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A First-Timer’s Guide to Auto Transport: Everything You Need to Know to Ship Your Vehicle Safely


Vehicle transport truck driving down the highway

If you’re shipping a vehicle for the first time, you likely have questions. The auto transport industry can seem complicated, but with the right information, you’ll be ready to ship your vehicle smoothly and confidently. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process and even address common scams you should be aware of.




consumer checklist

Understanding the Auto Transport Process



Shipping a vehicle isn’t as simple as handing over the keys; it’s a process with several steps designed to ensure that your vehicle arrives safely and on time. Here’s what to expect:



1. Request a Quote


Begin by requesting quotes from reputable auto transport companies. Quotes vary based on distance, type of transport (open or enclosed), and any additional services. Most companies provide an all-inclusive rate covering door-to-door service, insurance, and other fees.


2. Choosing a Transport Type


There are two primary transport options:


• Open Transport: Your vehicle is loaded onto an open carrier. This is the most common, affordable option and works well for standard vehicles.


• Enclosed Transport: Your vehicle is placed in an enclosed trailer, offering maximum protection from weather and road debris. This option is ideal for high-value, luxury, or classic cars, though it typically costs more.


3. Booking Your Transport


After you select a provider and confirm the quote, your booking is finalized. At this point, you may pay an initial deposit, with the balance due upon delivery.


4. Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport


  • If allowed, you may load up to 100 pounds of personal items in the cargo area, depending on your carrier’s policy.

  • Secure or remove any loose parts, such as antennas or spoilers, to prevent potential damage.

  • Washing the car allows for a clear inspection of its current condition, helping you and the transport company spot any pre-existing scratches, dents, or damages.

  • Remove personal belongings from the interior. Auto transport companies aren’t responsible for any items left inside, and excess weight could increase the transport cost or delay shipping.

  • Document the vehicles condition. Take clear, well-lit photos of your vehicle from multiple angles, capturing any existing damage. Note down any mechanical issues or quirks, such as leaks or transmission problems, and share these with the transporter. Documentation will come in handy if any issues arise during transit.

  • Perform a Basic Maintenance Check. Ensure the battery is charged, and all fluids (oil, coolant, brake, etc.) are at appropriate levels. This is especially important for operable vehicles. Check the tires for proper inflation to avoid any complications when loading or unloading the vehicle.

  • Disable Aftermarket Alarms and Toll Tags. Deactivate any after-market security alarms to prevent disruptions during transport. Remove or deactivate toll tags and parking passes, which could accumulate charges while in transit. This prevents unnecessary expenses and headaches upon delivery.


5. Carrier Assignment and Pickup


A reputable company will carefully match your vehicle with a trusted carrier who meets their safety and quality standards. The carrier will contact you before pickup to arrange a convenient time.


6. Vehicle Inspection and Documentation


Upon pickup, you and the carrier will complete an electronic vehicle inspection report noting any existing damage on the Bill of Lading. This is crucial for insurance purposes.


7. Tracking and Delivery


You’ll receive updates as your vehicle is transported, including a delivery window closer to the destination date. Upon arrival, inspect the vehicle and compare it with the initial inspection report to ensure there is no new damage. In the event you suspect damage occurred to your vehicle during transport it is crucial that it is notated and photographed on the delivery inspection/Bill of Lading before signing off on delivery, and contact your transport provider immediately. The carriers insurance provider may not approve an insurance claim if the damage is not properly notated on the Bill of Lading at the time of delivery.





Auto transport rate calculation on a calculator

What Affects the Cost of Auto Transport?



Auto transport costs vary, and understanding what factors into pricing can help you make informed decisions:




• Distance: Generally, longer distances result in lower per-mile costs, but the overall cost will still be higher.


• Transport Type: Open transport is less expensive than enclosed transport.


• Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles take up more space and may incur higher costs.


• Timing and Flexibility: Tight schedules or specific delivery dates can add to the price.


• Season and Demand: Demand can be higher during certain times of the year, such as summer or the holiday season, affecting prices.





auto transport truck carrying vehicles driving down the highway

How to Choose a Reliable Auto Transport Company



Selecting the right transport company is crucial. Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice:



Look for FMCSA Registration: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the auto transport industry. Verify that any company you consider has an active registration and MC number.


Check Reviews and Ratings: Platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Trustpilot offer insights into companies’ reliability.


Ask About Insurance: A legitimate company should provide insurance coverage. Confirm the level of coverage included and ask if additional coverage is available.


Avoid Lowball Quotes: Extremely low quotes can be a red flag. They may indicate hidden fees or a bait-and-switch tactic.





common scams in the auto transport industry

Current Auto Transport Scams to Watch Out For



Unfortunately, scams in the auto transport industry do exist, but awareness is your best defense. Here’s a breakdown of common scams and how to avoid them:



1. The Low-Ball Quote Scam


This scam starts with an unbelievably low quote. Scammers lure in customers with a “too-good-to-be-true” price, only to demand additional payments later or claim unexpected “fees.” This often results in your vehicle being stranded or delayed until you pay more than the original quote.


How to Avoid It: Be cautious of any quote significantly lower than competitors. A reputable company will provide a fair, all-inclusive rate without surprise fees. Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs before booking.


2. Fake Broker Scam


Some scammers pose as brokers, collect deposits, and disappear without actually booking your transport. These fake brokers often use high-pressure tactics and may request immediate payments via unconventional methods.


How to Avoid It: Verify the broker’s FMCSA registration, check reviews, and ensure they have an established presence. Reputable brokers won’t pressure you to pay before confirming the carrier assignment.


3. The “Ghost Carrier” Scam


In this scam, fraudsters will promise pickup but never actually dispatch a carrier, leaving your vehicle stuck with no resolution. They may keep pushing the pickup date or become unresponsive after receiving payment.


How to Avoid It: Work with companies that have a solid reputation, read customer reviews, and confirm carrier assignments. Avoid companies that are vague about timing or offer unclear carrier details.


4. Insurance Fraud


Some companies falsely claim full insurance coverage or provide insufficient coverage, leaving you liable if damage occurs.


How to Avoid It: Confirm the company’s insurance coverage, ask for documentation, and review what is covered. A reputable carrier will have adequate insurance for all potential scenarios.


5. “Phishing” and Payment Scams


Be wary of companies that ask for sensitive information or payment through unsecured methods (like wire transfers). Scammers sometimes impersonate legitimate companies to phish for personal and financial information.


How to Avoid It: Always use secure payment methods, and verify the company’s contact information directly from their official website or FMCSA directory.



Final Tips for a Smooth Auto Transport Experience



• Communicate Regularly: Keep in touch with your transport provider to stay informed on timing and any updates.


• Document Everything: Save emails, quotes, and your signed contract. These documents can be valuable if questions arise during or after transport.


• Inspect on Delivery: Carefully inspect your vehicle upon delivery. Take photos and compare them with the original inspection report to ensure no new damage occurred.





freedom transport service logo

Why Freedom Transport Service is the Right Choice for First-Time Shippers



At Freedom Transport Service, we understand that shipping a vehicle for the first time can feel daunting. That’s why we emphasize transparency, professionalism, and a customer-first approach. Our experienced team is committed to providing reliable, safe, and affordable transport solutions tailored to your needs.



• Fully Licensed and Insured Carriers: We only work with carriers who are FMCSA-registered, fully insured, and proven reliable.


• Transparent Pricing: With us, you’ll receive an all-inclusive rate, so you can avoid the hassle of hidden fees or last-minute charges.


• Door-to-Door Service: We prioritize convenience, picking up and delivering your vehicle to your specified locations.





Shipping your vehicle doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With the right information and a reputable partner, you can be confident in your choice.



Choosing the right company and understanding the auto transport process will help ensure that your vehicle arrives safely and securely. Freedom Transport Service is here to guide you, answer your questions, and provide a seamless, transparent transport experience from start to finish.



Feel free to contact us with any questions or for more information on booking your transport with us at (800)507-2629 or by email at sales@freedomtransportservice.com. Safe travels for you and your vehicle!



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