How to Ship Your Car to Another State

Ship your car to another state with a car moving company that's dependable and affordable.

If you need to ship your car to another state, the cost will depend on what kind of car it is, where the car is being picked up, where it's going, and what's included in the car transport service. Here is how to get state to state car shipping that is reliable and efficient.

Things You'll Need

• sedan, station wagon, SUV, Volkswagon, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Cadillac, Lexus, Jeep or whatever vehicle you're transporting
• Clean car
• Bill of lading
• Car shipping company
• pickup location for your car
• destination for your car to be delivered

Instructions

1. Make sure it is worth it to ship your car to another state. Compare the costs of renting or leasing a car or buying a new car. To ship your car to another state may cost an affordable few hundred dollars or a couple of thousand, depending on the size and weight of the car and the destination and pickup points.

2. Choose an economical but reliable car transport company that's in good standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or one that someone you know recommends. Call several car shippers and get quotes, being sure to ask what is included--fees, insurance, etc.

3. Decide whether you want car shipping door to door, whether you want your car transported on a vehicle transport or driven, and if using a vehicle transport, whether you want your car enclosed or on an open bed.

4. Arrange with the car transport company to pick up your car. Because the car shipper may need to travel to your pickup point in your state, they may take a few days to get there. Choose a date that's as close as possible to your departure time if you are meeting the car on the other end, so you can minimize your time without a car and so you can be sure of being at your destination point to receive the car.

5. Clean your car of any debris, clutter and personal items. When you ship your car to another state, the car transport company is not responsible for any personal items you leave. There may be laws forbidding the car mover to transport your personal property.

6. When your car is picked up for transport to another state, inspect the car and make sure the bill of lading accurately reflects the condition of the car. Read the fine print and sign the form to release the car.

7. Be patient when you ship your car to another state. Allow a window of a few days for the car to arrive at the designated arrival point.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact the company that's moving your car if you want to know the status of the car move at any time.