Arranging to ship a car across the country is a task filled with decisions. You’ll juggle quotes, carriers, insurance, and schedules. For first-timers, it feels intimidating. Even people who have moved cars before still fall into familiar traps.
Mistakes during this process can be costly. Some create unexpected bills, while others cause unnecessary delays. A few even risk your car’s safety. The good news? Most issues are avoidable once you know what to watch for.
This guide lays out the common mistakes to avoid when shipping a car across country. Instead of glossing over details, we’ll highlight what typically goes wrong and why it matters. Each section explains how to sidestep problems and protect both your car and your wallet.
Not Getting Multiple Auto Transport Quotes
Too many people accept the first price they’re given. It feels convenient, but convenience can come with hidden costs. Prices for auto transport vary by season, route demand, and service type.
Gathering multiple quotes isn’t just about saving money—it also helps you recognize industry averages. When one company’s bid stands far below the others, that’s a red flag. Similarly, unusually high quotes may include services you don’t need.
Think of it the way you’d shop for electronics. If one store offers a laptop for half the price of others, you’d question the deal. Car shipping requires the same level of scrutiny.
Choosing Price Over Reputation and Service
A low sticker price can look attractive, but cheap doesn’t equal reliable. Some budget carriers cut corners on training, insurance, or communication. These shortcuts can turn a simple move into a stressful ordeal.
Reputation, on the other hand, tells you how a company actually performs. Look for consistent customer feedback, not just a handful of glowing testimonials. Reliable carriers are transparent, honest about delivery windows, and reachable when you have questions.
Paying slightly more for quality service buys peace of mind. Consider it an investment in avoiding headaches rather than an expense.
Not Understanding Car Shipping Insurance Coverage
One of the biggest misconceptions is assuming your car will be “fully covered” no matter what happens. While carriers do provide liability insurance, coverage details differ. Some exclude theft, natural disasters, or small cosmetic damage.
This is where asking questions pays off. Request a copy of the policy and study the fine print. If the terms feel vague, press for clarification. Your own auto insurer may also extend coverage during transport, but only if you notify them beforehand.
Insurance isn’t glamorous to review, but it’s essential. Better to spend half an hour checking than months arguing over damage claims later.
Missing or Incomplete Vehicle Documentation
Documentation may not sound exciting, but it’s essential. Without proper papers, your car could sit untouched at the pickup point. At minimum, carriers require proof of ownership, current registration, and identification.
International shipping raises the bar further. Customs paperwork, notarized documents, and sometimes emissions records are needed. Skipping any of these delays shipping and may even result in storage fees.
Before the carrier arrives, organize everything in a folder. Double-check requirements with your transport company to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Failing to Document Pre-Existing Damage
Disputes about damage often arise not from dishonesty, but from lack of proof. Without photos, you have no way to demonstrate whether a dent or scratch was pre-existing.
The solution is straightforward. Take well-lit, clear photos of your car from multiple angles. Don’t forget close-ups of minor blemishes. Mark the date and store copies digitally.
When your car is delivered, compare its condition with those photos. If something doesn’t match, you’ll have evidence to support your claim.
Leaving Personal Items in the Vehicle
It might feel practical to stash belongings inside your car during shipping. Unfortunately, most carriers forbid this—and for good reasons.
Extra weight affects transport logistics, which can change pricing. Loose items may rattle, scratch interiors, or cause damage if they shift. Worst of all, these items aren’t covered by insurance if stolen or broken.
If you must leave something, confirm with your carrier first. Otherwise, treat the vehicle as cargo, not storage.
Neglecting to Inspect Your Vehicle
Skipping the inspection process is one of the most avoidable mistakes. When your vehicle arrives, you should walk through a thorough check with the driver.
The Bill of Lading documents your car’s condition before and after transit. If you ignore this step, any claim later becomes difficult. Even a five-minute inspection can save you thousands in repair costs.
Think of it like checking a rental car before driving off the lot—you wouldn’t leave without noting scratches or dents.
Last-Minute Shipping Arrangements
Some people leave shipping to the last possible moment. That often leads to higher rates and fewer carrier options. It’s similar to booking airline tickets right before a holiday weekend—you’ll pay a premium and fight for limited seats.
Ideally, book two to four weeks in advance. During high-demand seasons, plan even earlier. This extra time gives you more choices, lower prices, and a better chance of securing a reliable carrier.
Selecting the Wrong Shipping Services
Choosing the wrong service type often stems from focusing only on price. Open transport is cheaper, but cars are exposed to weather and road debris. For standard vehicles, that risk is manageable. For high-value or collectible cars, enclosed transport is far safer.
Another decision involves pickup style. Terminal-to-terminal shipping costs less but requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle. Door-to-door service offers convenience but is pricier. Match your choice to your budget, car type, and flexibility.
Selecting the right service ensures your car arrives as expected, without regrets.
Conclusion
Shipping a car across the country isn’t as mysterious as it seems. With careful planning, it becomes manageable. The key lies in avoiding mistakes that trap first-timers and even seasoned shippers. Skipping quotes, overlooking insurance details, leaving personal belongings in the car, or booking last-minute are all errors that add stress.
Treat the process like preparing for a long journey. You wouldn’t start a road trip without checking your tires, mapping your route, and packing essentials. The same principle applies here. Preparation reduces risk and smooths the entire experience.
Before finalizing your choice, ask yourself: “Am I chasing the lowest price, or am I ensuring a reliable, safe shipment?” That question alone helps you sidestep most pitfalls.
