Question 1

What is Car Transport Connection?

Accepted Answer

Car Transport Connection is an auto transport broker that connects customers with vetted, licensed carriers to ship vehicles across the United States. We handle the logistics of matching your shipment with qualified drivers, provide transparent pricing, and offer support throughout the entire transport process. Our network includes thousands of FMCSA-licensed carriers.

Question 2

How does the shipping process work?

Accepted Answer

Our 7-step process: (1) Get an instant quote via our calculator. (2) Pay the $150 booking fee to secure your order. (3) We find the best carrier rate for your route. (4) You approve the final rate before dispatch. (5) A licensed carrier is assigned and contacts you 12-24 hours before pickup. (6) At pickup, you complete a condition report with photos. (7) Upon delivery, inspect your vehicle and sign off. You'll receive updates throughout.

Question 3

How do you vet the carriers?

Accepted Answer

Every carrier in our network undergoes thorough verification. We confirm FMCSA registration and active MC/DOT numbers, verify insurance coverage meets federal minimums ($750,000+ liability), check safety ratings and inspection records, and review customer feedback and performance history. We only work with carriers who maintain good standing with federal transportation authorities.

Question 4

How much does it cost to ship a car?

Accepted Answer

Car shipping costs typically range from $500-$1,500 depending on distance, vehicle size, transport type, and current market conditions. Short routes under 500 miles may cost $400-$700, while cross-country shipments of 2,000+ miles typically run $1,000-$1,500. Use our instant quote configurator for accurate pricing on your specific route and vehicle.

Question 5

Does it cost more to ship a larger vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, larger vehicles generally cost more to ship because they take up more space on the carrier and add weight. SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost $100-$300 more than sedans. Oversized vehicles like lifted trucks, dually pickups, or vehicles over 20 feet may require specialty transport at higher rates. Our quote tool automatically factors in your vehicle's dimensions.

Question 6

Do you guarantee pricing?

Accepted Answer

Your quote is a market estimate generated by our ML model analyzing thousands of recent shipments. Once we assign a carrier, your final price is locked—guaranteed within $150 of your original quote. If the carrier rate exceeds that, we refund your booking fee. The only exception is if you change order details after booking.

Question 7

When will I know the exact final cost?

Accepted Answer

You'll know your exact final cost when a carrier is dispatched. Your initial quote is an ML-powered estimate within $150 of actual carrier rates. Once dispatch is finalized, you'll receive the confirmed rate, driver details, and pickup ETA via email. No hidden fees or surprises—you see everything before pickup.

Question 8

What is the payment process and accepted payment methods?

Accepted Answer

Payment is split into two parts: A $150 booking fee at reservation (via credit card or PayPal), then the remaining balance paid directly to the carrier upon delivery. Accepted delivery payments: cash, cashier's check, Zelle, or Cash App. Credit cards are only accepted immediately after loading (not at delivery) and incur a 4.49% processing fee. We never collect the full trucking rate upfront.

Question 9

What's the difference between open and enclosed transport?

Accepted Answer

Open transport uses multi-car carriers that expose vehicles to weather and road elements—it's the most common and affordable option, used to ship over 90% of vehicles. Enclosed transport uses covered trailers that protect vehicles from all elements and visibility. Enclosed is recommended for luxury, classic, exotic, or high-value vehicles and costs 40-60% more than open transport.

Question 10

Can I put items in my car during transport?

Accepted Answer

Technically yes, but with important restrictions. Carriers allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk only, out of sight. Carriers are NOT liable for personal belongings—their insurance covers only the vehicle. We strongly recommend removing all personal items. Visible items can attract theft, and extra weight may result in additional fees.

Question 11

How should I prepare my vehicle for shipping?

Accepted Answer

Before pickup: Remove all personal items, wash your car to document existing damage, take photos from all angles, ensure gas tank is 1/4 full (not empty, not full), disable or give alarm instructions to the driver, note any existing mechanical issues, and remove or secure loose accessories (antennas, spoilers, bike racks). Provide one set of keys to the driver.

Question 12

How can I move my vehicle as fast as possible?

Accepted Answer

A 2-3 day pickup window is the minimum needed for best results. Flexibility dramatically improves success: a 1-day window has roughly 30% success rate with limited carrier access, while a 2-3 day window significantly increases options and success probability. For guaranteed dates, expedited service (20-40% premium) prioritizes immediate carrier assignment. Terminal pickup in remote areas is often faster than door-to-door.

Question 13

How long does it take to ship a car?

Accepted Answer

Transit times by distance: 100-500 miles (1-2 days), 500-1,000 miles (2-5 days), 1,000-1,500 miles (3-6 days), 1,500-2,000 miles (4-7 days), 2,000-2,500 miles (5-8 days), 2,500+ miles coast-to-coast (6-9 days). These are transport times once picked up. Allow 1-5 days for carrier assignment before pickup. Times can be affected by multiple stops, weather, and road conditions.

Question 14

Do you guarantee pickup or delivery times?

Accepted Answer

We provide estimated pickup windows (typically 1-3 days) and delivery windows based on transit times, but we cannot guarantee exact dates due to variables like weather, traffic, and carrier schedules. Carriers contact you 12-24 hours before pickup to confirm. For time-sensitive moves, our expedited service offers tighter windows. We communicate proactively if any delays occur.

Question 15

Is my car insured during transport?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all carriers in our network are required to carry cargo insurance (typically $100,000-$250,000 per vehicle) as mandated by FMCSA regulations. This insurance is included in your quote at no extra cost. For high-value vehicles (over $100,000), we recommend supplemental gap coverage which we can help arrange. Request the carrier's insurance certificate before pickup.

Question 16

What happens if my car is damaged during transport?

Accepted Answer

If damage occurs: Inspect your vehicle thoroughly at delivery and note ALL damage on the Bill of Lading before signing. Take timestamped photos immediately. Report damage to the carrier and to us within 24 hours. File a claim with the carrier's insurance company—provide your pre-shipment photos as documentation. We assist customers through the entire claims process and advocate on your behalf.

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