Auto Transport Guide
Moving Out of State? Here’s How to Ship Your Car Without the Headache
Door-to-Door · Fully Insured · Nationwide
Relocating to another state can feel like a juggling act—movers, leases, utilities, mail forwarding, and a mountain of checklists. Your vehicle shouldn’t be another source of stress. The simplest solution for most people is to ship your car with a licensed, insured auto transport professional. Done right, it’s safer, faster, and often more economical than a multi-day drive.
Below is a complete, plain-English playbook: how shipping works, what it costs, realistic timelines, and how to prepare. Use this guide to pick the right transport type and avoid headaches from quote to delivery.
Why Shipping Your Car Out of State Makes Sense
1) Save days of time (and your energy)
Cross-country trips can span 7–10 driving days. Shipping lets you fly and arrive well-rested while your car travels safely on a carrier’s schedule.
2) Protect your vehicle’s value
Long drives add thousands of miles, increase wear on tires, oil, and brakes, and expose your car to weather and debris. Transport avoids that unnecessary depreciation.
3) Lower risk and greater peace of mind
Professional drivers handle interstate logistics daily. Your vehicle rides on equipment designed for transport, not for road-tripping, and it’s covered by carrier cargo insurance.
4) Often more cost-effective than driving
When you add fuel, hotels, meals, lost work time, and potential roadside issues, shipping frequently beats DIY road trips—especially for multi-vehicle households, families with kids, or tight timelines.
How Car Shipping Works: A Step-by-Step Overview
- Request a quote. Share pickup/delivery ZIPs, vehicle details, running condition, and preferred timing. Choose open or enclosed.
- Reserve your spot. Approve your all-inclusive price and confirm a pickup window.
- Prep your vehicle. Clean the car, remove personal items, and photograph its condition.
- Pickup & inspection. The driver documents condition on the Bill of Lading (BOL), loads the vehicle, and secures it for transit.
- In transit. Your car rides on a specialized trailer; you receive updates and estimated delivery timing.
- Delivery & final check. Inspect the vehicle against the BOL, sign for delivery, and you’re done.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport: Which Should You Choose?
Open Transport (Most Popular)
- Best value—economical and widely available.
- Multi-car trailers (8–10 vehicles) speed up scheduling.
- Exposure to weather and road dust is normal for daily drivers.
Enclosed Transport (Premium Protection)
- Fully covered trailers shield against weather and debris.
- Often includes liftgates and soft tie-downs for low-clearance cars.
- Ideal for luxury, exotic, and classic vehicles; typically 30–60% higher than open.
| Factor | Open | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Most affordable | 30–60% higher |
| Protection | Weather/road exposure | Fully protected |
| Capacity | 8–10 cars | 2–6 cars |
| Best for | Standard cars/SUVs | High-value & collector cars |
What Affects the Cost of Shipping a Car Out of State?
1) Distance and route density
Longer routes cost more in total but usually less per mile. High-demand corridors price more efficiently than remote rural routes.
2) Vehicle size and weight
Trucks, vans, and large SUVs occupy more trailer space and add weight, which raises the price versus a compact sedan.
3) Transport type
Enclosed transport carries fewer vehicles per trip and uses specialized equipment, which explains the premium over open transport.
4) Pickup & delivery locations
Door-to-door in dense cities is usually faster and cheaper thanks to carrier volume. Remote or tight locations can add an access surcharge.
5) Seasonality and timing
Summer peak and year-end holidays increase demand. Booking earlier expands your options and helps secure better pricing.
How Long Does Car Shipping Take?
- 500–1,000 miles: ~1–3 days
- 1,000–1,500 miles: ~3–5 days
- 1,500–2,500 miles: ~5–7 days
- Cross-country (2,500+ miles): ~7–10 days
Weather, traffic, and federal hours-of-service rules can affect timelines. Your coordinator will share updates and ETAs.
Preparation Checklist (Quick & Thorough)
Before Pickup
- Wash the car so inspection photos clearly show condition.
- Remove personal items; keep only standard accessories.
- Leave ~¼ tank of fuel.
- Check tire pressure, battery, and fluid leaks.
- Fold mirrors; secure or remove loose exterior items.
- Photograph all sides, wheels, and interior just before pickup.
At Pickup & Delivery
- Walk the vehicle with the driver during the BOL inspection.
- Verify VIN, mileage, and noted marks on the BOL.
- Sign and keep your copy; repeat on delivery.
- If you spot a discrepancy on delivery, note it on the BOL before signing.
How to Choose the Right Auto Transport Partner
- FMCSA-registered & insured: Confirm licensing and active insurance for carriers.
- Transparent, guaranteed pricing: Beware of bait-and-switch low quotes.
- Responsive communication: You should have a dedicated contact from quote to delivery.
- Proven track record: Look for a network of vetted drivers and consistent service quality.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal Shipping, Insurance & Paperwork
Door-to-Door vs. Terminals
Door-to-door is the most convenient—pickup and delivery occur at or near your addresses (subject to safe truck access). Terminal shipping can work if you can drop off or pick up from a designated yard, but it introduces extra steps and storage fees.
Insurance Coverage
Your vehicle rides under the carrier’s cargo insurance during transit. Verify coverage limits and deductibles, and keep your personal auto policy active for non-shipping incidents.
Paperwork Essentials
- Bill of Lading (BOL): Condition report and transportation contract.
- Keys: Provide one full set (including fob) to the driver.
- Proof of ownership: Rarely requested, but keep registration handy.
Common Myths—Debunked
“Shipping is always more expensive than driving.”
For many routes and situations, shipping beats DIY once you add fuel, lodging, time, and potential roadside risks.
“My car won’t be safe.”
FMCSA-regulated carriers follow strict safety protocols. Your vehicle is secured on purpose-built trailers and covered by cargo insurance.
“I can’t ship any personal items.”
Most carriers allow a small amount (typically 100–200 lbs) below window height. Ask your coordinator for specifics.
“Only dealers use auto transport.”
Everyday people ship cars daily—relocations, college moves, snowbird travel, online purchases, and more.
Expert Tips for a Smooth, Stress-Free Move
- Book early during summer and holidays to secure better rates and timing.
- Be flexible with a 1–3 day pickup window to help routing.
- Choose the right trailer—open for value, enclosed for maximum protection.
- Communicate constraints like gated communities or narrow streets in advance.
- Keep your phone handy near pickup/delivery windows for quick coordination.
Ready to Ship Your Car Without the Headache?
Roadline Carriers Inc makes out-of-state moves simple with door-to-door service, full insurance coverage, and guaranteed pricing. Tell us where and when—you’ll get a clear plan and a firm price.
US DOT# 4421876 · ICC-MC# 1738605 · 305 Hawthorne Square, Oakdale, PA 15071