VSHIP AUTO

Pickup timing mainly depends on where your vehicle is located. If you’re in a large city or along a popular shipping route, your car is usually picked up on or close to the date you choose. For rural or hard-to-reach areas, it might take a bit longer—up to a few extra days. Also, unexpected delays like traffic jams, weather issues, or driver schedules may slightly impact the pickup window.

How long it takes for your car to arrive depends on how far it’s going. Cross-country shipments usually take 7 to 10 days. If the transport is within the same region—north to south, for example—it can be around 5 to 7 days. For shorter distances under 500 miles, expect 2 to 3 days. Keep in mind, road conditions, weather, or truck issues could cause occasional delays.

Yes, we do offer expedited shipping. If you’re in a hurry or on a strict timeline, you can choose an option that prioritizes your vehicle for faster pickup or delivery. This service often comes with an additional fee, but it ensures quicker scheduling compared to standard delivery times.

Customers typically choose between two shipping methods: open transport and enclosed transport. Open trailers carry multiple vehicles and are more budget-friendly, while enclosed trailers shield your vehicle from weather and road debris, offering extra safety for high-end or delicate cars. The right choice depends on your vehicle type, budget, and how much protection you want during the move.

Door-to-door means the carrier will come as close as possible to the address you give for both pickup and delivery. If your street is wide and accessible for large trucks, the driver can usually stop right in front of your home or business. If access is limited, the driver will meet you at a nearby, more accessible location such as a parking lot or large street corner.

Usually, your car stays on the same carrier for the entire journey. However, in rare cases—like if a truck breaks down or there’s a route issue—the vehicle may need to be transferred to another truck to keep the delivery on schedule. Any transfer will be handled professionally, ensuring your vehicle stays safe throughout the process.

Placement of your vehicle on the trailer is determined by the driver and depends on things like the truck’s balance, vehicle weight, and the order of deliveries. Drivers follow strict safety rules and must load cars in a way that ensures even weight distribution and secure transport—so customer preferences for trailer position aren’t usually allowed.

Open transport exposes your car to outside elements like rain or dust, but it’s perfectly safe for most vehicles and is more affordable—sometimes up to $400 cheaper than enclosed. Enclosed transport offers full coverage, shielding your car from the environment, and is recommended for rare, exotic, or classic cars. Insurance coverage for enclosed transport is also typically higher.

The biggest factors that influence price include how far your car is going, the type of vehicle, whether it runs or not, which type of trailer you select (open or enclosed), current fuel prices, and how busy the market is at the time. Seasonal demand and the route’s popularity can also change pricing.

Our quotes aim to be all-inclusive based on the information you provide. That said, if special circumstances arise—like needing enclosed transport, special loading equipment, or last-minute changes—extra fees may apply. We’ll always communicate any additional charges before confirming your booking.

You can pay your initial deposit using a debit card, credit card, or services like Cash App. The remaining balance is paid directly to the carrier upon delivery, usually in cash, a cashier’s check, or a money order. Drivers typically can’t accept card payments on delivery due to equipment and policy restrictions.You can pay your initial deposit using a debit card, credit card, or services like Cash App. The remaining balance is paid directly to the carrier upon delivery, usually in cash, a cashier’s check, or a money order. Drivers typically can’t accept card payments on delivery due to equipment and policy restrictions.

Yes, you can pack up to 100 pounds of personal items in the trunk without extra cost. However, anything more than that—or any loose items in the cabin—may not be allowed or could require an extra fee. Items inside the vehicle aren’t covered by insurance, so it’s best to avoid storing valuables during transport.

If your car is overloaded or packed unevenly, it may cause safety issues or put strain on the trailer. This could lead to added costs or require the driver to remove items before transport. To avoid this, always pack within the allowed limits and keep everything secure.

Yes. Every carrier we work with is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for domestic shipping. If your car is going overseas, maritime and international licensing also applies. Always feel free to ask us for license and insurance details—we’re happy to share them.

For domestic moves, you’ll need to have a valid ID, your vehicle’s registration, and proof of insurance. If you’re shipping internationally, you may also need the vehicle’s title, import/export paperwork, and clearance through customs. We’ll help guide you through any paperwork required.

Yes, we can move inoperable cars—but special loading equipment like winches or forklifts may be required. Let us know in advance if your vehicle doesn’t start, so we can match it with a truck that’s equipped to handle it. Additional fees usually apply for this service.

Transporting a non-running car does cost more, typically due to the extra labor and tools needed. Most companies charge a flat fee—around $150—on top of the standard shipping rate for inoperable vehicles.

The earlier you book, the better chance you have at getting your preferred pickup date and the best rate. Summer is the busiest and priciest season for auto transport, while winter is generally slower and more affordable. If you’re flexible with timing, you can often save money.

If your car isn’t ready at pickup time, the carrier may charge a rescheduling fee—typically around $75. Canceling too close to the pickup window (within a week) may result in a fee of up to $200. Always notify your broker or carrier ahead of time if your plans change.

Yes. You’ll be assigned a personal shipping coordinator who stays in contact with you from start to finish. You’ll also get carrier details once your truck is scheduled, so you can track progress or ask questions anytime throughout the process.

Every carrier is required to carry cargo insurance, usually between $100,000 and $250,000, plus liability coverage. This insurance protects against damage during loading, unloading, and transit. Ask your broker or carrier for proof of coverage if you’d like peace of mind.

If your vehicle arrives with any visible damage, the most important step is to report it right away. During delivery, inspect your vehicle thoroughly before signing the Bill of Lading (BOL). If you see any new scratches, dents, or other issues, make sure they’re clearly marked on the BOL and acknowledged by the driver. Once that’s done, reach out to your transport company immediately to start the claims process. You’ll usually need to submit photos of the damage, a copy of the signed BOL, and possibly repair estimates. Claims must be filed within 15 days of delivery, so act quickly to ensure a smooth resolution and proper coverage.

Carriers are not liable for any damage that already existed before transport began. If your car has known issues like oil leaks, loose trim, cracked windows, or damaged parts, those should be disclosed and documented at the time of pickup. Any problems that aren’t new and aren’t written on the Bill of Lading at delivery won’t be covered by insurance. For safety and to avoid confusion later, it’s a good idea to get any mechanical or visible issues repaired before your vehicle is shipped, especially if they could worsen during transport.

Auto shipping rates can fluctuate quite a bit depending on a mix of important factors. The main elements that influence price include the total distance of the trip, the type of vehicle you’re shipping, whether it runs or not, your chosen transport method (open or enclosed), time of year, and current fuel prices. Other things like how quickly you need the vehicle moved or how easy it is to access your pickup or delivery location can also make a difference. That’s why two similar moves might have very different quotes—it’s always smart to compare several options and make sure you’re getting the best value.

Shipping a vehicle to or from a rural area usually costs more than moving it between two major cities. That’s because carriers often prefer high-traffic routes where they can load and unload multiple vehicles efficiently. Rural addresses may require drivers to go out of their way, which adds time, fuel, and logistics challenges. As a result, fewer carriers may be available for those areas, and prices may go up due to low demand. One way to reduce costs is by agreeing to meet the carrier in a nearby larger town or on a well-traveled highway, making pickup or delivery easier and potentially cheaper.

Car shipping rates are generally calculated per mile, but the exact amount you’ll pay per mile depends on the total trip length and current market conditions. Longer routes often come with a lower cost per mile, averaging between $0.35 and $0.75. Shorter trips, on the other hand, can cost more per mile—sometimes up to $1—because the carrier still has to cover fixed expenses like driver time and fuel. Factors such as vehicle size, delivery urgency, time of year, and even fuel prices can influence this range. Always ask for a breakdown of the cost to better understand what you’re paying for.

Some brokers or transport companies ask for a small deposit to confirm your order, which is generally acceptable. However, be cautious if you’re asked to pay the full amount up front or if the deposit seems unusually high. Reputable companies will clearly explain how the deposit works and what it covers. The remaining balance is typically paid at delivery, not before pickup. Always make sure the terms are spelled out in your agreement, and ask questions if anything feels unclear. Hidden fees, vague contracts, or pressure to pay immediately can be warning signs of a less trustworthy service.

Once you’ve agreed to a shipment and signed a contract, you’re entering into a binding agreement with that broker or carrier. Switching to another company after booking isn’t allowed under most contracts and can result in losing your deposit. This policy exists because brokers often secure carriers on your behalf, and sudden cancellations can disrupt schedules and result in penalties. If you’re unsure about committing, ask about the cancellation terms before you sign anything. Some services allow cancellation for free if done early enough, while others may charge a fee after a certain deadline.

Yes, but with certain restrictions. Most carriers will allow you to pack up to 100 pounds of personal items inside the trunk of your vehicle at no extra cost. This might include things like clothes, blankets, or lightweight boxes. However, storing items in the passenger seats or overloading your vehicle can lead to extra fees or refusal of transport. Keep in mind that the Department of Transportation does not officially permit auto transport carriers to move household goods, so any personal belongings you place inside are technically unauthorized and are not covered by insurance. If you choose to pack items, do so carefully, and avoid anything fragile or valuable.

Personal items left in your car are not insured by the carrier’s policy. That means if anything gets stolen, broken, or goes missing during transit, the shipping company isn’t held responsible. Carriers are only required to carry insurance for your vehicle—not the contents inside. For this reason, it’s strongly recommended that you avoid placing valuable or sentimental items in the vehicle at all. If you absolutely need to send something with the car, keep it light and well hidden in the trunk. You’ll be assuming all risk for anything you leave inside, so it’s best to travel with those items yourself if possible.

Enclosed transport is ideal when you’re shipping a vehicle that needs added protection, such as a luxury car, a vintage model, an exotic import, or a show car. If your vehicle has a high value—financial or sentimental—it’s worth the peace of mind that comes with full coverage from weather, dust, debris, and road grime. Unlike open carriers, enclosed trucks shield the vehicle from the outside world entirely. Enclosed transport is also preferred when shipping a vehicle over long distances, especially during harsh winter months or in extreme weather conditions. It’s more expensive, but the added safety makes it the right choice for many owners.

Enclosed auto transport offers several major benefits, including complete protection from the elements, higher insurance coverage limits, added privacy, and enhanced security during loading and unloading. These carriers often use soft straps or lift gates to minimize any risk to the vehicle. However, there are also trade-offs. Because enclosed trailers carry fewer cars at once—usually two to six—the cost is higher than open transport, sometimes by $300 to $600. There’s also less overall availability, which could lead to longer wait times, especially in less-populated regions. It’s best to book early if enclosed service is your preferred option

There are a few types of enclosed carriers commonly used for vehicle shipping. Single-car enclosed trailers are great for ultra-high-value or urgent shipments, as they provide personal, direct service. Then there are multi-car enclosed trailers, which usually carry two to six vehicles and are the most commonly used enclosed option. These trailers may have hydraulic lift gates or upper and lower decks to keep cars secure during loading. Some are soft-sided with vinyl curtains, while others are hard-sided for full protection. Depending on your vehicle’s needs and your budget, your broker will match you with the right type of enclosed carrier.

Open transport is the most commonly used shipping method in the auto transport industry. It’s faster to schedule, more widely available, and significantly more affordable than enclosed shipping. Carriers using open trailers often transport between 7 to 10 vehicles at a time, which makes the process highly efficient and cost-effective. For standard cars, trucks, or SUVs, open transport is more than sufficient and very safe. Since it’s the most popular option, carriers running open trailers are available across nearly every route, meaning your vehicle can typically be picked up and delivered sooner compared to enclosed carriers.

While open trailers do expose your vehicle to the weather, dust, and road conditions, they are still considered a secure and reliable method of shipping. Vehicles are firmly strapped in place and carriers are fully insured to cover accidental damage. Most cars on dealership lots are delivered this way, including brand-new models. The vast majority of vehicles shipped using open transport arrive without a single scratch. However, if you’re shipping a collector’s car or one with a custom paint job, you may want to consider enclosed shipping for the added layer of protection and peace of mind.

Shipping your vehicle using either open or enclosed transport won’t add a single mile to your odometer. That’s because the car is loaded onto a trailer and secured for the journey, not driven. This helps preserve your vehicle’s condition, especially on long-distance moves. No wear and tear, no fuel burned, and no added depreciation from road travel. It’s a great way to relocate a vehicle across states or across the country without putting it through the rigors of a long road trip. You also won’t need to worry about tire wear or oil changes due to the trip.

Summer is the busiest time for car shipping, and demand typically peaks between May and September. That means more carriers are on the road, routes are more frequently serviced, and wait times can be shorter—but prices are often higher because of increased volume. In contrast, winter shipping (especially December through February) tends to be cheaper, but weather issues and limited truck availability can cause longer delays. Snow, ice, and road closures can also affect transport in colder regions. If timing is flexible, spring and fall may offer the best balance between cost, speed, and reliability.

Winter vehicle shipping comes with a unique set of challenges. Carriers may face weather-related delays, especially in northern states or areas prone to snow and ice. Fewer trucks run during this season, and some rural or mountainous regions may be harder to reach. On the upside, overall demand is lower in winter, so you might find better prices if you’re not in a hurry. It’s important to stay flexible with timing and be prepared for sudden changes. If you’re shipping a luxury or delicate vehicle, enclosed transport is highly recommended to avoid exposure to harsh weather.

To get the best value on auto transport, it’s smart to compare quotes from multiple companies. Look for brokers or carriers with solid reviews and transparent pricing. Flexibility helps too—if you can adjust your pickup date or meet at a more accessible location, you might save money. Avoid peak seasons if possible, and book early to lock in a better rate. Keep in mind that extremely low quotes can sometimes mean corners are being cut, so it’s best to choose based on reputation and service rather than just price. A good balance of cost and reliability is key.

Each transport company has its own cancellation rules, but in general, if you cancel after your vehicle has been assigned to a carrier, you may be charged a cancellation fee—often around $200. If no carrier has been assigned yet, some companies allow cancellation with little or no penalty. To avoid unexpected charges, always check the cancellation terms before confirming your order. If you think your schedule might change, ask about flexible booking options or partial refunds. Keep in mind that last-minute cancellations affect not just the carrier but other customers on the route as well.

Yes. If your vehicle isn’t ready when the driver arrives for pickup, you could be charged a missed pickup or rescheduling fee. This usually ranges from $50 to $100 depending on the company. It’s important to have your car ready with any needed paperwork, a quarter tank of gas, and no personal items beyond the allowed limit. If the pickup fails due to incorrect details or scheduling conflicts on your end, the driver’s time and resources are still impacted. Keeping communication clear and your vehicle prepped will help you avoid these avoidable charges.

Yes, cars that can’t be driven onto the trailer require extra work and equipment, such as winches or forklifts. Most carriers charge a flat “inoperable vehicle” fee, often around $150, to cover these additional services. It’s essential to inform your broker or transport company in advance if your vehicle isn’t running—otherwise, the driver may arrive unprepared and be unable to load it, causing delays or added costs. Always provide accurate condition details so that proper arrangements are made, and the right type of truck is dispatched to handle the job smoothly.

Deposits may or may not be refundable, depending on when you cancel and the company’s terms. Generally, if you cancel early—before a driver is dispatched—your deposit is more likely to be refunded. However, if you back out after the carrier is assigned or close to the pickup window, the deposit is usually forfeited. That’s because time and resources have already been allocated to your shipment. Always read the fine print of your agreement, and don’t hesitate to ask your shipping coordinator about cancellation and refund policies before committing.

Yes. All reputable auto transport companies, including Vship Auto, are required to carry active insurance policies and be properly bonded under federal regulations. This means they meet the standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These protections ensure your vehicle is in responsible hands. You can always request proof of insurance and licensing for your own peace of mind or verify the company’s USDOT number on the FMCSA website to check for compliance, insurance coverage, and safety records.

To verify that an auto transport company is properly licensed, simply ask for their USDOT and MC (Motor Carrier) numbers. You can then visit the official FMCSA website (safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) and enter those numbers to view their operating authority, insurance status, and safety history. Legitimate companies will always be transparent about this information and won’t hesitate to share it. Avoid any business that refuses to provide these details—it could be a sign of a scam or unregistered operation. Always confirm credentials before booking your shipment.

A good auto shipping company won’t leave you in the dark after your order is placed. Once your booking is confirmed, you should receive regular updates, access to a customer support line, and full details about the assigned carrier and driver. Some services even offer real-time tracking. Your shipping coordinator should remain available to answer questions or help with changes at any time before, during, or after the shipment. Clear communication and helpful support are signs of a reliable company that values customer satisfaction.

To ensure a smooth pickup, have your car clean and accessible with a quarter tank of fuel (no more, no less). Remove all personal items except for anything allowed in the trunk under weight limits. Be sure to have keys ready and the car fully operable unless you’ve arranged otherwise. You’ll also want to have any required documents on hand, such as your ID and proof of insurance. Make sure someone over 18 is present to hand off the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading at pickup.

At delivery, you or a trusted contact must be available to meet the driver and inspect the vehicle. Carefully check for any damage, and compare it to the notes made at pickup. If anything new is found, write it on the Bill of Lading and take clear photos before signing. You’ll also make the final payment—usually in cash, certified check, or money order unless other arrangements were made. Once everything checks out and payment is handled, the vehicle is officially yours again.

If you discover damage after the driver leaves and it wasn’t written on the delivery form, it may be difficult to file a claim. That’s why it’s so important to thoroughly inspect the car before signing anything. If new damage is documented on the Bill of Lading at delivery, you’ll need to contact the transport company’s claims department immediately—within 15 days in most cases. Submitting photos and paperwork quickly gives you the best chance of resolving the issue under the carrier’s insurance coverage.

Carriers are not responsible for mechanical problems that happen while your car is being transported, unless it’s due to negligence during loading or unloading. Issues related to the car’s age, maintenance, or prior condition—such as transmission failure or electrical faults—are not covered. If something does occur during transit, it’s handled on a case-by-case basis. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order before shipping, and document its condition thoroughly just in case questions arise at delivery.

The Bill of Lading is a critical legal document used during transport. It serves as both a receipt and an inspection report. At pickup, the driver will go over the car’s current condition with you and note any visible damage. At delivery, you’ll do the same to see if anything changed. Both parties must sign the form. It’s also used to verify delivery and finalize payment. Always keep a copy of the BOL—it’s your proof of service and the foundation for any insurance claims if needed.

Once you’ve booked your shipment and signed the service agreement, you’re committing to work with that broker exclusively. Trying to arrange the same shipment with another company while under contract is considered a breach and will usually result in the loss of your deposit. It can also confuse carriers and delay your pickup. If you’re unhappy with the service, contact your assigned coordinator before attempting to switch providers. Most issues can be resolved without cancelling the contract or risking penalties.