Hiring an auto transport company shouldn’t feel like navigating a minefield. Yet, 42% of consumers report stress due to unclear pricing, hidden fees, or damage disputes (BBB, 2023). This guide answers the 15 most critical questions to ask before booking, helping you avoid costly mistakes.
Key Stats:
- 78% of vehicles are shipped via open transport (NHTSA)
- 12% of damage claims are denied due to poor documentation
- Average shipping cost: $1.50/mile (open), $2.25/mile (enclosed)
1. What Are Your Auto Transport Options?
Open vs. Enclosed Transport
- Open:
- Best for: Standard vehicles, short distances
- Cost: 30-60% cheaper than enclosed
- Risk: Road debris exposure (1 in 50 shipments report minor damage)
- Enclosed:
- Best for: Luxury, classic, or high-value cars
- Features: Climate control, soft straps, lift-gate loading
Case Study:
A 1969 Camaro owner saved $1,200 using open transport—then paid $4,500 to repair hail damage. Enclosed would have cost $1,800 upfront.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal Shipping
- Door-to-door: Convenient but may incur accessibility fees
- Terminal: Cheaper but requires drop-off/pickup
2. How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
Price Factors
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|
| Distance | $0.58-$2.25/mile |
| Vehicle Size | SUVs +20% |
| Season | Summer +30% |
| Operability | Non-running +$150 |
Red Flags:
- Companies demanding full payment upfront
- Quotes significantly below market average
Example:
Miami to Los Angeles (2,700 miles)
- Open: $1,500-$1,900
- Enclosed: $2,400-$3,000
3. What Insurance Coverage Should You Expect?
Three Coverage Types
- Carrier’s Cargo Insurance ($100K-$250K standard)
- Your Personal Auto Policy (May cover transit)
- Supplemental Insurance (For classics/exotics)
Critical Steps:
- Verify carrier’s COI (Certificate of Insurance)
- Photograph vehicle pre-loading
- Note all damage on BOL (Bill of Lading)
Stat: Claims with timestamped photos are 5x more likely to be approved.
4. How Long Does Car Shipping Take?
Average Transit Times
| Distance | Days |
|---|---|
| 500 miles | 1-2 |
| 1,500 miles | 3-5 |
| Coast-to-coast | 7-10 |
Delays Caused By:
- Weather (38% of delays)
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Driver HOS (Hours of Service) limits
Pro Tip: Book 2-4 weeks early for peak season (May-Sept).
5. How to Vet an Auto Transport Company
5 Must-Ask Questions
- “What’s your USDOT number?” (Verify here)
- “Can I see your COI?”
- “What’s your Central Dispatch rating?”
- “What’s not included in this quote?”
- “How are delays handled?”
Red Flags:
- No physical address
- Demand for wire transfers
FAQ Section
1. What’s the cheapest way to ship a car?
Open transport on multi-car trailers. Save 40% by booking offseason (Jan-Mar).
2. Can I pack items in my car?
No. DOT prohibits personal items. Violations void insurance.
3. How do I prepare my vehicle?
- 1/4 tank fuel
- Disable alarms
- Remove toll transponders
4. What if my car arrives late?
Carriers owe compensation only if contract guarantees delivery dates (rare).
5. Who pays for damage?
Carrier’s insurance, but you must note damage on BOL at delivery.
Conclusion
Never hire an auto transport company without asking:
- Insurance details
- USDOT verification
- All-inclusive pricing
