Compare an illustrative cost for your route or request a personal quote.
Confirm readiness before pickup
Agree on the pickup contact, address, and access instructions. Tell the team if the car does not run or if steering or brakes are unreliable. Ask the assigned carrier about keys, fuel level, required paperwork, and alarm handling.
Remove loose items and explain modifications
Remove personal belongings and unsecured accessories. Discuss removable racks, spoilers, unusual mirrors, or other equipment that changes the car’s dimensions. Do not assume household goods can travel inside the vehicle; ask about the actual carrier’s policy.
Make the condition easy to inspect
A clean enough exterior helps you and the pickup team see existing marks. Photograph the vehicle from several angles, including wheels, glass, and any visible damage. Keep your own copies and review the pickup condition record before completing the handoff.
Share instructions that the loading team needs
Provide special starting instructions, battery or alarm notes, suspension settings, and ground clearance information. Tell the team about leaks or other conditions that affect loading. Confirm that the receiving contact will have the same information.
Prepare for the delivery inspection
Arrange an authorized person to receive the car. Compare its visible condition with the pickup record and your photos, check the keys and agreed items, and document any differences on the delivery record before signing. Ask the carrier about its reporting process if a concern arises.
Pickup and delivery checklist
| Check | Before pickup | At delivery |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle condition | Take photos and review existing marks | Compare the car with the pickup record |
| Keys and instructions | Provide a working key and starting notes | Check the keys and agreed items |
| Personal belongings | Remove loose items and confirm cargo policy | Check only the items agreed for transport |
| Address access | Confirm a safe loading location | Confirm a safe unloading and inspection area |
| Authorized contact | Arrange someone who can release the vehicle | Arrange someone who can inspect and receive it |
Plan the next step
Use these guides and services to work through your shipment details.
- Read pickup and delivery FAQs →
- Low-clearance and collector car transport →
- Request a transport quote →
Route example: San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA car shipping.
For provider research, use the FMCSA Company Snapshot to review carrier identification and safety information.
Questions about this shipment
Can I leave personal belongings in the car?
Remove loose items and personal belongings. Ask the assigned carrier before leaving any cargo inside; acceptance and coverage should not be assumed.
What if the car does not run?
Explain whether the wheels roll and whether steering and brakes work. Non-running cars require a separate loading-equipment review.
What should I do before signing at delivery?
Compare the visible condition with the pickup record and photos, inspect the keys and agreed items, and record differences before signing.
Planning this route? Read the San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA shipping guide, or browse all car shipping FAQs.
