Auto transport
Auto transport, explained
How professional vehicle shipping actually works — the players, the process, insurance, and how to compare service providers with confidence.
Get a Free QuoteHow auto transport works
Auto transport moves your vehicle on a professional carrier truck instead of putting miles and wear on it by driving. A carrier loads your vehicle onto an open or enclosed trailer, transports it along established highway corridors, and delivers it to your destination — with a condition inspection at both pickup and delivery.
Most vehicles ship on open service providers alongside several other cars, which keeps the cost down. High-value and collector vehicles often use enclosed transport for full protection.
Carriers, brokers, and referral services
Understanding who does what helps you avoid surprises:
- Carriers own the trucks and physically move your vehicle. They hold operating authority and carry cargo insurance.
- Brokers arrange transport by matching you to a carrier, typically charging a fee built into the price.
- Referral / advertising services connect you directly with licensed service providers so they can quote you. That's what CarShipConnect does.
CarShipConnect is a referral and advertising service. We are not a motor carrier, freight forwarder, or broker, and we do not ship vehicles, arrange transport, or hold MC or USDOT operating authority. We connect you with licensed, insured auto-transport service providers who may contact you about your request.
Insurance & verifying a carrier
Licensed service providers must carry cargo insurance covering your vehicle in transit. Before you book, confirm the coverage amount and verify the carrier's active authority (MC/USDOT number) on the FMCSA public database. Take dated photos at pickup and delivery so you have a clear record of condition.
Choosing well
What to look for in a carrier
Active authority
Real insurance
Clear paperwork
FAQ
Auto transport questions
What is auto transport?
Auto transport is the professional shipping of vehicles by carrier truck. Service providers load one or more vehicles onto an open or enclosed trailer and move them between cities and states — a standard, everyday logistics service.
What’s the difference between a carrier, a broker, and a referral service?
A carrier owns the trucks and physically moves your vehicle. A broker arranges transport by matching you to a carrier, usually for a fee. A referral/advertising service (like CarShipConnect) connects you with licensed service providers so they can quote you directly — it does not ship vehicles or arrange transport itself.
How do I know a carrier is legitimate?
Legitimate service providers hold active operating authority (an MC and/or USDOT number) and carry cargo insurance. You can verify authority on the FMCSA’s public database, and you should confirm insurance coverage before booking.
Is auto transport insured?
Yes — service providers are required to carry cargo insurance that covers your vehicle in transit. Confirm the coverage amount with the carrier, and document your vehicle’s condition with dated photos at pickup and delivery.
How far in advance should I book auto transport?
Booking 1–2 weeks ahead usually gets the best price and pickup window. Last-minute and peak-season (snowbird) shipments cost more because carrier availability tightens.
Ready to compare car shipping quotes?
Tell us about your vehicle and route. We connect you with licensed, insured auto-transport service providers.