A comprehensive quote should be all-inclusive, covering door-to-door service, all taxes, fuel surcharges, and full insurance coverage. Ask specifically if there are any hidden fees for residential pickup, lift gates, or other services. A reputable company will provide a transparent, "all-in" price with no surprises.

The two main options are open and enclosed carriers. Open carriers are the industry standard, safely transporting millions of cars annually and offering the most cost-effective solution. Enclosed carriers provide maximum protection from weather and road debris, making them ideal for classic, luxury, or high-value vehicles.

The carrier's cargo insurance is the primary coverage for your vehicle during transit. Ask for proof of their insurance certificate and understand the coverage limits and any deductible. Your personal auto insurance typically does not cover commercial transport. For more detail, see our guide on Understanding Auto Transport Insurance.

Ask for an estimated pickup window (usually 1-5 days) and a separate estimated transit time. Transit times are always estimates because drivers must account for weather, traffic, road closures, and mandatory rest periods. A cross-country trip typically takes 7-10 days once your vehicle is on the truck.

Leave only about 1/4 tank of gas, remove all personal and loose items, disable any alarms, and provide a set of keys to the driver. Personal items are not covered by carrier insurance and their weight adds to fuel costs.

A reputable company will have a clear process for handling damage claims. The critical document is the Bill of Lading (BOL). At delivery, thoroughly inspect your vehicle before signing. Any new damage must be noted on the BOL to file a successful claim.

Most companies provide updates via direct communication with the assigned truck driver. Some larger companies may offer a GPS tracking portal, but direct driver contact is often the most accurate and immediate way to get an ETA update.

Confirm if the service is "door-to-door." The driver will get as close to your address as is safely possible. If your street is narrow or has low-hanging trees, you may need to meet the driver at a nearby large parking lot for a safe exchange.

Typically, you can cancel without penalty before a carrier has been formally assigned. Once a driver is dispatched and your vehicle's spot is reserved, a cancellation fee or non-refundable deposit often applies.

Ask for the company's DOT number to look up their safety record online. Check recent reviews on independent sites like Google, Trustpilot, or the BBB to get an unbiased view of their customer service and reliability. Learn more in our guide on How to Check the Reputation of Your Auto Transport Company.