Auto Transport FAQ's

Answers to the most common questions about pricing, pickup, delivery, insurance, and how auto transport works.

General Questions

  • How does auto transport work?

    Auto transport is a simple process: you request a quote, book your shipment, and we arrange for a carrier to pick up your vehicle and deliver it to your destination. You’ll receive updates along the way, and the driver will perform inspections at both pickup and delivery to ensure everything is documented. MoveVehicles.com is a auto transport broker, we are not a carrier and do not own trucks to haul vehicles.

  • How long does it take to ship a vehicle?

    Transit time depends on distance, route, and weather conditions. Shorter trips (under 500 miles) may take 1–2 days, while cross-country shipments typically take 7–10 days. Pickup timing can vary based on carrier availability, but we always provide an estimated window upfront.

  • Is my vehicle insured during transport?

    Yes. All carriers we work with are required to carry insurance that covers your vehicle during transit. Before transport begins, the driver will complete a condition report (Bill of Lading), which is used to verify the vehicle’s condition in the rare event of a claim.

  • Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?

    You don’t have to be there personally, but someone you trust (18 or older) must be present to release and receive the vehicle. They’ll handle the inspection and sign the necessary paperwork on your behalf.

  • Can I put personal items in my car during transport?

    It’s generally not recommended. Most carriers allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk, but these items are not covered by insurance. Overloading the vehicle may also lead to additional fees or delays.

Pricing & Payments

  • How is the cost of auto transport calculated?

    Pricing is based on several factors, including distance, vehicle size and weight, route popularity, time of year, and current carrier availability. Open vs. enclosed transport and expedited shipping will also affect the final price.

  • When do I pay for my shipment?

    Most orders are split into two parts: a small deposit when you book your shipment, and the remaining balance paid directly to the carrier upon delivery. This keeps the process transparent and ensures you only pay in full once your vehicle arrives.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept major credit and debit cards for the initial deposit. The remaining balance is typically paid to the carrier via cash, certified check, or sometimes card—depending on the driver’s preferences. We’ll always confirm accepted payment methods ahead of time.

  • Are there any hidden fees?

    No—your quoted price includes all standard costs associated with your shipment. However, additional charges may apply if there are changes to the order, such as modifying locations, adding oversized vehicles, or requesting expedited service.

  • Will my price change after I book?

    With our standard service, pricing can fluctuate if market conditions change before a carrier is assigned. However, with our “Price Lock Guaranteed” option, your rate is fixed upfront—no surprises, even if carrier rates increase.

Pickup & Delivery

  • How does vehicle pickup work?

    Once your order is assigned to a carrier, the driver will contact you to schedule a pickup time within your selected window. At pickup, the vehicle is inspected, and a Bill of Lading is completed to document its condition before loading.

  • Do I need to be present at pickup and delivery?

    You don’t have to be there personally, but someone 18 or older must be present to release and receive the vehicle. They’ll handle the inspection and sign the paperwork on your behalf.

  • Can the driver pick up or deliver directly to my home?

    In most cases, yes. However, large transport trucks may be restricted by low-hanging trees, narrow streets, or local regulations. If access is limited, the driver will arrange a nearby safe meeting location such as a parking lot or open area.

  • What should I do to prepare my vehicle for pickup?

    Make sure your vehicle is clean, has about a quarter tank of gas, and is free of personal belongings. Remove any toll tags or parking passes, and ensure there are no loose parts or leaks. This helps ensure a smooth inspection and transport process.

  • What happens if there are delays during pickup or delivery?

    Delays can occasionally happen due to weather, traffic, or scheduling changes. If anything comes up, the carrier or dispatch team will keep you updated and work to reschedule as quickly as possible while minimizing disruption.

Vehicle Safety & Insurance

  • Is my vehicle insured during transport?

    Yes. All carriers are required to carry active cargo insurance that covers your vehicle while it’s in transit. Proof of insurance is available upon request, and coverage details vary by carrier but are always verified before dispatch.

  • How is my vehicle protected during transport?

    Vehicles are secured using industry-standard tie-downs and loading procedures to prevent movement during transit. Open carriers are the most common and safe option, while enclosed carriers provide additional protection from weather and road debris.

  • What is a Bill of Lading and why is it important?

    The Bill of Lading is a document used at both pickup and delivery to record the condition of your vehicle. It serves as both a receipt and inspection report, and it’s essential for verifying the vehicle’s condition in the unlikely event of a damage claim.

  • What happens if my vehicle is damaged during transport?

    While damage is rare, if it does occur, it must be noted on the Bill of Lading at delivery. You can then file a claim with the carrier’s insurance company. We’ll assist you through the process to ensure it’s handled quickly and properly.

  • Are personal items inside the vehicle covered by insurance?

    No. Carrier insurance only covers the vehicle itself—not personal belongings inside it. For that reason, we recommend removing all personal items prior to transport to avoid any risk or complications.

Locations & Availability

  • Do you ship vehicles nationwide?

    Yes, we provide door-to-door auto transport service across all 50 states. Whether you’re shipping between major cities or more rural areas, we can coordinate a carrier to get your vehicle where it needs to go.

  • Do you service rural or hard-to-reach locations?

    Yes, we do. While rural areas may have slightly longer pickup windows due to limited carrier traffic, we can still arrange transport. In some cases, you may be asked to meet the driver at a nearby accessible location.

  • Are certain routes more readily available than others?

    Yes. Popular routes (like major city-to-city corridors) typically have more carrier availability, which can lead to faster pickup times and lower costs. Less common routes may take a bit longer to schedule.

  • How far in advance should I schedule my shipment?

    We recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance for the best availability and pricing. However, we can often accommodate last-minute or expedited shipments depending on current carrier availability.

  • Do you offer expedited or guaranteed pickup services?

    Yes. Expedited and guaranteed pickup options are available for customers who need faster service or more precise scheduling. These options prioritize your shipment and can reduce wait times, though they may come at an additional cost.