Auto Transport FAQ

What exactly is door to door service?

Door-to-Door means the auto shipping or car transport driver will get as close to your door as he can legally and safely get. Many cities have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into some residential areas. Transport trucks are enormous and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to your home is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees, speed bumps or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet the truck at a large parking lot nearby such as a grocery store.

How long does transport typically take?

Transit time depends on where your vehicle is shipping from and to. For instance, transit time from Chicago to Los Angeles is approximately 5 to 10 days, where as Los Angeles to New York City can take approximately 10 to 14 days. All pickup times, transport times, and dates quoted are simply averages. Each load is different depending on the individual auto shipping and car transport truck's schedule.

Do I have to be present when the drivers pickup/deliver my vehicle?

Yes, you or your designated individual must be present at both the pickup and delivery for when the auto shipping or car transport company arrives.

Is it OK for me to place items in my vehicle while it is being shipped?

No more than 100 pounds of soft goods such as pillows or blankets. Do not put items such as medicine, presents, or any other item that is needed by a specific time. If the truck is delayed, the items will not be available to you until the vehicle is delivered. Not only are auto shipping and car transport companies not insured for household goods, it is against the law for them to transport anything except your vehicle. The auto shipping and car transport truck is subject to inspection by the DOT and the Police at every state line and can be fined up to $10,000 if found to be carrying household goods. The car is subject to being impounded and all fines and expenses will be passed along to the owner of the car. Under NO circumstances can the car contain firearms, hazardous materials, illegal substances, or contraband.

Will the Auto Transporter drive my vehicle?

The auto shipping driver will drive your car on and off the car transport, and may have to unload and re-load your car occasionally during transport to optimize space on the trailer. This unloading / reloading is kept to a minimum. Your car should not be driven otherwise, and odometer readings should be noted at pickup and delivery. Discrepancies should be noted on the delivery receipt and signed off by the driver.

Will my vehicle stay on one truck?

Your vehicle will stay on one truck with the same driver for the duration of the trip unless something unforeseen happens to the original truck or driver (i.e. – a mechanical break down or illness).

How should I prepare my vehicle?

Secure or remove any loose parts or specialty items such as ground effects, spoilers, fog lights, or wide mirrors, and lower or remove the antenna if possible. Repair or seal any tears or open seams on convertible tops to prevent fast-moving air from causing further damage. Make sure the radiator has adequate levels of fresh antifreeze. Be sure that the battery is secure, has no leaks, and that the fluid levels are low enough to accommodate expansion. Leave only about ¼ tank of gas in the vehicle, as a full tank of gasoline adds a lot of costly weight to the transport. Deactivate or disconnect anti-theft devices. There can be serious problems and unnecessary expenses if the driver is locked out or if the alarm goes off during the auto shipping process or the car transport. And finally, make sure that your vehicle is clean enough to ensure an accurate pickup inspection.