Car Shipping FAQ

Q. Does the car owner need to be present when the car is being picked up or delivered?

A. Yes, it is recommended that either the car owner or his representative be present at both the points to oversee the inspection.

Q. How much time does it take for a car to be shipped?

A. There is no set average period. On a minimum, it can take about three days and can even take as long as two weeks on the maximum end of the scale. However, the shipping time can be further affected by factors such as the traffic conditions, weather and the intra-city time taken for picking up the car and delivering it at the destination.

Q. Does car shipping service have to be booked in advance?

A. We recommend you book your requirements at least two weeks in advance.

Q. Do you insure the cars that you ship?

A. Yes, of course. All auto carriers are legally bound to insure the cars they transport, but you should check with your selected car shipper for details and any minimum insurance amounts. We suggest that you see and read through a certificate of insurance and find out what is not covered as well.

Q. Do all auto transporters need to have a license?

A. All auto transporters must have a license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. And all auto transport brokers must be bonded.

Q. How should a car be prepared for transport?

A. Check and record any damage on the car before transport; take pictures of the car from all angles; Empty out all valuables from the car; Check and fix for leakages before transport; Switch off all the electrical appliances, specially the alarm, before transportation.

Q. What items can I leave in the car?

A. You must not store any items inside the car when it is being transported because in case these items are damaged, you will not get any insurance on them. If they damage the car, then the insurance company will not pay any money for the damage to the car caused by the items stored inside. Moreover, in some cases it is illegal to store any items in the car while it is being transported.

Q. Where will my car be delivered at the destination?

A. If a truck can reach your destination point, then your car will be dropped at the point you have specified. However, if a truck cannot reach the spot (narrow road, dead end, etc.), then you will have to pick up your car from a terminal. These terminals are fully licensed and insured.

Q. What form of payments are accepted?

A. Auto transporters typically accept payments in the form of certified checks, cash and credit cards for the initial deposit amount. Upon delivery, checks and cash are preferred unless you have made arrangements earlier to pay by credit card or money order. Check with your specific car shipper to learn about payment methods in advance.

Q. My car has stalled and I want to transport it in the stalled condition. Is it possible?

A. Yes, but there will be an additional charge for the labor needed to haul your car at both delivery and destination points.

More Car Shipping Information

Free Auto, Health, Home or Life Insurance Quote

Auto Parts Train