who ships cars: understanding your options today

Types of car shippers

If you’re moving, buying sight-unseen, or sending a classic to a show, knowing who actually moves vehicles helps you plan with confidence. Several players handle the work, each with different roles and responsibilities.

• Auto transport carriers own trucks and trailers and physically move your vehicle.
• Licensed brokers match you with vetted carriers and coordinate schedules and pricing.
• Dealerships and auctions rely on dedicated logistics partners for volume moves.
• Freight forwarders manage international shipping, customs, and port handling.
• Curated marketplaces connect you with insured independent haulers for niche routes.

How to choose safely

Request the carrier’s USDOT and MC numbers, verify active insurance, and ask for a current certificate of insurance listing you as additional interest. Compare quotes that specify open vs. enclosed service, pickup windows, cancellation terms, and door-to-door vs. terminal delivery.

1. Book early and be flexible on dates and pickup location.
2. Document condition with photos and note mileage at handoff.
3. Remove loose items; keep under a quarter tank of fuel.

Costs and timing

Price and transit depend on distance, route density, vehicle size, operability, seasonality, fuel prices, and lead time.