Moving your car across the country or even across state lines can feel overwhelming. You want your vehicle to arrive safely and on time, but the auto transport industry has its share of pitfalls that can turn your shipping experience into a nightmare.
The good news? Most common car shipping mistakes are completely preventable when you know what to watch out for. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a car online, or sending your classic vehicle to a show, understanding these mistakes will save you time, money, and stress.
Let’s walk through the most frequent errors people make when shipping their cars and how you can avoid them entirely.
Not Researching Transport Companies Thoroughly
One of the biggest mistakes to avoid in car shipping is choosing the first company you find online. Many people get caught up in rock-bottom prices without checking if the company is legitimate.
Here’s what happens when you skip the research phase. You might end up with a broker who disappears after taking your deposit. Or worse, your car could get damaged by an uninsured carrier with no way to recover costs.
Start by checking the company’s USDOT number and MC number. These should be easily found on their website. Use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration database to verify their registration and safety record.
Look for companies with solid customer reviews across multiple platforms. Don’t just check their website testimonials. Check Google Reviews, Better Business Bureau ratings, and transport review sites for honest feedback.
Choosing Price Over Quality Every Time
We get it – shipping a car costs money, and everyone wants a good deal. But the cheapest quote often comes with hidden costs that make it more expensive in the long run.
Super low prices usually mean corners are being cut somewhere. Maybe the carrier doesn’t have proper insurance. Perhaps they use older trucks that break down frequently, causing delays. Some companies quote low prices just to get your business, then hit you with surprise fees later.
Quality transport companies price their services fairly based on distance, vehicle type, and current market conditions. They carry proper insurance, maintain their equipment, and employ experienced drivers.
When comparing quotes, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. Ask about insurance coverage, pickup and delivery timeframes, and what’s included in the price.
Failing to Prepare Your Vehicle Properly
Another common mistake is not preparing your car for transport. This might seem minor, but it can lead to delays, extra charges, or even damage claims being denied.
Remove all personal items from your car before pickup. Transport companies aren’t responsible for personal belongings, and extra weight can affect shipping costs. Plus, loose items can damage your car’s interior during transport.
Take detailed photos of your vehicle from multiple angles before shipping. Document any existing scratches, dents, or other damage. These photos become crucial if you need to file an insurance claim later.
Make sure your car is clean inside and out. A clean vehicle makes it easier to spot any damage that might occur during transport. Also, ensure your gas tank is no more than a quarter full to reduce weight and comply with safety regulations.
Ignoring Insurance Coverage Details
Many people assume their car is fully covered during transport without reading the fine print. This is one of the most costly auto transport pitfalls you can encounter.
Transport companies are required to carry cargo insurance, but coverage limits vary significantly. Some companies only provide basic coverage that might not cover your vehicle’s full value, especially for luxury or classic cars.
Ask specifically about the insurance coverage amount and what’s excluded. Some policies don’t cover certain types of damage or have high deductibles. If the standard coverage isn’t enough, consider purchasing additional insurance through your own auto insurer.
Get all insurance information in writing before signing any contracts. Don’t rely on verbal promises about coverage – they won’t help you if something goes wrong.
Not Reading the Contract Carefully
Rushing through the paperwork is a mistake that can cost you later. Transport contracts contain important details about pickup and delivery terms, cancellation policies, and your rights as a customer.
Pay special attention to the pickup and delivery windows. Most companies provide estimated timeframes, not guaranteed dates. Understanding these windows helps set realistic expectations and avoid frustration.
Look for clauses about additional fees. Some companies charge extra for expedited service, oversized vehicles, or delivery to remote locations. Others have cancellation fees or charges for storage if you’re not available for pickup or delivery.
Make sure you understand the payment terms. Legitimate companies typically require a small deposit up front, with the balance due upon delivery. Be wary of companies demanding full payment up front.
Booking Too Late or During Peak Season
Timing your car shipment poorly can lead to higher costs and limited availability. The auto transport industry has busy seasons when demand outstrips supply, driving up prices and reducing options.
Summer months are typically the busiest for car shipping, with families relocating and students moving to college. Winter routes to warmer states also fill up quickly.
For customers on a tight schedule, most carriers offer expedited transport services that prioritize your vehicle and reduce delivery time. While this option costs more, it can be worth it when you can’t afford delays.
Whenever possible, plan ahead and book early. Securing your spot at least two weeks in advance helps you avoid rush fees and ensures better carrier availability during peak seasons.
Choosing the Wrong Transport Type
Not all car shipping is the same, and choosing the wrong transport type is a common mistake that can affect both cost and your vehicle’s safety.
Open transport is the most common and affordable option. Your car travels on an open trailer, exposed to weather and road debris. This works fine for most everyday vehicles and is how new cars get shipped from factories to dealerships.
Enclosed transport protects from weather and road debris but costs more. This option makes sense for luxury cars, classics, or vehicles with sentimental value. The extra cost might be worth it for peace of mind.
Consider your specific needs when choosing a transport type. A daily driver heading to a new city probably doesn’t need enclosed transport. But your restored classic car or expensive sports car might justify the extra expense.
Not Understanding Pickup and Delivery Logistics
Many customers don’t fully understand how pickup and delivery work, leading to confusion and frustration when the truck arrives.
Most carriers offer residential pickup and delivery, though large trucks can’t always access tight streets or low-clearance areas. In those cases, drivers coordinate a nearby handoff location as a normal part of the process, not a red flag.
Be flexible with pickup and delivery times. Transport companies usually provide windows rather than exact times because truck schedules depend on multiple factors, including traffic, weather, and other customer schedules.
Have someone available during the entire pickup and delivery window. If you can’t be there personally, arrange for someone you trust to handle the process. Missing your scheduled pickup or delivery can result in additional fees and delays.
Overlooking Regional Route Challenges
Different shipping routes come with different challenges and costs. Not understanding these regional factors is one of the mistakes to avoid in car shipping that can affect your timeline and budget.
Popular routes between major cities typically have more carrier options and competitive pricing. Routes like California to New York or Florida to Chicago see regular traffic, making scheduling easier.
Remote or rural areas often cost more and take longer to service. Carriers prefer routes with multiple pickups and deliveries to maximize efficiency. If you’re shipping to or from a small town, expect to pay more and wait longer.
Seasonal weather patterns affect certain routes. Mountain passes might be challenging in winter, while desert routes can be difficult in extreme summer heat. Your transport company should factor these conditions into its scheduling.
7 Critical Steps to Avoid Car Shipping Disasters
Follow these essential steps to ensure a smooth car shipping experience:
- Research companies thoroughly – Check USDOT numbers, insurance certificates, and customer reviews from multiple sources
- Get multiple detailed quotes – Compare services, not just prices, and ask about all potential additional fees
- Prepare your vehicle properly – Remove personal items, document existing damage with photos, and ensure quarter-tank fuel level
- Understand insurance coverage – Review policy limits and exclusions, consider additional coverage if needed
- Read contracts completely – Pay attention to pickup windows, delivery terms, and cancellation policies
- Book with adequate lead time – Reserve your spot at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Stay communicative – Maintain contact with your transport company and be flexible with scheduling requirements
Transport Type Comparison Guide
| Transport Type | Cost | Protection Level | Best For | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open Transport | Lower | Basic | Daily drivers, standard vehicles | 1-2 weeks |
| Enclosed Transport | Higher | Maximum | Luxury cars, classics, exotics | 1-3 weeks |
| Expedited Open | Moderate | Basic | Time-sensitive standard vehicles | 3-7 days |
| Expedited Enclosed | Highest | Maximum | Urgent luxury/classic transport | 3-10 days |
Red Flags That Signal Transport Company Problems
Watch out for these warning signs when selecting a car shipping company. Companies asking for large upfront payments or full payment before pickup are often scams. Legitimate carriers typically collect a small deposit with the balance due on delivery.
Be suspicious of quotes that seem too good to be true. Extremely low prices often indicate hidden fees, poor service, or potential fraud. Quality transport services cost money, and companies need to charge fair rates to operate safely and legally.
Avoid companies that can’t provide proper licensing information or dodge questions about insurance coverage. Professional transport companies are transparent about their credentials and coverage details.
High-pressure sales tactics are another red flag. Reputable companies give you time to make decisions and don’t pressure you to sign immediately. They understand that shipping your car is a significant decision that requires consideration.
Planning for Different Vehicle Types
Different vehicles require different shipping considerations. Standard passenger cars are straightforward to ship and work with most carriers. SUVs and trucks might need special equipment or cost more due to size and weight.
Low-clearance sports cars often require special loading equipment to avoid scraping. Make sure your transport company has experience with performance vehicles and proper equipment for safe loading.
Classic and vintage cars need extra care and should typically use enclosed transport. Their value and irreplaceable nature justify the additional cost and protection.
Motorcycles require completely different equipment and handling procedures. Don’t assume a car transport company can handle motorcycles – verify their motorcycle shipping capabilities separately.
Understanding Seasonal Pricing and Demand
Car shipping costs fluctuate throughout the year based on demand patterns. Understanding these cycles helps you plan and budget more effectively.
Summer months see the highest demand as families relocate before school starts. College students also ship cars during the summer and late spring. This increased demand drives up prices and reduces availability.
Winter shipping patterns focus on north-to-south routes as people escape cold weather or transport seasonal vehicles. Routes to Florida, Arizona, and Southern California become especially busy and expensive.
Spring and fall often offer the best balance of reasonable pricing and good availability. Weather conditions are generally favorable, and demand is more moderate than peak summer months.
Making the Pickup and Delivery Process Smooth
The actual pickup and delivery days require preparation and flexibility. Have all necessary paperwork ready, including registration, insurance information, and photo documentation of your vehicle’s condition.
Inspect your vehicle thoroughly with the driver before loading. Note any existing damage on the bill of lading and make sure both you and the driver sign off on the vehicle’s condition. This documentation protects you if damage occurs during transport.
Be prepared for delivery logistics challenges. Large transport trucks need adequate space for maneuvering and might not be able to reach your exact address. Your driver will contact you to arrange a suitable meeting location if needed.
Payment typically occurs at delivery, so have your payment method ready. Most companies accept cash, certified checks, or money orders. Some accept credit cards, but verify payment options in advance to avoid delays.
Conclusion
Avoiding common car shipping mistakes comes down to preparation, research, and realistic expectations. Take time to thoroughly vet transport companies, understand your contract terms, and prepare your vehicle properly for shipment.
The extra effort you put into planning your car shipment pays off with a smoother experience and better protection for your vehicle.
For a dependable car shipping service that makes the process simple from start to finish, trust Dispatch Dudes to handle every detail with care and expertise.
Our team combines years of industry experience with a commitment to transparent communication and customer satisfaction.At Dispatch Dudes, excellence isn’t just a promise – it’s the standard we deliver on every single day. Contact us today, and experience how stress-free car shipping can be!