Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers fast—or request a personalized quote.
Pricing & Quotes
How do you calculate my price?
Distance, route demand, vehicle size and weight, open or enclosed, running status, season, and lead time. We quote from live carrier bids for your lane.
Can I lock the price before pickup?
Yes once a carrier is assigned your rate is set. Changes to dates, details, or locations can update pricing and we reconfirm in writing.
Do quotes expire?
Yes prices follow the market and are time sensitive. Book when a number fits your plan.
Do you match prices?
Share the written quote from a licensed carrier and we will review comparable service. Best pricing guaranteed applies to apples to apples offers.
Is enclosed more expensive than open?
Yes enclosed costs more due to lower capacity and added protection. We show both options.
Shipping & Timing
How long does transport take?
Regional routes often finish in a few days. Cross country commonly runs about a week depending on stops and weather.
How soon can you pick up?
Busy lanes can move quickly. Rural or restricted areas may need more time to position a truck.
Can I choose exact dates?
Yes with expedited or time definite service. Standard bookings use a pickup window for efficiency.
When should I book?
Book as soon as dates are firm, especially for snowbird auto transport and student auto transport peaks.
Do snowbird routes change timing or price?
Yes winter flows raise demand on north to south lanes and spring flows affect returns. Flexibility helps both timing and cost.
Coverage & Insurance
Is my vehicle insured during transport?
Yes carriers hold active cargo and liability insurance. Policy details are noted on your dispatch.
What is typically covered?
Transport related damage documented on the Bill of Lading. Personal items are not covered.
How do claims work?
Note any issue on delivery paperwork, take photos, and contact us to open a claim with the carrier.
Is open auto transport safe?
Yes vehicles are secured with professional tie downs. Exposure is similar to normal highway driving.
Is enclosed auto transport safer?
Enclosed adds shielding from weather and debris plus soft tie downs for sensitive vehicles.
Pickup & Delivery
Is it door-to-door?
Yes when access allows. If the street is tight we meet at a nearby open lot.
Do I need to be there?
You or an approved contact with keys can meet the driver and sign the inspection.
What should I do before pickup?
Wash for photos, remove personal items and toll tags, leave a quarter tank, disable alarms, provide a spare key.
How does open carrier car shipping load and unload?
The driver conducts a walk around, secures the car, and repeats inspection at delivery.
How does enclosed carrier car shipping differ?
The driver uses soft straps, ramp blocks, and extra clearance checks. Inspections are thorough at both ends.
Special Cases
Can you ship an inoperable vehicle?
Yes we assign winch equipped carriers and bring skates or specialty gear as needed.
Do you handle auction car shipping?
Yes we pick up from Copart, IAAI, and Manheim and manage release and yard rules.
Do you offer Hawaii auto transport?
Yes we coordinate mainland pickup, port check in, sailing, and island release.
Can you ship a motorcycle?
Yes bikes ride enclosed with proper chocks and soft straps. No crate required unless requested.
Do you offer snowbird auto transport?
Yes we manage fall southbound and spring northbound schedules with flexible windows or expedited options.
Tracking & Communication
Can I track my shipment?
You receive coordinator updates and driver ETAs throughout the route.
Who do I contact during transport?
Your assigned coordinator plus the driver contact provided at dispatch.
Will I get reminders and updates?
Yes pickup window alerts, approach notices, and delivery confirmations.
Do you confirm carrier credentials?
Yes we verify FMCSA status and insurance on every assignment.
How do you handle weather or traffic changes?
We notify you quickly and offer options if timing shifts.
Policies
What if plans change?
Tell us early and we reschedule. Any price or timing change is confirmed before you approve.
Can I put personal items in the car?
We recommend no since they are not covered. Ask for alternatives if you need to move items.
How do payments and cancellations work?
A small booking payment secures dispatch. The balance is due at delivery. Cancel free before driver assignment. After assignment a fee may apply.
Do you require a deposit for open auto transport?
Yes a modest booking payment confirms your spot and the remaining balance is due at delivery.
Can I pay the driver with a card?
Payment methods vary by carrier. We confirm accepted methods before pickup.
Still need help?
Get a personalized quote or talk to an advisor
Last updated: September 2025