How to ship a car

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    Jason

    “My truck was delivered in pristine condition, and I easily released payment to shipper via uShip's website and that was it! So easy.”

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    Jaime

    “In every interaction with the team members they have gone above and beyond to ensure I was satisfied with the results.”

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    Liz

    “It was relatively easy to find a shipper and payment was pretty seamless.”

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    Jim

    “We have being working with uShip since 2013 and have always been satisfied with the results.”

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    Nate

    “My shipper was great! On time both for pick up and drop off would highly recommend.”

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    Brian

    “I can find that hard to deliver item a dependable driver and research their past feedbacks on the platform.”

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    Rebecca

    “Our boat arrived in perfect condition.”

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    Jonathan

    “Have used uShip twice to ship a motorcycle purchased out of state.  The entire experience has been top notch each time.”

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    Sheleigh

    “Super easy and quick! Very pleased! I will certainly use this platform again.”

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    Stephen

    “uShip provides a service that is unlike anyone else on the planet and I am thankful for it!”

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    Alaina

    “Wonderful service!!!!! Felt safe and comfortable with how they do payments too! Shipment went better and quicker than expected!!”

  • 5.0/5 5 out of 5 stars

    Tony

    “The delivery went without a hitch and I cannot say enough good things about the shipper!”

How to ship a car

Understanding how to ship a vehicle can be overwhelming, but proper preparation can make the process smooth and easy. To successfully ship a car, you'll need to research your preferred shipping method, communicate with reputable car shipping companies, and learn how to prepare your vehicle for pickup.

How to ship a car step-by-step

  • Provide Vehicle Information and Get Quotes

    Start by providing detailed information about your vehicle. This will ensure you get the most accurate quotes from auto shipping companies who can move your car.

  • Review Auto Transport Companies

    Once you receive quotes, review each auto transporter's services and ratings, and ask questions specific to your car shipment.

  • Choose an Auto Transport Service Provider

    Choose the best vehicle shipping company that fits your unique shipping needs, ensuring they can safely transport your vehicle.

  • Secure Your Shipment

    Secure your car shipment by reading any terms and conditions carefully and booking with a reliable provider. Purchasing a uShip Protection Plan is also available for added peace of mind.

  • Prepare Your Car For Shipping

    Properly prepare your car for shipping by removing all personal items and documenting its condition. This step is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free vehicle shipping experience.

  • Step 1: Provide Vehicle Information and Get Quotes

    Create a free listing with detailed information about your vehicle to get the most accurate quotes. This includes your car's make and model, pickup and delivery locations, and your desired shipping timeframe. It's essential to be as specific as possible to get the most accurate pricing and ensure a successful shipment. You'll be one step closer to finding the best car shipping company by clearly communicating your shipping needs.

  • Step 2: Review Auto Transport Companies

    Once you receive quotes from transporters, you'll need to decide who is the best fit for the job. Look at their services and customer reviews, and ask questions about your shipment. Choosing a reliable company that fits your needs is important, so take your time and carefully review each provider's service history.

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  • Step 3: Choose an Auto Transport Service Provider

    Once you have received quotes from carriers, you may be tempted to go with the lowest quote, but this isn't always the best route. Ensure the transporter can safely ship your vehicle by asking questions and checking their safety record. By choosing the right auto shipping service provider (not the cheapest), you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle will arrive at its destination safely. Visit our cheapest way to ship a car page for more details.

  • Step 4: Secure Your Shipment

    Before you book with a carrier, be sure to read their terms and conditions carefully. It's also good to ask any lingering questions so that you feel confident that your vehicle is in good hands. Consider purchasing a uShip Protection Plan at checkout for added peace of mind.

  • Step 5: Prepare Your Car For Shipping

    You can do a few things to prepare your car for transport and ensure a smooth shipment. Make sure the battery is fully charged and the tires are properly inflated. Top off all fluids and run your gas tank to about a quarter full. Keep an eye on your vehicle for leaks or mechanical problems, and inform your driver if there are any. Document any issues, take pictures, and give special instructions to your driver for loading and unloading.

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Auto Transport Methods

When it comes to shipping your car, there are dozens of transport methods to choose from. With so many options, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. Below you’ll find some of the most common car transport methods and how they might work for you.

OPEN Transport

Open car transport is the most economical way to transport a vehicle. With this type of transport, vehicles are loaded on a multi-car car hauler exposed to outside elements. Even though your car is being transported without much protection, the risk of damage is lower than you would think.

Enclosed Auto Transport

Enclosed car transport is a safe way to transport high-value vehicles. It's one of the more expensive options but offers the most protection. With enclosed transport, vehicles are loaded into an airtight, weatherproof car hauler.

Door-to-Door Transport

Home delivery is becoming the standard for consumers and is provided by most auto transport companies. The transport service will pick up and deliver your vehicle as close to your door as possible. Keep in mind, semi-trucks and trailers can’t easily make clearance in some residential streets and apartment communities. If necessary, work out an accessible parking lot to load or unload your car with your provider in advance.

Terminal-to-Terminal Transport

Think of a terminal as a storage facility. They are usually placed regionally nationwide. You can drop off or pick up your car on specific dates and times. Terminals may be located many miles away from you, but if you have the time and ability to get to them, you can save money. Another note on terminal-to-terminal car shipping is that your car could be transported by multiple carriers and travel through different terminals before it’s delivered to its destination.

EXPEDITED CAR SHIPPING

Do you need a vehicle to be transported last minute or to be at a specific location by a deadline? Many auto transport companies offer premium services that can expedite the shipping process of your vehicle. This service will generally begin within 24 to 48 hours from when you place an order with car transport companies.

Single Car Transport

Working with a single-car vehicle shipping company is similar to a car hauling service. As the name suggests, your car will be hauled as a single car on a smaller open or enclosed trailer. More often than not, these carriers are small businesses that specialize in personalized car transport tailored to your needs.

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