Before shipping a car, confirm the price, service, vehicle condition, access and handoff responsibilities. Most preventable confusion comes from an assumption that never reached the written quote or the person releasing the vehicle.
Do Confirm the Complete Quote and Payment Schedule
Ask what transportation is included, when payments are due and which changes could require a revised price. Tell the coordinator if the vehicle, route, operating condition or requested service changes after quoting. Keep the accepted terms available to the pickup and receiving contacts.
Do Describe the Actual Vehicle
Provide the year, make and model along with modifications, low ground clearance, oversized tires, roof accessories or other changes. Report whether the vehicle starts, rolls, steers and brakes. A non-running car should be reviewed before a truck is assigned, not introduced as a surprise at pickup.
Do Review Coverage and Record Condition
Confirm the assigned carrier and ask about applicable coverage, exclusions and how to report an issue. Take clear photographs before pickup and review the condition record at both handoffs. Do not assume a company’s advertising describes every policy or every kind of damage. See our car shipping coverage questions.
Do Confirm Keys, Release Documents and Contacts
Ask what your particular shipment requires. A dealer or auction may need a release number, proof of payment, buyer authorization or a pickup appointment. Confirm who will provide the keys and who is authorized to receive the vehicle. Do not assume every domestic shipment requires the same paperwork.
Don’t Pack the Car as a Moving Container
Remove valuables and loose personal belongings. If you need to leave any permitted items, obtain approval for the quantity, weight and placement first. Personal belongings are not covered as vehicle cargo. Household moving and vehicle shipping are different services.
Don’t Assume a Truck Can Reach Every Address
Share gates, narrow streets, low branches, steep driveways and local truck restrictions in advance. The driver may need a nearby accessible meeting location. Confirm that location and make sure both parties can complete the handoff there.
Don’t Treat an Estimated Date as a Fixed Appointment
Carrier availability, weather, traffic and prior stops can affect timing. Tell the coordinator about firm release deadlines or limited receiving hours, and ask what can be confirmed for the specific shipment. Keep a workable contact and receiving plan if the estimated window changes.
Choose the Service That Fits the Vehicle
Open auto transport and enclosed shipping serve different protection and budget priorities. Explain what matters for your vehicle so the quote reflects the requested service.
Plan Your Shipment With Elevation Transport Services
Send the vehicle or equipment details, pickup and delivery locations, operating condition and preferred timing. Our team will review the shipment and provide a tailored quote.
Request a transport quote or call (800) 251-9024. Customer service is available Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Eastern Time.
