Question 1

What is the cheapest car transport service?

Accepted Answer

The cheapest car transport service is open transport, where vehicles are shipped on an open trailer, typically costing between $500 to $1,100 for sedans and $750 to $1,400 for SUVs and trucks. Booking during off-peak seasons and being flexible with pickup and delivery dates can help reduce costs.

Question 2

How Far In Advance Should I Book My Transit Firm?

Accepted Answer

In general, the earlier you can schedule pick-up or delivery for your car shipment, the better. The more advanced notice you can give car transport companies, the more likely it is that the auto transporter will be able to match each step of the progress to your exact needs.

However, it is also usually possible to arrange car shipping on short notice, as well. If you’re in or near a big city, we can often arrange pick-up on the same day, often without any extra car shipping costs to you. Otherwise, we’re usually able to arrange your car delivery service within two to three days.

Question 3

Will We Move My Vehicle From A Dealer?

Accepted Answer

Sure! Any time you buy an automobile, whether it’s from a private seller or a dealership that isn’t local, you have to figure out how to get your car home. It’s time-consuming to travel to pick up your car yourself and drive it home, and it often adds unnecessary mileage to your automobile.

Dealerships can set up the automobile shipping service for you, but that tends to add extra fees to your purchase price. Instead, you can work with A-1 directly, and we’ll provide you with affordable, reliable options to get your automobile.

Our shipping services are especially useful for online buyers, since traditional shipping through these platforms can be expensive.

Question 4

How Long Will It Take To Shift My Vehicle?

Accepted Answer

While we try to make auto shipping as efficient as possible, there’s no set formula to determine how long it will take your automobile to arrive at your final destination, especially for long-distance or state-to-state transfers.

In this industry, federal regulations limit car transporter truck drivers to only 500 miles per day, including any stops they make to drop cars at homes or terminals. Additionally, drivers can only work six days each week. Every two weeks, they are required to take a longer break.

We arrange our routes to maximize efficiency, but truck driver unexpected circumstances, like severe weather and mechanical problems to car transporters, can arise.

However, we will provide you an estimated date of delivery and keep you informed of any changes to those dates as the information becomes available.

Question 5

How Much Should I Expect To Spend?

Accepted Answer

The cost of shipping a car varies based on several factors, but on average, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for domestic transport. Shorter distances and open transport options tend to be more affordable, while long-distance and enclosed shipping cost more.

For example, shipping a sedan across a few hundred miles may cost $500 to $800, while cross-country transport for a larger vehicle can range from $1,200 to $1,500. Seasonal demand, fuel prices, and delivery preferences also affect pricing.

Question 6

How Do I Decide Whether I Need Open-Air Or Enclosed Hauling?

Accepted Answer

For many drivers, the most important factor in deciding between open or enclosed is price. If you’re looking to maximize value, then open transportation is the right answer. If you want more protection for your vehicle, then you’ll want enclosed shipping.

Open-Air Shipping

Open-air shipping saves you money, but leaves your unit exposed to the elements, like wind, rain, and potentially hail, as well as road debris and dust.

Soft-Sided Enclosed

In this method, the transport carrier is covered by a vinyl or canvas material, offering your vehicle limited protection.

Hard-Sided Enclosed

Hard-sided enclosed offers the highest level of protection in vehicle transportation. Your automobile will be completely enclosed in a hard-sided box, preventing weather and debris from reaching your automobile. Even better? No one can see your automobile—an added benefit if you’re moving vintage, classic, or exotic cars.

Question 7

What Can I Leave In My Vehicle While It Is Being Moved?

Accepted Answer

The short answer? Nothing. The Department of Transportation (DOT) prohibits auto transport companies from moving cars that contain personal belongings, and if these items are discovered during an inspection, the carrier can be assessed a $10,000 fine.

There are other reasons, too. These extra items are not covered under the carrier’s insurance policy, creating a liability question. Car transportation trucks can only carry so much weight. Added household items can end up overloading the carrier, which can lead to fines and delays.

Question 8

What Do I Need to Do To Prepare?

Accepted Answer

The first step to prepare your car for shipment is to remove any personal items. This not only ensures you’re complying with federal law, but it also limits the chance that any items will become lost during transportation.

Next, you need to make sure you have ¼ of a tank of gas or less. Any extra fuel can pose a greater than necessary fire risk and adds additional weight that can affect the overall weight of the car carrier. You should also be sure you don’t have any fluid leaks, which could pose a hazard to other vehicles.

Finally, you should remove any external parts from your car that could potentially fly off, including non-retractable antennas, bike racks, and bed liners that are not bolted to your vehicle.

Question 9

Will Your Insurance Cover My Motor?

Accepted Answer

All vehicle transportation companies are required to carry insurance to cover the cars they ship. Our cargo insurance policy will cover your vehicle in the event of damage, up to the cost of full replacement during the entire time it’s in our possession.

Question 10

What Kind Of Paperwork Will I Need?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to paperwork, you will always receive a copy of your bill of lading and the terms and conditions for your insurance coverage. Other documents may be required.

Your bill of lading is essentially a contract that acknowledges the condition of your vehicle at pick-up. It describes in writing where your car will be delivered to. The insurance terms spell out what level of coverage A-1 Auto Transport has and lays out the terms of that coverage.

Other documents that may be required include authorizations for lienholders or absent owners. Some states require documents like title and registration, photo IDs, and proof of personal insurance, as well.

Question 11

Who Will Be Moving My Cargo?

Accepted Answer

A-1 Auto Transport started with a single tow truck in 1988. Since then, it has grown into one of the largest auto shipping companies in the U.S., handling local, interstate, and international vehicle shipping. With our many years of experience, we know how to get your car delivered safely and efficiently—and affordably.

We ensure that all members of our team embrace our mission: To get the job done right without ever cutting corners. Our core values are authority, expertise, and transparency. Our drivers embody all three of these traits.

Question 12

Where Will My Load Be Picked Up/Dropped Off?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, your car will be picked up and dropped off at our terminals, which we maintain in almost every major city in the United States.

You simply arrive at our terminal, sign your bill of lading, and then rest easy knowing your car is in expert hands. Pick-up is just as easy: Bring your bill of lading and an ID, and you can get your car and quickly be on your way.

However, you can also arrange door-to-door service for an extra fee. One of our car carriers will arrive at your home, have you sign your bill of lading, then load your car onto the carrier. When the truck arrives at your new destination, your transport professional will unload the car with no fuss.

However, you should be aware that some areas are too tight for our carriers, and arrangements might need to be made to meet somewhere nearby so that the carrier is able to maneuver.

Question 13

How Will I Know When My Mobile Is Being Delivered?

Accepted Answer

You should hear from one of our team members 12 to 24 hours before your car is ready to be delivered in order to set up a convenient delivery time that works for you.

While we can’t give you an exact time when your car will be ready to be delivered due to traffic, weather, and other variables, we can certainly give you a window. If a conflict comes up, we’ll contact you to update your pick-up window.

Question 14

Do I Need To Be There For Pick Up Or Delivery?

Accepted Answer

Either you or a designated representative will need to be there in order to pick up or drop off your vehicle. Because you will need to sign a bill of lading once your automobile is loaded or unloaded, a responsible party needs to be there to complete the transaction.

If you aren’t able to be present yourself, you will need to contact us beforehand to let us know who you are designating to act on your behalf. That way, both you and the carrier will be protected.

Be aware, though, that if you need to change where the vehicle is being picked up or delivered after the initial order, you may be assessed additional fees.

Question 15

What Kind Of Tracking Services Do You Offer?

Accepted Answer

With A-1 Auto Transport, satellite tracking is included in every quote. We know that delivering your vehicle can be stressful, even if it’s a relatively short distance. That’s why we make it as easy as possible for you to keep track of where your car is.

With satellite tracking, you can keep tabs on the progress of your vehicle as it makes its way to its final destination. While the tracking may experience disruptions due to low signal or other issues, you can rely on it to give you a general sense of where your car is along its journey.

Question 16

How Long Is My Quote Good For?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, your quote is good until the end of the business day. Car shipping rates can be extremely variable, due to demand, fuel prices, and other factors beyond our control. We will do our best to honor your quote on the day you receive it. However, A-1 Auto Transport reserves the right to make adjustments to your quote if we feel it is necessary.

Question 17

Is My Pick-Up Or Delivery Date Guaranteed?

Accepted Answer

As much as we would like to, we can’t guarantee any pick-up or delivery date for your vehicle, although we will do whatever we can to accommodate your needs.

If you request a specific date, we will try our best to be there without charging you an extra fee. However, we may not be able to meet that exact date, based on volume, logistics, and variables we can’t control.

If we are not able to pick up or deliver your car on the specified date, we will make every effort to arrive within 2 or 3 days to minimize any inconvenience. We will ensure that your car takes the most efficient route possible, and we’ll provide you an estimated arrival time to allow you to make plans.

Question 18

What Are The Benefits Of Hauling My Vehicle Versus Driving It?

Accepted Answer

First and foremost, using car shipping companies to transport your vehicle is about convenience. There are many cases when you simply don’t have the time to drive your car as far as your final destination, such as when you start a new job on short notice.

Here are some other advantages to shipping your car:

Less physical stress from long hours of driving
Lower risk of getting into a car accident, especially on long trips
Put less mileage on your car

Shipping a car also allows you to avoid the logistics and complications of a long drive.

Question 19

My Four-Wheeler Still Hasn’t Arrived. Should I Be Worried?

Accepted Answer

No! If your expected delivery date has come and gone and your car still hasn’t been delivered, contact our customer service department and we’ll look into the situation. Any number of factors could have led to a delay, from mechanical problems with our car carrier to weather-related issues, including snow, hail, high winds, and flooding.

Any time our carrier experiences a delay, we will do our best to let you know so we can set up an updated delivery window. Our goal is to make transporting your vehicle as easy and stress-free as possible.

Question 20

Will My Exotic or Luxury Vehicle Be Safe During Transport?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We prioritize the safety of every vehicle, especially high-end models that require extra care.

For maximum protection, we recommend a hard-sided enclosed carrier to shield your car from weather, road debris, and unwanted attention. This ensures a secure, damage-free journey.

We also use hydraulic lift gates for smooth loading and unloading, minimizing handling risks. If needed, we can position your car strategically within the carrier to reduce unnecessary movement.

While your vehicle is fully insured, owners of classic or ultra-high-value cars may consider additional coverage for extra peace of mind. Protecting your investment is our top priority.

Question 21

How Do I Pay?

Accepted Answer

We offer flexible payment options to make the process easy for you. If you're unsure about the best method, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help!

Question 22

Will You Pick Up Vehicles That Don’t Run?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! While these cars do need specialized equipment and typically come with some extra costs, usually between $50 to $100, it's important to remember that even if your car’s engine starts, it might still be classified as non-running if it can’t be driven safely. Some examples of this could be a vehicle with brake issues or steering problems.

You might want to transport a car that doesn’t run for several reasons. Most of the time, these cars have either financial or sentimental value, and owners want to transport them so they can repair them to running condition.

Please inform us if your car is not running while making your arrangements. This way, we can send the appropriate equipment and give you an accurate quote.

Question 23

Do You Shift Vehicles Internationally?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do! We’ve been shipping cars internationally for more than 20 years, so we know the process. Every country has its own method for importing vehicles to the country, and our team of professionals will make sure you get through the process with as little stress as possible.

Question 24

Should I Expect Any Extra Charges Once My Four-Wheeler Is Delivered?

Accepted Answer

At A-1 Auto Transport, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. You only pay for the services you choose, with no unnecessary upsells or extra charges.

Question 25

Who Is Vehicle Delivery Intended For?

Accepted Answer

Everyone! Shipping your car is safe, convenient, and affordable. It is available to anyone who’s interested.

Here are some of the common reasons that people choose to hire car shipping companies:

Relocation for a new job
Bought a car online from a distant seller or at a car auction
Moving due to military orders
A single person trying to move multiple cars to a new home
Avoiding a long, tiring trip
Transporting classic cars
Starting college
Going on vacation

If you’re not sure whether shipping your vehicle is right for your situation, contact one of our experts. We will help you to decide if auto transportation services will work well for you.

Question 26

What Are The Different Types Of Dispatching?

Accepted Answer

Auto transport dispatching refers to how vehicles are assigned to carriers for shipment. Here are the main types:

Open Dispatching assigns cars to available carriers on open trailers. This common, cost-effective method exposes vehicles to the elements.
Enclosed Dispatching – Vehicles are matched with enclosed carriers, offering extra protection from weather and road debris. Ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars.
Dedicated Dispatching means that a specific carrier is dedicated to transporting just one vehicle or a few cars. This option gives you greater control over the process and ensures faster shipping, although it does come with a slightly higher cost.
Expedited Dispatching – Prioritizes fast delivery by quickly matching vehicles with the nearest available carriers. Ideal for urgent shipments but comes at a premium.
Terminal Dispatching – Vehicles are stored at a terminal until a carrier is assigned. This budget-friendly option may take longer.
Door-to-Door Dispatching – This represents the most convenient method in which a carrier is designated to collect and deliver the vehicle at the designated locations.

The best dispatching method depends on your budget, timeline, and the level of protection needed for your vehicle.

Question 27

What Are The Factors That Affect The Cost Of Auto Delivery?

Accepted Answer

Several key factors determine how much you'll pay to ship a vehicle. Distance is the biggest driver since longer routes cost more due to fuel, time, and labor. The type of transport matters too. Open carriers are the most affordable but expose your car to the elements, while enclosed shipping offers maximum protection at a premium price. Vehicle size and weight also impact cost since larger, heavier cars require more space and fuel. Seasonality plays a role, with summer and winter being peak times when demand and prices tend to rise. Your pickup and drop-off locations also affect pricing, since remote areas may cost more due to limited carrier availability. Finally, insurance coverage adds another layer. Basic coverage is standard, but higher-value vehicles may need extra protection, increasing the total cost. Understanding these factors helps you plan smarter and avoid surprises when shipping your car.

Question 28

What Should I Do If My Vehicle Is Damaged During Moving?

Accepted Answer

If your car is damaged during shipping, you should contact the auto shipping company immediately. The company will be responsible for the cost of repairs. Here are the steps you should take:

Inspect your car: As soon as you receive your car, inspect it thoroughly for any damage. Take pictures of any damage you find.
Contact the auto shipping company: Contact the auto shipping company and notify them of the damage. They will send a representative to inspect the damage.
File a claim: The auto shipping company will file a claim with their insurance company. The insurance company will investigate the claim and determine if the company is liable for the damage.
Get your car repaired: If the insurance company finds the company liable, they will pay for the repairs to your car.

Question 29

Does It Cost Extra For A Vehicle Hauler To Transit An Inoperable Vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it typically costs extra for a car shipper to transport an inoperable vehicle. This is because inoperable vehicles require more time and effort to load and unload, and they may also require special equipment.

Here are some of the reasons why it costs extra to ship an inoperable vehicle:

Special equipment: Inoperable vehicles may require special equipment to load and unload, such as a forklift or a winch. This equipment can be expensive to rent or purchase.
More time: It takes more time to load and unload an inoperable vehicle than a running vehicle. This is because the shipper has to be more careful not to damage the vehicle.
Increased risk: There is an increased risk of damage to an inoperable vehicle during shipping. This is because the vehicle is not running and cannot be driven off the truck if it starts to shift.

The amount of extra cost for shipping an inoperable vehicle will vary depending on the specific circumstances. However, it is important to factor this cost into your budget if you are considering shipping an inoperable vehicle.

Question 30

How Much Does Online Shifting Cost From Vehicle Pickup To Delivery?

Accepted Answer

The average cost of shipping a car is around $1,200. However, the cost can range from $500 to $2,500 or more, depending on the Distance, Type of auto shipping, Size and weight of the car, Time of year and Demand for auto shipping.

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