How to Ship a Car You Bought Online
Buying a car online has gone from a novelty to a mainstream option. Platforms like Carvana, Vroom, AutoTrader, Cars.com, and even traditional dealerships now sell vehicles to customers across the country with just a few clicks. But once you have found the perfect car three states away, you need to figure out how to get it home.
Here is a step-by-step guide to shipping a vehicle you purchased online.
Step 1: Verify the Vehicle Before Purchase
Before you commit to buying, do your homework on the vehicle itself. This is especially important when the car is hundreds or thousands of miles away and you cannot inspect it in person.
- Request a detailed vehicle history report
- Ask the seller for high-resolution photos from every angle, including the undercarriage
- Look into getting a pre-purchase inspection from a local mechanic near the seller
- Verify the VIN matches all documentation
- Confirm the title is clean and in the seller's name
Spending a little time on verification upfront can save you from expensive surprises after the car arrives.
Step 2: Coordinate Shipping Details with the Seller
Once the purchase is confirmed, you will need to coordinate pickup logistics with the seller. This includes:
- Pickup address: Where will the carrier collect the vehicle? A dealership, private residence, or auction lot?
- Contact information: Make sure the carrier has the right contact details for whoever will be present at pickup.
- Vehicle access: Confirm that the seller will have the keys and any necessary gate or lot access ready for the driver.
- Timing: Align the pickup date with when the seller releases the vehicle, especially if payment is still being processed.
Step 3: Choose a Carrier and Get Quotes
Now it is time to find a carrier. Do not just go with the first company you find. Rates and service quality vary significantly across carriers, so comparing quotes is essential.
When evaluating quotes, consider:
- The total cost, including any deposit or fees
- The estimated pickup and delivery windows
- Whether the quote is for open or enclosed transport
- The carrier's FMCSA registration and insurance coverage
- Customer reviews and reputation
Car Ship Deal makes this comparison process simple by showing you rates from multiple carriers so you can make an informed choice.
Step 4: Schedule the Pickup
Once you have selected a carrier, book the shipment and confirm the pickup window. Keep in mind that auto transport operates on pickup windows, not exact appointment times. A typical window is 1 to 3 days from your first available date.
Make sure the seller knows when to expect the carrier and that someone will be available to release the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading at pickup.
Step 5: The Pickup Inspection
When the carrier arrives to collect the vehicle, the driver will perform a thorough inspection and document the condition of the car on the Bill of Lading. This includes noting any existing scratches, dents, or other damage.
If you are not present at pickup, ask the seller to take photos of the vehicle immediately before the carrier loads it. This gives you a record of the car's condition at the moment it left the seller.
Step 6: Track Your Shipment
Many carriers offer tracking or regular updates during transit. Ask your carrier how they handle communication and what to expect. Transit times vary by distance:
- Regional (under 500 miles): 1 to 3 days
- Mid-range (500 to 1,500 miles): 3 to 5 days
- Cross-country (1,500+ miles): 5 to 10 days
Step 7: Inspect at Delivery
This is one of the most important steps. When the carrier delivers your vehicle, inspect it carefully before signing the final Bill of Lading. Compare the car's current condition to the pickup inspection notes.
What to check:
- All four sides, the roof, and the undercarriage
- Wheels and tires for any new damage
- Glass and mirrors
- The interior, including seats and dashboard
If you notice any new damage, note it on the Bill of Lading before signing and take photos immediately. This documentation is essential if you need to file a claim.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Not verifying the vehicle before purchase: Shipping a car sight-unseen means you are trusting the seller's description completely.
- Choosing the cheapest quote without checking credentials: A low price means nothing if the carrier is uninsured or unreliable.
- Skipping the delivery inspection: Once you sign the Bill of Lading without noting damage, filing a successful claim becomes much harder.
- Not coordinating with the seller: Miscommunication about pickup timing or access is one of the most common causes of delays.
Buy with Confidence, Ship with Confidence
Buying a car online opens up a world of choices beyond your local market. With the right preparation and a reliable carrier, getting that vehicle to your driveway is straightforward. Compare your shipping options, coordinate with the seller, and inspect thoroughly at delivery. That is the recipe for a successful online car purchase.