Moving your car from one state to another can feel overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. Whether you’re relocating for a job, buying a car from out of state, or sending a vehicle to a loved one, you’ll likely need vehicle transportation state to state. It’s a smart, safe, and stress-free way to move your vehicle without driving it yourself.
But before you book, it’s important to understand how the process works, what to expect, and what to watch out for. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key things you should know so you can make the right choice.
1. Understand the Transport Options
There are two main ways your car can be shipped: open transport and enclosed transport.
Open transport is the most common and affordable. Your car is loaded onto an open trailer with several other vehicles. It’s a safe method, but your vehicle is exposed to the weather and road debris.
Enclosed transport offers more protection. Your car is placed inside a covered trailer, which shields it from weather and dirt. This is a great option for luxury, vintage, or expensive cars. It does cost more, but it gives extra peace of mind.
2. Get Quotes From Trusted Companies
Don’t just go with the first company you find. It’s a good idea to get quotes from at least three different auto transport companies. Look at the price, delivery time, insurance coverage, and reviews.
Make sure the company is licensed and insured. You can check their credentials through the U.S. Department of Transportation or FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) website.
3. Know What Affects the Price
The cost of shipping your car depends on a few things:
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Distance: Longer trips usually cost more.
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Vehicle size and type: Larger or heavier vehicles may cost extra.
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Time of year: Prices can go up during busy seasons like summer or the holidays.
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Transport type: Enclosed transport costs more than open transport.
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Delivery preference: Door-to-door service can be more expensive than terminal-to-terminal.
By understanding these factors, you’ll be able to plan your budget better.
4. Ask About Insurance
Good auto transport companies carry insurance that covers any damage to your vehicle during transit. But it’s still important to ask for a copy of their insurance policy.
Make sure you understand:
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What’s covered
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What’s not covered
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Deductibles (if any)
Also, check with your own car insurance company to see if your vehicle is covered during transport. Sometimes, adding a temporary policy is a good idea for high-value vehicles.
5. Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping
Before your car is picked up, take some time to get it ready:
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Wash the car: It’s easier to spot any scratches or dents.
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Take pictures: Document your vehicle’s condition from all angles.
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Remove personal items: Most transporters don’t allow personal belongings in the car.
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Check for leaks or mechanical issues: Your car should be in good running condition unless you're informing the company it's non-operational.
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Leave only a quarter tank of gas: This keeps the vehicle lighter and safer to transport.
These steps help ensure your car is safe and that any damage, if it happens, can be clearly identified.
6. Understand the Pickup and Delivery Process
Most transport companies offer door-to-door service, meaning they’ll come as close to your home as possible. If the truck can’t reach your street due to size or restrictions, they’ll arrange a nearby meeting spot.
You’ll usually get a pickup window, not an exact time. Be flexible and stay in touch with the driver. At both pickup and delivery, you’ll need to sign a condition report. This document proves the vehicle’s condition before and after shipping.
7. Timing May Vary
Be aware that delivery times are not always exact. While companies do their best to meet deadlines, delays can happen due to weather, traffic, or truck breakdowns. Ask for an estimated delivery window and be patient if things don’t go exactly as planned.
8. Watch Out for Scams
Sadly, not every company out there is honest. Be careful of deals that seem too good to be true. Look for red flags like:
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No DOT or MC number
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Poor online reviews
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Demanding full payment upfront
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No written contract
Always read the terms and conditions before signing anything.
9. Communication Is Key
A good company will keep you updated throughout the process. Make sure you have the dispatcher’s or driver’s contact number. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, and always confirm the pickup and delivery details ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
Booking vehicle transportation state to state doesn’t have to be stressful. If you plan ahead, choose a reliable provider, and ask the right questions, the process can be smooth and worry-free.
Whether you're moving across the country or simply sending a car to a different state, choosing the right transport partner makes all the difference. That’s where Spark Auto Transport comes in. With a strong track record, friendly support, and clear communication, they make it easy to move your car anywhere in the USA.
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