Frequently Asked Questions

We've broken down car shipping services into a few, easy steps for our clients:

• Request a quote from Nexus Auto Transport with your delivery/pickup zip codes, car size, and desired shipping window.
• Choose a full credit/debit transaction or partial cash payment. Cash at delivery waives a 5% processing fee.
• Choose between open and enclosed transport.
• Note special circumstances like inoperable shipping before finalizing payment.
• We will assign a reliable third-party carrier on the correct route and timeline.
• The third-party carrier picks up your car, secures it on a transport trailer, and delivers it to your chosen destination.

Yes. Professional car shipping is one of the safest ways to move your vehicle long-distance. Every third-party carrier certified by Nexus Auto Transport has been handpicked for their experience, safety records, and overall quality of service.

Your car will be secured and strapped down in an open or enclosed trailer, remaining stationary during transit. This eliminates road wear and mechanical stress from driving a car yourself, along with maintaining the car's current value.

Most shipments arranged through Nexus are assigned to a third-party carrier within one to three days of your first available pickup date; however, pickup and delivery timeframes are estimates only and are not guaranteed. Actual transit times depend on distance, route conditions, weather, traffic, mechanical issues, and third-party carrier availability.

As a licensed transportation broker, Broker Company coordinates shipment with independent third-party motor carriers. While we remain available to assist with communication and provide status updates as information becomes available, all transportation services are performed by the assigned third-party carrier.

Booking your shipment one to two weeks in advance gives Nexus more flexibility to secure the best third-party carrier and rate. We do offer fast pickup services built to minimize wait times and meet tight schedules. Just select "expedited" on the sidebar on your quote retrieval screen to get started.

Absolutely. Nexus Auto Transport can arrange transport for inoperable cars, SUVs, vans, trucks, and more. We work with specialized third-party carriers trained to use winches, lift gates, and other equipment to load and unload inoperable vehicles safely. Be sure to let us know your vehicle's condition prior to booking so we can assign the right third-party carrier.

To generate an instant quote from our car shipping cost calculator, you'll need to provide:

• Pickup and delivery ZIP codes
• Vehicle size
• Desired pickup date
• A valid email & phone number

That's all it takes! We'll offer you two quotes for your shipment, a credit/debit quote and a part-cash quote (sans a 5% processing fee). You can personalize your quote based on your payment preferences and additional needs such as:

• Enclosed car shipping
• Inoperable vehicle transport
• Expedited transportation

Our Car Shipping Calculator uses this data to deliver a precise, all-inclusive estimate with no hidden fees.

Yes. Nexus Auto Transport offers door-to-door car shipping nationwide. Your assigned driver picks up and delivers your vehicle as close as possible to your specified addresses. If local restrictions, such as narrow streets or low bridges, prevent direct access, your driver will contact you to coordinate a nearby safe meeting point.

Yes. 95% of customers select open transport for affordability and quick scheduling. For luxury, classic, or vehicles valued at $70,000 or more, enclosed transport provides maximum protection from weather, sight, and road debris.

If you're unsure which option is best for you, call a Nexus transport specialist at (224) 218-2949. We're happy to assist.

Driving long-distance adds unnecessary mileage, wear, and fuel costs. It also adds the stress of a multi-day road trip and the potential of lost work income. Nexus Auto Transport takes the load off your shoulders with the help of licensed, trusted professional third-party auto carriers.

Nexus is staffed by dozens of car shipping support specialists and dispatch experts with decades of combined industry experience. Rather than limiting you to car transport companies in your area, a dedicated Nexus associate vets multiple options to ensure you get the perfect driver with the proper licensing, equipment, and reputation.

With 10+ years in the business, Nexus continues to build relationships with the top independent car shipping companies in the United States. This gives us a unique advantage to handpick 5-star drivers for every order. Efficiency and customer care are key. The only drivers Nexus contracts are those that put our clients first.

Yes. Nexus Auto Transport experts are versed in coordinating multi-vehicle shipments for private clients, dealerships, corporations, and more. We also offer multi-vehicle shipping discounts!

Call (224) 218-2949 for more information about your next multi-car transport order.

You can reach a live agent by phone at (224) 218-2949 during the following business hours:

• Weekdays: 7am to 11pm EST
• Weekends: 8am to 7pm EST

You can also directly contact us 24/7 via the information field at this link.

Once your vehicle is assigned to a third-party carrier, Nexus Auto Transport will provide you with direct contact information for the third-party carrier. Your third-party carrier typically calls at least one hour before arrival at pickup and delivery locations to confirm your meeting arrangements.

You can also contact your assigned dispatcher or customer support specialist at 224-276-8249 for updates.

Third-party carriers often accept car transport orders 24-48 hours from your first available pickup date. Assignment times may vary depending on your car shipping route, pickup and delivery locations, and current third-party carrier demand. Nexus Auto Transport notifies you immediately via email once a third-party carrier is confirmed.

You, or a designated person over 18 years old must release the vehicle to the third-party carrier at pickup and sign the bill of lading. The same applies at delivery to accept the vehicle and sign off on the condition report.

If you are unable to meet your third-party carrier at one or both points, give us a call at 224-276-8249, and if applicable, provide us with the name and contact info of your designated party.

You can start your booking with a pickup and delivery zip code. The exact pickup or delivery addresses can be updated with dispatch when available.

Leave roughly ¼ tank of gas for loading, unloading, and short movements on the trailer. Full tanks add weight and could add to your overall car transport bill.

All personal items should be removed from the vehicle unless previously approved by the third-party carrier. Extra weight may result in added charges or a refusal to ship. Please call 224-276-8249 with any special circumstances and we'll be glad to find a third-party carrier that fits.

Yes. Nexus Auto Transport works with a nationwide network of specialized third-party carriers to accommodate oversized or modified vehicles. Call 224-276-8249 for a customized quote.

If your location cannot safely accommodate a large vehicle carrier due to narrow streets, low overhangs, or tight turns, the third-party carrier will contact you to coordinate a nearby alternative location, such as a grocery store or parking lot, for pickup and delivery.

In rare cases, vehicles may need to be routed through a terminal, especially if:

• Your pickup/delivery locations are inaccessible
• The schedule requires temporary storage before final delivery
• The third-party carrier is unable to contact you about alternative delivery arrangements.

Your third-party carrier and designated Nexus Auto Transport expert will communicate any changes ahead of time.

An auto transport bill of lading documents your car's condition at pickup and serves as an official shipping agreement between a client and a shipper.

Inspect your vehicle carefully before shipment and note any pre-existing damage. This damage needs to be included on the BoL for future insurance claims. All insurance claims and coverage are the primary responsibility of the independent owner/operators we assign.

For most standard shipments, we recommend 1–3 weeks' advance notice of your first available pickup date. Nexus Auto Transport also offers premium expedited shipping for last-minute transport for an added fee. This places your vehicle(s) at the top of our priority queue for quick processing.

Yes. Call 224-276-8249 to cancel before a third-party carrier is assigned for a $75.00 fee. Cancellations and refunds are no longer possible after a vehicle is picked up. If you have questions about your order and its current assignment status, contact us as soon as possible. We're here to find the solution for you.

No. The first available date is the earliest your vehicle can be picked up based on current third-party availability along your route. Actual pickup may be adjusted based on third-party carrier proximity, third-party carrier schedules, concurrent shipments, weather concerns, and more.

Yes. Once our dispatch team okays a third-party carrier, we will provide you with the third-party carrier's full contact info. While third-party carrier's cannot respond while on the road, they will do their best to get back to you as soon as possible.

Vehicle transport rates are assessed based on several factors, including:

• Distance between pickup and delivery locations
• Vehicle make, model, size, and weight
• Vehicle condition (running or non-running)
• Type of carrier: open or enclosed
• Time of year (seasonal demand)
• Optional add-ons such as enclosed transport

For a precise, up-to-the-minute quote, use our instant car shipping cost calculator.

Yes. High vehicle values can sometimes necessitate added cargo insurance coverage or specialized transport such as enclosed shipping. It's not usually a direct one-to-one pricing impact, but value can matter.

Car transport rates shift with periodic supply and demand. Peak seasons (spring and summer) may cost more due to higher demand and limited driver availability. Off-peak times, like late winter or fall, often offer better pricing.

Learn more about the ins and outs of seasonal auto relocation here.

Yes. Nexus Auto Transport is proud to offer service discounts for the following:

• Cash payments (eliminates 5% processing fee)
• Military personnel (active or retired)
• Car dealerships (visit our Nexus Dealer Portal for terms)
• Multi-vehicle shipments

Call 224-218-2949 for more discount information.

Yes. Most drivers prefer cash in hand at delivery. As a thank you to our customers and hard-working transporters, Nexus Auto Transport waives a 5% processing fee for cash and partial-cash transactions.

Yes. Nexus is privileged to honor all active and retired military personnel for their service. Call 224-218-2949 and a Nexus support expert will personally apply your discount.

Nexus Auto Transport offers two initial quotes for car transportation services:

• Standard price: A one-time charge will be assessed once a trusted third-party car carrier is assigned to your order.
• Discounted cash price: Pay an agreed-upon deposit at third-party carrier assignment and we'll waive the 5% processing fee. The remainder is due to your third-party carrier at pickup or delivery (cash, money order, and cashier's check often preferred)

Credit cards cannot be used for balances due at pickup/delivery. Some third-party carriers accept select electronic payment apps such as Zelle and CashApp. Contact your third-party carrier directly for more information.

Yes. Federal law requires full payment for car shipping services rendered. Nexus Auto Transport is here to help resolve concerns between you and your third-party carrier, but withholding payment is not permitted.

Before a third-party carrier is assigned: You will be refunded your full deposit, minus a $75 cancellation fee.

After a third-party carrier is scheduled: Deposit (or your initial debit/credit payment) becomes non-refundable to fairly compensate the third-party auto carrier.

Confirmation of pickup, delivery dates, and third-party carrier info will be provided before dispatch.

There are several ways that informed customers can reduce auto shipping costs:

• Shipping cars during off-peak seasons
• Picking easy-to-access locations for pickup and delivery
• Select open carrier for lowest pricing
• Remain open to scheduling shifts and be flexible

Larger or heavier vehicles (trucks, SUVs, lifted/lowered cars) carry extra weight which often affects fuel and load limits for car transporters. Reduced space and added weight often leads to higher transporter pricing to accommodate the potential loss of other shipping orders.

Yes. You may secure complimentary quotes at any time via our Nexus Auto Transport car shipping cost calculator. There are no obligations and all quotes can be saved for seven days as you decide.

Most third-party vehicle carriers ask that all cabs and trunks be cleared of personal belongings. Exceptions may be allowed from transporter to transporter for an additional fee.

Note: Items left inside may not be covered by independent cargo insurance policies. Call 224-276-8249 with any questions or concerns.

Secure all loose parts, remove luggage racks, remove or deactivate toll pass, ensure that the vehicle is in good working condition (unless you selected non-running vehicle shipping), disarm any alarm system, remove all personal belongings/sensitive materials/do not store dangerous or illegal items inside the car.

Yes. Heavier vehicles increase carrier fuel consumption and cut into carrier load limits. If there is excess weight not accounted for prior to dispatch, it may lead to added charges including fines incurred at weigh stations.

Yes. Special vehicle carriers with winches will load non-running vehicles safely. Additional fees may apply due to extra handling or equipment required. Specify the vehicle condition when booking.

No. You may ship a car without current licensing and registration.

Yes. Nexus Auto Transport works with specialized car transporters dedicate to protecting the paint and body work of classic and exotic cars.

Nexus recommends premium enclosed shipping for all high-value vehicles. While it can often take longer to schedule, enclosed transport is the perfect solution for classic, exotics, muscle cars, antiques, and other hard-to-find vehicles.

Unless specified, your vehicle will be transported on an open carrier. It is the most common form of domestic car shipping, with most carriers featuring two levels and up to ten vehicles' worth of capacity. You may select enclosed shipping prior to scheduling for an added fee.

The full protection offered by enclosed transport is essential for high-value, exotic, classic, and muscle cars.

Here are some small tasks for you to perform prior to your driver's arrival:

• Remove all personal items (unless specified)
• Lower fuel to ¼ tank fuel tank at ¼ full
• Ensure operating condition (unless non-running option is booked)
• Note pre-existing damage to write on the bill of lading
• Clean inside and out for easier inspection

• Government-issued ID (2 copies)
• Vehicle registration
• Shipper and consignee info
• Notarized Bill of Sale (if required)
• Lien holder authorization (if applicable)
• Certified title copies
• Power of Attorney for document clearance at some ports

Check destination country requirements for any additional documentation.

No. However, you must appoint someone over 18 to:

• Release the vehicle and provide keys at pickup
• Sign inspection reports at pickup and delivery
• Receive keys and provide balance due at delivery

Once Nexus Auto Transport connects you with a third-party carrier, we will provide you with their company dispatcher's direct contact information.

Expect a call at least one hour before pickup and delivery. Feel free to contact your third-party carrier at any time, or call 224-276-8249 for assistance from our in-house dispatch and support teams.

Third party carriers usually set their schedules 24–48 hours before pickup. Assignments may occur slightly earlier or later, depending on the shipping route and third-party carrier availability. You will be notified as soon as a third-party carrier is confirmed.

We work to match third-party carriers with schedules that meet your requested car shipping window. Third-party carriers accept orders based on proximity and availability.

Our dispatch team will contact you as soon as a third-party carrier is assigned. If you have questions about the current status of your order, call 224-276-8249 for immediate assistance.

Pickup and delivery dates are estimated, not guaranteed, due to road conditions, traffic, or route changes.

For specific needs, call us at (224) 218-2949 for a customized quote.

Nexus Auto Transport makes it easy for you to differentiate pre-existing and incurred damage, and contact your third-party carrier accordingly:

• Document and note pre-existing and incurred damage on the bill of lading before pickup and delivery.
• Contact your third-party carrier immediately.
• Provide estimates and documentation for an insurance claim.

All claims are handled by the third-party carriers and owner/operators we assign. Please retain all contact information until your claim has been settled.

While we do not have an in-house team of drivers, Nexus Auto Transport has built a decade's worth of relationships with the top car transporters in the United States.

Our dispatch team has ample combined experience in selecting and monitoring third-party carriers, building lasting relationships that benefit our clients. Call 224-276-8249 and we'll be happy to walk you through our vetting process.

You have two payment options when scheduling car shipping through Nexus Auto Transport:

• Standard payment: Pay in full via credit/debit. You will be charged for the full balance once a driver is dispatched.
• Cash discount: Pay an agreed-upon deposit once a driver is assigned. Remaining balance due at pickup/delivery via cash, money order, or cashier's check. Credit cards cannot be used for COD/COP. Some electronic payments such as Zelle and CashApp may be accepted.