How to Ship a Car: A Step-by-Step Plan From Quote to Delivery

1. Define the shipment before requesting quotes

Write down the vehicle identification details, whether it runs and rolls, the first available pickup date, and the exact origin and destination cities. Note low clearance, narrow streets, gated access, seasonal addresses, and any deadline that cannot move.

A quote is only comparable when the underlying shipment is comparable. Changing the vehicle condition, pickup window, equipment, or delivery location after requesting prices can make a low number look better than it really is.

• Record year, make, model, and modifications
• State whether the vehicle rolls, steers, and brakes
• Ask for a nearby meeting point if a large truck cannot reach the address

2. Verify the provider and read the written terms

Check the broker or carrier’s identity using the current FMCSA record and compare the legal name and MC number with the contract. Reviews can provide context, but they do not replace authority, insurance, identity, or contract checks.

Before paying, find the pickup window, price language, deposit trigger, cancellation rule, carrier-assignment process, and dispute instructions. Ask which charges are included and which events can cause a re-quote.

3. Confirm the actual carrier and prepare the car

Once a carrier is assigned, confirm the carrier’s legal name, MC or DOT identifier, direct phone number, estimated pickup window, and equipment type. If the assignment differs from the original plan, pause and reconcile the change in writing.

Remove personal property and loose accessories, wash the car, photograph every side, and leave only the fuel and items allowed by the written terms. Keep keys, documents, and the photo record together for the handoff.

4. Treat pickup and delivery as evidence checkpoints

At pickup, walk around the vehicle with the driver and compare the condition report with your photographs. Make sure existing marks are described clearly and that the document identifies the vehicle and carrier.

At delivery, inspect before signing. Record new damage, missing accessories, or an inability to inspect because of darkness or weather on the delivery document. Do not rely on a later phone call to correct a clean handoff record.