Buying a car from across town or across the country has become normal, and with it the need to get the car home. Whether you are relocating, adding to a collection, or buying a gift, here is how to ship a car from a dealership: choosing the company, choosing the method, coordinating with the dealer, and avoiding the mistakes people make.
Choosing a shipping company
Picking the company is the most important step. Weigh:
- Reputation. Online reviews, testimonials, and industry forums.
- Experience. Years in business mean the company has seen the problems before.
- Customer reviews. Read them on TransportReviews, Google, and the BBB and look for patterns.
Industry sites and forums are worth a look, and a recommendation from someone who has shipped a car is worth more than most.
Open or enclosed
Open transport is the common, cost-effective choice; the car rides exposed to weather and debris. Enclosed transport puts the car inside a trailer, which is the right call for luxury, exotic, or classic cars, and worth considering for a brand-new vehicle if the budget allows. Weigh the car's value, your budget, and how much protection you want.
Dealership shipping vs. your own broker
| Feature | Through the dealership | Broker you choose |
|---|---|---|
| Ease | Easiest option | More research on your end |
| Choice of carriers | Limited to the dealer's contracts | Wide network |
| Transparency | Often little detail on carrier or process | Usually more detail |
| Rates | May have volume discounts | May negotiate better |
| Contact with carrier | Direct, through the dealer | Through the broker, who steps in if needed |
| Overall | Convenient, less flexible | More effort, more flexibility |
Through the dealership
The dealer handles the arrangements and may have negotiated rates. The downside is a limited choice of carriers, less visibility into the process, and the possibility of fees folded into the price.
Choosing a broker yourself
More carriers to choose from, more transparency, and often a better rate. You do the legwork, and you will not have a direct line to the carrier, but a good broker acts as the go-between and steps in if there is a problem.
Coordinating with the dealership
If you book your own broker, give the dealership the shipping company's details and any pickup instructions, and agree on a pickup window that works for both. Make sure the dealer knows when the truck is coming.
Costs
Distance, vehicle type, open or enclosed, and any gap coverage you add all affect the price. Modified vehicles may need special equipment; inoperable vehicles cost considerably more. Tell the company about any of these. Get quotes from several reputable companies using accurate, complete information so there are no surprises later. Watch for terminal fees and, on international shipments, customs charges.
Paperwork
- Bill of sale as proof of ownership
- Registration certificate
- Insurance documentation
Mistakes to avoid
- Not researching the company. Vet it before you book.
- Taking the first quote. Compare several.
- Inaccurate vehicle information. The broker needs make, model, and modifications to pick the right carrier.
Saving money
- Ship in the off-season or mid-week.
- Choose open transport.
- Ask about discounts: military, student, senior, multi-car, repeat customer.
Conclusion
Shipping a car from a dealership is manageable with a little planning. Choose the company carefully, pick the right method, coordinate with the dealer, and keep the paperwork in order, and the car will arrive safely.