Everything You Need to Know About Door-to-Door Car Shipping
Door-to-door shipping is the most common way to move a personal vehicle in the U.S. A licensed carrier coordinates pickup and delivery as close to your address as safely possible—often with no terminal visits required.
What “door-to-door” really means
Car carriers are large. If your street has tight turns, low-hanging trees, steep grades, or parking restrictions, the driver may suggest a nearby meeting point that’s safe and convenient—still “door-to-door” in practice.
Enter your route + vehicle details for accurate pricing.
Standard Door-to-Door Open Carrier Vehicle Shipping
For most customers, standard service on an open carrier is the best balance of price and convenience. It’s the same style of trailer you see delivering new cars to dealerships—reliable, widely available, and insured.
Convenient pickup & delivery
A driver coordinates timing and location details with you. Pickup and delivery are arranged close to your address whenever access allows.
Budget-friendly for everyday vehicles
Open transport is the most common option for sedans, SUVs, and trucks—making it a strong value on most routes.
When expedited shipping makes sense
If you need tighter pickup timing, expedited door-to-door service can prioritize dispatch. It’s a good fit for last-minute moves, time-sensitive deliveries, or when your schedule can’t flex.
Explore options: Open transport · Enclosed transport · How it works
How Much Does Door-to-Door Car Shipping Cost?
The price for door-to-door car shipping depends on the details of your shipment. The fastest way to get accurate pricing is to use the quote form with exact ZIP codes and vehicle info.
Top factors that influence price
- Distance & route: Longer routes and lane demand affect carrier availability.
- Vehicle size: Larger vehicles take more trailer space and can cost more.
- Operable vs. inoperable: Non-running vehicles may require special equipment.
- Open vs. enclosed: Enclosed adds protection and typically costs more.
- Pickup window flexibility: Wider windows often help pricing and dispatch speed.
- Seasonality: Summer moves and snowbird seasons can raise demand.
Helpful pricing resources
Learn more about cost drivers here: How much does it cost to ship a car?
Timing, Insurance, and Preparation
How long does door-to-door vehicle shipping take?
Timing varies by distance, route, and dispatch conditions. Many shipments fall into a predictable range once a driver is assigned. If you want more certainty, a wider pickup window can increase carrier options and reduce scheduling friction.
Read more: How long does car shipping take?
Is my vehicle insured during transport?
Carriers hauling your vehicle carry cargo insurance while your vehicle is on the trailer. At pickup and delivery, you’ll do inspections with the driver so the vehicle’s condition is documented.
Coverage basics: Auto transport insurance explained
Can I leave personal items in my car?
Light items may be permitted with limits and should be stored in the trunk or below window level. Since carrier cargo insurance generally covers the vehicle (not personal belongings), avoid valuables and keep the cabin clear.
How do I prepare my vehicle for pickup?
Quick prep checklist
- Clean the vehicle for an easier inspection.
- Remove loose personal items and accessories.
- Leave about 1/4 tank of fuel.
- Disable alarms and provide a spare key if possible.
- Take photos of the vehicle before pickup.
Full guide: How to prepare your car for shipping
How does payment work?
Payment options can vary by booking flow. Many customers choose either a deposit option or to pay in full. If a balance is due at delivery, it’s commonly handled via secure, standard methods (such as cashier’s check, money order, or cash), depending on the dispatch details for your shipment.
Ready to check pricing?
Use the quote form above for the most accurate door-to-door pricing based on your exact route and vehicle.
Or call 888-709-9078 to talk through options.
Door-to-Door Car Shipping FAQs
What’s the difference between open and enclosed door-to-door shipping?
Open carriers are the most common and typically the most affordable. Enclosed carriers add protection from weather and road debris and are often chosen for luxury, classic, exotic, or low-clearance vehicles.
Do I have to meet at a terminal?
Door-to-door service is designed to avoid terminal visits. If your street is difficult for a large truck, the driver may coordinate a nearby meeting spot that’s safer and easier to access.
What information do I need for an accurate quote?
Use exact pickup/delivery ZIP codes, vehicle year/make/model, condition (operable or inoperable), and the transport type (open or enclosed). Adding a realistic pickup window also improves accuracy.
How do I reduce the chance of delays?
Provide clear access notes (gates, tight streets, restricted hours), keep your pickup window flexible when possible, and make sure vehicle details match the actual condition and size.