When it’s time to relocate, whether you’re moving for a new job, heading off to college, or simply starting fresh, one critical question may arise: How do I ship my car to another state? Transporting a vehicle across state lines can seem daunting, especially if it’s your first time. However, with proper planning, the right shipping partner, and a clear understanding of each step, you can ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on schedule.

Step 1 – Research and Compare Providers

Before anything else, you’ll want to identify reliable auto transport companies. Not all providers are created equal, so doing your homework early is essential.

Evaluate Experience and Reputation

Start by seeking companies with substantial experience in out-of-state car shipping. A company with a long-standing track record will likely have tried-and-tested procedures for handling issues like cross-state permits, insurance coverage, and customer service.

Tips:

• Look for providers with at least 5-10 years of experience.
• Check customer reviews on Google, BBB, and transport review sites.
• Ask about their insurance policies and registration with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).

Identify the Right Service Type

There are different shipping services available:

• Open Transport: Your vehicle is shipped on an open trailer with other vehicles. This method is more affordable but exposes your car to the elements.
• Enclosed Transport: The vehicle is protected inside a trailer, which is ideal for luxury or classic cars.
• Door-to-Door Service: Pick-up and drop-off at your chosen locations.
• Terminal-to-Terminal Service: Drop-off and pick-up at designated shipping terminals.

Choose the service that best matches your budget and vehicle protection needs.

Step 2 – Get and Review Quotes

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential shipping companies, the next step is to gather and compare quotes.

Request Multiple Quotes

Don’t settle on the first quote you receive. Collect at least 3–5 estimates to better understand the market price and scope of services included.

What a Good Quote Should Include:

• Type of service (open/enclosed, door-to-door, etc.)
• Estimated delivery window
• Full cost breakdown
• Insurance details
• Any additional fees (e.g., fuel surcharge, expedited shipping)

Beware of Low-Ball Offers

If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Extremely low offers can indicate hidden fees, subpar service, or even unlicensed carriers. Instead, focus on companies that offer transparency and fair pricing.

Step 3 – Prepare Your Car for Pick-up

Now that you’ve chosen a provider and scheduled your shipping date, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for transport.

Clean and Inspect the Vehicle

Start by thoroughly washing your car. This makes it easier to document its condition before shipping. Once clean, take detailed photos of the exterior and interior.

Checklist:

• Capture dents, scratches, and dings from all angles.
• Photograph the odometer reading.
• Save the images in a dated folder or cloud storage.

Remove Personal Items and Valuables

Auto transport companies are not responsible for personal items left in your car. Remove:

• Electronics (GPS, chargers)
• Documents (registration, insurance cards)
• Loose items that could shift during transit

Perform Basic Maintenance

Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy to be loaded onto a transport truck.

• Check fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake, and transmission)
• Make sure tires are properly inflated
• Disable any alarm systems
• Leave the gas tank about ¼ full

Step 4 – Track and Receive Delivery

As your vehicle is en route, you’ll want to stay informed on its location and estimated delivery time.

Real-Time Tracking

Most reputable car shipping companies provide tracking tools or real-time updates via phone, email, or mobile apps. If tracking is important to you, confirm this feature is included during the quote stage.

Final Delivery and Inspection

Once your car arrives at its destination:

• Conduct a visual inspection using your pre-transport photos as reference.
• Look for any new damage and note it on the Bill of Lading.
• If damage is found, report it immediately and file a claim with the shipping company.

Assuming no issues, you’ll simply sign the delivery receipt and take possession of your vehicle.

FAQs

What paperwork is needed to ship out of state?

The paperwork requirements may vary slightly depending on the provider, but typically you’ll need:

• A valid government-issued ID
• Vehicle registration and proof of ownership
• Insurance documentation
• Signed Bill of Lading at pick-up and delivery

For leased or financed vehicles, you may also need written authorization from the lienholder.

How do I track my car in transit?

Most modern transport companies offer GPS tracking, while others provide scheduled updates via text or email. Be sure to ask about their tracking process in advance. Some premium services offer 24/7 tracking access through an online dashboard or app.

Is out-of-state shipping more expensive?

Yes, generally speaking, shipping your car out of state is more expensive than intra-city or regional transport. Costs are influenced by:

• Total distance
• Route demand
• Vehicle size and weight
• Type of transport (open vs. enclosed)
• Season (summer and holidays are peak times)

However, long-distance shipping can also yield better value when booked early and with the right provider.

Choose a Trusted Partner: Dealers Choice Auto Transport

When it comes to something as important as your vehicle, don’t leave anything to chance. With over 50 years of experience, Dealers Choice Auto Transport has earned its reputation as the #1 car shipping service for a reason.

Why Choose Us?

• Decades of Experience: Our team understands every nuance of interstate shipping, from permits and paperwork to route planning and logistics.
• Customer-First Approach: Hundreds of satisfied clients return to us time and time again because of our dedication to transparency, communication, and safety.
• Comprehensive Services: We don’t just move personal vehicles—we also handle heavy hauling, heavy equipment transport, and freight shipping.
• Fully Licensed & Insured: Your car is covered every mile of the journey, with industry-leading insurance options available for added peace of mind.

From the moment your car is picked up to the time it’s delivered to your new state, our expert team will support you fully. We’re here to answer any questions, walk you through the process, and provide real-time updates every step of the way.

Ready to Get Started?

Don’t waste time with companies that treat you like just another number. Choose a provider with the experience, professionalism, and customer dedication to do the job right.

Contact us today to request a free quote and start the process of shipping your car to another state with total confidence. Whether you’re moving across the country or just a few states away, we’re here to make your car transport experience smooth, secure, and stress-free.