How Vehicle Shipping Works

Vehicle shipping moves your car from point A to point B on a specialized auto-transport trailer, typically through a coordinated chain of shipper, agent or broker, dispatcher and carrier driver. Understanding each step helps you set realistic expectations and avoid surprises.

How Vehicle Shipping Works

Step 1: Quote and booking

The process starts with a quote. You provide pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle year/make/model, condition (running or not), preferred transport type and target shipping date. Pricing reflects the actual market rate for your specific lane and vehicle.

Step 2: Carrier dispatch

Once you approve the quote, your agent dispatches the load to a vetted carrier whose route matches yours. You receive driver contact info and a pickup window — typically 1 to 5 business days.

Step 3: Pickup and bill of lading

The driver inspects the vehicle, documents existing damage on the bill of lading, loads the vehicle and provides you a signed copy. Keep this document — it's the foundation of any potential damage claim.

Step 4: Transit

The vehicle moves with other loads on the carrier's route. Federal hours-of-service rules limit drivers to about 11 hours of driving per day, so expect approximately 400–500 miles per day in transit.

Step 5: Delivery and final inspection

At delivery, you and the driver review the vehicle against the original bill of lading. Note any new damage in writing before signing — that's your protected window to file a claim.

Common terms you'll hear

Carrier (the trucking company that physically moves the vehicle), Broker/Agent (the company that coordinates), Bill of Lading (the inspection and contract document), Door-to-door (pickup and delivery at your addresses), Terminal-to-terminal (drop-off and pickup at fixed locations).

Ready to ship?

Call (865) 267-6089 or visit our contact page for a free quote.

Get expert help

Have questions or ready to ship? Call (865) 267-6089 or request a free quote.

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