How Auto
Shipping Works
Never shipped a car before? You’re not alone. We walk you through the entire process — from getting a quote to picking up your keys at the destination — so you know exactly what to expect.
The Auto Shipping
Process Explained
From the moment you reach out to the moment your car arrives, here’s exactly what happens — and what you need to do at each stage.
Get a Quote
The first step is simple — tell us where your car is, where it’s going, what kind of vehicle it is, and your preferred transport type (open or enclosed). We’ll come back with a firm, all-inclusive price. No hidden fees, no fuel surcharges added later.
You can get a quote by filling out our form below, calling us at (407) 794-8185, or sending an email. Most quotes are returned within the hour.
Takes about 2 minutes to requestBook Your Shipment
Once you accept the quote, we confirm your shipment in writing. You’ll receive a booking confirmation with your pickup window, transport type, and the full rate. No deposit is required upfront for most standard shipments — payment is collected at or after delivery.
At this stage we’ll also ask you to remove any personal belongings from the vehicle and ensure it’s in driveable condition for loading.
Confirmation sent same dayWe Dispatch a Driver
Our team matches your shipment with a vetted carrier on the best route to your destination. Most Orlando pickups are dispatched within 1–3 business days. You’ll receive your driver’s name, contact number, and estimated pickup window 24 hours in advance.
You don’t need to be present for pickup — just make sure someone can hand off the keys and sign the Bill of Lading.
Average dispatch: 1–3 business daysPickup & Inspection
When the driver arrives, they’ll do a full walk-around inspection of your vehicle and note any existing marks, dents, or scratches on the Bill of Lading (BOL). You or your representative signs off, and the driver loads the car.
Keep a copy of the BOL — it’s your proof of the vehicle’s condition at pickup and your protection if any damage claim is ever needed.
BOL signed at pickup — keep your copyIn Transit
Your vehicle is on its way. Transit times vary depending on distance — local Florida routes can be same or next day, while cross-country shipments typically take 3–7 days. Our team is available throughout transit if you have questions about your shipment status.
For most routes we can provide driver contact information so you can reach out directly for ETA updates.
Florida routes: 1–2 days · Cross-country: 3–7 daysDelivery & Final Inspection
The driver will contact you before arrival to coordinate delivery. When the car arrives, do a thorough walk-around and compare it to the pickup BOL. If everything checks out, sign the delivery receipt and you’re done.
If you notice any new damage, note it on the delivery BOL before signing and contact us immediately. We’ll guide you through the claims process with the carrier’s insurance.
Always inspect before signing delivery BOLOpen vs Enclosed
Transport — Which is Right?
The two main types of auto transport differ in price, protection level, and availability. Here’s how to choose the right one for your vehicle.
Open Transport
Your vehicle is loaded onto an open multi-car carrier — the same method used by dealerships to move new inventory across the country. Safe, reliable, and the most affordable option for most shipments.
- Best for everyday vehicles, SUVs, trucks, and commuter cars
- Fastest availability — more carriers on more routes
- Fully insured against transport damage
- Door-to-door pickup and delivery
- 1–3 day dispatch from Orlando
Enclosed Transport
Your vehicle rides inside a fully enclosed trailer, completely protected from weather, road debris, and exposure. The preferred choice for luxury cars, classics, exotics, and any vehicle where condition is non-negotiable.
- Best for luxury, classic, exotic, and high-value vehicles
- Soft-tie system — no metal contact with your vehicle
- Climate-controlled options available
- Lower carrier-to-vehicle ratio — more attention per car
- Priority dispatch available
Frequently Asked
Questions
How far in advance should I book?
Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?
Can I put personal items in my car during shipping?
What if my car isn’t running?
How does payment work?
What happens if my car gets damaged?
How long does shipping take?
Is my vehicle insured during transport?
What People Said
After Their First Shipment
“I had no idea how any of this worked. They walked me through the whole process on the phone, answered every question I had, and the car showed up exactly when they said.”
“I was nervous about shipping my truck across the country. The whole thing was actually really straightforward. Driver was professional, BOL was thorough, truck arrived in perfect shape.”
“Easier than I expected. They explained open vs enclosed, helped me choose, gave me a fair price, and handled everything from there. I’ll definitely use them again.”
Ready to Ship?
Get a Quote
Now that you know how it works — let’s get your shipment moving. Fill out the form and we’ll come back with a competitive, all-inclusive quote, usually within the hour.