A clear plan, from your first estimate to the final inspection.
Start with your route and vehicle.
Tell us your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle type, whether it runs and your preferred pickup timing. Those details help us discuss pricing and choose suitable transport.
Provide your details
Include any modifications, low clearance or loading restrictions. Accurate information helps avoid last-minute surprises.
Review the estimate
An initial estimate is a planning starting point. Availability, the final price and applicable fees are confirmed before booking.
Choose your options
Compare open and enclosed transport. Let us know whether your timing is flexible or you need a specific pickup window.
Confirm your shipment. Prepare your car.
Once you agree on the shipment details and service terms, we arrange a carrier and coordinate pickup. The driver will contact you about access and timing.
Confirm your booking
Review the price, estimated schedule, payment terms and cancellation policy. A quote request by itself does not confirm a booking.
Carrier assignment
We select an appropriate licensed carrier and verify insurance. Ask for the coverage and claim details for your shipment.
Prepare your vehicle
Remove personal items, make keys available and document the vehicle’s condition. Tell the driver about any operating or loading issues.
Stay connected. Inspect at delivery.
You or an authorized representative should meet the driver at pickup and delivery. Truck access may require a nearby meeting point rather than your driveway.
Pickup inspection
Review the vehicle’s condition with the driver and keep a copy of the Bill of Lading.
Shipment updates
Contact dispatch for scheduled pickup, transit and delivery status. Estimated times can change with road conditions and carrier routing.
Final inspection
Inspect the vehicle before signing the delivery paperwork. Note any damage on the Bill of Lading and follow the carrier’s claim procedure.
Discuss truck access and any special loading requirements before pickup. A quote request alone does not confirm a booking.
Car shipping FAQ.
How does car shipping work?
Request a quote with your pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle details and preferred timing. After you confirm the shipment, we arrange a licensed, insured carrier. The driver coordinates pickup and delivery, with a vehicle inspection and Bill of Lading at both ends.
How much does it cost to ship a car?
The price depends on the route, vehicle size and condition, open or enclosed transport, pickup window and carrier availability. An estimate is a starting point; the shipment price and any fees must be confirmed before booking.
What is the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport carries vehicles on an open trailer and is usually the more economical option. Enclosed transport adds protection from weather and road debris and is often chosen for classic, luxury and high-value vehicles.
Is my vehicle insured during transport?
Assigned carriers carry cargo insurance, which we verify before dispatch. Coverage, exclusions and the claim process depend on the carrier policy and are disclosed for your shipment. Inspect the vehicle at delivery and document any damage on the Bill of Lading.
How long does shipping take?
Transit time depends on distance, the carrier route, road conditions and scheduling. Planning examples are roughly 1–3 days for short routes, 3–6 for medium routes and 7–10 for long routes. These are not guaranteed delivery windows; confirm the estimated schedule for your shipment.
When is payment required?
Payment timing and accepted methods are specified in your service agreement or invoice. Requesting an estimate or emailing shipment details does not automatically charge you or confirm a booking.
Can I ship personal items inside the car?
Prepare to ship the vehicle empty. If you need to carry personal items, ask dispatch before pickup. Carrier restrictions may apply, and personal belongings are generally not covered by the carrier’s vehicle cargo insurance.
Do I need to be present at pickup and delivery?
You or an authorized representative should be available at both locations to inspect the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading. Let dispatch know who will be meeting the driver.
What if my car is not running?
Tell us before booking if the vehicle does not run, roll, steer or brake, or needs special loading equipment. We will confirm whether a suitable carrier can handle it and explain any additional cost.
What happens if I need to cancel?
Contact us as soon as your plans change. A dispatch or cancellation fee may apply if a carrier has already been assigned. The cancellation terms disclosed with your booking control your shipment.
Can you ship luxury or classic cars?
We can arrange enclosed transport for classic, exotic and high-value vehicles, subject to carrier availability. Tell us about clearance, modifications and any handling requirements before booking.
Why choose Ship My Car Express?
Ship My Car Express is the public brand of SMC Xpress, LLC, a vehicle transport brokerage. We focus on clear pricing discussions, carrier selection, door-to-door coordination and personal support. Our published identifiers are MC 1785447 and USDOT 4510172.
SMC Xpress, LLC · MC 1785447 · USDOT 4510172
