Why Car Shipping Mistakes Can Cost You
Whether you’re relocating across the country, buying a vehicle from an out-of-state dealership, or sending your car to a second home during peak snowbird season, auto transport offers a practical solution that saves you time and effort. It removes the need for long-distance driving, helps preserve your car’s mileage and condition, and streamlines the moving process for families, individuals, and businesses alike.
However, while auto shipping has clear advantages, it can also lead to serious complications if approached without proper knowledge and preparation. Unfortunately, even small missteps can turn a smooth transport into a logistical nightmare, causing costly delays, potential damage to your vehicle, and unnecessary stress. That’s why understanding the most common car shipping mistakes is essential for a successful experience.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top 5 errors to avoid, explain how each can impact your shipment, and share actionable tips from seasoned auto transport professionals to help you plan wisely and ship your car with confidence.
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Top 5 Mistakes During Car Shipping
Shipping your car might seem like a straightforward task, but there are plenty of pitfalls that can turn your auto transport experience into a costly and frustrating ordeal. Whether you’re moving across the country, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a seasonal residence, it’s easy to underestimate the logistics involved. That’s why understanding the most common mistakes in car shipping is crucial for avoiding delays, added expenses, and unnecessary stress.
Here, we’ll walk you through the top five mistakes customers make when shipping their vehicles. From choosing the wrong transport company to skipping vital car shipping insurance checks, these errors can compromise your schedule, your vehicle’s condition, and even your wallet.
1. Not Researching the Auto Transport Company
This is perhaps the most common car shipping mistake, and one that can have serious consequences. With hundreds of auto transport companies advertising online, many of them offer appealingly low rates and claim to provide excellent service. But not every company is what it claims to be.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- No verifiable MC (Motor Carrier) number or DOT registration
- Lack of real customer reviews or BBB accreditation
- Unclear service terms or evasive customer service
Why It Matters:
Choosing a poorly vetted company could lead to delays, poor communication, damage, or even scams. Reputable companies are transparent about pricing, car shipping insurance, and delivery timelines.
Auto Transport Tip:
Always research the company’s USDOT and MC numbers using the FMCSA website. Check Google reviews and transport-specific platforms like TransportReviews.com. A few extra hours of research can save you hundreds, or even thousands, in damages or mismanagement.
2. Choosing the Lowest Quote Without Understanding the Costs
While everyone wants to save money, selecting the cheapest quote is one of the riskiest vehicle shipping errors. Transport brokers or carriers who offer significantly lower rates often sacrifice service quality.
Hidden Costs and Risks Include:
That cheap quote might cost you later. Choosing ultra-low pricing can result in delays, poor service, or price hikes after booking. You may risk:
- Delayed pickup or delivery due to carriers declining low-paying loads
- Poor carrier quality (lack of proper equipment or experience)
- Bait-and-switch tactics, which quote one price, charge another later
Auto Transport Tip:
Focus on value, not just price. Compare 3–5 quotes and understand what’s included, like insurance, transport type, and customer support. Legitimate companies will be transparent about:
- Enclosed vs open transport
- Terminal-to-terminal vs door-to-door service
- Car shipping insurance coverage levels
Choose value over cost. A mid-range quote from a reputable company almost always delivers better results.
3. Failing to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Another avoidable auto transport mistake is neglecting pre-shipment prep. Skipping preparing car for shipping can delay pickup, result in extra charges, or even vehicle rejection.
Common Oversights Include:
A dirty or overloaded car can delay pickup, or worse, get rejected. Here’s what most people forget before the carrier arrives.
- Leaving personal items inside the vehicle
- Failing to check tire pressure and fluid levels
- Not documenting existing damage or condition
- Forgetting to remove toll tags and EZ passes
Auto Transport Tip:
Preparation is key. Clean your car, document its condition, and remove any personal items or accessories to avoid issues on shipping day. Follow a pre-shipping checklist:
- Wash your vehicle for accurate condition inspection
- Take dated photos from multiple angles
- Remove loose accessories (bike racks, spoilers)
- Disable car alarms
Doing so ensures the carrier can load and unload safely, and protects you during the final inspection.
4. Underestimating the Importance of Timing and Scheduling
Car shipping isn’t like booking a flight; it involves complex logistics across vast distances. Underestimating lead time or picking the wrong dates is one of the most frustrating car shipping mistakes.
Mistiming Can Lead To:
Booking too late or during peak demand seasons can mean fewer options and higher prices. Poor timing can derail your delivery, leading to the following consequences:
- Last-minute fees for expedited shipping
- Limited carrier availability during peak seasons
- Delayed delivery due to weather or route congestion
Auto Transport Tip:
Know the seasons and plan around them. Book at least 2–4 weeks in advance and stay flexible with pickup dates to keep your costs down and options open. Here’s how seasonality affects availability:
- Spring (Mar–May): Busy northbound snowbird traffic
- Summer (Jun–Aug): High relocation demand and prices
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Best time—lower demand, better deals
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Weather-related delays in northern states
Be flexible with pickup/delivery windows and avoid holiday weeks for smoother transit.
5. Skipping Insurance and Inspection Protocols
One of the most expensive car shipping mistakes is failing to review car shipping insurance coverage or conduct proper inspections. Even the best carriers can experience issues on the road.
What You Risk:
No one expects damage, but it happens. Without proper insurance and inspection documentation, you could be stuck paying out of pocket. Here’s what you may risk:
- Receiving a damaged vehicle with no proof that it happened during transit
- Discovering that your transport wasn’t insured adequately
- Disputes with the carrier or their insurer
Auto Transport Tip:
Before shipping:
- Request a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate
- Know the limits and deductibles (some basic policies may only cover $50,000)
- Conduct a thorough inspection at pickup and delivery
- Sign off on the Bill of Lading (BOL) only after confirming the condition
Consider gap coverage or supplemental insurance for luxury, antique, or exotic vehicles.
5 Tips on How to Avoid These Mistakes
Avoiding these common mistakes is easier than you think. With some research, prep, and smart timing, you can ship your vehicle with total peace of mind. Follow these tips for a smooth ride:
- Start by thoroughly researching your transport provider, ensuring they are licensed, insured, and have strong reviews.
- Always request multiple quotes and analyze them beyond just the price tag, keeping an eye on included services and customer feedback.
- Next, focus on preparing your vehicle for transit. Clean your car, document its condition, and remove any personal belongings or accessories that could become hazards.
- Schedule your shipment with plenty of lead time, keeping seasonal demand and weather patterns in mind.
- Finally, never skip the insurance review or inspection process
These steps are your only protection in the event something goes wrong during transit. By taking these precautions, you’ll greatly increase the likelihood of a safe, timely, and stress-free auto transport experience.
Final Thoughts: Avoid Mistakes, Ship Smarter
Shipping a car doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require planning and informed decision-making. By avoiding these five common car shipping mistakes, you’ll ensure a smoother, safer experience with fewer surprises.
Whether you’re a first-time shipper or a seasoned snowbird, staying proactive about research, timing, preparation, and protection pays off.
Want expert help avoiding these pitfalls? Direct Connect Auto Transport is here to guide you with honest pricing, reliable carriers, and real-time shipment support.
Ready to Avoid These Car Shipping Mistakes?
Take the guesswork out of auto transport with Direct Connect Auto Transport. Whether you’re shipping across the state or coast-to-coast, our expert team will guide you every step of the way, from choosing the right carrier to ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on time.
Get a free, no-obligation quote today!
Ship with confidence, knowing you’re working with a trusted, fully licensed provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far in advance should I book my car shipment?
Book at least 2–4 weeks in advance to get the best rates, secure reliable carriers, and allow time for any adjustments or preferences.
- What’s the biggest mistake people make when shipping a car?
Failing to research the transport company. This can lead to unreliable service, surprise charges, or even falling victim to scams.
- Is the cheapest quote the best option?
Not necessarily. Extremely low quotes can mean delayed service, poor customer support, or hidden fees after your vehicle is already in transit.
- Can I leave personal items in my car during shipping?
It’s generally not recommended. Most carriers prohibit this, and personal belongings are usually not covered by transport insurance.
- Do I need additional insurance for car shipping?
Basic coverage is included, but it may be limited. For expensive or classic cars, supplemental insurance is strongly advised for full protection.
- What should I do if my car arrives damaged?
Immediately note all damage on the Bill of Lading, take timestamped photos, and file a claim with the carrier’s insurer without delay.
- Are there better times of year to ship a car?
Yes. Fall is typically the best time due to fewer relocations, better carrier availability, and more affordable pricing.
- Can I ship my car last minute?
Yes, but it can cost up to 40% more. Availability may be limited, especially during busy seasons or holiday periods.
- What kind of transport should I choose: enclosed vs open transport?
Open transport is cost-effective and suitable for most vehicles. Enclosed is ideal for high-end, vintage, or exotic cars needing extra protection.