MON – FRI: 9AM – 5PM | SAT: 9AM – 12PM | SUN: CLOSED
MON – FRI: 9AM – 5PM | SAT: 9AM – 12PM | SUN: CLOSED
The time needed to transport your vehicle depends on several factors, including the total distance. Short-haul transports typically take 1-2 days, while cross-country transports may take 7-10 days. Once a carrier is assigned, we’ll provide you with the exact pickup date and an estimated delivery date. As the delivery date approaches, we’ll keep you updated with a more precise drop-off time.
Yes, we can guarantee specific pickup or delivery dates for an additional fee to ensure those requirements are met. Most of our transports fall within the time windows our customers are comfortable with. However, please note that while your vehicle may be picked up on the scheduled day, it doesn't always mean the transport will begin immediately.
You can either pay a deposit upfront by major credit card (with a 3% processing fee and pay the remaining balance in cash upon delivery (COD), or you can pay the full amount before delivery. If you choose COD, the payment must be made with cash, a money order, or a cashier’s check.
It's always a good idea to plan ahead. While we can handle last-minute requests, we recommend scheduling your shipment 2-4 weeks before your preferred shipping date. Be sure to allow a 2–3-day window for pickup. If you have any questions, our agents are ready to assist you.
Yes, we offer convenient door-to-door pickup and delivery services. If you live in a gated community or an area that's challenging for our large carriers to access, we’ll get as close to your door as safely and legally possible. Please note that our trucks are typically 80 feet long and about 14 feet tall, which may limit access in certain locations.
Open transport is the most common method for vehicle shipping, where cars are loaded onto open trailers and exposed to weather elements like rain, sun, and dust. It’s a secure and cost-effective option—most new cars are delivered to dealerships using open trailers.
Enclosed transport, often used for high-end or collector vehicles, offers extra protection by shielding your vehicle from the elements and road debris, reducing the risk of damage like rock chips or dirt. In addition to that, enclosed transport allows for higher cargo insurance limits, making it a better choice for transporting more expensive cars. While it does come at a higher cost, the added security and coverage make it worth considering for luxury or valuable vehicles.
Clean Your Car of Personal Items:
Remove all personal belongings. Only the registration and insurance documents should remain in the glove box.
Remove Toll Transponders:
Take out any toll transponders or electronic devices to avoid accidental charges.
Keep the Gas Tank Low:
Ensure your gas tank is around a quarter full or less to reduce the car’s weight.
Provide the Keys:
Hand the car keys to the driver during pickup.
Inspect for Pre-existing Damage:
Take clear photos of any existing scratches, dents, or mechanical issues as a reference.
Check Tire Pressure:
Make sure the tires are properly inflated to ensure safe loading and unloading.
Check for Leaks:
Inspect for any fluid leaks and fix them before shipment.
Secure or Remove Loose Parts:
Remove or secure items like antennas, bike racks, or spoilers to prevent damage.
Communicate Special Instructions:
Let the transport company know if your car has any special quirks or requires specific handling.
Yes, you can pack personal items in the vehicle, but with certain limitations:
100 Pounds Included:
The first 100 pounds of personal items are included in the cost of your vehicle shipment.
Additional Weight:
Any additional weight beyond 100 pounds must be declared before pickup and will result in extra charges.
Below Window Level:
All personal items must be packed below window level to ensure safety and avoid potential damage during transport.
No Responsibility for Personal Items:
The shipping company is not responsible for any items left inside the vehicle, so pack at your own risk.
Unfortunately, reserving a specific spot for your vehicle on the truck isn't possible. The driver needs to load the trailer based on factors like space optimization, the height limit of 13 feet 6 inches for highway overpasses, and the order of pick-ups and drop-offs. Reorganizing the trailer is time-consuming and affects the driver's schedule, which is tightly managed by electronic logging systems. Rest assured, the driver will arrange the vehicles carefully to ensure safety and efficiency, with the first car to be unloaded typically placed near the back for easier access.
Yes, you will be contacted prior to your vehicle’s delivery. It's important that either you or a designated person (friend, family member, or coworker) is present at the time of delivery. If no one is available or cannot be reached, the vehicle may be dropped off at a terminal, which could result in additional fees. Being reachable helps avoid any extra charges and ensures a smooth delivery process.
It is imperative that you or a designated friend/coworker/family member must be present upon the vehicle’s arrival. If you are unavailable or cannot be reached at the time of your vehicle’s delivery, it may be dropped off at a terminal, which comes with a drop fee, plus any additional storage fees that must be paid prior to receiving your vehicle.
Once you sign off on the delivery, you release the carrier from any further liability. If you discover any damage upon delivery, it must be noted on the Bill of Lading before signing. If the damage is not reported at the time of delivery, it becomes much harder to file a claim. The vehicle is fully insured during transport, but proper documentation, like pictures taken before and after, is essential to support any potential claim.
By booking with Auto Transport Professionals (ATP), you agree to the following terms and conditions outlined in our Cancellation & Refund Policy. For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:
By proceeding with your booking, you acknowledge and accept the terms outlined in this Cancellation & Refund Policy. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please contact ATP prior to confirming your booking.
Terminal-to-Terminal Transport:
Vehicles with low ground clearance are best transported using enclosed carriers with lift gates or ramps designed for minimal incline. This ensures the car is loaded and unloaded safely without damage to the undercarriage.
Step 1: Book your shipment early, as snowbird season (fall and winter southbound and spring and early summer northbound) is a peak time for car shipping.
Step 2: Choose your transport type (open or enclosed).
Step 3: Schedule door-to-door delivery to your seasonal home.
Step 4: Plan return transport before the season ends to secure the best rates.
Yes, shipping a non-running car is possible. However, it requires specialized equipment, such as winches, to load and unload the vehicle. This will incur additional fees, but experienced carriers can handle inoperable cars with ease.
Pricing Disclaimer:
The prices provided are approximate and can vary based on several factors, including fuel costs, seasonal demand, vehicle size, transport type (open or enclosed), pickup/delivery locations, and timeline. To get an accurate quote tailored to your specific route, vehicle, and schedule, contact us directly or use our online quote tool.
