Shipping an Auction Car to Another State
Understanding the Auction Car Shipping Process
Buying a used car or truck from an auction can be exciting. Getting your purchased auction car from the auction site to your home, especially when it’s in another state, is a lot easier with a reputable car shipping company. I am Greg Smokes, owner Car Auctions USA Blog & Directory, and I want to help you learn how to choose the right car hauler for your needs.
This is where auto transport services come into play. It’s easier than ever to buy from car auctions online and transport the vehicles elsewhere cross state.
In my experience, the most common way to transport a vehicle from an auction site is with an auto transport company using an open carrier. This method is popular due to its cost-effectiveness and wide availability.
I should note that in some cases, you may be able to legally drive the vehicle home, but this is often not possible, especially for vehicles purchased from out-of-state auctions.
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Dealing with Non-Running Vehicles
For vehicles that do not run and drive safely, car shipping services are a necessity. We find it important to know the car shipping cost ahead of time to ensure you don’t go over budget when bidding in the auto auction.
Even salvaged, damaged, and non-running auction vehicles can be shipped. In our experience, most carriers in the network work with auction car transport, making it easier for you to arrange the logistics.
My Tips on Determining the Right Auto Transport Service For You
After winning the bid on a vehicle, you’ll need to arrange the auto transport. You can do this with the auction if they provide it, or with a company that works with auction houses like IAA, Copart, Manheim, Adesa, and Mecum. You can also use a car transport service from a company like National Express.
Top Rated National Car Auction Haulers
When it comes to shipping your auction car, we suggest being picky about choosing the right auto transport company . The lowest price or the fanciest website is not always the most helpful car shipper so we suggest keeping this in mind.
There are several top-rated national car auction haulers that come highly recommended by Car Auctions USA.
Sherpa, Montway, eShip, and AmeriFreight are among the top auto transporters based on car hauler reviews. These companies offer a variety of services, including door-to-door shipping and terminal-to-terminal shipping.
Door-to-Door vs Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
Door-to-door shipping is the most convenient option, where a truck picks up your vehicle from a predetermined location and loads it on the truck and takes it directly to your destination. However, we should mention that the cost of this service can be higher due to the added convenience.
On the other hand, terminal-to-terminal shipping is a more cost-effective option. In this case, you drive to an auto shipping hub to drop off your car, then meet your car at the destination hub to drive it away.
Open Shipping vs Enclosed Shipping
In terms of the type of shipping, you can choose between open shipping and enclosed shipping. Open shipping is the most popular and cost-effective method, but your car is exposed to the elements and road conditions. Enclosed shipping offers an extra layer of protection for your vehicle but comes with a higher price tag.
Vet a National Auto Transport Company
It’s important to compare quotes from different companies to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Consider more than just the best quote, however. We know that the cheapest is almost never the right choice in auto transportation.
Remember, the lowest price may not always mean the best service, so it’s crucial to consider other factors such as the company’s track record, customer reviews, and business practices.
Also, make sure to check the company’s credentials and verify that they are qualified to operate transporting automobile cargo in interstate commerce with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration, complete with a US DOT and an MC number.
Don’t forget to review all insurance policies available and purchase extra if there’s a loophole in your plan. You want to be fully protected from liability in case anything goes wrong during the transport.
Remember, shipping a car involves a significant investment, so it’s worth taking the time to find a reliable and reputable auto transport company. There are plenty of local car haulers that can make big promises, but lack the reputation to back it up.
How to Prepare an Auction Car for Shipping
Gather Your Vehicle’s Documents
Before you ship a car, auto transporters will want proof that the vehicle is yours. To prevent shipment delays and last-minute file cabinet and glove box searches, prep this paperwork in advance:
- Vehicle registration information
- Proof of insurance
- Bill of sale or other proof you own vehicle
- Original vehicle title
- Your unexpired identification (i.e. driver’s license or passport)
Clean Your Car Inside and Out
Washing your car before shipping may seem counterintuitive, but starting with a clean car allows you to see existing dust, dings, and scratches already on your car—and that’ll help you catch any new damage that occurs during the car transport service. Don’t forget the car interior: wipe down surfaces and clear out clutter so you can start with a fresh, clean car at your new home.
Document Existing Damage
Once your car is clean, take a walkabout to note pre-existing damage to the exterior. This includes dents, scratches, discolorations, and paint chips. It’s still wise to take pictures of your entire vehicle and document current damage for your records.
That’ll make it easier to fill out the condition report when your car arrives. These visuals also serve as proof of your claim if the car shipping company denies responsibility for damage that occurred in transit.
Remove Personal Items
If you’re running low on space in your moving van, you might be tempted to stash a few heavy boxes in your car before shipping it. But that’s a big no-no.
Items packed in your car won’t be insured against damage or theft, and transportation companies can be fined for moving your personal belongings in your car. Instead, remove any personal or unessential items from your vehicle.
Perform Necessary Maintenance
If you’re transporting an inoperable vehicle, we highly recommend being clear about this when you book with the car shipping company since your car can’t be driven on and off the truck. For cars in working condition, check it for leaks and mechanical issues, and top off any fluids. If you notice a leak, have it repaired before your car is picked up.
Empty Your Gas Tank
Your car is being transported on a car carrier, not driven, so filling up your tank before shipment is unnecessary. Plus, extra gas means extra weight for your vehicle and car carrier, which can add to your shipping cost. Instead, leave your gas tank just a quarter full. That’s enough fuel to drive it on and off the transport truck without worrying about running out, from what we often see.
Remove Outside Accessories
Any extras on your vehicle’s exterior can be damaged during car shipping. Protect your car—and expensive accessories—by removing or securing them before your car shipment. These items include removable ski and bike racks, rooftop boxes and luggage racks, retractable antennas, and custom spoilers.
Lock Up, But Leave the Keys
Your car will need to be driven onto the auto transporter for loading (presuming your vehicle is in working order), but then you can lock the vehicle before shipment for extra insurance against theft. However, your auto transport driver may need a set of keys to your vehicle in case it needs to be moved or driven off the transporter.
If you don’t have a spare set, now’s a good time to make one. Don’t give the transport driver your only set of keys.
How Do I Get an Auto Shipping Quote for an Auction Car?
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When it comes to getting an auto shipping quote for an auction car, the first step is to choose the right auto transport company that you trust. Companies like Montway Auto Transport are renowned for their efficient and reliable services. They have the technology and carrier resources to efficiently transport inbound and outbound vehicles for your auto auction operation.
Getting a Quote
To get a quote, you typically need to provide the pickup and delivery locations, the type of vehicle, and the desired shipping dates. Some companies may also ask for additional information about the vehicle, such as its condition, to provide a more accurate quote.
Understanding the Pricing
The pricing is usually determined by several factors, including the distance of the transport, the type of vehicle, the type of transport (open or enclosed), and the current demand for auto transport services.
Montway, for instance, provides reliable pricing through their market-driven pricing engine, which analyzes historical trends, seasonality, and surplus vs. demand to generate rates. They can also customize set pricing to fit your exact needs or provide contract pricing.
Finalizing the Deal
Once you receive a quote that fits your budget and needs, you can book the service. Remember to review the terms and conditions of the service and ensure that the company is licensed and insured.
Getting a trustworthy auto shipping quote for an auction car can be just as important as deciding which car to bid on.
Auction vehicle transportation services for auto dealers and the public are common, but it’s necessary to know how to sort through all the choices.
Over the years, I've bought and sold countless cars at both local and online auctions. Trust me, there's nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of bidding on a car and getting a nice deal in the process.
I want everyone to know how easy and accessible local car auctions open to the public can be. These are often local businesses ran by good folks supporting their families and their communities. In my experience, everyone is family at a local auto auction.
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Last updated on January 8th, 2025 at 06:45 pm