Frequently Asked Questions

Price depends on distance, vehicle size, open versus enclosed transport, whether the vehicle runs, and how flexible your pickup dates are. Regional moves within the Southwest often run a few hundred dollars; coast-to-coast open transport for a standard sedan typically falls in the low-to-mid four figures. Our instant quote tool gives you an exact, all-in price for your route in about 30 seconds. See our car shipping cost guide for a full breakdown.

After pickup, regional moves (California to Arizona or Nevada) take one to three days, mid-country moves three to six days, and coast-to-coast moves seven to ten days. Add one to five days for carrier assignment after booking. Expedited service is available on most routes.

Yes. Every carrier in our network is required to carry active cargo insurance, which covers your vehicle from loading to delivery. Enclosed carriers typically carry higher limits. We can provide coverage details before you book.

Open transport moves your vehicle on an open multi-car trailer and is the most common and affordable option. Enclosed transport uses a covered trailer that shields the vehicle from weather and debris; it costs 30–50% more and is recommended for luxury, exotic, classic, and low-clearance vehicles.

Yes, and it's included in every quote. The carrier picks up and delivers as close to your address as it can safely reach. Where streets are too narrow or restricted, the driver arranges a nearby meeting point.

Yes. Mark the vehicle as inoperable when you quote and we'll assign a carrier with a winch. The vehicle must roll, steer, and brake to be loaded safely.

Carriers aren't insured for personal belongings and federal regulations restrict household goods in shipped vehicles. A small amount in the trunk is usually tolerated, but we recommend shipping the car empty.

Someone over 18 must be present to sign the bill of lading and exchange keys. It can be you or a designated person.

Five to seven days is ideal for standard open transport. Enclosed transport and peak-season moves (summer, holidays) benefit from one to two weeks of notice. Last-minute pickups are often possible on major lanes.

Quotes are free with no obligation. Payment terms are explained clearly at booking before anything is charged, and there are never surprise fees at delivery.

Yes. We offer a discount for active-duty service members and veterans and work regularly with families at Naval Base San Diego, Camp Pendleton, and MCAS Miramar on PCS timelines.

Yes, and shipping two or more vehicles to the same destination usually lowers the per-vehicle price. Tell us about all vehicles when you request a quote.

Yes. Motorcycles are chocked and soft-strapped on open or enclosed carriers. See our motorcycle shipping page.

Wash it, photograph it, remove personal items and toll tags, leave about a quarter tank of fuel, fold in mirrors, and disable alarms. Our how it works page has a full checklist.

Damage is rare, but if it happens, note it on the bill of lading before signing, photograph it, and call us. The carrier's cargo insurance covers transport damage and we'll guide you through the claim.

Yes. You'll receive your driver's direct contact at dispatch, and our office can check on your vehicle at any time.

We handle the mainland leg to the port and can coordinate the ocean portion. These shipments are quoted individually; call us with the details.

We have eight local offices across San Diego County: Chula Vista, National City, La Mesa, Santee, Escondido, Vista, Carlsbad, and Encinitas. See our locations page for addresses and phone numbers.