Updated October 2026 · HaulHero Auto Transport
To ship a car, you get a quote, check the company's license, book with a pickup window, prepare the car, inspect it with the driver at pickup, and inspect it again at delivery before you sign. Most shipments take 1–10 days in transit depending on distance. Here's each step in order.
1. Get a quote for your route
Price depends on distance, vehicle size, open vs. enclosed transport, whether the car runs, and the season. Have your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, the year/make/model, and a target date ready. For typical prices by distance, see our car shipping cost guide, or run your exact route with an instant quote.
2. Check the company before you book
Every legitimate auto transport broker and carrier is registered with the FMCSA. Ask for the USDOT number and look it up on SAFER: the status should be active and insurance should be on file. Be wary of quotes far below the others and of large upfront deposits. Our scam guide covers the warning signs.
3. Choose open or enclosed transport
Open transport is how most cars ship, including new cars going to dealerships, and it's the most affordable. Enclosed transport costs roughly 30–50% more and protects luxury, classic, and low-clearance vehicles from weather and road debris. Compare open vs. enclosed.
4. Book and get a pickup window
Book 1–2 weeks ahead when you can, and earlier during summer and snowbird season. Pickup dates are a window of a few days, not a fixed appointment, because carriers run multi-stop routes. With HaulHero you pay no deposit when you book. Payment starts only once a carrier is assigned.
5. Prepare your car
Wash it, photograph every side, remove personal items and toll tags, and leave about a quarter tank of fuel. Our 10-step prep checklist has the full list.
6. Inspect the car at pickup
The driver walks around the vehicle with you and notes its condition on the Bill of Lading (BOL), the inspection record you both sign. Check that existing scratches and dents are marked accurately, and keep your copy.
7. Inspect again at delivery, then sign
Before you sign the delivery BOL, walk around the car and compare it to your pickup photos. Note any new damage on the BOL itself, because claims are much harder to pursue once it's signed clean. Transport damage is covered by the carrier's cargo insurance. Read more in auto transport insurance explained.
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