How to Ship a Car

Understanding the Car Shipping Process

Shipping a car can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and a reliable transport company, it’s a straightforward process. At CRC Transport, we make car shipping hassle-free and efficient, guiding you through every step. Whether you're relocating, purchasing a vehicle online, or sending a car to a family member, our streamlined approach ensures a smooth experience from start to finish.

Step 1: Request a Car Shipping Quote

The first step in shipping your car is to get a free, no-obligation quote. With CRC Transport, you can quickly obtain an estimate using our online quote tool. Simply provide the pickup and delivery locations, vehicle details, and preferred shipping dates. Our system instantly calculates a competitive rate based on factors such as distance, vehicle type, and shipping method.

Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs

Distance: Longer distances generally result in higher costs, but we offer competitive rates across the country.
Vehicle Size and Type: Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks may cost more to ship due to their size and weight.
Transport Type: We offer open auto transport, the most common and cost-effective option, ensuring safe and secure delivery for most vehicles.

Step 2: Choose Your Shipping Method

When shipping your car, you typically have two main options: open transport and enclosed transport. However, at CRC Transport, we specialize in open auto transport, which is the most affordable and widely used method.

Why Choose Open Auto Transport?

Open auto transport involves shipping vehicles on an open carrier, capable of holding multiple cars. It’s the standard choice for most customers due to its affordability and availability. Despite being exposed to the elements, it remains a safe and reliable option. Our team takes extra care when loading and securing your vehicle to prevent any damage during transit.

Benefits of Open Auto Transport:

Cost-Effective: Lower rates compared to enclosed transport.
Wide Availability: More open carriers on the road mean faster pickups and deliveries.
Safe and Reliable: Proven method used by manufacturers and dealerships nationwide.

Step 3: Schedule Your Pickup

Once you’ve selected your shipping method and confirmed your quote, it’s time to schedule your car pickup. Our team will work with you to find a date that suits your needs. You can choose between door-to-door service or a convenient meeting location. We recommend booking your transport at least a week in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Step 4: Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport

Properly preparing your car is essential for a smooth shipping experience. Here’s a quick checklist to get your vehicle ready:

Clean the Exterior and Interior: A clean vehicle helps you and the driver inspect for any existing damage before shipping.
Remove Personal Belongings: Clear out any items from the car, as personal belongings are not covered by insurance during transport.
Check the Fuel Level: Keep the fuel tank at about a quarter full to reduce weight while ensuring there’s enough for loading and unloading.
Inspect for Damage: Take photos of your vehicle before pickup as a record of its current condition.
Disable Alarms: To prevent any issues during transport, make sure alarms are turned off.

Step 5: Vehicle Pickup

On the scheduled pickup date, the CRC Transport driver will arrive at the specified location. Together, you will inspect the vehicle and fill out a Bill of Lading, which includes details like the vehicle’s condition, pickup location, and delivery destination. This document serves as the contract and is crucial for tracking the vehicle throughout its journey.

Step 6: Track Your Shipment

With our real-time tracking system, you can stay informed about your vehicle’s status from pickup to delivery. This feature gives you peace of mind, allowing you to check the location and estimated delivery time at any moment. Our customer service team is also available to answer any questions you may have throughout the process.

Step 7: Vehicle Delivery

When your vehicle arrives at its destination, you or your designated representative will inspect it alongside the driver. This final inspection is to confirm that the car is in the same condition as it was at pickup. After signing the Bill of Lading, the transport process is complete, and your car is ready to hit the road.

Tips for a Smooth Car Shipping Experience

Plan Ahead: Book your car transport early to secure the best rates and ensure availability.
Be Flexible: Providing a range of dates can help with scheduling, especially during busy seasons.
Choose a Reputable Company: Look for a trusted provider with positive reviews and a proven track record, like CRC Transport.

Why Ship Your Car with CRC Transport?

12 Years of Industry Experience: We have successfully shipped thousands of vehicles across the country, earning a reputation for reliability and quality service.
Extensive Fleet: With a fleet of over 245 trucks, we offer nationwide coverage, providing fast and efficient transport options.
Affordable Pricing: Our transparent pricing model ensures no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind and a great deal.
Real-Time Updates: Stay informed with our tracking system and excellent customer support, available to answer any questions throughout the process.

Common Questions About Car Shipping

Q: How long does it take to ship a car?
A: Delivery times vary based on distance, route, and other factors. Typically, coast-to-coast transport can take 7-10 days, while shorter routes may take 2-5 days.

Q: Is my vehicle insured during transport?
A: Yes, all vehicles transported with CRC Transport are fully insured. We provide coverage in case of damage during transit.

Q: Can I pack personal items in my car?
A: We recommend removing all personal items from your vehicle, as they are not covered by insurance and may add weight, impacting the transport process.

Get Started with CRC Transport Today

Ready to ship your car? CRC Transport offers reliable, affordable, and efficient auto transport services tailored to meet your needs. Contact us today for a free quote and experience the ease of working with a trusted industry leader.