A cross-country move comes with huge logistical challenges, and getting your car from one state to another is one of the biggest. Choosing the right transport service, preparing your vehicle and knowing what to expect along the way can save you time, money and unnecessary stress. Here are six tips to help you move your car with confidence and ensure it arrives safely at your new destination.
1. Choose the Right Auto Transport Option
Driving is always an option, especially if you enjoy road trips or want complete control over your schedule. However, it also means accumulating mileage. The average American drives 13,476 miles a year. A coast-to-coast move can add thousands of miles in one go, accelerating wear and tear. If you’d rather avoid adding miles, shipping your car may be the better choice.
Once you’ve decided to ship your vehicle, you’ll need to choose the transport method. Open transport is a common choice. Since your car travels on an open trailer alongside other vehicles, it’s best for everyday sedans, SUVs and pickup trucks. For a luxury, classic or collector car, enclosed transport provides greater protection against weather and debris.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
Shipping costs can vary considerably, so it’s worth setting a budget before requesting quotes. The total price depends on factors such as distance, vehicle size, seasonal demand and transport method. In general, open transport is the more affordable option because carriers can move multiple vehicles simultaneously. Enclosed transport offers added protection, but you may pay up to 60% more for that extra security.
When comparing estimates, review the item lines rather than assuming every quote covers the same services. Consider setting aside room in your budget for optional add-ons, such as expedited delivery, extra insurance or shipping outside a carrier’s standard service area. Planning for these costs up front can help you avoid unexpected fees and stay within budget.
3. Research the Transport Company
A little research can go a long way toward ensuring your vehicle is in good hands. Before requesting a quote, make sure you check the following:
- Verify licensing and registration: Ask for the company’s Motor Carrier number and USDOT number, then confirm both through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- Confirm insurance coverage: Make sure the carrier’s insurance is enough to cover your vehicle, and read the policy carefully to understand any exclusions. Consider keeping your own comprehensive auto insurance to help fill coverage gaps.
- Read recent customer reviews: Look for comments about communication, reliability and on-time deliveries, not just overall ratings.
- Compare more than price: A slightly higher quote may include better insurance, guaranteed pickup or delivery windows, fixed-rate pricing or stronger customer support.
- Ask about extra fees and policies: Find out if there are hidden charges, deposit requirements or cancellation fees before signing everything.
Taking these extra steps is well worth the effort. Considering more than 650,000 vehicles were stolen in the U.S. in 2025, it’s vital to choose a legitimate, trustworthy transportation company.
4. Schedule Your Shipment and Prepare Your Car
Now that you’ve chosen a carrier, don’t wait too long to book your shipment. Many companies recommend scheduling weeks in advance. Before pickup day, remove all personal belongings and leave only about a quarter tank of fuel. That extra fuel adds weight, which can increase shipping costs.
It’s also a good idea to check your tires, battery and fluids. Also, turn off the alarm system and leave a spare key for the driver. Lastly, take photos of your vehicle beforehand so you have a record of its condition in case you ever need to file an insurance claim.
5. Stay in Contact Throughout the Journey
Staying in touch with your transport company can make the waiting much less stressful. Before the carrier leaves, confirm the pickup date, estimated delivery window and who your main point of contact will be. If the company offers GPS tracking or regular shipment updates, take advantage of them. Otherwise, ask how often you should expect progress reports and how to request an update.
Always keep realistic expectations about timing. A survey found that about 18% of people expect their car to arrive within a week, but delivery dates are estimates that can change due to weather, traffic or route adjustments. Keeping your phone handy and maintaining regular communication with the carrier will help you stay informed. Respond quickly to any schedule changes to prepare for your vehicle’s arrival.
6. Inspect Your Vehicle Carefully Before Signing
When your car arrives, resist the urge to sign the paperwork right away. Take a few minutes to inspect the entire vehicle and compare its condition with the photos you took before shipment. Check for new dents, scratches, cracked glass or any other visible damage. Ideally, check in daylight or in a well-lit area where small imperfections are easier to spot.
If you find anything unusual, photograph it immediately and record it on the bill of lading before signing. This step is essential because the bill of lading documents your vehicle’s condition at the time of delivery. If damage isn’t noted before you accept the vehicle, proving it happened during transport can be extremely difficult.
Insurers won’t pay out automatically. In 2025, New York insurers closed nearly half of auto liability claims. Over the past two decades, the share of claims closed without payment has increased by 44%. With so many claims denied, taking a few extra minutes to inspect your car carefully can be a lifesaver should you ever need to file a claim.
Get Ready for the Long Haul
By the time your car reaches its destination, most of the work should already be done. Planning, choosing a reputable carrier and documenting your vehicle throughout its journey can help ensure your cross-country move ends exactly as it should.
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