How to Ship a Car to Another State
Plan every stage of interstate transport—from scheduling and paperwork to delivery-day inspections and payments.
How can I ship my car to another state without stress?
Begin by setting your pickup and delivery windows at least two weeks in advance. This lead time allows dispatchers to secure reputable carriers and gives you space to prepare paperwork. Gather your registration, proof of insurance, and a photocopy of your driver’s license—most carriers request these documents before they assign a truck. Then, remove personal items, record the vehicle’s condition with photos, and plan for a fuel level around a quarter tank.
Safe Ship captures every document digitally, so once you upload them you can focus on final walk-around checks when the driver arrives.
What should I know about pickup day logistics?
Expect a phone call from the driver 24 hours prior to confirm meeting points. Choose a wide, flat area clear of low branches or tight turns so the truck can maneuver safely. You’ll complete a bill of lading that documents every scratch or dent; take photos alongside each notation for your records. Provide spare keys and keep originals with you to avoid mix-ups.
We share the driver’s name, phone number, and ETA inside your portal, and our support line stays open in case you need help finding a suitable loading spot.
How do payments work when shipping out of state?
Most carriers accept a small booking fee up front and collect the balance on delivery via certified funds, cashier’s check, or digital payment apps. Avoid companies that insist on full payment before pickup—legitimate transporters only finalize payment after you sign the delivery inspection. Clarify whether the quote is binding so you don’t encounter last minute surcharges.
Safe Ship itemizes every cost, including potential accessorial fees, so you know exactly what to have ready on delivery day.
What happens if my plans change mid-shipment?
Life happens—if you need to adjust delivery timing or switch the contact person, notify dispatch immediately. Reliable carriers can reroute within reason, though storage fees or secondary delivery appointments may apply. Keep any new address details and contact numbers ready so the driver isn’t left waiting curbside.
Your Safe Ship coordinator manages these adjustments for you, communicating updates to the driver and documenting any revised pricing before you approve it.
Plan your interstate move
Share your pickup and delivery ZIP codes with us and we’ll map the timeline, carrier options, and paperwork checklist so you can ship confidently.
Want ongoing updates? Enable SMS alerts in your dashboard to receive check-ins whenever the truck hits a new milestone.