Ever wondered how your prized vehicle safely crosses oceans or deserts to reach its new home? Moving a car, especially a long distance, feels like a huge task. You want it there in one piece, right on time, without breaking the bank. Finding a reliable company to handle this important job can cause real stress and worry.
Choosing the wrong car shipping service often leads to hidden fees, frustrating delays, and maybe even damage to your beloved ride. It is a big decision, and you need clear information to avoid these headaches. This article cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what to look for in a top-tier vehicle transport company.
By the end of this post, you will know the secrets to vetting providers, comparing quotes fairly, and ensuring a smooth, worry-free move for your car. Ready to ship your vehicle with confidence? Let’s dive into the world of professional car shipping!
Top Shipping Car Company Recommendations
- Hardcover Book
- DK (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 256 Pages - 09/01/2015 (Publication Date) - DK Children (Publisher)
- 8.5 x 11 Inches Short Form Format for Faster Processing：Compact short form layout for quick completion while keeping essential shipping details includes stamp area in the upper left corner ideal size for truck drivers dispatchers logistics coordinators and vehicle haulers
- Standard 3 Part Carbonless Forms：High quality 3 part carbonless paper white yellow pink creates clean smudge free duplicate copies perfect for vehicle shipping forms bills of lading and auto transport documentation
- Includes Backing Board for On the Go Writing：Comes with sturdy backing board for easy writing on clipboards dashboards or handheld great for mobile use during car transport vehicle pickup and delivery inspections
- Perfect for Auto Haulers Dealerships and Transport Services：Widely used in auto transport and logistics ideal for car carriers towing companies auction lots fleet managers and auto dealerships
- 50 Forms per Book for Daily Operations：Each book includes 50 sets of 3 part carbonless forms ideal for daily use vehicle dispatching shipping and logistics paperwork easy to tear off and store for auto haulers and fleet record management
- PREMIUM PATENTED HYBRID TWIST LOOP for drying your vehicle quickly. Safely draws moisture away from the surface and into the patented twist/plush fiber design of the towel. One of the most absorbent towels by weight that we have ever tested (10x+ other towels). These make the perfect microfiber towels for cars.
- FASTER, SAFER DRYING - 70/30 blend 900gsm professional microfiber drying towel with over 500,000 fibers per square inch and our trademarked "ButterSoft" suede microfiber border that is absorbent and won’t scratch paint, glass, or plastic. Our microfiber towel is no joke!
- FINEST QUALITY - 100% South Korean super plush AA-grade split microfiber. Long considered the highest quality available, it can withstand hundreds of washes, getting softer each time making it the perfect car drying towel.
- MULTIPLE SIZES FOR ANY JOB - Use the small rag to dry small nooks and crannies while the largest towel can dry large surface panels and windows with ease.
- AMERICA’S PREMIER CAR DETAIL PRODUCTS - Since 1999, The Rag Company has been committed to making the highest quality microfiber and car detailing products available. Always the better value!
- PREMIUM PATENTED HYBRID TWIST LOOP for drying your vehicle quickly. Safely draws moisture away from the surface and into the patented twist/plush fiber design of the towel. One of the most absorbent towels by weight that we have ever tested (10x+ other towels). These make the perfect microfiber towels for cars.
- FASTER, SAFER DRYING - 70/30 blend 900gsm professional microfiber drying towel with over 500,000 fibers per square inch and our trademarked "ButterSoft" suede microfiber border that is absorbent and won’t scratch paint, glass, or plastic. Our microfiber towel is no joke!
- FINEST QUALITY - 100% South Korean super plush AA-grade split microfiber. Long considered the highest quality available, it can withstand hundreds of washes, getting softer each time making it the perfect car drying towel.
- MULTIPLE SIZES FOR ANY JOB - Use the small rag to dry small nooks and crannies while the largest towel can dry large surface panels and windows with ease.
- AMERICA'S PREMIER MICROFIBER PRODUCTS - Since 1999, The Rag Company has been committed to making the highest quality products for car detailing and home cleaning. We are a family-owned, woman-owned business proud to offer a massive inventory of microfiber rags and towels, chamois, car interior and exterior cleaning solutions, polishing compounds, and tools to clean and protect your car’s interior, wheels, paint, and vinyl wrap for years to come.
- HUGE 25"x36" PREMIUM DOUBLE-TWIST LOOP 70/30 blend 1,100 gsm professional microfiber drying towel with hundreds of thousands of thirsty fibers per square inch and soft hemmed hidden/edgeless design border
- SUPERIOR ABSORPTION: Features a premium 70/30 blend of microfiber with an advanced twist loop weave for unmatched water absorption and streak-free results.
- PAINT-SAFE & LINT-FREE: Designed to be completely scratch-free and lint-free on all surfaces, ensuring a flawless finish every time, even on delicate paintwork.
- EXTREMELY DURABLE - Able to withstand hundreds of washings with proper care, getting softer each time
- AMERICA’S PREMIER CAR DETAIL PRODUCTS - Since 1999, we have been committed to making the highest quality microfiber and car detailing products available. Always the better value!
- Hardcover Book
- Publications International Ltd. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 144 Pages - 03/25/2020 (Publication Date) - Publications International, Ltd. (Publisher)
- INSIDE GREETING: The inside is ungreeted, making this perfect for your customized thinking of you, miss you, just because notes, for any time and for all occasions!
- SIZE - Bulk gift box set of 10 beautiful assorted blank All Occasions note cards & envelopes and measure 4" x 5", which is smaller than your regular standard card.
- USE: stationery for writing All Occasions wishes. Card's cover pages are printed on coated stock and have a gloss finish, while the cards interior pages are uncoated for a smooth and flawless writing surface for men and women, husbands and wives alike.
- SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE - Keeping US jobs at home, our products are Made in the USA (and Canada) for almost 40 years. We use thick, white, glossy cardstock, w/ 30% recycled content (no papyrus, naturally).
- Used Book in Good Condition
- and Manufacturing Company, The Niles Car (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 48 Pages - 05/03/2010 (Publication Date) - Periscope Film, LLC (Publisher)
Your Essential Buying Guide for Shipping Car Companies
Moving a car across the country or even the world can seem tricky. Choosing the right car shipping company makes all the difference. This guide helps you pick the best service for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop around, look closely at what each company offers. These features show you how reliable and safe the service is.
Insurance Coverage
- What to check: Make sure they offer full insurance protection. This covers your car if something bad happens during transit.
- Ask this: Does the insurance cover the full market value of your car?
Shipping Options
- Open Carrier: This is like a big, open trailer. It’s usually cheaper, but your car is exposed to weather and road debris.
- Enclosed Carrier: This option puts your car inside a closed trailer. It costs more but gives your vehicle the best protection, especially for luxury or classic cars.
Tracking and Communication
- Good companies give you ways to track your car. You should be able to call or check online to see where your vehicle is. Clear communication reduces stress.
Important Materials and Equipment
The type of equipment used directly affects your car’s safety. You want companies that use modern, well-maintained gear.
Vehicle Tie-Downs
- Look for companies that use soft straps or chains with soft protectors. Hard chains rubbing against your wheels or frame can cause scratches. Good companies protect your car’s finish.
Ramps and Lifts
- For enclosed transport, check how they load the car. Hydraulic lifts are safer for low-riding vehicles than steep ramps.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all car shipping services perform the same. Some small details really boost the quality of the experience.
Improving Quality: Reputation and Reviews
- Read reviews from other customers. Companies with high ratings often have fewer delays and handle problems better. A good track record shows they care about quality service.
Reducing Quality: Hidden Fees and Delays
- Be wary of quotes that seem too low. Hidden fees for fuel surcharges or lift-gate service can pop up later. Also, companies known for frequent rescheduling reduce the quality of the user experience.
Driver Experience
- Experienced drivers handle tricky loading situations well. They know how to secure the car properly so it doesn’t move during the long drive.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy the company makes the process for you is very important. Think about why you are shipping your car.
Relocation (Moving House)
If you are moving, you need reliability. You need the car to arrive around the same time you do. Companies that offer door-to-door service are best for this use case.
Buying/Selling a Car
If you buy a car online, you might need quick service. Look for companies that offer faster pickup times. For classic cars, always choose enclosed transport.
Customer Service Interaction
The booking process should be simple. If you have trouble getting a quote or understanding the contract, the whole experience will be frustrating. Friendly, helpful customer service teams improve your experience greatly.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Shipping Your Car
Q: How much does it usually cost to ship a car?
A: The cost changes based on distance, the type of carrier (open or enclosed), and the size of your vehicle. Short distances cost less than cross-country trips.
Q: How long does car shipping take?
A: A typical cross-country shipment takes between 7 to 14 days. Faster transit times are sometimes available for an extra fee.
Q: Do I need to clean my car before shipping?
A: You should clean it, but you don’t have to detail it. The company needs to inspect the car, so it should be reasonably clean. Do not leave personal belongings inside the car.
Q: Can I put personal items inside the car during transport?
A: Most companies do not allow personal items. If they do, they will limit the weight, and this often voids the insurance coverage on those items.
Q: What paperwork do I need to hand over?
A: You usually need proof of ownership (like the title or registration) and a valid driver’s license for the person picking up or dropping off the car.
Q: What is the difference between “door-to-door” and “terminal-to-terminal” shipping?
A: Door-to-door means the truck comes to your house. Terminal-to-terminal means you drop the car at their depot and pick it up at a depot near the destination.
Q: What should I do when the car arrives?
A: Inspect the car immediately before signing the final delivery receipt. Note any new scratches or damage on the paperwork immediately.
Q: What factors make shipping a luxury car more expensive?
A: Luxury and classic cars require enclosed transport to protect them from road grime and hail. This specialized service costs more.
Q: What if the car doesn’t run?
A: You must tell the company if your car is not operational. They use specialized equipment (like a winch) for non-running vehicles, which might cost extra.
Q: How far in advance should I book my shipment?
A: You should book at least two to four weeks ahead of time, especially if you need shipping during busy summer months or holidays.