If you ever need to ship a car to another state, you might find yourself wondering how to do it. There are several options, such as hiring someone to drive your car or driving it yourself. You might also find yourself considering whether to ship it by train or plane. However, these alternatives don’t come close to the convenience of shipping a car to another state using one of the many auto transport companies.

The cost of this option is more than affordable. It is also very convenient because you get to choose the pick-up and delivery locations. Best of all, the process is a straightforward one, and you’re about to find out how you can ship a car to another state in three easy steps.

Step 1: Get your car shipping quote and book your order

The first step is to get in touch with several car shipping companies and request a quote. To provide an accurate quote the auto transport company will require some basic details. These include:

• Pick-up city and state
• Delivery city and state
• Vehicle year
• Make and model
• Condition of the vehicle
• Transport type
• First available shipping date

Many auto transport companies offer an instant online quote calculator for prospective customers. If this isn’t an option, you should be able to call or use Live Chat. It’s always a good idea to get several quotes so you can make a comparison. You also need to check whether the quote is inclusive of all costs. Another factor to check is that the company requires no upfront payment and offers free cancellation.

Once you’ve found a quote you’re happy with, it’s time to finalize the details of your car shipping service. At the same time, take the opportunity to run through the process with the company’s customer service advisors and take the time to read the small print of your contract. Don’t forget to ask for the carrier’s contact information, just in case you need to contact them during the transportation process.

You may have to pay a small partial payment to secure your booking. It also tends to be a requirement if you choose to pay in cash upon delivery of your vehicle. Another payment option is paying in full when the booking process is finalized, and a courier has been assigned.   

Step 2: Your vehicle is picked up

The carrier assigned to your shipment will get in touch a few hours before the scheduled pick-up time. This is to confirm the details and clarify that the location is accessible for large commercial vehicles.

Access can be an issue if regulations are in place or there are low-hanging trees or power lines. It’s not a problem if this is the case, because you can make alternative arrangements. Think about your local area and whether there is a wider street close by or without any access restrictions. Other suitable pick-up locations include parking lots, or perhaps where you work.

The carrier also needs to confirm who is going to be there when your vehicle is released. Ideally, it should be you, but you can appoint a third party to act on your behalf.

At the time of pick-up, you and the driver inspect your car before it’s loaded onto the trailer. On the Bill of Lading, you must record any dents, dings, scratches, and other existing damage. You’ll be given a copy of this important document to keep safe. You’ll need it to compare the condition of your vehicle when the carrier delivers it.

As soon as the paperwork is complete, the carrier will load your vehicle onto the trailer and the driver will start his journey. For your own peace of mind, most auto transport companies allow you to check in regularly. There are also some that choose to keep you informed with regular updates by email, Live Chat, or phone.

Step 3: Your vehicle is delivered

The final step in the car shipping process is the delivery of your vehicle. Generally, the carrier will contact you when then are a few hours away from the delivery location to check you’re available. Don’t worry if you’re not because you can nominate a third party to act accept delivery on your behalf.

When they deliver your vehicle, don’t forget to inspect it closely and make sure everything is in order. Use the copy of the Bill of Lading for comparison. If it is all in order, sign the Bill of Lading and accept delivery of your car. For those of you who chose the discount cash price, this is also the time when you settle the bill and pay the final balance. Payment methods that are accepted include cash, cashier’s check, or money order.

Buy a car in Autoankauf Frankfurt or Shipping a car to another state might seem complicated, but now you appreciate how easy the process is, you don’t need to worry about making the arrangements in the future.