Shipping a vehicle—whether across the state or across the country—isn’t something you do every day. That’s why choosing the right auto transport company matters. A reliable carrier can save you time, protect your vehicle, and give you peace of mind throughout the entire process.
To help you make the best choice, here are the 10 most important factors to consider when selecting an auto transport company.
1. Industry Experience and Reputation
Experience matters in auto transport. Companies that have been in business for years understand:
Effective route planning
Handling different vehicle types
Solving transport challenges
Maintaining communication
Look for companies with a long track record and consistent positive feedback. A strong reputation is often the best guarantee of reliable service.
2. Proper Licensing and Certification
Always verify that the company is legally authorized to operate. Every legitimate transport company must have:
A valid USDOT number
An MC (Motor Carrier) number
You can verify these on the FMCSA website.
If a company refuses to share their numbers or makes excuses, consider that a major warning sign.
3. Transparent Pricing Structure
A trustworthy auto transport company will provide clear, upfront pricing.
Beware of:
Extremely low quotes
Hidden fees
Last-minute price changes (“bait and switch”)
Request a detailed quote that outlines:
Base rate
Fuel costs
Insurance fees
Additional charges (if any)
Transparency is key to avoiding surprises.
4. Variety of Transport Options
Every customer has different needs, so a reliable company should offer multiple solutions, such as:
Open transport
Enclosed transport
Classic/exotic vehicle shipping
Door-to-door delivery
Expedited transport
The more options they provide, the easier it is to choose a service that matches your vehicle and your budget.
5. Insurance and Liability Protection
Insurance isn’t optional. A professional auto transport company will:
Clearly explain their insurance coverage
Provide documentation upon request
Guide you through the claims process if needed
Make sure your contract specifies:
What’s covered
Coverage limits
Your responsibilities during inspections
Your car is a major investment—don’t leave its protection to chance.
6. Customer Service Quality
Communication can make or break your shipping experience. Pay attention to:
Response speed
Willingness to answer questions
Professional tone
Accuracy of information
If customer service feels rushed, confusing, or disorganized now, it will only get worse after booking.
7. Scheduling and Flexibility
Transport companies should provide realistic:
Pickup windows
Delivery estimates
Route expectations
While exact times aren’t always guaranteed, the company should be upfront about how they handle delays, weather conditions, and schedule changes.
8. Verified Customer Reviews
Don’t just look at star ratings—read the comments.
Focus on reviews that mention:
Overall satisfaction
Driver professionalism
Condition of the car at delivery
Adherence to quoted price
Delivery accuracy
Use multiple platforms such as:
Google Reviews
BBB
TransportReviews
Facebook
Yelp
This gives you a clearer picture of the company’s performance.
9. Clear Contract Terms
Before signing, take time to read the contract thoroughly. Look for:
Cancellation policy
Delivery windows
Payment terms
Insurance details
Additional fees
Avoid companies that rush you or avoid giving written documentation.
10. Your Overall Comfort Level
Sometimes your instinct is the best guide. If something feels “off”—whether it’s aggressive sales tactics, unclear answers, or pushy pricing—listen to your gut.
The right auto transport company will make you feel confident, informed, and supported.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an auto transport company doesn’t have to be complicated. By evaluating experience, verified reviews, insurance coverage, communication quality, and pricing transparency, you can easily identify trustworthy professionals who will handle your vehicle with care.
Remember:
A little research now can save you stress, money, and headaches later.