If you have never shipped a vehicle before, the process can seem intimidating. This guide walks you through every step so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Get a Quote
Contact State Wide Auto Transport or use our online quote form. You will need:
- • Pickup location (city and state or ZIP code)
- • Delivery location
- • Vehicle year, make, and model
- • Preferred pickup date
- • Transport type preference (open or enclosed)
You will receive a quote within minutes. The quote includes the total price — no hidden fees.
Step 2: Book Your Shipment
Once you accept the quote, we book your order. No payment is required at this point. We post your shipment to our carrier network to find the best available carrier for your route and timeline.
Step 3: Carrier Assignment
A licensed carrier is matched to your shipment. You will receive:
- • Carrier name and contact info
- • Estimated pickup date and time window
- • Driver's name and phone number
A small deposit is collected at this point (not before).
Step 4: Vehicle Pickup
The driver arrives at your location during the scheduled window (usually a 2-4 hour range). Here is what happens: 1. The driver inspects your vehicle and documents its condition on the Bill of Lading (BOL) 2. You review and sign the BOL 3. The driver loads your vehicle onto the trailer 4. You keep your copy of the BOL
The entire pickup process takes about 15-30 minutes.
Step 5: In Transit
Your vehicle is on the road. During transit:
- • The driver makes scheduled stops for fuel and rest (DOT regulations)
- • The carrier may pick up or deliver other vehicles along the route
- • Your dispatcher can provide status updates if you call
Step 6: Delivery
The driver contacts you when they are close to your delivery location. At delivery: 1. The driver unloads your vehicle 2. You inspect the vehicle carefully, comparing it to the pickup BOL 3. If everything looks good, you sign the delivery BOL 4. You pay the remaining balance to the driver
What About Insurance?
Every carrier in our network carries cargo insurance. Your vehicle is covered from the moment it is loaded until delivery. In the rare event of damage, you file a claim with the carrier's insurance company, and we assist you through the process.
Common First-Timer Questions
Q: Will someone drive my car? Only for loading and unloading (a few feet). Your car rides on the trailer for the entire trip.
Q: Can I ride with the driver? No. DOT regulations and insurance policies prohibit passengers.
Q: What if the carrier is late? All dates are estimates. Weather, traffic, and other stops can cause delays. Your dispatcher keeps you updated.
Q: Is my car safe on an open carrier? Yes. Open transport is safe for the vast majority of vehicles. Millions of cars are shipped this way every year.
Ready to ship? Call State Wide Auto Transport at (855) 469-8090 or get a free quote online.