habit.
How the right expert may help
The right auto pro, such as a trusted mechanic or vehicle transport specialist, may help you decide what type of transport suits your car and get it ready. A visit is generally a conversation about the vehicle's condition, any quirks, and your timeline.
You might ask: Is this vehicle fine to transport as is? Are there leaks, low-clearance issues or battery concerns I should address first? What should be documented before pickup? A pro may also point out things worth checking, like fluid leaks or loose parts.
When talking with a transport company, you can ask about their licensing, what insurance they carry and what it covers, how damage claims work, and whether the quote is all-inclusive. Confirm coverage with your own insurer too. Policy Valet is one network option for reviewing your policies.
The bigger picture
Sending off a vehicle can feel stressful, especially if it is your daily ride or something you love. Planning ahead, asking questions and keeping records may help you feel more at ease and avoid last-minute surprises.
Shipping also touches your budget and peace of mind. Getting several written quotes, using the free calculators at /calculators to plan your overall moving costs, and leaving room in your schedule can make the process calmer. Providers.plus can help you find independent experts if you want a second opinion.
Keep in mind
- Tipping guide: tipping a transport driver is generally optional, and commonly cited guidance is a modest amount for good service, but customs, company policies and service charges differ, so check your agreement.
- Prices, timelines and insurance coverage vary widely by company, route, season and vehicle, so get a written quote and confirm what is included. This is general information, not insurance or legal advice.
- Safety first: have a licensed professional handle fuel, electrical or mechanical problems before transport, and remove personal items and loose accessories.
- Photograph the car inside and out before pickup, and compare it to the inspection report at delivery before signing.
Free calculators
- Car loan calculator →Estimate a monthly car payment from price, down payment, trade-in, sales tax, rate and term.
- Debt payoff calculator (avalanche vs snowball) →List your debts and compare the avalanche and snowball methods side by side.
Take the next step
- Transportation Calculator ↗What drives shipping cost — and a quote
- 800-HAVE-VAN ↗Van moves and deliveries
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Open the car loan calculator →Frequently asked questions
How do I ship a car for the first time?
Start by requesting several written quotes from licensed carriers or brokers, then choose open or enclosed transport and a pickup window. Prepare your car, document its condition with photos, and review the shipping agreement before signing. At delivery, inspect the vehicle before you sign off.
How should I prepare my car for shipping?
Commonly, people wash the car, take dated photos, remove personal items and loose accessories, and note any existing damage. Many also keep the fuel level low, as some companies suggest. Ask your transport company for its specific requirements, since they vary.
What is the difference between open and enclosed car shipping?
Open transport carries vehicles on an exposed trailer and is the more common option, while enclosed transport covers the vehicle to protect it from weather and debris. Enclosed service is often considered for classic, luxury or specialty cars. Availability and cost differences vary, so get quotes for both.
Should I tip a car shipping driver?
Tipping a car shipping driver is typically optional and not required. Some customers give a modest tip for careful, on-time service, but norms vary by company, region and whether a service charge is already included. Check your agreement and use your own judgment.
How long does it take to ship a car?
Transit time depends on distance, route, weather, season and carrier schedules, so no single answer fits every shipment. Ask the company for an estimated pickup and delivery window in writing. Keep in mind that estimates may shift.
Is my car insured while it is being shipped?
Carriers commonly carry some insurance, but what it covers and any deductible vary by company. Ask for proof of coverage and read the terms, then check with your own insurer about your policy. A licensed insurance professional can confirm what applies to you.
Educational resource. Tipey shares general information and connects people with independent experts. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.
