How Does Auto Transport Work?

The Complete Guide to Shipping Your Car

Transporting your vehicle can be a daunting task, whether it's a move across the country or a temporary relocation. At Safe Car Hauler, we are committed to providing an efficient, safe, and transparent auto transport experience. In this guide, we explain how auto transport works, step by step, and answer the most frequently asked questions.

Bright orange classic car hauler with a two-level hydraulic trailer transporting vehicles on a divided highway, used for open auto transport services

Shipping your car with Safe Car Hauler in 3 easy steps!

Get a Quote and Book Your Transport

Get a Quote and Book Your Transport

The first step in shipping your vehicle is getting a quote. You can request a free quote online by calling Enclosed transport. To provide an accurate estimate, we’ll need details such as the pickup and delivery locations, the make, model, and condition of your vehicle, and whether you prefer open or enclosed transport. Once you accept the quote, we confirm your booking and assign a fully insured, vetted carrier from our trusted network.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Pickup

Prepare Your Vehicle for Pickup

Before your scheduled pickup, there are a few steps to ensure a smooth process. It’s important to clean the exterior of your vehicle for a proper inspection and remove any personal items from the interior. Checking fluid levels and keeping the gas tank no more than a quarter full also helps streamline transport. When the driver arrives, they will carefully inspect your vehicle, document its condition on the Bill of Lading, and securely load it onto the carrier.

Vehicle Transport and Delivery

Vehicle Transport and Delivery

Once your vehicle is on its way, our team ensures a smooth transport experience with timely updates about its status. Before delivery, you’ll receive a notification with the expected arrival time. Upon drop-off, the driver will conduct a final inspection with you to confirm the vehicle’s condition. After signing the Bill of Lading, your transport is complete, and your vehicle is ready to go.

Coverage During Auto Transport

Your vehicle is insured during transport. The amount of coverage varies depending on the carrier and type of transport. Open transport generally offers basic coverage, while enclosed transport typically includes more comprehensive insurance.

However, it’s important to review the carrier’s insurance policy before the transport begins. In the event of damage, the Bill of Lading serves as the primary document to file a claim. Any discrepancies between the condition of the vehicle at pickup and delivery must be noted in this document.

Why Trust Safe Car Hauler with Your Vehicle? Here’s Why

Door-to-Door Shipping

We make car shipping stress-free by arranging door-to-door transport across the U.S. Your vehicle is picked up and delivered as close to your specified locations as safely and legally possible. This eliminates terminal hassles and ensures unmatched convenience and reliability.

No Upfront Payment

Booking with us means no financial risk. Unlike companies requiring full payment upfront, Safe Car Hauler only collects payment once a carrier is confirmed. This transparent approach ensures trust and gives you confidence that your transport is secured with care.

Focused on Safety

Safety is at the heart of Safe Car Hauler’s operations. We work with carriers who meet strict safety standards to ensure every shipment is handled with care. From secure loading to reliable transport practices, your vehicle’s protection is always our top priority.

Full Insurance Coverage

Every shipment comes with full insurance coverage at no extra cost. From pickup to delivery, your vehicle is protected by policies covering a minimum of $100,000, ensuring peace of mind throughout the transport process and eliminating worries about unexpected risks.

Trusted Carrier Network

Our commitment to quality begins with our carriers. We partner only with fully licensed and insured professionals who meet strict compliance standards. Every carrier is vetted to uphold the highest safety and reliability standards, ensuring your vehicle is in capable hands throughout its journey.

Transparent Inspections

Your vehicle’s condition is thoroughly inspected at both pickup and delivery. All details are documented on the Bill of Lading to ensure accuracy and transparency. This gives you confidence that your vehicle will arrive in the same condition it left.

Why Trust Safe Car Hauler with Your Vehicle? Here’s Why

Door-to-Door Shipping

We make car shipping convenient by arranging door-to-door transport across the U.S. Your vehicle is picked up and delivered as close to your chosen locations as safely and legally possible. This eliminates the hassle of terminals and keeps the process stress-free. Whether you're shipping across town or cross-country, our service offers unmatched convenience and reliability.

No Upfront Payment

Booking with us means no financial risk. Unlike some companies that charge full payment upfront, Safe Car Hauler doesn’t require a deposit until a carrier is confirmed. You pay only when your transport is secured, ensuring transparency and trust. This customer-first approach gives you confidence that your booking is handled with care.

Focused on Safety

At Safe Car Hauler, safety is at the core of everything we do. We work with carriers who meet strict safety standards and ensure that every shipment is handled with care. From secure loading to reliable transport practices, your vehicle’s protection is always our top priority. Trust us to make your car shipping experience safe and worry-free.

Full Insurance Coverage

Your vehicle’s safety is our top priority. That’s why every shipment comes with full insurance coverage at no extra cost. From pickup to delivery, your car is protected with policies that cover a minimum of $100,000. This ensures peace of mind, knowing your vehicle is fully insured throughout the entire transport process.

Trusted Carrier Network

Our commitment to quality begins with our carriers. We partner only with fully licensed and insured professionals who meet strict compliance standards. Every driver is vetted to ensure they uphold the highest safety and reliability standards. You can trust that your vehicle is in capable hands throughout its journey.

Transparent Inspections

Your vehicle’s condition is carefully documented at both pickup and delivery. A thorough inspection is performed and noted on the Bill of Lading to ensure transparency. This step-by-step process gives you confidence that your vehicle will arrive in the same condition it left, offering you complete peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a quote from Safe Car Hauler valid?

We recommend securing your booking within a few days of receiving your quote since prices and carrier availability can change frequently. You can always get an updated cost estimate using our free online quote calculator.

Can I arrange a guaranteed pickup date for my vehicle shipment?

Yes, we offer guaranteed pickup services. For more information, check our Expedited Car Shipping options. Feel free to call us at (877) 878-8008 to request a quote for a specialized vehicle shipment.

Can I get a shipping quote without having an exact address?

Yes, if your pickup or delivery addresses are not finalized, you can still reach out to us to get an estimate. You can also use our online quote calculator by entering the nearest cities to your desired locations.

How long does it take to transport a car?

Transport time depends on the distance. For reference, carriers in Safe Car Hauler’s network typically cover about 400 miles per day, factoring in pickup and drop-off time.

What is the best way to ship a vehicle?

The best shipping method depends on your specific needs. Some vehicles may require special accommodations, such as a lift gate or enclosed transport, while others are suitable for open transport. Discuss your needs with a Safe Car Hauler representative to find the best solution.

Can you ship a car with personal belongings inside?

Yes, Safe Car Hauler allows you to place one piece of luggage in the trunk, such as a box, suitcase, or bag, weighing no more than 100 lbs.

Want an immediate quote for shipping your car?

Use our calculator below or give us a
call at (877) 878-8008