Name: How to Ship a Car: The Ultimate Guide in 2025
Brand: RoadRunner Auto Transport
Rating: 4.7 (36578 reviews)

Question 1

How do I get my car ready for shipment?

Accepted Answer

Make sure your car has been completely cleaned, both inside and outside. This is particularly important because this will help the driver conduct their inspection in order to assess any pre-existing damage on your vehicle. You will also want to make there are no additional personal items in the vehicle unless you intend to ship those with the vehicle (remember those items must total less than 100 pounds combined and be kept below the window-line of the vehicle). Be sure to inform the driver of any special circumstances concerning the vehicle. Finally, make sure there is a quarter tank of gas in the car at the time it is picked up for shipment. Visit our car shipping checklist to make sure you are prepared for your vehicle shipment.

Question 2

Can I ship a car from an auto auction?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many of our business clients require service from salvage auctions and other types of auto auctions. Each auction will have different requirements to release a vehicle and we'll get all the necessary details from you at the time of booking. Please make sure the vehicle is fully paid and ready for release from the auction. Also be aware that if a vehicle is booked as operable but it turns out the vehicle is inoperable there will be additional cost and the original transporter may not be able to accommodate an inoperable vehicle.

Question 3

How do I get a quote for shipping my vehicle?

Accepted Answer

To get a quote for shipping your vehicle, you can either use our instant online car shipping quote calculator above or you can call (888) 422-7584 to receive a quote from one of our car transport pricing specialists. In order for us to calculate your quote we will need to know the location you are shipping from and to, the type of vehicle you would like to ship, and the date your vehicle will be ready.

Question 4

Do I need license plates on a vehicle to ship it?

Accepted Answer

No, we just need the vehicle and keys.

Question 5

Is my vehicle insured during transport?

Accepted Answer

All shipments include basic liability coverage during transit. Comprehensive insurance options are available for an elevated level of shipment coverage during transit. You will be able to select a level of coverage during the booking process. If you have further questions regarding insurance options give us a call.

Question 6

What types of vehicles do you ship?

Accepted Answer

RoadRunner Auto Transport specializes in shipping all types of vehicles including sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, minivans, oversized vehicles, antiques, classic cars, motorcycles, construction vehicles, inoperable cars and boats. If you are not sure whether or not we can ship your vehicle, you can give us a call to find out what we can do for you.

Question 7

What is top load service?

Accepted Answer

Top load service is when your car is placed on the higher deck or level of an open auto transport trailer. This is considered to be preferable to the bottom load because the cars on the lower deck are at risk of possibly having fluid from the cars above leak on them.

How to Ship a Car: Step By Step Guide

Step 1

Instant Car Shipping Quote

Secure Online Shipment Reservation

Step 2

Vehicle Pick Up

Online Shipment Tracking

Step 3

Vehicle Delivery

That's it! That's all there is to it!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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