To choose a car shipping company, start by confirming it's licensed with the FMCSA, then compare at least three written quotes on the same terms: transport type, pickup window, deposit, insurance and what happens if the price or schedule changes. The right company isn't always the cheapest one. It's the one that gives you a realistic price, clear terms in writing, honest timing and real communication while your car is on the road.
This guide breaks the decision into simple steps, with a scorecard you can use to compare companies side by side.
Key takeaways
- Verify the company's USDOT and MC numbers on the FMCSA website before anything else.
- Compare quotes "apples to apples": same vehicle, same route, same open or enclosed transport, same timing.
- Know whether you're working with a broker, a carrier, or both. Each has pros and cons.
- Ask about deposits, price locks, insurance limits and update frequency, and get the answers in writing.
- Typical costs run about $500–$1,900 for open transport and $800–$2,900 for enclosed, depending on distance and season.
Step 1: Decide what you actually need
Before you call anyone, get clear on your shipment. This makes quotes more accurate and easier to compare.
- Vehicle details: year, make, model, and any modifications like lift kits, lowered suspension or roof racks.
- Running condition: does the car start, steer and brake? Non-running cars need a winch and usually cost more.
- Pickup and delivery locations: full ZIP codes, plus whether a large truck can reach your street.
- Timing: your first available pickup date and any hard deadline for delivery.
- Transport type: open or enclosed.
- Budget: a realistic range, not just the lowest possible number.
Open vs. enclosed: a quick guide
Open car shipping is the most common and affordable choice. It's a great fit for everyday cars, SUVs and pickups. Enclosed car shipping protects the car from weather and road debris and is the usual choice for exotic, luxury, classic and collector vehicles. Expect enclosed to cost noticeably more, often several hundred dollars above open on the same route.
Step 2: Understand brokers vs. carriers
Auto transport has two main kinds of companies. Both are legal, and both must be registered with the FMCSA.
| Broker | Carrier | |
|---|---|---|
| What they do | Find and book a licensed carrier for your car, and manage the order | Own the trucks and physically move the car |
| Reach | Large network of carriers across many routes | Limited to their own trucks and usual routes |
| Flexibility | Can often find another truck if plans change | Depends on their own schedule |
| FMCSA requirement | Broker authority plus a $75,000 bond or trust | Carrier authority plus liability and cargo insurance |
| Best for | Most customers, especially long or uncommon routes | Customers whose route matches the carrier's regular lanes |
Questions to ask a broker
If you go with a broker, a few extra questions help you understand how your order will be handled:
- Will you tell me the assigned carrier's name and USDOT number before pickup?
- How do you choose carriers, and do you check their insurance and safety records?
- Who do I contact while the car is in transit: you or the driver?
- If the first carrier cancels, what happens to my pickup date and price?
Clear, confident answers are a good sign. Vague answers are worth noting on your scorecard.
Most people book through a broker because it's easier to get a truck on your dates. CTS Auto Transport works with a network of more than 100,000 licensed and insured carriers, with shipments arranged by Niki Auto Transport (USDOT 4535689, MC 1799148).
Step 3: Check licensing, insurance and track record
Licensing
Ask every company for its USDOT and MC numbers. Look them up on the FMCSA website. Make sure the status is active, the legal name matches, and the contact details line up with what you were given.
Insurance
The carrier's cargo insurance is what typically covers damage during transport. Ask:
- What is the cargo coverage limit per vehicle?
- Is there a deductible, and who pays it?
- Can I see the carrier's certificate of insurance before pickup?
- Is extra coverage available for a high-value car?
For expensive vehicles, coverage limits matter a lot. CTS can arrange coverage up to $2M for qualifying vehicles.
Track record
Read reviews on several independent platforms. Look for patterns, not single posts. Pay attention to how the company handles problems. A company that responds calmly and fixes issues is usually a good sign.
Step 4: Compare quotes the right way
Quotes can look similar but mean very different things. Ask the same questions to each company so you're comparing fairly.
Questions to ask every company
- Is this price all-in, including fuel and insurance?
- Is the price locked once I book, or can it change before dispatch?
- How much deposit is due, and when?
- How do I pay the balance, and when?
- What is the pickup window, and how soon is a carrier usually assigned on my route?
- Is the delivery date an estimate or guaranteed?
- Is service door to door?
- How often will I get updates in transit?
- What is your cancellation policy?
- How do damage claims work?
Why the cheapest quote can cost more
Carriers pick loads based on pay. A price far below the market may sit unclaimed, and then the company asks you to pay more to get a driver. That can cost you days. Use our car shipping cost calculator to get a feel for a fair range, and read our guide on avoiding car shipping scams for other warning signs.
Reading the fine print on a quote
Two quotes with the same number can hide very different terms. Look for words like "estimate," "starting at" or "subject to carrier availability." These often mean the price can change before dispatch. Also check whether the quote assumes a flexible pickup window. A quote that's cheap because it assumes you can wait two weeks isn't a fair match for one that promises pickup in three days.
A written price promise takes the guesswork out. The CTS Best Price Guarantee means we'll match or beat a lower written quote.
Step 5: Use a scorecard
Rate each company from 1 to 5 on these points, then add up the scores. It turns a confusing choice into a clear one.
| Factor | What a 5 looks like |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Active USDOT/MC, details match FMCSA |
| Price clarity | All-in written price, no hidden fees |
| Price stability | Price locked or guaranteed after booking |
| Deposit | Low or $0 to book |
| Insurance | Clear limits, certificate available, extra coverage offered |
| Timing | Realistic pickup window; guaranteed date option |
| Communication | Fast replies, regular in-transit updates |
| Reputation | Consistent reviews across several sites |
| Service range | Covers your route and vehicle type |
Step 6: Match the company to your situation
Some moves need extra know-how. Make sure the company has done your kind of shipment before.
Long-distance and cross-country moves
For cross-country car shipping, ask how the carrier handles weather delays and how often you'll get updates. Coast-to-coast trips often take 7–10 days in transit.
Exotic, luxury and classic cars
Look for enclosed experience, soft straps or wheel nets, liftgate loading for low cars, and higher insurance limits. See our luxury and exotic car shipping page for details.
Electric vehicles
EVs are heavier and need to arrive with a reasonable charge. Ask the company about state-of-charge guidelines and loading. A company with EV experience will know which trucks can handle the extra weight.
Motorcycles, pickups and modified vehicles
Motorcycles need wheel chocks and proper tie-downs, not just a spot on a car hauler. Lifted trucks, dually pickups and vehicles with racks or toppers may not fit every trailer. Tell each company about size and modifications up front so the quote is accurate and the right truck shows up.
Snowbirds and seasonal moves
If you head south for the winter and north in the spring, you'll be shipping during the busiest weeks of the year on routes like the Northeast to Florida. Ask companies how far ahead they recommend booking, and whether they can schedule your return trip at the same time.
Hawaii and Alaska
These shipments often combine trucking and ocean transport. Ask about port schedules, documents and timelines. CTS serves all 50 states, including Hawaii.
Tight deadlines
If you need the car fast, ask about expedited car shipping, same-day pickup and a guaranteed delivery date. CTS offers same-day pickup in most metro areas.
Step 7: Read the agreement before you sign
Your written agreement is your protection. Before signing, check that it includes:
- Your full vehicle details and both addresses.
- The total price and what it includes.
- Deposit amount, balance due and payment method.
- Pickup window and delivery estimate or guarantee.
- Cancellation and refund terms.
- Insurance and claims process.
If something you were told on the phone isn't in writing, ask for it to be added.
Step 8: Prepare your car
Once you've chosen, set yourself up for a smooth pickup:
- Wash the car and take dated photos from every side.
- Remove personal items and toll tags.
- Leave about a quarter tank of fuel, or a reasonable charge for an EV.
- Fold mirrors and remove loose accessories.
- Note any leaks or mechanical issues and tell the company.
- Be there, or have someone you trust there, to sign the bill of lading.
For the full list, see our vehicle shipping checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use a broker or a carrier?
Most people do well with a licensed broker, because brokers can reach many carriers and find a truck that fits your dates. A carrier can work well if your route matches its regular lanes. Either way, verify the company with the FMCSA.
How many quotes should I get?
Three is a good number. It shows you a fair range and makes any unusually low or high quote stand out.
What is a fair price to ship a car?
Prices vary by distance, season and vehicle, but open transport often runs about $500–$1,900 and enclosed about $800–$2,900. Very short or very long routes can fall outside that range.
Is door-to-door shipping standard?
Many companies offer door-to-door car shipping, meaning the driver gets as close to your address as is safe and legal. If your street is too narrow for a big truck, you may meet at a nearby parking lot.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking one to two weeks ahead gives you the most choice and often a better price, especially in summer or snowbird season. If you're short on time, ask about expedited service or same-day pickup, which is available in many metro areas.
What guarantees should I look for?
Useful ones include a written price promise, a low or $0 deposit, and a guaranteed delivery date option if your timing is strict. CTS offers all three, plus a 100% satisfaction or money-back promise.
Comparing companies now? Get a free quote from CTS Auto Transport and put us to the test with your scorecard.
Updated November 4, 2026