Whether you're a first-time car transport customer or a repeat industry client, finding the right car shipping services can be complicated. You must consider the time of year, the type of car you're shipping, your desired delivery window, and many other factors to choose a vehicle shipping company that works for you.
It’s also important to evaluate the reputations of the car transport services you're considering to ensure you're working with a safe, secure company worth your time and money.
To help you send a vehicle from one city to another, we've created this guide on how to choose the right car transportation service. We'll cover everything you need to know so you can make the best decision for your vehicle and your budget.
Find Car Transport Companies That Offer the Services You Need
Before you Google “car haulers for hire near me,” make a list of the essential vehicle transport services you need and use it to guide your search.
There are two common types of car carriers used for door-to-door auto transport: enclosed carriers and open carriers (including multi-car open trailers).
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Open carriers are cost-effective and ideal for most customers. Because drivers can haul multiple vehicles at once, open shipping is typically more affordable and often quicker.
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Enclosed carriers, however, protect your vehicle from weather and road debris. If you’re shipping a luxury, antique, or high-value car (generally valued above $60,000), enclosed transport is the safer choice.
If you’re moving to another country, look for an auto shipper experienced in the logistics of international shipping. For white-glove or concierge services, search for shippers that offer premium door-to-door pickup and delivery.
Once your criteria are set, look for trusted transport companies that offer exactly what you need. A car transport broker like Nexus provides an advantage because they can connect you with a wide range of vetted drivers and transport options.
Regardless of whom you choose, research each company thoroughly. Compare online quotes using their car shipping calculators or call for a detailed consultation.
Check Customer Ratings and Reviews
Business review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and third-party platforms such as TrustRadius provide valuable insights into each company’s reputation. Word of mouth remains one of the best ways to separate reliable car haulers from the rest, so rule out companies with consistent complaints or negative reviews.
When reading reviews, look for companies that emphasize responsive communication, professionalism, and high-quality service. Reputable transport brokers should also be transparent about the drivers they assign to shipments.
Don’t forget to ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Even if they haven’t shipped a car themselves, they may know someone who has.
Verify Their Motor Carrier Number
The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) requires car carriers to display an eight-digit USDOT number to legally transport goods across state lines. Legitimate companies will list this number on their website and provide it upon request.
Car transporters must also have a Motor Carrier (MC) number, issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can use the MC number to check a company’s operating status, inspection history, and contact details.
Always verify these numbers through the USDOT’s online records on the FMCSA website. The site provides easy access to safety-related information, you only need the company’s MC number, USDOT number, or name.
The FMCSA warns against working with brokers or carriers using fake MC numbers. If you suspect a scam, you can file a complaint or call the FMCSA helpline.
Choose Companies That Perform Complete Car Inspections
Your car hauler should have a clear policy for inspecting vehicles before loading and after unloading. Drivers should inspect both the exterior and interior for preexisting damage before pickup and upon delivery.
Your vehicle’s condition must be recorded on the Bill of Lading (BoL). Review this document carefully before signing, and ensure that both you and the driver sign it. Keep a copy for your records in case damage is discovered after delivery.
The USDOT also requires drivers to have a key for every lock on your vehicle. If you don’t have spare keys, make sure to have some ready before the scheduled pickup.
If you can’t be present during inspection, send someone you trust and brief them on your vehicle’s condition and the inspection process. Both signatures, yours (or your representative’s) and the driver’s, are required at pickup and delivery.
Learn About Insurance Coverage and Cancellation Policies
Each independent transporter assigned by a trusted broker should be insured and bonded. If your vehicle is damaged in transit, the carrier’s insurance should cover in-transit damage based on the vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV).
Review the carrier’s insurance policy closely. Some policies don’t cover “Acts of God,” such as hurricanes or tornadoes, which may be more common in coastal or Great Plains regions. A comprehensive personal auto insurance policy can help bridge these gaps.
Top transport brokers like Nexus Auto Transport vet drivers for adequate insurance coverage and provide additional contingency cargo insurance to close potential gaps.
You should also review the transporter’s cancellation policy. Ask about deadlines, penalties, and any fees tied to rescheduling. Some carriers charge for short-notice cancellations, while others may allow free rescheduling. Always get these details in writing.
Inquire About Car Transport Tracking
It’s natural to want updates about your vehicle’s status during transit. The best auto transport companies offer reliable tracking, whether via GPS or direct communication with the driver.
Your transporter should have a dedicated customer service team to help you track your shipment using a tracking number or driver updates. Nexus Auto Transport will contact your driver for you and provide relevant contact information.
Keep in mind that drivers cannot legally answer calls while driving. They should return your calls during rest stops.
While some companies use GPS tracking, many rely on traditional methods such as phone updates. Personalized updates can often be more informative than a GPS pin.
Choose Between Local and Nationwide Car Transportation
As a rule of thumb, book a local transporter for moves under 200 miles. Local providers typically charge more for long-distance or cross-country moves and may decline coast-to-coast shipments altogether.
A nationwide transport broker offers better value for long-distance shipping. Because they partner with a wide network of trucking professionals, they can offer faster service and more competitive pricing.
National companies also tend to have more customer reviews available, making it easier to research their service quality.
Consider Pricing: Don’t Always Choose the Cheapest Option
The golden rule applies here: you get what you pay for.
Be wary of companies that consistently advertise the lowest rates. Unrealistically cheap pricing often signals hidden fees, poor service, or potential scams. Market factors, such as fuel costs and supply and demand, dictate fair pricing.
To get an accurate, honest estimate, use a reliable car shipping calculator like the one from Nexus Auto Transport.
Ask How Payment Works
Most auto transporters require a deposit upfront, with the remaining balance due at delivery. Some carriers accept cash or digital payments, and some offer payment plans. Ask about any transaction or late fees before scheduling.
Car hauling prices vary based on distance, vehicle size, location, seasonality, and timeline. Longer distances typically have a lower per-mile rate, while enclosed carriers cost about 40% more due to increased protection.
Understand the Required Shipping Paperwork
Common shipping documents include:
- Bill of Lading
- Insurance terms and conditions
- Vehicle title and registration
- Photo ID
- Proof of insurance
If someone else is receiving the car, you may need an absent owner authorization form. For international shipments involving a lien, a lienholder authorization form may be necessary.
The Bill of Lading serves as proof of delivery and records your vehicle’s condition at pickup and drop-off. Keep all paperwork organized to avoid issues.
Work With a Car Hauler Broker to Ship Your Vehicle
Top car transport brokers like Nexus Auto Transport simplify the entire process. They help you compare carriers, coordinate logistics, and monitor your shipment from start to finish.
Nexus Auto Transport is an A+ BBB-accredited provider with over 500,000 vehicles shipped and more than 5,000 5-star reviews.
Get your free quote now or call (224) 218-2949 for 24/7 support. We’re here to help.
