Auto Transport 101 for New Shippers

A full explanation on what Auto Transport is, what it means to ship a car and how each service works with frequently asked questions and answers for new shipping customers.

Auto Transport 101 Index

1. What is Auto Transport? 
2. Getting Started: How to Get Service 
3. Open Transport: Most Common 
4. Enclosed Transport: Premium 
5. Auto Transport Insurance 
6. Nationwide Service: Cross Country 
   
7. Frequently Asked Questions 

Why Trust Viceroy Auto Transport? 

You can trust Viceroy Auto Transport because we operate with full transparency, verified credentials, and a strong track record in the auto transport industry. As a licensed and active company under USDOT #2857150, we prioritize reliable carrier selection, clear communication, and proper insurance coverage on every shipment. Our experience and commitment to safety and professionalism ensure that your vehicle is handled with care from pickup to delivery, giving you confidence throughout the entire transport process.

 

Explaining Auto Transportation for Beginners

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Auto transport is a service that helps people move their cars from one place to another. Instead of driving the car yourself, a professional company picks up your vehicle and delivers it to your chosen destination. This service can be used for long-distance moves, buying or selling cars online, or just getting your car to a new location without the hassle of a road trip. It should include all the necessary arrangements, such as handling fuel, tolls, and insurance, so you can relax knowing your car is in good hands.

Our auto carriers are licensed, bonded and insured.

What Auto Transport Means

Auto transport, also known as car shipping or vehicle transportation [1][2], helps people and businesses move their cars to far-away places. Whether you're moving to a new home or need to send a car somewhere, auto transport companies can do the job safely and reliably.

Auto transport makes it easy to move your car long distances. It's reliable, efficient, and takes good care of your precious vehicle, whether it's your family car or an important business asset. So you can focus on your journey without worrying about your car.

Why people use Auto Transport

There are two main types of auto transport: open and enclosed. Open transport means your car is on a carrier that's open to the air, while enclosed transport means your car is inside a protective enclosure during the trip. This way, your car stays safe from weather or road debris.

Auto transport is handy for various situations, like moving homes, buying or selling cars from far away, or even for special events like car shows or auctions. When you trust your car to an auto transport company, you want to make sure it's in good hands. Reputable companies have carriers that are licensed, bonded, and fully insured, so you don't have to worry.

How do I book auto transport?

Booking Viceroy Auto Transport to ship your vehicle is simple. Here's how:

1. Request your Quote:
   Complete our easy online request form to get pricing sent to your email and phone.
   
2. Review your Quote:
   Make sure everything is correct according to your needs.
3. Reserve your Spot:
   Book online through our safe online processor and get connected with a driver.

Once the carrier adds the order to schedule, all details for that assigned carrier will be sent to you. For any questions or concerns, refer to your assigned dispatcher who can be found listed on your quote, once received.

Pros and Cons of Hiring Auto Transport Company

✅ Convenience: Hiring an auto transport service means you won't have to drive it yourself.
✅ Professional Handling: Having a licensed, bonded, and insured car shipper do it for you.
✅ Preservation of Vehicle: No wear and tear on your car as it is delivered to your front door.
✅ Mileage Savings: Using a car shipping service will save the mileage on your vehicle.
✅ Door-to-Door Service:  Enjoy the convenience of door-to-door service
🔴 Cost: Hiring a car shipping service may be more expensive than driving the vehicle yourself.
🔴 Dependence on Scheduling: Your car's delivery timeline is depends on the scheduling.
🔴 Limited Control: Limited control over your vehicle's whereabouts and condition during transit.
🔴 Potential for Damage: There's always a risk of damage to your vehicle during transit.
🔴 Research and Selection Process: Choosing the right transport company requires research.

By considering these pros and cons, you can decide if hiring an auto transport company aligns with your needs and preferences.

 

Getting Started: How to Get a Car Transported

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How to transport a car could be a little complicated if you are not sure what to do. In order to begin the auto transport process, you must first decide what type of auto carrier service will best suit your needs.

Transporting a car should be a simple process (7️⃣ Steps)

This simple guide with 7 steps will make your life a whole lot easier if this is your first time looking for a car shipping service to move your transport your vehicle to or from another state.

1️⃣ Find a Car Transport Company with Search Engines

When looking for ways on how to ship a car, the best place to find a company will of course be, the internet. A simple Google [3] or Bing [4] search will find exactly what you need. Use terms like 'Auto Transport Service' or 'Car Shipping Services Near Me'.

2️⃣ Do Some Research on Auto Transport Companies

Google search the company names to receive review sites. Look at the negative reviews first as we can always give ourselves good reviews. Bad reviews will most likely never be falsified.

3️⃣ Make Contact with the Company by Form, Phone or Email

Most auto transport companies will have an online quote request form you can fill out to get car shipping information. This makes it easy to get information on how to use car shipping services.

4️⃣ Book Your Spot by Placing a Reservation Online or by Phone

Once you have everything in order and ready to set your reservation, proceed by booking your order online or contacting your auto transport dispatch agent to take your order by phone. Email confirmations should be sent to you on your order is placed with the auto transport company of your choice.

5️⃣ Communicate Direct with the Driver for Smooth Coordination

Once a car carrier is assigned an order, the first thing that should happen is communication between the customer and driver. Make sure you are given your assigned driver's contact information for updates while on the road.

6️⃣ Inspect Your Vehicle's Condition Prior to Loading onto Car Carrier

When learning how to ship a car, always remember that the vehicle inspection on the Bill of Lading is for your vehicles protection during the car shipping process. On pickup / delivery, the driver would conduct a vehicle inspection and should leave a copy at both spots.

7️⃣ Loading and Unloading Should be a Simple and Easy Process

Drivers prefer to pickup/deliver door to door as it avoids them having to wait for anyone. They should arrive, load/unload and keep going. The only things that would hinder door to door service would be low hanging trees, narrow roads or laws that restrict.

By following the steps on this page to ship a car safely, you will find that your experience will be worth the time and effort it took you to understand the process.

👉 Learn more → Auto Transport Process: Start to Finish

 

Open-Air Car Transport Carrier: Shipping car on open trailer

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What Open Transport is

Open auto transport service is a method of vehicle transportation where cars are loaded onto open trailers for transit. The vehicles are exposed to the elements during the journey, as they are not enclosed within a protective covering. This type of transport is commonly used for regular vehicles, as it offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for moving cars over long distances.

Open auto transport is the most common way to ship a car.

While open auto transport doesn't provide the same level of protection as enclosed auto transport, it is a popular choice due to its affordability and widespread availability. It's important to note that while vehicles are exposed to weather and road conditions, reputable open car transport companies take precautions to secure and safeguard the vehicles during transit.

This is a cheap and safe option when transporting a car and depending on the circumstances, you can probably get a good low rate. This is also the regular way to get a car shipped for the lowest rate. Since its the standard option, there are more available carriers by volume which allows the rate to be lowered a bit in comparison to other more premium option.

Looking for the cheapest way to transport a Car?

The cheapest and most affordable way to ship your car is the most common option. The open auto transport carrier. This is the standard way to transport a car to another state. Due to the high volume of open-air car haulers on the road, the price is competitive to other car transport services such as the enclosed car carrier or the flat bed auto hauler.

Is the cheapest way to ship a car safe?

Yes it is. Cheap open car shipping can be safe. When being loaded, the driver will secure the vehicle down to the open car carrier trailer with thick straps or chain around the tires or wheel base. This avoids the car from bouncing around on the trailer while in transport. The automobile would be secured to the steel. The driver can deliver vehicles long distances without adding any mileage or tire damage to the cars being hauled.

Does cheap car shipping include insurance?

Another good point to bring up when discussing the safety of shipping a car the cheap way is the fact that all car haulers operating within the United States must carry cargo protection insurance which is a requirement by law. Be sure to ask your car shipper for a copy of the protection policy that way you can see how much the vehicle is covered in case of damage. If damage is present on delivery that was not there at pickup, then the car shipper you hired for the lowest price should be able to walk you through the steps in filing a claim.

Pros and Cons of Open Auto Transport

✅ Affordable Rates: Open auto transport is often cheaper, making it a wallet-friendly option.
✅ Direct Communication: You can chat with your driver, staying informed about your car's journey.
✅ Top Load Placement: Opting for top placement is safer, as it protects your car from potential damage.
✅ Economical Choice: It's simply a budget-friendly way to move your car.
✅ Cost-Effective Shipping: Open transport gets your car there without breaking the bank.
🔴 Exposure to Elements: Your car may get dirty or wet during transport.
🔴 Dirt Accumulation: Dust and dirt might stick to your car, but a quick wash can fix it.
🔴 Multiple Stops: The carrier may make several stops, which could lengthen the delivery time.
🔴 Longer Delivery Time: Your car might take a bit longer to arrive, usually around 10 to 14 days.

 

Safest Auto Transport Option: Enclosed Car Carrier Transportation

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What Enclosed Transport is

Enclosed auto transport is widely regarded as the safest way to ship a vehicle. In this specialized service, vehicles are transported within fully enclosed carriers that shield them from external elements and potential risks. This protective environment safeguards vehicles from weather-related damage, road debris, and other hazards. Enclosed transport is particularly favored for high-value, classic, luxury, or delicate vehicles where preserving their pristine condition is paramount.

Enclosed transport is the safest way to ship a car

The secure, controlled setting of enclosed carriers offers an added layer of protection against theft and vandalism. This level of security ensures that vehicles remain out of sight and away from potential threats during the journey. The meticulous handling and securing of vehicles within enclosed carriers further reduce the risk of damage caused by movement or shifting.

While enclosed auto transport offers top-tier protection, it's important to note that it can be relatively more expensive than open transport due to the premium features it provides. For those seeking the utmost in vehicle safety and preservation, enclosed auto transport stands as the ideal choice, ensuring that vehicles arrive at their destination in the same impeccable condition as when they were loaded.

Lift Gate Technology Available

Looking for the safest way to ship a car?

The most safest way to transport a car from one state to another is the enclosed car carrier. This means your vehicle would be fully encased within a trailer surrounded by 4 walls and a roof. Many enclosed auto transporters are equipped with a lift gate and some even have temperature control to maintain the perfect environment during shipping. The safety offered by enclosed auto transport trucks is the best the industry can provide.
This type of shipping service is perfect for classic, collectible, exotic and high end luxury vehicles that can Not risk any elements of the road during transport.

How much does enclosed auto transport cost?

Choosing the safest car shipping option, the enclosed carrier to ship a car to another state would cost anywhere from $300-800 in addition to the average cost to transport a car by open car hauler. The extra cost is due to the type of service provided. With the extra protection and safety a closed car transporter provides, the space available to move vehicles is slightly limited. This means enclosed car hauler services can only transport few cars at a time. This can also be a factor is the increased price. There are many different variables a car shipping company analyzes when generating a price to transport a vehicle.

Is insurance protection included with enclosed car shipping?

Yes it is. Even with the added safety of walls surrounding the vehicle completely covered as it travels down the highways, full insurance must be provided by the car carrier as it is a requirement by law. Vehicle inspections must be performed at both pickup and delivery noting the automobiles condition.

• If any damages occur during transport, the invoices are the way to prove it. Documentation will be needed as proof that something happened.
• The safe feeling you will have watching your beloved car loaded into a closed car transport trailer will keep you at ease till delivery knowing no matter what, you automobile is fully insured.
• Be sure to ask your car shipping service provider to send you a copy of the insurance policy prior to loading your car. This can be easily sent to your email on request.

Pros and Cons of Enclosed Auto Transport

✅ Maximum Safety: Your car is enclosed within a container, providing the highest level of protection.
✅ Lift Gate Technology: Special hydraulic lifts ensure safe loading and unloading of your vehicle.
✅ V.I.P. Treatment: Carriers are trained to handle high-value vehicles with extra care and attention.
✅ Maximum Protection: Your car is within a trailer, offering maximum security, and it's fully insured.
✅ Faster Delivery: Enclosed carriers carry fewer cars, resulting in quicker delivery times.
🔴 Higher Cost: Enclosed transport can be $600 to $300 more expensive than standard open rates.
🔴 Limited Availability: Due to fewer enclosed carriers, scheduling may be a 2 to 5 day pickup window.

 

Auto Transportation Protection Policy: Insurance Coverage

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What is Insured Auto Transport?

Insured auto transport services provide comprehensive coverage to safeguard vehicles during transportation. This insurance ensures that if any damage, theft, vandalism, or accidents occur while the vehicle is being transported, the transport company's insurance will cover the associated costs. This coverage offers peace of mind to vehicle owners, knowing that their valuable assets are protected throughout the transport process. It's important to review the insurance terms and coverage limits before selecting a transport company to ensure that your vehicle is adequately protected during transit.

Easy to understand insurance policy

Auto transporters are legally responsible for carrying liability insurance per the United States Department of Transportation and the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). [5] You are not required to have insurance to ship a car. This must be provided by the auto carrier assigned to pickup and deliver your vehicle.

Are cars insured while being shipped?

When shipping a vehicle, all legally authorized car carriers operating within the United States are required by law to have some sort of cargo protection insurance. These documents must be provided at your request prior to loading. All car shipping protection policies are different so be sure to ask exactly how much your vehicle is insured for and make sure to get it in writing.

How to prove damage occurred during transport?

At both pickup and delivery locations, the driver will conduct a vehicle inspection report which would document the current condition of the automobile being transported. This record will be made on the Bill of Lading which also serves as the order receipt. If the condition of the vehicle appears to have been damaged during shipping, this document would be the way to prove it. Make sure to assist the driver while making this report and if there is anything you think that should be noted, be sure to express these thoughts to the carrier driver. A carbon copy of this invoice should be left with the person releasing the car at pickup and also a copy should be left with the person receiving the vehicle once payment has been made. Collect these documents as proof of purchase for your own records.

Pros and Cons of Insured Auto Transport

✅ Damage Protection: Your vehicle is covered for repair or replacement if damaged during transport.
✅ Peace of Mind: You can relax while waiting for your car's delivery, knowing it's protected.
🔴 Policy Limitations: Coverage for damages depends on the car carrier's policy, so check the details.

 

State to State Car Shipping Nationwide: Service by Route

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What is State to State?

Viceroy provides State to State Car Shipping services throughout the entire country. Customers can choose between open transport (exposed to elements) or enclosed transport (protected within an enclosure) based on their preferences and the level of protection required for their vehicles. These services offer a hassle-free solution for moving vehicles across state lines while ensuring their safe arrival at the destination.

U.S. Interstate Highways

✅ STATE SELECTOR

Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

Are some routes more available than others?

Everything is based on who is available. States with some of the largest cities in the country are generally a lot easier to ship cars to and from than states with smaller economies and metropolitan areas. The five easiest cities to ship cars in and out of are Los Angeles, Dallas, Chicago, Miami, and Seattle. If you are looking to buy a car online and want to ship a car to another state, (the state that you are living in, for example), then getting your car shipped from one of these car shipping hubs is going to be much easier than getting it shipped to or from a smaller city in your state. This is mainly due to how much the services would be needed compared to population size of the area.

How do cars get shipped from state to state?

The way to ship a car to another state is by locating the right auto transport company and requesting a quote online or by phone. If you are happy with their offer, you can proceed by following their reservation instructions. The company should then plan the logistics and send you your scheduled details in writing by email. A good car shipping company will make the process as smooth as possible. Direct communication with the driver should also be provided. It makes the job easier for everyone involved. Once your order is placed, the auto transport carrier should arrive and take care of the rest.

Can I trust a company shipping a car to another state?

Trusting the right auto transporter is hard unless you know how to research the company you're considering. If you wish to find out what a company's reputation is like, the best tool is literally at your finger tips. By doing a simple Google or Bing search of the company name, you will be provided with not only the company's main website but you should also be provided with a list of review sites that will host reviews by customers who have done business with the auto transporter. Keep in mind, non-reputable car shipping companies can give themselves reviews till blue in the face but negative reviews will most likely never be falsified. These are the reviews you want to read first as it will expose what the company is like at their worst. Based on what customers say about the company will determine how the company does business and operates.

Pros and Cons of State to State Auto Transport

✅ Safe and Secure Shipping: Safe and secure car shipping services would make the delivery a breeze.
✅ Direct Communication: Direct communication with the driver makes the shipment easier.
✅ No Need to Drive: You wont have to drive it yourself!
🔴 Standard Delivery Time: Standard time across country (2,700 miles) takes 7-10 days.

 

Top Load Spot: The Safest on Open Car Carrier

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What is Top Load Placement?

When you hear the term “top load,” the phrase refers to the area of the auto transport truck where your car is placed. Top load placement means that your vehicle will be placed on the top, or highest, level of the transport trailer. Top load car carrier services involve transporting vehicles on the upper deck of a multi-level car carrier.

Some say the Top Load Spot is the safest on Open Car Transport

In this arrangement, vehicles are loaded onto the upper level of the carrier, offering several advantages. Being positioned on top provides better protection from potential road debris, as well as reduced exposure to dirt and dust compared to the lower deck. It also reduces the risk of fluid leaks from vehicles above.

Does Top Load Placement cost more?

While top load car carrier services are often preferred due to these benefits, they might come at a slightly higher cost than bottom load options. However, the added protection and peace of mind they offer can make them a worthwhile choice for ensuring your vehicle's safety during transport. Reserving this spot may require an additional fee ranging from $50-300 depending on weight and size of the vehicle. This is all based on availability. Some drivers may even do it for free. That is completely up to the drivers discretion. Discuss these details with the driver direct if you wish.

Pros and Cons of Top Load Auto Transport

✅ Secure Position: Top spot ensures your vehicle will not be secured beneath any other vehicle.
✅ Priority Pickup: Top load means your vehicle is the first to be picked up due to stacking order.
✅ Protection from Leaks: Safe from oil leaks which may occur from vehicles posted above.
🔴 Tree Branches: Branches from trees may be an issue with an inexperienced driver.
🔴 Possible Additional Cost: Added cost in some cases, depending on availability.
🔴 Last Delivery: Your vehicle would definitely be the last one of the load delivered due to stack order.

 

Door Front Car Delivery Service: Door to Door Auto Shipping

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What is Door to Door?

Door to Door car shipping services provide a convenient and comprehensive solution for vehicle transportation. With this service, the transport company picks up the vehicle from the owner's specified location and delivers it directly to the desired destination. Door-to-door car transport ensures a seamless and efficient process, saving time and effort for the customer.

Most Car Haulers prefer door to door delivery.

It's important to consider factors like accessibility and local regulations that might affect the ability of large transport carriers to reach specific addresses. The convenience and reduced hassle make it a popular choice for many customers seeking a stress-free vehicle transport experience. It might not bear the literal meaning of having your car delivered right outside your door.  In most cases, drivers prefer front door delivery as it avoids them having to wait for anyone on pickup or delivery. They just arrive, load or unload and go.

Will shipping a car to my doorstep cost more?

No. Most auto transport carriers prefer door to door delivery as it avoids the driver from having to wait for anyone. They just arrive to load or unload and keep going. This saves them time as having to coordinate with a client may have them waiting. A number of reasons can keep the customer from a scheduled pickup or delivery time. Traffic, extended meetings, kids at school or maybe they forgot to turn the oven off which would force them back home, meanwhile keeping the driver stalled as they await to load the vehicle. By picking up and delivering from door to door, they are ensured the most efficient when it comes to time. Remember, time is money and money is the reason they drive.

Looking to learn how door to door service works?

Door to door service is preferred by auto transport carriers because it allows them to arrive, load or unload and continue going on their route. The driver should contact the person releasing the vehicle to schedule a pickup time to load and secure on the car hauler. Once loaded, the driver should contact the delivery point to coordinate a time. If there are no obstructions or restrictions, then the auto transport carrier should be able to deliver the car straight to your door front.

Pros and Cons of Door to Door Auto Transport

✅ Home Delivery Convenience: Convenience of having your car delivered to your home.
✅ Vehicle Inspection: The comfort of inspecting the vehicle with the driver.
🔴 Restricted Contact Zones: Access Restricted due to laws, narrow roads or low hanging trees.

 

How to Calculate Cost: Explaining Auto Transport Prices

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Rates are mainly generated by taking the following factors into consideration:

• Vehicle size & weight
• Route Variations
• Carrier Type (Open or Enclosed)
• Availability
  
• Current Diesel Fuel Rates.

What are Auto Transport Price Factors?

Rates are calculated by a few different factors.

The cost to ship a car from state to state can range anywhere from $200-$2000 depending on many different factors which would come into play when calculating your car shipping rate. This is assuming you are selecting the open auto transport option. Enclosed car shipping will cost 30% to 70% more than standard open transport due to the level of carrier the service provides.

Looking to get car shipping rates?

The cost to ship a car to another state varies due to many different factors.
Some of these include: Route Availability, Vehicle specs (weight/size), Mileage, Carrier Type and Current Diesel Fuel Rates. All this data is calculated to generate the cost to transport a vehicle. To get pricing for your route and specific needs, complete our free quote request form to get started.

Are auto transport prices accurate?

Some companies are more honest than others and stick to the national average rates in comparison to other companies in the industry. Non-reputable companies are capable of low-balling you with a low quote (estimate by definition) to only switch the rate on you later. Estimates can change. This is known as the bait & switch. Be careful and always do your own research into a companies background. A simple Google search can reveal a lot. A 'good' company is only as 'good' as their reputation.

 

How to Prepare for Service: Steps to be ready for car transport.

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Preparing your car for auto transport is crucial to ensure its safety and streamline the process.

What are some Auto Transport Prepartion Tips?

Following these ten simple steps can make a significant difference:

1. Empty your car of personal items as the insurance covers the vehicle, not its contents.
2. Keep the fuel gauge low, ideally at a quarter tank, to minimize flammability risks.
3. Washing your car helps in the initial inspection for any existing damages.
4. Take pictures of your car for your records.
5. Clear the loading area to facilitate easy access for the transport team.
6. Keep your registration and title and removing the license plate is optional.
7. Ensure your tires are fully inflated and fix any leaks.
8. Notify the driver about any oil leaks so they can position your car accordingly.
9. Remove toll passes to avoid unexpected charges.
10. Adjust or remove any special modifications to prevent delays or damage.

By following these steps, you not only protect your car but also contribute to a smoother, more efficient transport process.

 

Frequently Asked Questions: All about Auto Transport

Here are a few frequently asked questions with answers about auto transport and car shipping services. 

Is open auto transport carrier really safe?

That all depends on the auto carrier which has been assigned to your order. In all cases, any auto transportation provider operating within the United States of America should have the required cargo insurance policy enforced by the F.M.C.S.A. This means that your vehicle should be fully protected against any damage inflicted during transport. Be sure to ask for insurance documentation prior to pick up.

• The insurance docs could be easily requested by the auto transportation logistics coordinator who is responsible for dispatching your vehicle to the auto carrier.
• Make sure to check the expiration date on the insurance policy and also reassure yourself that your vehicle is completely insured during transport. With all these details in order regarding the insurance during shipment, your vehicle should be in good hands as the last thing anyone wants is an added claim to their policy. This assures you that the driver will take care of your vehicle with the respect it deserves.

What type of cars can be loaded?

This all depends on the size and weight of your vehicle. A standard car or truck can pretty much fit in any option you choose to ship your car. Pretty much any standard sized vehicle in the category of sedan, regular sized trucks, normal sized S.U.V.'s and even some vans again depending on the size which are determined by length and height. The total size of a vehicle able to fit on an open auto transport carrier would depend on the other vehicles which would be loaded along with it. If you have seen an open auto trailer, you will notice that the top level can be adjusted to different heights which would allow for the loading and unloading of many different types of vehicles.

• Expect the vehicle to be strapped down to the frame of the trailer. Thick leather straps or light chains are used around the wheelbase and securely fastened to the metal frame of the open-air auto carrier trailer. This avoids the vehicle from bouncing around during transport and ensures that the unit will be delivered in the same condition as it was picked up.

 Please Note: Low clearance vehicles may require alternate methods such as lift-gates.

Can open carrier transport save me money?

The cheapest option to ship your car is the most common, the open auto transport carrier. When shipping your vehicle on an open-air auto transporter, you are most likely being transported along with six to sometimes nine other vehicles which are all loaded and secured. Having so many vehicles on a load to deliver allows the driver to ease up on the total rates per unit.
 Of course, car shipping rates are all dependent on:
✔️ Vehicle Specs (Size/Weight).
✔️ Carrier Availability.
✔️ Route Variables.
✔️ Current Diesel Fuel Rates.
The higher the demand for service on the route you require will determine the total cost of the transportation in question. Rates will always fluctuate as they reflect gas prices, mainly diesel fuel. There is never really any set rates for shipping a vehicle in this industry as everything in the end revolves around fuel prices. Even when gas prices may be at their highest, going open auto hauler will always be your safest and most affordable option when shipping a car state-to-state.

Can personal items be loaded?

Most auto hauling companies prohibit the inclusion of personal items in vehicles being shipped.
 Here are 4 very good reasons:

• License & Insurance: It is against FMCSA regulations for carriers to transport personal possessions within a vehicle. Carriers risk fines for transporting any personal possessions. The auto transport carrier insurance policy typically does not cover the loss or damage of personal possessions included in a vehicle being shipped.   
• Weight: Auto haulers have strict limits on the weight of loaded trucks and trailers. Additional, unanticipated weight of personal items could cause carriers to be overweight. In this situation, the carrier has to make a choice to drive overweight (risking fines and significant delays) or not take the vehicle.   
• Safety: Extra weight in the car could cause damage to the undercarriage during loading and unloading. If items of perceived value are visible through the car’s windows they may attracted unwanted attention from thieves or vandals when carriers park at truck stops. No hazardous materials (e.g. explosives, flammables, poisons, compressed gases, oxidants, corrosives, etc.), firearms, ammunition, items of unusual value (e.g. cash, money, bonds, precious metals, stones, and gems), alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, drugs or medicines (either prescribed or illegal), antlers, furs, or pornographic material.
• Risk: To avoid the potential loss of personal items and to make sure that vehicles can be delivered on time, please avoid shipping any personal items in your vehicles. Although we will ship customer’s personal items upon request we ask that you limit the weight of personal items to 100 lbs. Additionally personal items stored inside the vehicle must not be above the window line and must not inhibit the driver’s seat from moving all the way back.

Does Viceroy deliver door to door?

Our expert car carrier drivers prefer to auto transport door to door on most routes. Delivering your car door to door would avoid our auto shipper waiting for a customer to meet. They just simply arrive, load & go! Of course, if the roads prohibit or the law restricts in the area, then the auto hauling driver would contact the customer ahead of time to secure a more accessible pickup/delivery location close by. Keep in mind, our dispatch team is always on stand by to assist with any & All auto transport information or updates. 

Will my car stay on the same truck?

Yes. Our auto haulers prefer to Not move your vehicles around once they are loaded onto the auto transporter. Before the route begins, our car shipping logistics teams plan the routes before hand & carefully schedule all auto transportation loads to flow smoothly. The same auto carrier driver that picks your car up will be the same auto hauler that drops your car off. We provide all contact information for the car shipper driver direct so you may stay in touch from pickup to delivery is completed.

Can I track my car by GPS?

As things advance technologically speaking, some car shipping companies will offer some sort of tracking system. Keep in mind, Satellite tracking & GPS monitoring can get quite expensive. Most car carriers are simply owner-operators who do not own GPS equipment & would rather not due to expenses. GPS tracking is mainly reserved for military Auto Shipping or high profile car transportation. That is why we connect you direct with your auto hauler.

Is my car insured during transport?

Yes. Your vehicle would be completely insured under the cargo protection policy required by law to operate in the United States under D.O.T. Proof of auto transport insurance can be provided by the car carrier direct prior to pickup. Complete both car shipping vehicle inspections with the car carrier driver on pickup & delivery to ensure the vehicles condition. Our claims department is always here to assist you with all of your needs. 100% Guaranteed!

How does the payment process work?

The payment is split in 2 parts. The first would be a reservation fee to validate the order. The remaining balance  would be owed on Delivery in certified funds: Cash, Money order or Bank Certified check. This is the industries standard way to reserve a spot on a car carrier.

• How to Pay for Car Shipping
  

How long does it take to ship a car?

The delivery time to ship a car varies depending on the route. Keep in mind, most car haulers can carry 5-9 vehicles at a time. This may requires 5-9 different stops for both pickup and delivery. Also factor in loading and unloading at each stop along with drive time. Every route is different and times for delivery are determined once the order is added to schedule.
Here are some common examples:

• Miami to New York City 3-5 days.
• Seattle to Chicago 5-7 days.
• Houston to Charlotte 3-5 days.
• Boston to Los Angeles 7-10 days.

Am I able to communicate with the driver?

We connect you with the driver direct by providing you the contact information for the carrier selected. Even though you will be in direct communication with the driver, please remember to always keep your dispatching agent as your primary contact. Our dispatch office can manage everything from here.

Is the price quoted a guaranteed price?

The initial quote is an estimate based on your required needs. Once the order has been booked and your spot is reserved, the quote would then become your final price. All details pertaining to your order will be sent to you in writing by email. The total amount should also be reflected on the bill of lading or vehicle inspection sheet at both pickup and delivery.

• Auto Transport Price Factors
  

Are pickup and delivery date guaranteed?

There is a two-day pickup window which is required for scheduling in most cases. Once the order has been added to schedule, the driver would have a better idea of exactly when pick up and delivery would take place. More accurate times for both pickup and delivery would be coordinated between you and the driver direct. We would also email you the driver direct contact info along with estimated times for both points.

Does expediting my order speed up transport?

To expedite a vehicle transport would require a 2 man driver team which would rotate shifts. They specifically drive nonstop to destinations. Drivers are only allowed to operate 500 miles per shift by law. With a two-man driver team, they are able to travel Non-Stop. This service may cost the customer 25 to 40% more than the standard hauling delivery time depending on mileage and Route variations. This is all depending on availability which depends on many factors.

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References

1. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/09/14/2017-19516/definition-of-automobile-transporter
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_carrier_trailer
3. https://www.google.com/
4. https://www.bing.com/
5. https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/insurance-filing-requirements