Auto Transport FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Shipping a vehicle—whether across the state or across the country—can seem scary if you’ve never done it before. There are lots of moving parts involved, and naturally, people have a lot of questions. To help you feel more confident in the process, we’ve put together answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about auto transport.

🚗 1. How Does Auto Transport Work?

Auto transport involves hiring a professional carrier to move your vehicle from one location to another, typically using a truck and trailer. You can book transport directly with a carrier or through a broker who finds a qualified carrier for you and simplifies the process for you. Most services offer either door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal delivery.

📅 2. How Far in Advance Should I Book?

Ideally, you should book auto transport 1 week in advance. This gives the broker or carrier time to schedule a pickup that fits your timeline. However, expedited services are available for last-minute shipments—just be prepared to pay a premium for faster service.

💰 3. How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?

The cost of auto transport depends on several factors:

• Distance: Longer distances cost more, but the cost per mile usually decreases.

• Vehicle type: Larger, heavier vehicles typically cost more to transport.

• Transport type: Enclosed transport costs more than open transport.

• Seasonality: Prices can fluctuate based on demand (e.g., snowbird season).

• Route popularity: Common routes may be cheaper due to high demand.

On average, expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 for domestic transport.

🛻 4. What’s the Difference Between Open and Enclosed Transport?

• Open transport is the most common and cost-effective option. Most vehicles are shipped on an open trailer exposed to the elements—similar to how cars are delivered to dealerships.

• Enclosed transport offers added protection from weather and road debris, making it ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles. In addition to added cost, its important to know that if you're on a tight schedule, it will be more difficult to find an enclosed carrier to meet your time-frame.

🧾 5. Is My Vehicle Insured During Transport?

Yes. All auto transport carriers are required by law to carry cargo insurance. However, coverage can vary, and it’s smart to ask for proof of insurance.

🏠 6. Will My Car Be Delivered to My Door?

Most auto transport companies offer door-to-door delivery, but this depends on accessibility. If your street is too narrow or restricted for a large transport truck, the driver may ask you to meet at a nearby parking lot.

🔍 7. How Do I Prepare My Car for Shipping?

Here’s a basic checklist:

• Wash your vehicle so it’s easier to inspect.

• Take photos of the car from all angles.

• Make sure the gas tank is about ¼ full.

• Check for leaks or mechanical issues.

• Disable alarms and toll tags.

• Remove personal belongings and valuables (place any items you will be moving in the trunk)

🕒 8. How Long Does Auto Transport Take?

Transport time depends on the distance and route. Here’s a general breakdown:

• 0–500 miles: 1–2 days

• 500–1,000 miles: 2–3 days

• 1,000–2,000 miles: 3–6 days

• 2,000+ miles: 5–8 days

Delays can occur due to weather, traffic, or mechanical issues, so it’s best to leave some buffer time if you're on a tight schedule.

🧑‍💼 9. Should I Use a Broker or Book Directly with a Carrier?

Using a broker gives you access to a larger pool of carriers and generally makes the process faster and easier. They handle the logistics, vet the carriers, represent you in the case there is any issue during transport and often negotiate better rates. Booking with a carrier directly may save you the broker fee, but it requires more effort on your part and limited options. Many shady brokers also pose as carriers in an effort to win your business and you may not know until pickup when the company name on the truck doesn't match the company name you paid.

📦 10. Can I Pack Items in My Car During Transport?

Most carriers allow packing items in your vehicle however due to weight restrictions, try keep it under 100 lbs , always make your agent aware that there will be items inside the vehicle and provide an estimate of the weight. Also understand that due to insurance limitations personal belongings are not covered by carrier insurance so try to keep items secured in the trunk or kept out of sight

Auto transport doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right preparation and a trustworthy broker, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience. Understanding the basics ahead of time helps you make informed decisions and ensures your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.

Still have questions? Contact a knowledgeable agent at Freedom 35 Auto Transport—they’ll guide you through every step of the process!