CAR HAUL · YOUR NEXT MOVE
How Car Shipping Works
Shipping a vehicle is easier when every step is clear. From the first quote request through delivery, Car Haul Auto Transport coordinates the shipment details, pickup requirements, transport option, and communication needed for the move.
1. Request a Quote
Provide the pickup and delivery cities or ZIP codes, vehicle year, make and model, operating condition, preferred dates, and your choice of open or enclosed transport. Tell us about auction, dealership, port, oversized-vehicle, motorcycle, boat, or cross-border requirements.
2. Review the Written Quote
Pricing depends on distance, vehicle size and condition, trailer type, route demand, fuel costs, timing, and access requirements. Review what is included, possible additional charges, the estimated pickup window, payment terms, cancellation terms, and the insurance information applicable to the shipment.
3. Confirm Pickup Details
We coordinate the route and pickup plan based on trailer availability and safe access. Share the correct pickup contact, phone number, address, gate or release instructions, and any appointment requirements. Large transport trucks may need to meet at a nearby safe location when streets are narrow or restricted.
4. Prepare and Inspect the Vehicle
Remove personal belongings and loose accessories, leave only a small amount of fuel, check for leaks, and make sure the tires and battery are in usable condition. Take clear dated photos. At pickup, review the vehicle condition report or Bill of Lading before signing.
5. Transport and Updates
The vehicle moves according to the coordinated route and estimated schedule. Pickup and delivery times can change because of weather, traffic, inspections, road restrictions, mechanical issues, and earlier stops. Our team remains available for shipment questions and coordination.
6. Delivery Inspection
Inspect the vehicle before signing the final delivery paperwork. Compare its condition with your pickup photos and the original inspection report. If you see a new issue, document it clearly on the Bill of Lading and take photos before the driver leaves.
Choose the right transport for your vehicle
Open car transport carries your vehicle on an open trailer and is an option for everyday cars, SUVs and pickups. The vehicle is exposed to outdoor conditions during the trip. Share its exact model, dimensions and any modifications so the assigned equipment can be reviewed.
Enclosed auto transport uses a covered trailer. Consider this option when additional protection is a priority, and discuss clearance and loading requirements for a classic, specialty or modified vehicle. A covered trailer does not automatically mean exclusive use or a particular loading system; confirm those arrangements before booking.
For a long-distance move, our state-to-state shipping guide explains how to coordinate addresses, contacts and pickup windows across the country. Route length alone does not determine the right trailer type.
Still deciding? Read open vs enclosed car shipping. Heading south for the season? See how to ship a car to Florida for the winter.
Compare quotes using the same shipment details
Ask each provider to quote the same vehicle, route, condition, transport type and available dates. Review the total price, payment schedule, cancellation terms and any separately identified charges. Clarify what the quote includes and what could change before accepting it. Our car shipping cost guide walks through the factors to compare.
Keep a copy of the written arrangements and the pickup and delivery contacts. If your vehicle, address or availability changes, tell the transport team before dispatch so the plan can be reviewed.
Special Pickup Requirements
- Auctions: confirm the vehicle is paid and released, then provide the buyer number, lot number, gate pass, and storage deadlines.
- Ports: provide the terminal, booking or release details, appointment information, and required documents. Port and terminal rules vary.
- Canada–USA: confirm the vehicle and import paperwork are ready before transport. Customs and import services should be arranged separately when required.
- Motorcycles: provide dimensions and note fairings, custom parts, trike configuration, low clearance, or non-running condition.
- Boats and yachts: provide the overall length, width, height, weight, trailer status, pickup access, and loading requirements. Oversize permits or route planning may be required.
What Affects Pickup and Delivery Timing?
Route demand, location, weather, traffic, vehicle condition, trailer availability, auction or port appointments, and legal driving-hour limits can affect timing. A pickup window is more realistic than promising an exact minute before the transport schedule is confirmed.
Ready to Plan Your Shipment?
Send us the route, vehicle information, and preferred dates for a shipment-specific quote.