September 1, 2025
How to Ship Your Car During a Long-Distance Move: Your Complete Guide
Planning a cross-country move? You’re not alone! Every year, millions of Americans face the challenge of relocating long distances. One of the biggest questions people face during a move is: What should I do with my car? Driving thousands of miles isn’t always realistic, especially when balancing work, family, and the overall stress of moving. That’s where car shipping can be a game-changer.
Auto transport services make it so much easier to handle your vehicle during a big move. Instead of adding miles and wear to your car (and exhausting yourself in the process), you can let professionals handle it. They’ll safely transport your car so you can focus on everything else on your plate.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about shipping your car, from picking the right company to getting your car ready for the trip.
Want to make your move less stressful and more efficient? Let’s dive into how to ship your car during a long-distance move that can simplify your relocation!
Understanding Your Car Shipping Options
Open vs. Enclosed Transport
When it comes to shipping your car, you have two main options—open or enclosed transport—each with its own pros and cons.
Open transport is the most common choice, accounting for about 90% of all vehicle shipments. Your car will travel on an open trailer alongside other vehicles, exposing it to weather and road conditions. The upside? It’s a budget-friendly option and gets the job done reliably, making it a great choice for standard vehicles.
Enclosed transport, on the other hand, is all about premium protection. Your car is housed in a covered trailer, shielding it from weather, road debris, and even prying eyes. While it costs 30–50% more than open transport, it’s absolutely worth it for luxury cars, classic vehicles, or anything with custom modifications you want to keep in pristine condition.
Terminal-to-Terminal vs. Door-to-Door Delivery
Another big decision is how your car gets picked up and dropped off—terminal-to-terminal or door-to-door delivery.
With terminal-to-terminal service, you must drop off and pick up your car at specific transport hubs. It can save you some money, but it also means a bit of extra hassle. You’ll have to fit those trips into your schedule, which can be tricky if you’re in a busy move.
Door-to-door delivery, on the other hand, is the ultimate convenience. The carrier comes to your current location to pick up the car and drop it off directly at your new address. It does cost a little more, but it’s a huge time saver and eliminates the stress of coordinating trips to a terminal. Most reputable car shipping companies make this process smooth and can handle residential streets with no problem.
No matter which options you choose, the key is to find the right balance of cost, convenience, and care for your car!
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
Get Multiple Quotes and Compare
Don’t just go with the first quote you get! Getting a few estimates is key to finding the best deal and service. Most reputable vehicle shipping companies will provide free quotes tailored to your route, vehicle type, and service needs. Prices can vary by hundreds of dollars, so taking the time to compare is well worth it.
Look for companies with a strong online presence and clear pricing. The best providers will explain how their prices are calculated and won’t pressure you into making a quick decision. Take your time, weigh your options, and choose what feels right.
Check Credentials and Reviews
Your car is a big investment, so you want to be sure it’s in good hands! Ensure any company you’re considering is licensed with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and has a valid Motor Carrier (MC) number. You can easily verify this on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website.
Reviews can also give you a clearer picture of what to expect. Check platforms like Google Reviews, Better Business Bureau, and industry-specific sites to see what other customers say. Pay attention to how companies handle negative reviews—it says a lot about their approach to customer service.
Confirm Insurance Coverage
Every legit auto transport company carries cargo insurance, but coverage amounts vary. Standard policies range from $100,000 to $1,000,000, but it’s important to understand what’s actually covered. Some policies have high deductibles or exclude certain types of damage.
Before shipping, review your auto insurance policy—some personal policies cover transport and can help fill in any gaps. Also, inspect your car for damage beforehand and document it just to be safe. If you’re shipping a high-value vehicle, consider additional coverage for extra peace of mind.
Preparing Your Car for Transport
Clean and Document Everything
Start by giving your car a good wash to clearly see any existing damage. Then, take detailed photos from different angles, including close-ups of any scratches, dents, or imperfections. These photos are super important—they’ll come in handy as proof if any damage happens during transport.
Next, write down your car’s condition. Note the mileage, fuel level, and any mechanical issues. Ensure you and the carrier sign off on this document before the transport begins. This simple step protects both you and the transport company, making claims easier if something goes wrong.
Remove Personal Items and Get Your Car Ready
Most car shipping companies don’t allow personal items in the vehicle for good reason. Insurance can’t cover those items, and they could move around during transit, causing damage. So, take everything out of your car except the essentials like the spare tire and any standard tools or equipment.
Also, make sure your car is in good working order before shipping. Check the fluids, tire pressure, and battery to ensure it starts and runs properly. Remember, your car needs to be able to drive onto and off the transport truck. Fix any mechanical issues beforehand to avoid delays or extra fees.
Understanding Pricing and Timing
What Affects Car Shipping Costs?
It’s no surprise that distance is the biggest factor in car shipping prices, but it’s not the only thing that matters! Shipping between popular cities tends to cost less per mile, while more remote destinations can drive up the price. Seasonal demand also plays a big role—summer is a busy time with more people moving and students relocating, which means higher rates.
The type of car you’re shipping also makes a difference. Bigger cars cost more because they take up more space on the trailer. If you’re shipping a luxury vehicle or need enclosed transport, expect to pay a premium. And if your car isn’t running, it’ll cost extra since special equipment is needed to load and unload it.
Timing and Seasonal Tips
Spring and summer are peak moving seasons, which means higher prices and longer wait times. Winter, on the other hand, can bring delays on northern routes because of bad weather, while hot summer temperatures can slow things down in the south. If you can, plan your car shipment during off-peak times to save money and make scheduling easier.
It’s best to book your car shipping at least two weeks ahead. Waiting until the last minute could cost you 20-30% more and leave you with fewer options. During peak seasons, popular routes fill up fast, so booking early gives you more choice and better service.
The Transport Process: What to Expect
Pickup Day: What to Expect
Your carrier will contact you 24-48 hours before the pickup to confirm the appointment and give you an estimated arrival window. When they arrive, the driver will inspect your vehicle with you and document its condition on a Bill of Lading—a key document that serves as your legal contract for the transport.
Be sure to have your ID, vehicle registration, and keys ready for the pickup. The driver may also check that your car is operational before securing it safely on the trailer. Keep copies of all paperwork for your records, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.
Tracking Your Vehicle During Transit
Most car shipping companies now offer tracking options so you can follow your vehicle’s journey. This might be through an online portal, a mobile app, or even regular phone updates. Transit times can vary from 1 to 10 days, depending on the distance and route.
Stay in touch with your carrier throughout the process. A reputable vehicle moving company will keep you updated if there are any delays due to weather or mechanical issues. Minor delays are common in the transport industry and are usually nothing to worry about. Communication is key, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have concerns.
Delivery and Final Steps
Inspecting Your Vehicle at Delivery
When your car is delivered, closely examine its condition and compare it to your original paperwork. Check for any new scratches, dents, or other damage—even the small stuff—and note it on the delivery receipt before signing. This is your chance to document anything that might have happened during transport in case you need to file an insurance claim later.
Remember to test how everything works, including the lights, windows, and other functions. If you notice damage after the fact, it can be tough to prove it happened during shipping. Take your time with the inspection—don’t let the delivery schedule make you rush through it.
What to Do if There’s Damage
If your car was damaged during transport, act fast. Take clear photos, write down details, and immediately contact the shipping company’s claims department—ideally within 24 hours. Reputable companies usually handle claims quickly and fairly.
It’s a good idea to keep track of all your conversations and emails about the claim. Share everything with your insurance company, too, as they may be part of the resolution process. Most professional auto transport companies value their reputation, so they’ll typically work with you to make things right.
Making Your Long-Distance Move Successful
Car shipping can make long-distance moving so much easier. Instead of stressing about getting your car from one place to another, you can let a professional take care of it. Choosing a trustworthy auto transport company not only protects your car but also gives you more time and energy to focus on everything else that comes with a move. It’s an investment in convenience, safety, and peace of mind.
Preparation is key to making the process go smoothly. Research your options, document your car’s condition, and contact your chosen transport company. With the right plan and a reliable service provider, your car will arrive at your new home safe and sound, ready for your next adventure.
Are you thinking about car shipping? Get a quote from a licensed company and take the first step toward a hassle-free move!
Choosing Arctic Sunshine Movers for Vehicle Shipping in Canada
When it comes to transporting your vehicle safely across Canada, you want a company you can rely on—one that treats your car with the same care and attention as you do. At Arctic Sunshine Movers, we understand that shipping a vehicle is more than just moving it from point A to point B—it’s about ensuring security, efficiency, and peace of mind every step of the way.
Reliable Nationwide Service
Whether you’re relocating for work, sending a vehicle to a family member, or purchasing a car from another province, Arctic Sunshine Movers offers dependable vehicle shipping services across Canada. Our extensive network allows us to transport vehicles to and from major cities, remote towns, and everywhere in between.
Safe & Secure Transport
We use industry-approved methods and equipment to make sure your vehicle is protected during transit. From enclosed carriers for high-value or luxury cars to open carriers for standard vehicles, we provide shipping options tailored to your needs and budget.
Professional Team You Can Trust
Our team of trained drivers and logistics specialists handles every detail with precision and care. We pride ourselves on clear communication, timely updates, and responsive customer service—so you’ll always know the status of your shipment.
Affordable & Transparent Pricing
Vehicle shipping doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. With Arctic Sunshine Movers, you’ll receive competitive rates with no hidden fees. We believe in transparent pricing and honest service, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.
Why Choose Arctic Sunshine Movers?
- Canada-wide coverage for maximum convenience.
- Flexible shipping options to suit your vehicle type and timeline.
- Commitment to safety with insured and licensed services.
- Customer-first approach focused on reliability and trust.
At Arctic Sunshine Movers, we’re more than just a moving company in Langley—we’re your trusted partner in safe, efficient, and stress-free vehicle shipping across Canada. Let us take the wheel so you can focus on what matters most.
