How to Choose the Best Auto Transport Company for Your Vehicle

Shipping a vehicle doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re relocating to a new state, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member, working with a reliable auto transport company makes the entire process simple and worry-free.

But with so many car shipping providers out there, how do you know which one to trust? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—how auto transport works, what affects pricing, and how to choose the right company for your needs.

What Is an Auto Transport Company?

An auto transport company is a professional service that specializes in moving vehicles from one location to another using licensed car carriers. These companies manage the entire logistics process, including scheduling pickup, arranging transport, and delivering your vehicle safely to its destination.

Instead of driving hundreds or thousands of miles yourself, an auto transport company handles everything for you—saving time, effort, and unnecessary wear on your car.

Why Use an Auto Transport Company?

Many people wonder if it’s better to drive their vehicle instead of shipping it. In most situations, hiring a professional auto transport company is the smarter option.

1. Saves You Valuable Time

Long-distance drives can take days. With vehicle shipping, you can focus on your move while experts handle the transport.

2. Reduces Wear and Tear

Cross-country trips add thousands of miles to your car, lowering its value and increasing maintenance costs.

3. Safer Than Driving

Professional carriers are insured and experienced in moving vehicles safely and securely.

4. More Affordable Than You Think

When you factor in fuel, hotels, food, and lost time, using an auto transport company often costs less than driving yourself.

How Does an Auto Transport Company Work?

The process of shipping a car is straightforward:

1. Get a Quote – Provide details such as pickup location, destination, vehicle type, and timeframe.
2. Book Your Shipment – Choose your transport option and schedule a pickup date.
3. Vehicle Pickup – A licensed carrier collects your vehicle.
4. Transport – Your car is safely shipped to the destination.
5. Delivery – The vehicle is delivered to your chosen location.

A professional auto transport company handles every step, keeping the process smooth and hassle-free.

Types of Services Offered by an Auto Transport Company

Most companies provide several shipping options depending on your needs:

Open Carrier Transport

The most common and budget-friendly option. Vehicles are transported on an open trailer with other cars.

Best for: standard vehicles and cost-effective shipping.

Enclosed Transport

Your vehicle is shipped in a fully covered trailer for maximum protection.

Best for: luxury cars, classic cars, and high-value vehicles.

Door-to-Door Service

The auto transport company picks up and delivers your vehicle as close to your address as possible.

Best for: convenience and simplicity.

Expedited Shipping

Need your car delivered quickly? Expedited services prioritize your shipment for faster transport.

What Affects Auto Transport Company Pricing?

The cost of shipping a vehicle depends on several key factors:

• Distance between pickup and delivery
• Vehicle size and weight
• Open vs enclosed transport
• Time of year and demand
• Pickup and drop-off locations
• Vehicle condition (running or not)

A reputable auto transport company will always provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

How to Choose the Right Auto Transport Company

Choosing the right provider is essential for a smooth experience. Here are some important tips:

Look at Customer Reviews

Check Google, Trustpilot, and other platforms to see real feedback from past customers.

Verify Licensing and Insurance

A legitimate auto transport company must be fully licensed and insured.

Avoid Extremely Low Quotes

Prices that seem too good to be true usually are. Quality service matters more than the cheapest rate.

Ask About Communication and Tracking

Reliable updates and responsive customer support are signs of a professional company.

Experience Counts

An established auto transport company with years of experience is more likely to handle your vehicle properly.

Who Uses Auto Transport Companies?

Auto transport services are used by many different types of customers, including:

Individuals moving to a new state

• Online car buyers
• Military personnel
• College students
• Snowbirds relocating seasonally
• Dealerships and businesses
• Classic and luxury car owners

If you need to move a vehicle without driving it yourself, an auto transport company is the perfect solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does auto transport take?

Most shipments take between 3 and 10 days depending on distance and route.

Is my car insured during transport?

Yes. Every professional auto transport company provides insurance coverage while your vehicle is in transit.

Can I put personal items in my car?

Some companies allow limited items, but policies vary.

Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?

Yes, you or an authorized person should be available at both ends.