1. What is enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Enclosed auto shipping is a car transport service where vehicles are shipped in a fully enclosed trailer, offering protection from the elements, road debris, and potential damage during transit.
2. Who should use enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Enclosed auto shipping is ideal for luxury cars, classic cars, exotic vehicles, motorcycles, and high-value vehicles that require extra protection.
3. How does enclosed auto shipping differ from open auto shipping?
Answer: Enclosed auto shipping protects the vehicle in a covered trailer, while open auto shipping transports cars on an open carrier exposed to the weather and road conditions.
4. Is enclosed auto shipping more expensive than open auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, enclosed auto shipping is typically 30-50% more expensive due to the added protection and fewer vehicles being transported at once.
5. How many cars can fit in an enclosed auto carrier?
Answer: Most enclosed carriers can transport 2 to 6 vehicles at a time, depending on the size and type of the trailer.
6. Why is enclosed auto shipping more secure?
Answer: Enclosed trailers fully shield the vehicle from external factors like weather, dust, dirt, and potential road hazards, ensuring maximum protection.
7. What types of vehicles are commonly shipped using enclosed carriers?
Answer: Classic cars, high-end luxury vehicles, motorcycles, custom cars, and vintage vehicles are most commonly shipped in enclosed carriers.
8. Can I ship a motorcycle using enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, motorcycles can be safely shipped using enclosed auto shipping to protect them from the elements.
9. How do I prepare my vehicle for enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Clean your vehicle, remove all personal items, ensure the gas tank is no more than 1/4 full, and disable any alarms.
10. Is my car insured during enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, all reputable enclosed auto shipping services include insurance coverage to protect your vehicle during transit.
11. What happens if my car gets damaged during enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: In the unlikely event of damage, the shipping company’s insurance will cover the repair costs, based on the terms of their policy.
12. How much does enclosed auto shipping cost?
Answer: The cost depends on factors like the distance, vehicle size, and the shipping route, but typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 for cross-country shipping.
13. How long does enclosed auto shipping take?
Answer: Shipping times vary based on distance, but most enclosed shipments take between 1 to 2 weeks for cross-country transport.
14. Can I track my vehicle during enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, many companies offer real-time tracking so you can monitor your vehicle’s location throughout the shipping process.
15. Do I need to be present when the vehicle is picked up or delivered?
Answer: It’s preferred for you to be present during pickup and delivery for inspection, but you can authorize someone else to act on your behalf.
16. Can I ship multiple vehicles at once with enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, enclosed carriers can transport multiple vehicles, though the number depends on the size of the carrier.
17. Do enclosed auto shippers offer door-to-door service?
Answer: Yes, most enclosed auto shipping companies offer door-to-door service, where they pick up and deliver the vehicle at your specified locations.
18. What should I look for in an enclosed auto shipping company?
Answer: Look for a company with a good reputation, insurance coverage, positive customer reviews, and transparent pricing.
19. Is enclosed auto shipping available for international shipments?
Answer: Yes, enclosed auto shipping is available for international transport, though it may require additional coordination with ocean freight companies.
20. Can I ship inoperable vehicles with enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, but you need to inform the shipping company beforehand, as it may require special equipment to load the inoperable vehicle.
21. How do I get a quote for enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: You can get a quote by contacting the shipping company directly or filling out an online form with details about your vehicle and shipping requirements.
22. Does enclosed auto shipping cover weather-related damage?
Answer: Yes, enclosed trailers protect against weather-related damage like rain, snow, or hail.
23. Can I choose a specific pickup or delivery date for enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, but this may be subject to availability, and requesting a specific date might incur additional fees for expedited service.
24. What is the difference between hard-sided and soft-sided enclosed trailers?
Answer: Hard-sided trailers provide complete protection with solid walls, while soft-sided trailers use fabric covers that may offer less protection.
25. Is enclosed auto shipping available for short-distance moves?
Answer: Yes, enclosed auto shipping can be used for short or long distances, depending on your needs.
26. Can I ship personal items inside my vehicle during enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Most companies do not allow personal items in the vehicle due to insurance regulations, but some may allow limited belongings.
27. What are the benefits of enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: The benefits include maximum protection from the elements, reduced risk of damage, and higher security for valuable or classic vehicles.
28. Does enclosed auto shipping include inspection reports?
Answer: Yes, both pre-shipment and post-shipment vehicle inspections are typically performed to document the condition of the vehicle.
29. How far in advance should I book enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: It’s recommended to book at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons.
30. Can I cancel or change my enclosed auto shipping order?
Answer: Most companies allow cancellations or changes, but be aware of potential cancellation fees or restrictions based on how far in advance you cancel.
31. Is enclosed auto shipping safe for classic cars?
Answer: Yes, enclosed auto shipping is the safest option for classic cars, providing extra protection during transit.
32. What is white-glove enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: White-glove shipping offers premium service with additional care, such as specialized loading equipment and extra attention to detail for high-end vehicles.
33. What is the insurance coverage for enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Insurance coverage typically ranges between $100,000 and $1 million, depending on the shipping company and the value of the vehicle.
34. Can I ship a modified vehicle using enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, modified vehicles can be shipped, but you should inform the carrier to ensure they can accommodate any special requirements.
35. Do enclosed carriers offer climate control?
Answer: Some premium enclosed carriers offer climate-controlled trailers to maintain optimal temperature conditions during transport.
36. Can I ship a low-ground-clearance vehicle using enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, enclosed trailers are equipped with hydraulic lift gates, making it safe to transport low-clearance vehicles without damage.
37. What documents are needed for enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: You’ll typically need your vehicle’s registration, proof of insurance, and a signed shipping agreement.
38. Do I need to remove aftermarket accessories before shipping?
Answer: It’s recommended to remove any aftermarket accessories or custom modifications that could be damaged during transport.
39. Can enclosed auto shipping companies transport non-standard vehicles?
Answer: Yes, companies can transport non-standard vehicles like RVs, boats, or trailers using specialized enclosed carriers.
40. Are there additional fees for enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Fees may vary depending on factors like expedited service, special accommodations, or difficult-to-access pickup/delivery locations.
41. Is it possible to get same-day enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: While uncommon, some companies may offer same-day or next-day enclosed auto shipping for an additional fee.
42. Does enclosed auto shipping operate year-round?
Answer: Yes, enclosed auto shipping is available year-round, although extreme weather may occasionally cause delays.
43. Can I inspect my car after enclosed auto shipping delivery?
Answer: Yes, you should always inspect your car after delivery and compare it to the initial inspection report to ensure no damage occurred during transport.
44. Do I need to sign any forms upon delivery?
Answer: Yes, you’ll be required to sign a delivery confirmation form, and the driver will also perform a final inspection.
45. Are there weight restrictions for enclosed auto shipping?
Answer: Yes, but weight restrictions vary by carrier. Be sure to inform the company of any heavy modifications or added weight to your vehicle.
46. How do enclosed trailers prevent theft?
Answer: Enclosed trailers offer increased security as they are fully locked, making it difficult for unauthorized access during transit.
Most Asked Questions About Enclosed Auto Shipping
We put this section together to try and give you the answers you’re looking for quick and easy.
Remove garage door openers, EZ-pass, Sun-pass etc. and if they are going with the car wrap them in the protective covers provided or in aluminum foil. You do not want to pay for our tolls.
Leave around a ¼ of a tank of gas in the car.
If the car is going in an enclosed transporter, please clean or wash the car prior to loading. The inspection is much easier if the car is clean.
Remove all of the following hazardous materials:
Flammables (starter fluids etc.)
Liquids (bottles of windshield fluids etc.)
Explosives (no bullets or propane bottles etc.).
Be sure all loose items are secured and will not move around, such as your spare tire.
Be sure the car starts, operates, and has functioning brakes including the emergency brake.
Be sure the tires maintain air pressure (no slow leaks).
Notice and inform us of any leaks the car may have (oil leaks, water leaks etc.).
Be sure the driver’s side window is operating (the truck driver needs to have it down to load the car).
No, carriers have insurance at no additional charge to you to cover your car, but you need to carry your own coverage as well.
The trucking company that picks up your car pays the deductible if damage occurs.
No, this is the responsibility of the person transport the car. We do not take responsibility for items placed or left in the car. Any issues with those items or any damage they cause to the car are the responsibility of the person transport the car.
We make every attempt to pick up/deliver your car at your desired location. When it is determined by our truck driver that he cannot get to your door and operate safely, he will find a safe location such as a parking lot or shopping mall close by.
Safety always comes first. If the conditions are not safe the truck driver will need to make other arrangements with you. We will make every effort to deliver your car as safely as possible.
The trucks range from 48 to 86 feet long and typically require 60-120 feet of clear unobstructed area to load or unload your car.
Depending on the combination of the cars between 2 to 10 cars.
Yes, they are protected from anything dropping, spilling, or leaking from the car above. The cars are checked frequently to prevent any damage.
We can accommodate inoperable cars. There is an additional fee for this service. For us to handle an “in-op” it must steer and roll at a minimum. You are responsible to get the “in-op” car within 30 feet of the back of the truck and ready to be hooked onto by our winch and pulled into the trailer.
Our model of operation is to identify one truck and have them assigned to your shipment the entire way. Only in rare instances do we involve more than one truck in the shipment for your car. Dependable Auto Shippers along with our truck drivers take pride in each shipment.
Yes, but our way of doing business is to have a truck driver pick the car up from you or a designated person at the location of origin and the same truck driver delivers it to you or the designated person at the destination.
Yes, cars are being picked up and delivered almost every day primarily during daylight hours.
Your schedule is considered for each step of our process:
- The quote – we give you a range of days we are available to load and the approximate number of days it will take to ship your car to the delivery location.
- The order is placed – The range of days for the pickup of the car is placed on the schedule and then the truck driver is assigned.
- Truck driver assignment – The driver calls the customer and fine-tunes the pickup. He tries to take into account any issues you may have i.e. doctor’s appointments etc. He also provides his cell phone number in case you have any changes in plans, or just want to get an update of his progress.
- Day of Pick-Up – Typically the truck driver provides a courtesy call when leaving the stop prior to yours, to let you know that they are still on schedule.
- Car is loaded – The truck driver calls the delivery contact to let them know the car is loaded on the truck. He also gives the approximate timeframe (day or days) of delivery. He will also provide his cell phone number for follow-up communications. The communications for the delivery will follow the same process as the pickup with the truck driver. The actual appointment time will be coordinated, as we get closer to the delivery.
Typically you have at least 24-hour notice of pickup and delivery appointments.
We prefer to deliver and pickup during sunlight hours.
We try to minimize impacts to your day and/or schedule.
You will need to provide an alternative delivery designate. We try to avoid this by anticipating these concerns all the way back at the order placement phase of the process. We have been resourceful about alternative delivery designates such as:
Co-employee at delivery location (work site).
Dealership for your car at delivery location (i.e. drop it off for service etc.).
Meet you at the airport as you arrive, if our timing is close.
Neighbor etc.
They are the same thing.
Please keep in mind that we pride ourselves on having an excellent communication record. We pride ourselves in our on time performance both in pickup and delivery. We have a concern for the value of your time.
We believe communication is the key to our business. We strive to keep the customer informed throughout the process.
- During the Quote – communication with Dispatch/ Sales office regular business hours EST with monitoring after hours and weekends.
- Before the Shipment – either the truck driver or the office, will contact you as early as possible prior to pickup. We strive for more than 24-hour notice and we will provide you with our truck drivers cell phone numbers.
- At Pickup – the truck driver will be in contact with you 24 hours prior to pick up via his cell phone coordinating with you.
- During the move – you have the truck drivers cell phone to allow you to contact him directly throughout the move. The truck driver will also be in contact with you letting you know the car is loaded and how he is progressing with your schedule.
- Just before delivery – the driver will be in contact with you the day before and possibly when leaving the prior stop.
- After Delivery – If required (you request or we are delivering to a designate) the truck driver will call and let you know the delivery has been made.
- Booking follow-up to the shipment – Our office may follow-up with a quality control call to review your shipment.
We secure cars using a soft-tie system of web straps that go “over” the tires not through the wheels. This is the same system used for all high-end new cars. We do not use chains to tie the cars down.
Family owned business with direct involvement by the owner.
Attentive to our customer’s needs
Quality care of our customer’s car
Communication with our customer
Integrity in our commitments
Quality of our personnel
Quality of our equipment
Car Size
Pickup and delivery locations including mileage between them
Season or time of year
Market
Availability of equipment
Availability of space on the equipment
Inoperable or winch fees if your car doesn’t run and it was quoted as being an operational car. Any additional charges for services that you agreed to and were provided after the quote was given.
The title is not required when transport domestic, but may possibly be needed on international transport.
State To State has authority to operate in all 50 States including Hawaii. We can also ship to Canada and anywhere in the world.
Approximately 30 minutes of your time at origin and destination in order to perform a thorough car inspection and the proper paperwork to be completed.
No, the Truck driver needs to have access to all areas of the car.
No, your car will be on a secured enclosed truck.
Please advise the driver of the security system and its capabilities.
We require 1 key needed to access all areas of the car.
