Table of Contents
- Not Researching the Auto Transport Company
- Choosing the Lowest Price Without Checking Quality
- Failing to Prepare the Vehicle Properly
- Not Being Honest About Vehicle Condition
- Ignoring Pickup and Delivery Limitations
- Leaving Personal Items in the Car
- Not Reviewing the Bill of Lading
- Waiting Too Long to Book Transport
- Final Thoughts
1. Not Researching the Auto Transport Company
One of the biggest mistakes customers make is not researching the auto transport company before booking. With hundreds of brokers and carriers operating across the USA, choosing the wrong one can result in delays, hidden fees, poor communication, or even scams.
How to Avoid This
- Check online reviews across multiple platforms
- Verify DOT and MC licensing information
- Ensure they provide clear pricing and real customer support
- Avoid companies that refuse to disclose carrier information
2. Choosing the Lowest Price Without Checking Quality
A very low car shipping quote often signals a problem. Many unreliable companies lure customers with cheap prices, only to raise the cost later or fail to assign a carrier at all.
How to Avoid This
- Compare quotes from several reputable companies
- Be cautious of prices far below the market average
- Choose based on value, not the cheapest number
3. Failing to Prepare the Vehicle Properly
Improper preparation can lead to delays, fines, or loading difficulties. Carriers expect vehicles to be ready for transport upon arrival.
Common Preparation Mistakes
- Not cleaning the vehicle for inspection
- Failing to document pre-existing damage
- Not checking for leaks or low tire pressure
- Leaving too much fuel in the tank
- Not disabling alarms
How to Avoid This
Follow a complete vehicle preparation checklist, including cleaning, documentation, mechanical checks, fuel levels, and accessory removal.
4. Not Being Honest About Vehicle Condition
Some customers underreport or omit details about their vehicle’s condition to save money. This almost always backfires.
How This Becomes a Problem
- Non-running cars require winch loading
- Damaged or modified vehicles need special handling
- Incorrect details may cause last-minute price increases
- The carrier may refuse pickup entirely
How to Avoid This
Be clear, honest, and detailed when describing your vehicle’s condition, including mechanical issues, missing parts, lift kits, oversized tires, or modifications.
5. Ignoring Pickup and Delivery Limitations
Many customers assume that carriers can reach any location. Large auto transport trucks have size, weight, and access restrictions that limit where they can safely travel.
Common Access Issues
- Narrow residential streets
- Gated communities with restricted access
- Low-hanging branches or tight cul-de-sacs
- Busy downtown areas with parking restrictions
How to Avoid This
Be flexible and open to meeting the carrier at a nearby wide street, parking lot, or open space when necessary.
6. Leaving Personal Items in the Car
Placing personal belongings inside your vehicle is one of the biggest mistakes car shipping customers make. Carriers are not permitted to transport personal items inside the vehicle.
Why This Is a Problem
- Items can shift and cause damage during transit
- Carriers face fines for transporting household goods
- Loose objects increase risk and liability
- You may incur additional fees or delays
How to Avoid This
Remove all personal items—including electronics, documents, tools, and valuables—before the carrier arrives.
7. Not Reviewing the Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is the most important document in auto transport. Many customers skip reviewing it carefully, leading to disputes or misunderstandings.
What to Check
- Recorded pre-shipping damage
- Pickup & delivery details
- Carrier’s name, MC number, and signature
- Your notes and signatures
Always keep a copy of your signed Bill of Lading until the vehicle is delivered and inspected at destination.
8. Waiting Too Long to Book Transport
Many customers wait until the last moment to schedule auto transport, which can cause delays or higher pricing—especially during busy seasons.
How to Avoid This
- Book at least 7–10 days in advance
- Book earlier during peak months (summer & snowbird season)
- Be flexible with pickup windows
Final Thoughts
Shipping a car doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding the most common mistakes—such as choosing the cheapest quote, failing to prepare the vehicle, or neglecting documentation—you can ensure a smooth and reliable experience.
Doing your research, communicating clearly, and preparing your vehicle properly will help you get the best price, the fastest service, and a safe delivery anywhere in the USA.