How Auto Transport & Car Shipping Process Works?

Everything You Need to Know to Ship Your Car With Us Safely and Easily

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    What is an Auto Transport?

    Auto transport, also referred to as car shipping or car transport, is a service designed to help individuals move their vehicles from one location to another. The process begins when the car owner contacts an auto transport company, provides details about their vehicle, and specifies the pick-up and drop-off locations. The transport company then handles the logistics, offering two main options: open and enclosed trailers. Open trailers are ideal for transporting one or multiple vehicles, depending on the trailer type. Enclosed trailers, on the other hand, are specifically used for transporting expensive, classic, or delicate cars, providing added protection during transit.

    How Does Auto Transport Work?



    Assessment and Planning

    Request Quote & Book Order


    Secure Loading

    Vehicle Pickup & Transport


    Tracking and Delivery

    Receive Vehicle

     

    Step 1:
    Request Quote & Book Order


    You can obtain an instant quote through our online form, by emailing us at [email protected], or by calling 855-881-6629 to speak with our friendly auto transport coordinator. We encourage you to compare our prices and delivery services, as our auto transport quotes are highly competitive.

    Once you’re prepared to proceed with shipping your car, simply contact us to schedule a car pickup. Utilizing our extensive network of over 20,000 vetted truckers, we’ll secure the ideal car carrier for your vehicle.

    Upon arranging the carrier, we’ll promptly provide you with the pickup time and date, the tracking number, as well as the name of the assigned truck driver.

    Get Your Vehicle Shipping Quote!

    Step:1 Request Quote & Book Order for car shipping

    A gray Ferrari 488 GTB sports car is being loaded onto a car carrier truck.

    Step 2: We Pick-up Vehicle on Scheduled Date


    Set up a convenient pickup time and location with your trucker. When the driver arrives, both of you will inspect the vehicle and sign a Bill of Lading.

    Although you are not required to be present at the pickup time, we strongly recommend that someone of your choice be present to hand over the keys and sign the Bill of Lading.

    Depending on the selected auto transport option; either the driver will pick up and drive your car to its destination from your doorstep. Or; the carrier will pick up the car and load it on the truck(carrier). A tracking update is available at any time during the car transportation.

    Step 3: Receive Vehicle and Leave Review


    With our hassle-free auto transport service, your car will arrive safely at its destination. As soon as your truck is close to home, your trucker will let you know and you can meet them in your driveway (or an agreed-upon location nearby).
    To accept your delivery, you’ll simply sign the Bill of Lading after carefully inspecting everything. You’re done!

    the third step in the vehicle transportation process. You receive vehicle at your home and give feedback

    car transportation payment methods,

    How to pay?


    One-Step Secure Booking & Payment: Skip the hassle of separate bookings and transactions. When you place your order online, you can finalize both your reservation and payment seamlessly, all within a single secure system. No need to wait for additional emails or invoices.
    Payment Options
    Credit Card + C.O.D.:
    This is the most popular option, combining upfront payment with an additional confirmation at delivery.
    Benefits:
    Secure online payment for your deposit.
    Gives you time to gather funds for the remaining balance.
    Confirms payment upon delivery.

    Credit Card:
    If you prefer to pay in full upfront, you can do so securely online or over the phone using your credit card.
    This option eliminates the need for cash or checks at delivery.
    Be sure to confirm any transaction fees associated with credit card payments.

    Direct Deposit, Wire Transfer, PayPal?
    For those who prefer online banking or alternative payment methods, We accept direct deposits, wire transfers, and PayPal payments.
    Contact AutoStar Transport Express for specific instructions on these methods.
    Payment confirmations may take time to process, so consider this when determining your preferred payment timing.


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    17+
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    50 States
    Coverage Across Country
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    25,000 +
    Carriers for Auto Delivery
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    30,000+
    Vehicle Moves a Year

    Auto Transport Delivery Options

    No matter where you’re shipping your car in the U.S. or internationally, we offer a range of auto transport options
    to perfectly fit your needs and budget. Let’s explore your choices:


    Open Auto Transport

    Open auto transport is the most common and cost-effective method of shipping a vehicle. This option provides excellent value while ensuring world-class safety during transit. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open carrier, allowing for efficient transportation. Open auto transport is ideal for most customers looking to ship their vehicles affordably and reliably.

    Get a Quote!

    Enclosed Auto Transport

    For luxury vehicles and vintage vehicles, we recommend our enclosed transport option. This service offers extra protection during auto transportation, safeguarding your vehicle from the elements and potential damage. Enclosed car shipping ensures that your prized possessions are securely protected, providing you with peace of mind during the vehicle shipping process.

    Get a Quote!

    Door-to-Door Vehicle Shipping

    Our door-to-door vehicle shipping service provides the ultimate convenience for our customers. We pick up your vehicle directly from your specified location and deliver it to your desired destination. This hassle-free option ensures a seamless auto transport experience, allowing you to focus on other important matters while we handle the logistics.

    Get a Quote!

    Terminal-to-Terminal Auto Transport

    With our terminal-to-terminal auto transport service, you can drop off your vehicle at one of our secure terminals, and we will transport it to a terminal near your destination. This option is ideal for customers looking for a more economical choice and allows you to save on transport costs while ensuring your vehicle is in safe hands throughout its journey.

    Get a Quote!

    Explore More Transport Options

    Ready for Auto Transport with Us?

    Estimated Car Shipping Cost & Transit Times for Popular U.S Routes

    Here are some estimated car shipping costs and transit times for popular U.S. trips


    RouteDistance (miles)Cost RangeTransit Time
    Los Angeles, CA to New York City, NY~2,800$1,000 - $1,5007-10 days
    Miami, FL to Houston, TX~1,100$600 - $9004-7 days
    Chicago, IL to Atlanta, GA~700$400 - $6003-5 days
    Seattle, WA to Denver, CO~1,300$700 - $1,0005-8 days
    Boston, MA to Orlando, FL~1,200$600 - $9005-8 days
    San Francisco, CA to Phoenix, AZ~800$500 - $8004-7 days

    Why Choose Us?

    Our auto shipping service is secure, hassle-free, and economical. Here is why our auto transport service is the best.


    Top Rated and Licensed

    Top Rated and Licensed

    Our company is licensed and bonded with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. We have thousands of  5-star positive reviews on 21+ trusted consumer review platforms.

    Preferred by Dealerships

    Preferred by Dealerships

    We are partnered with several major car brands and auto dealers across the country, providing exceptional auto transport or car shipping service.

    Live Tracking

    Live Tracking

    We provide you with real-time updates about the status and location of your vehicle during the auto transport process. You can stay informed and have peace of mind throughout the journey.

    On-Time Delivery

    On-Time Delivery

    Being a reputable car shipping company means making sure your vehicle gets to you on time. Our 20,000+ fleet of carriers allows us to deliver your vehicle quickly and efficiently.

    Best Price

    Best Price

    In addition to providing quality door-to-door auto transport, we strive to ship your car at a competitive price. You can use our transport coordinators to get a fair cost.

    10,000+ Reviews

    Thousands of Reviews

    Don’t just take our word for it – our satisfied customers rave about our personalized auto transport service, competitive rates, and timely delivery.

    Discover Why Choose Us…

    Get Your Car Transport Quote Now!

    Customers Rate AutoStar Transport Express as the Best for Vehicle Transport


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    4.6/5

    Frequently Asked Questions


    How does an auto transport broker work?

    Auto transport brokers work by gathering information from customers about their shipping needs, including the pickup and delivery locations, vehicle details, and preferred shipping dates.

    Do you need any special documents to ship your vehicle? (License, ownership, etc.) ?

    The answer is NO. if you are moving from one residence to another within the continental U.S. No license, title, or registration is required. If you are transporting internationally, we will inform you about which paperwork is required based on the country of delivery.

    What technologies are used in transport dispatch?

    Transport dispatch often relies on transportation management software (TMS) and GPS tracking systems. TMS helps automate route planning, assignment, and communication, while GPS tracking enables real-time monitoring of vehicle locations and status.

    Is it necessary to be present at pickup and delivery times?

    Although you aren’t required to be present, we strongly suggest someone on your behalf sign the Bill of Lading (inspection report) with the driver upon pickup or delivery.

    Do I need to book in advance?

    The best time to work with us is about a week in advance, but if your vehicle is ready today we can start looking to find a reputable carrier to ship your vehicle!

    Do you have any hidden fees?

    No – Our quote includes all transportation costs. You will receive a quote that includes pickup, delivery, and taxes.

    Can I put things in the vehicle?

    Officially, the FMCSA and D.O.T. prohibit this. However, a common practice allows 50-100 pounds of weight in the trunk or out of sight. Your carrier has the final say, though, as carrying anything other than motor vehicles might result in hefty fines and lengthy inspections.