Complete Customer Logistics Guide

    How Auto Transport Works:
    Step-by-Step Clarity

    Shipping a car shouldn't feel mysterious. Here is exactly what happens from the moment you request a quote to when the keys are returned to your hand.

    Instant Rate Calculator

    Step 1 of 3
    1. Route2. Vehicle3. Contact

    No obligation. Secure and confidential.

    Transparent Execution

    The 5 Steps of Professional Car Shipping

    We handle the nationwide carrier network, insurance verification, and route logistics so you don't have to worry.

    01
    Takes ~60 secondsPhase 1 of 5

    Request a Free, Transparent Quote

    Enter your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle make/model, and desired timeframe.

    No upfront deposit required to receive your customized rate estimate.
    Choose between economical open auto transport or maximum-protection enclosed hauler.
    All-inclusive pricing with zero hidden fuel surcharges, tolls, or port handling fees.
    02
    Flexible scheduling windowPhase 2 of 5

    Review Options & Schedule Dispatch

    Select your preferred pickup window and lock in your vehicle transport reservation.

    A dedicated shipping coordinator reviews your route, vehicle dimensions, and special instructions.
    We match your shipment with an FMCSA-authorized, fully insured carrier traveling your exact route.
    You receive official carrier details, truck insurance certificates, and driver contact info.
    03
    Direct at your driveway / locationPhase 3 of 5

    Vehicle Pickup & Joint Digital Inspection

    The carrier driver meets you at your home, workplace, or preferred accessible meeting point.

    Driver calls 12–24 hours ahead and 1–2 hours prior to arrival to coordinate timing.
    You and the driver conduct a thorough walkaround inspection and photograph any pre-existing scratches.
    Both parties sign the electronic Bill of Lading (BOL), establishing the active insurance baseline.
    04
    Daily transit progressPhase 4 of 5

    Active Highway Transit & Status Milestones

    Your automobile is securely transported across state lines on modern, DOT-compliant trailers.

    Heavy-duty soft-strap wheel chocks secure your vehicle without touching the suspension or paint.
    Proactive status check-ins and direct driver contact keep you informed of route progress.
    Track your vehicle anytime using our online shipment tracker or by calling your dedicated coordinator.
    05
    Direct door-to-door deliveryPhase 5 of 5

    Safe Delivery, Final Walkaround & Sign-off

    Your car arrives safely at your new driveway, residence, office, or dealership.

    The driver contacts you in advance to schedule the exact delivery window.
    Complete a quick final walkaround comparison against the original Bill of Lading.
    Sign the completed delivery receipt, receive your keys, and settle the final carrier balance.
    Delivery Timelines

    Estimated Transit Times Across the USA

    Auto transport transit depends on mileage, interstate corridors, weather, and mandatory federal driver rest hours (ELD compliance).

    Under 500 Miles
    Example routes: Los Angeles to Las Vegas / Atlanta to Orlando
    1 – 3 Days
    500 – 1,000 Miles
    Example routes: Dallas to Atlanta / New York to Chicago
    2 – 4 Days
    1,000 – 1,500 Miles
    Example routes: Chicago to Denver / Miami to Philadelphia
    3 – 5 Days
    1,500 – 2,500 Miles
    Example routes: New York to Dallas / Seattle to Houston
    5 – 7 Days
    Coast-to-Coast (2,500+ Mi)
    Example routes: Los Angeles to New York / Seattle to Miami
    7 – 10 Days
    Customer Preparation

    How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping

    Following these 6 quick steps ensures a seamless pickup walkaround and quick transit.

    01

    Clean Exterior & Interior

    Wash the vehicle exterior so existing dings, paint chips, and scratches can be clearly documented on the Bill of Lading.

    02

    Keep Fuel at 1/4 Tank

    Leave approximately a quarter tank of gas for driving on and off the trailer. This significantly reduces total carrier transport weight.

    03

    Remove Toll Tags & Passes

    Remove or deactivate EZ-Pass, SunPass, or other electronic toll transponders so they don't trigger highway toll booths while on the truck.

    04

    Secure or Remove Custom Accessories

    Remove roof bike racks, custom antennas, and loose luggage racks, or retract antennas to ensure proper trailer clearance.

    05

    Take Personal Belongings Out

    Carriers permit up to 100 lbs in the trunk, but avoid valuables, household electronics, or fragile personal luggage.

    06

    Provide One Set of Working Keys

    The carrier driver requires a working ignition key and door key/fob to safely load, position, and unload your vehicle.

    Frequently Asked Shipping Questions

    Have questions regarding your upcoming auto shipment? We have clear answers.

    Do I have to be present at pickup and delivery?

    You or any designated adult representative (such as a family member, neighbor, or dealership agent who is 18+) must be present to inspect the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading with the carrier.

    What happens if a large truck cannot fit down my street?

    Commercial auto carriers can be up to 80 feet long and require wide turning radiuses. If your neighborhood has low-hanging trees, weight restrictions, or narrow streets, the driver will arrange a nearby open parking lot (such as a grocery store, highway rest stop, or shopping center) for safe loading.

    How far in advance should I book my vehicle shipping?

    We recommend booking 1 to 2 weeks prior to your target pickup date for optimal pricing and dispatch matching. However, if you require urgent or expedited same-week pickup, our dispatch desk accommodates last-minute routes daily.

    Is my vehicle insured while in transit?

    Yes, 100%. Every motor carrier in the Seals Shipping network must carry active, comprehensive cargo insurance (typically $100,000 to $250,000 per load). Coverage is active from the moment the vehicle is signed onto the trailer until final delivery.

    Ready to Schedule Your Transport?

    Get an instant all-inclusive shipping quote in under 60 seconds with zero upfront deposit.