How to Ship a Car Cross-Country: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re moving across the country and need your car with you, shipping it beats a long road trip almost every time. I’ve helped plenty of people figure out the process, and the good news is that it’s a lot more straightforward than most assume. You just have to follow a clear sequence and ask the right questions. In this guide, I’ll take you through the entire process, step by step.

Why Ship Your Car Instead of Driving?

Driving cross-country sounds like an adventure, but it also means putting thousands of miles on your vehicle, paying for gas, hotels, and meals, and taking days off work. For many, the cost of driving actually ends up higher than shipping, especially when you factor in wear and tear. Plus, if you’re moving for a new job or a military reassignment, your time is limited.

Shipping a car also makes sense if your vehicle isn’t reliable enough for a cross-country trip, or if you just don’t want to deal with the logistics of moving two cars with a family. And if you’re buying a car from a seller in another state, shipping it to your doorstep is often the easiest way to get it home.

Step 1: Get Accurate Quotes and Understand Pricing

The first thing you’ll do is request quotes from auto transport brokers and carriers. You can fill out an online form to get multiple quotes at once, or contact a few companies directly. The quote will typically be based on the distance, the route (idle corridors are cheaper), the type of transport (open or enclosed), your vehicle’s make and model, and the time of year.

Don’t just take the lowest number. A quote that’s far below others is a red flag. I’ve seen cases where low-ball quotes come with hidden fees or poor service. Expect to pay somewhere between $1,000 and $1,800 for a typical cross-country shipment on an open carrier, but prices can vary. Enclosed transport will cost more—often 30% to 50% higher.

What’s Included in the Quote?

Ask what the quote includes. Does it cover fuel surcharges? Is there a deposit required? Some companies charge extra for a guaranteed pickup or delivery window. Always get the final price in writing before you agree.

Step 2: Choose Between Open and Enclosed Transport

This is one of the biggest decisions. Open transport is the most common method—your car gets loaded onto a multi-level carrier and shipped alongside other vehicles. It’s cheaper and perfectly fine for most cars, but your vehicle is exposed to weather, road debris, and other hazards.

Enclosed transport puts your car inside a covered trailer, protecting it from the elements. This is the better choice for classic cars, luxury vehicles, and any car that’s precious to you. If you own a classic or exotic car, you may want to read our guide on classic car shipping for collectors for more insights.

Step 3: Booking the Right Company

Now it’s time to pick a company. Look for a licensed and insured carrier or broker. US Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers are standard—any legitimate company should be able to provide them. Check online reviews and the Better Business Bureau rating, but don’t rely solely on those. Ask for references if you’re dealing with a smaller company.

Understand the difference between a broker and a carrier. Brokers match you with carriers but don’t own the trucks. Carriers are the actual companies that transport your car. Some brokers are excellent, but you need to make sure the carrier they choose is reputable. You can ask the broker which carrier they plan to use and then check that carrier’s reviews as well.

Step 4: Prepare Your Car for Shipping

Before the driver arrives, you’ll need to get your car ready. Start with a thorough wash and a detailed inspection. Remove any personal items from the car—most transport companies won’t allow them, and they add weight and potential liability. Don’t leave your garage door opener, mail, or loose change in the glovebox.

Ensure your car has about a quarter tank of gas—that’s plenty for loading and unloading. Check for any leaks, and fix them if you can. If your car is a convertible, make sure the top is in good condition and the windows are closed. Also, disable the alarm: it could go off in transit and drain the battery.

Document Everything

Take time-stamped photos of the vehicle’s exterior, including the dashboard (mileage) and any existing damage. You’ll use these photos to compare against the condition report. Also, review your own auto insurance policy to see if you have coverage for shipping. If not, the transport company’s insurance will cover you, but knowing the limits is essential.

Step 5: Pickup Day and the Bill of Lading

On pickup day, the driver will do a thorough inspection with you and note any damage on the Bill of Lading. This document is your official contract. It states the pickup and delivery locations, the agreed price, and a detailed condition report. Review it carefully before you sign.

Take your own photos while the driver is present and get a copy of the signed Bill of Lading. This is your proof of the car’s condition before shipment. If the driver is late, stay flexible—transit delays happen. But if the driver doesn’t show up after a day or two, contact the broker immediately.

Step 6: During Transit—What to Expect

Once your car is loaded, you’ll get a pickup confirmation. Most carriers will drop off the vehicle within 1 to 2 weeks for cross-country trips, depending on the route and time of year. Some routes are more direct than others. Winter weather can slow down transit, especially in the northern states.

You can call the broker for status updates, but don’t expect real-time GPS tracking. It’s not common. Just stay in touch and know that silence usually means everything is fine.

Step 7: Delivery and Final Inspection

When the driver calls to schedule delivery, you have options: you can have the car dropped at your door or meet the driver at a terminal. Door-to-door is more convenient but might be tricky if your street is narrow or there are low-hanging branches. If that’s the case, a terminal pickup might be safer.

Inspect your car thoroughly before signing off. Look for new damage, check the odometer for any extra miles, and test the locks and windows. If you notice any issues, note them on the Bill of Lading before you sign. If the driver refuses to note the damage, take photos and write ‘pending’ on the Bill of Lading. You can file a claim afterwards.

Comparing Your Shipping Options

Here’s a quick comparison of key differences between open and enclosed transport:

Factor	Open Transport	Enclosed Transport
Cost	Lower (base cost)	Higher (30-50% more)
Protection	Exposed to weather/debris	Fully protected from elements
Speed	Generally faster	May be slower (fewer routes)
Best for	Standard cars, daily drivers	Classic, luxury, or high-value cars

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until the last minute. Booking a couple of days before your move means fewer carriers and higher prices. Try to book at least two weeks ahead, ideally longer if you’re moving during the summer peak season.

Another mistake is not reading the contract. The Bill of Lading has all the details, but many people skim it. Take the time to read every line. If something isn’t clear, ask.

Finally, don’t forget to empty the car. I’ve known people who left a laptop or a suitcase in the trunk, only to have it missing upon delivery. Most carriers won’t cover personal items—they’re not liable for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

We cover a lot more in our other guides, like how to ship a classic car safely and whether open transport for classic cars is risky. If you’re in a hurry, though, here are quick answers to the most common questions.

Can I ship a car cross-country with personal items inside?

Generally, no. Most transport companies prohibit personal items for liability reasons and because they add weight. If you need to ship personal belongings, use a separate moving service.

How long does cross-country car shipping take?

Typically, it takes 1 to 2 weeks depending on distance and route. Coast-to-coast shipments usually run about 10 days, but peaks and weather can extend that.

Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?

Yes, you or someone you authorize should be there to inspect the car and sign the Bill of Lading. You’ll also need to hand over the keys and keep the car accessible for the driver.

What if my car gets damaged during transport?

If you notice damage at delivery, note it on the Bill of Lading before you sign. Then file a claim with the transport company’s insurance. Make sure you get written confirmation of the claim and keep your photos.

Can I ship an inoperable vehicle?

Yes, but it costs extra. You’ll need to inform the transport company in advance, and they may require additional services like a winch or forklift loading.

Ready to Ship?

Shipping a car cross-country is a manageable process when you know what to expect. Start early, compare quotes, and prepare your vehicle. The few hours you spend on prep will save you headaches later. If you have a classic or collectible car, do more research on special care. And if you’re still unsure, reach out to a couple of reputable auto transport companies—they’ll be happy to walk you through their process.

Frequently asked questions

Can I ship a car cross-country with personal items inside?

Most auto transport companies prohibit personal items in the vehicle. They add weight and create liability issues. If you need to move personal belongings, use a separate shipping service or pack them in your luggage.

How long does cross-country car shipping take?

Typical transit time is 1 to 2 weeks. A coast-to-coast shipment often runs around 10 days, but it can vary due to route, season, and weather. Ask your carrier for an estimated delivery window.

Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?

Yes. You or an authorized person must be present to inspect the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading. You’ll also need to provide the keys and ensure the car is accessible for loading and unloading.

What if my car gets damaged during transport?

Before signing the Bill of Lading at delivery, note any damage in writing. Take photographs. Then file a claim with the transport company’s insurance. Federal law requires carriers to have minimal liability coverage, but you can purchase additional coverage.

Can I ship an inoperable vehicle?

Yes, but it costs extra. You must notify the transport company in advance. Inoperable vehicles may require special equipment like a winch, which adds to the price. Some companies may refuse to ship them.