One of the easiest ways to make a vehicle shipment stressful is to discover at the last minute that an important piece of information is missing.
The good news is that preparing for a domestic vehicle shipment is usually straightforward.
The exact documents and requirements can depend on the type of shipment, the vehicle, the pickup location and whether the vehicle is being exported.
Here’s what customers should know before booking auto transport.
Information your transporter will usually need
For a standard domestic shipment, the transport company will generally need basic information about the vehicle and the pickup and delivery locations.
That can include:
- Vehicle year, make and model
- Pickup address or ZIP code
- Delivery address or ZIP code
- Vehicle condition
- Contact information
- Pickup timeframe
If the vehicle was purchased from an auction, you’ll also want to provide the auction and lot information.
Auction vehicles may require additional information
If you’re shipping a vehicle from Copart, IAAI, Manheim or another auction, the transporter may need the lot number and release information so the pickup can be properly arranged.
This is especially important when the vehicle has a pickup deadline.
If the vehicle is not released yet, the pickup may need to be rescheduled.
What if the vehicle is being exported?
International vehicle shipping is different from ordinary domestic transportation.
If you’re moving a vehicle to a U.S. port for export, there may be additional documentation and customs requirements.
For used self-propelled vehicles, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has specific export documentation requirements. A Bill of Lading or dock receipt should not automatically be treated as a replacement for required ownership documents.
If a vehicle does not have a standard title, don’t assume it can simply be taken to the port and loaded onto a vessel.
The best approach is to confirm the requirements for that specific vehicle with your customs broker, freight forwarder or CBP before scheduling the shipment.
Running vs. non-running vehicles
Your transporter also needs to know the condition of the vehicle.
A car that starts, rolls and brakes normally is different from a vehicle that has been involved in an accident or does not run.
Tell the transport company if the vehicle:
- Does not start
- Does not roll
- Has a flat tire
- Is missing wheels
- Has steering damage
- Has accident damage
This information helps the carrier prepare for loading.
Take photos before pickup
This isn’t a document, but it’s a good habit.
Take clear photos of the vehicle before it is loaded. Photograph all four sides and any existing damage.
It’s a simple way to keep a record of the vehicle’s condition before transportation.
Have everything ready before the truck arrives
A few minutes of preparation can save a lot of frustration.
Have your pickup information ready, confirm the vehicle is accessible, make sure keys are available when required, and let the transporter know about any special circumstances.
If it’s an auction vehicle, make sure the vehicle has been released and the pickup information is correct.
Need help arranging vehicle transport?
MA1 USA Auto Transport provides nationwide vehicle transportation for individuals, dealerships and auction buyers.
We handle transportation for cars, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles and auction vehicles throughout the USA.
Call or text (727) 440-4745 to discuss your shipment and get a quote.
MA1 USA Auto Transport
Nationwide Auto Transport
ma1usaautotransport.com