Business

What You Need to Know Before Shipping Your Car Across States

May 15, 2025

Shipping your car across states can be a convenient way to move your vehicle without the stress of driving it long distances. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a car out of state, or need to move a car to a new home, knowing the ins and outs of the process is essential. Here’s what you need to know before shipping your car across state lines to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Choose the Right Shipping Method

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which shipping method to choose. There are two main options: open transport and enclosed transport.

Open transport: This is the most common and cost-effective method. Your car will be loaded onto an open-air carrier, which can carry several vehicles at once. While this option exposes your vehicle to the elements, it’s usually perfectly safe, especially for standard cars.
Enclosed transport: If you’re shipping a luxury, classic, or high-value car, you might prefer enclosed transport. Your vehicle will be placed in a covered trailer, protecting it from weather, debris, and potential damage during transport. This option is more expensive, but it offers added peace of mind for more valuable cars.

Knowing which method suits your car and budget is the first step in preparing for the process.

Understand the Cost Factors

The cost of shipping a car can vary depending on several factors. It’s important to understand what influences the price before committing to a company.

Distance: Naturally, the longer the distance, the higher the cost. However, prices can also fluctuate depending on the specific route and regional demand
Type of vehicle: Larger vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, often cost more to ship than smaller cars due to their size and weight.
Time of year: Demand for vehicle transport fluctuates with the seasons. Summer tends to be peak season, so you might pay more if you’re shipping during this time. On the other hand, winter shipping could be more affordable, though weather conditions may lead to delays.

Make sure to get quotes from several companies and take these factors into account when planning your budget.

Prepare Your Car for Shipping

Before shipping your car, there are a few things you’ll need to do to prepare it for transport.

Clean the car: It’s important to wash your car before shipping. This helps you and the carrier inspect it for any existing damage and make a note of its condition. A clean car also allows you to see any potential issues that may arise during transport.
Remove personal items: Most shipping companies will not allow you to leave personal items inside your car. These can add extra weight and possibly shift during transport. Additionally, removing items ensures there’s less risk of damage or theft.
Check the fuel level: Most carriers recommend that your fuel level be no more than a quarter full. This helps reduce the weight of the vehicle and minimizes the risk of leaks.

Make sure to also check that your car is in running condition and that the tires are properly inflated, as many transporters won’t ship inoperable vehicles without additional arrangements.

Insurance and Protection

While car transport companies generally offer insurance, it’s essential to confirm the level of coverage they provide. Standard insurance typically covers damage caused during transport, but it may not cover personal items or certain types of damage (e.g., damage caused by weather).

If you have a high-value car, you may want to purchase additional insurance to ensure it’s fully protected. Speak with the shipping company about their policy and consider purchasing extra coverage if needed.

Choose a Reliable Transport Company

Finally, when it comes to shipping your car, choosing a reliable transport company is crucial. Look for a company with good reviews, a solid reputation, and transparent pricing. Check their credentials, such as licensing and insurance, and confirm that they have experience shipping vehicles across state lines.

For a trusted and hassle-free experience, consider working with a professional company that specializes in auto shipping.

Conclusion

Shipping your car across states doesn’t have to be stressful if you’re well-prepared. By understanding your shipping options, considering cost factors, preparing your vehicle, and ensuring proper insurance, you can help ensure a smooth process.

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient car shipping experience, check out Dynamic Auto Movers. With their expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, they can make transporting your vehicle across state lines easy and worry-free.