Step-by-step guide
How to Ship a Car to Another State
Everything you need to know to move a vehicle across state lines safely, from getting a quote to signing the delivery inspection.
Overview
What state-to-state car shipping looks like
Shipping a car to another state is straightforward once you understand the process. A licensed broker matches your vehicle with a vetted carrier, the carrier picks it up at your door or a nearby meeting point, and delivers it to the destination state. The key is choosing a broker who verifies carrier insurance and authority, communicates clearly, and does not sell your contact information to lead farms.
The process
Six steps to ship a car to another state
1. Get a manually reviewed quote
Start with your exact pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle year/make/model, and preferred move timing. Avoid instant-quote websites that sell your phone number. Call (239) 273-4649 or submit our quote form and a live broker will review your route and call you back with a binding number.
2. Choose open or enclosed transport
Open transport is the standard for everyday vehicles and costs less. Enclosed transport protects classics, exotics, luxury cars and low-clearance vehicles from weather and road debris, and costs roughly 40% to 60% more.
3. Verify your broker and carrier
Confirm the broker is federally licensed. Enterprise Auto Transport operates under USDOT #2273104 and MC #774106. Before dispatch, we verify the carrier's active FMCSA authority, safety record and current cargo insurance, and give you the carrier and driver contact information.
4. Prepare your vehicle
Wash the car so damage is visible, remove personal items and toll tags, leave about a quarter tank of gas, disable the alarm, and note any mechanical issues. Take dated photos of all sides and the odometer.
5. Meet the driver for pickup
The driver will inspect the vehicle with you and record its condition on the bill of lading. You or your representative signs the pickup inspection, hands over the keys, and the vehicle is loaded.
6. Track and receive delivery
You receive the driver's direct phone number. On delivery, inspect the vehicle again, compare it to the pickup photos, and sign the delivery inspection. Any new damage should be noted immediately on the bill of lading before signing.
Before you book
Checklist for state-to-state auto transport
- Confirm the broker's USDOT and MC numbers
- Ask how carrier insurance is verified
- Get the quote in writing with pickup and delivery terms
- Understand the difference between open and enclosed transport
- Ask about pickup windows vs. guaranteed dates
- Remove personal items and toll tags before pickup
- Take photos of the vehicle from every angle
- Have a backup contact available at both ends
Timing
How long does it take to ship a car to another state?
Under 500 miles
1 to 3 days in transit
500 – 1,500 miles
3 to 5 days in transit
1,500+ miles
5 to 10 days in transit
These are transit times once the vehicle is loaded. Pickup windows, weather, and carrier routing can add a few days at the start. For a specific lane like Los Angeles to Newberry, FL, see our auto transport transit time guide.
FAQ
Common questions about shipping a car to another state
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state?
Do I need to be present at pickup and delivery?
Can I put personal items in my car?
How far in advance should I book?
Is my car insured during transport?
Related guides
More state-to-state resources
Ready
Get a quote for your state-to-state move
Ready to Ship your car?
Open and enclosed semi-truck carriers, door-to-door delivery and a coordinator who answers the phone.