How to Ship an Auto

A major headache for cross-country and international moves is getting your auto there. Driving it yourself seems like a logical solution, but may not work because of restrictions on your time or separation of departure and destination by water. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make this process easier.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide on the speed of delivery needed. The largest balancing factors to consider are speed of delivery versus cost of delivery. Shipping your auto on a car carrier provides the most modest prices at a speed equivalent equal to driving it there yourself. Send your car in a freighter to cross the sea for a more reasonable price. Fly the auto in if money is no object and you desire a speedy delivery.

2. Take stock of your car's condition and how that may affect shipping. Numerous shipping guidelines must be satisfied for lawful and safe auto shipment. Ensure the auto meets minimum requirements and does not exceed maximum requirements for ground clearance, height, and other considerations. Familiarize yourself with shipping regulations.

3. Shop around for the best rates. Freight shipping, including auto shipping, is a large industry with many competitors for your business. Search the Internet or Yellow Pages for companies operating within the area of your pickup and delivery locations. Investigate with multiple companies to find the best rate for your shipment.

4. Investigate company reputations. With so many potential deliverers, it is best to look into the business' reputations. Contact the Better Business Bureau for company information and information concerning fraud. Ask the delivery representative for references from satisfied clients.

5. Hand off your auto to the shipper. A representative will need to take custody of your vehicle either at a drop-off point or through an at home pickup. Handle any final paperwork that the driver has brought with them. Complete any payment or other obligations before handing your keys over to the driver.

Tips & Warnings

• Inquire about and, if necessary, purchase insurance to protect your vehicle during transport.

• Never relinquish control of your vehicle to any representative of the delivery company until all requirements and paperwork are satisfied.

References

• Shipment Tips
• Shipping Tips

Resources

• Global Auto Shipper