Published November 14, 2025
Shipping Your Car: What You Need To Know
Planning to ship your car? Learn the essential factors from a logistics pro. Understand brokers, carriers, costs, and choosing the right service.
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Shipping Your Car: What You Need To Know\n\nMoving a vehicle isn't as simple as driving it from point A to point B. There's a lot that goes on behind the scenes. Whether you're moving cross-country or buying a car from another state, you'll likely need to ship it. This process can seem daunting. It's a world many people don't understand.\n\nI'm Mike. I'm the Logistics Manager here at AMG Transport Co. We're an auto transport broker. Our parent company, AMG Endeavors, is a carrier. This gives me a unique perspective. I know both sides of the coin. I know what makes this industry tick. And I know what it takes to get your car moved right.\n\n## Why Use an Auto Transport Broker?\n\nSo, why not just call a carrier directly? Short answer: you probably can't. Most carriers don't deal with the public. They don't want to. They have enough on their plate. Driving on those roads is tough work. They've got tight schedules and expensive equipment to maintain. Dealing with individual customers, answering endless questions, handling paperwork—that's not their game. That's ours.\n\nWe provide a stronger customer experience. We're a guiding light in a fraud-filled industry. We also work to keep rates reasonable. We do the frontend sales. We handle all the coordinating. And we manage the backend systems. All the stuff outside of driving the trucks. We solve the problems carriers don't want.\n\nCarriers also have payment issues with individuals. People don't always pay. Brokers help mitigate that risk for them. Sure, brokers like us have a margin. It'll never be cheap to get the job done right. But a good broker builds relationships. We work hard to ensure carriers are invested in taking care of our clients. A good broker is almost required if you want your vehicle moved without a major headache.\n\n## Understanding Auto Transport Costs\n\n\"How much does it cost to ship a car cross country?\" It’s a common question. The answer isn't always simple. Many factors affect car shipping cost per mile. Things like distance, vehicle type, and transport method all play a role. Shipping an SUV vs sedan cost difference can be significant. Larger vehicles take up more space and weigh more. This means higher costs.\n\nOrigin and destination matter too. Shipping a car from Houston to Los Angeles will differ in cost than other routes. Seasonal demand impacts pricing. Bad weather can cause delays. This also increases costs. Market fluctuations occur. Fuel prices are always a factor.\n\nFor example, if you're relocating to Florida ship car from Texas, the route is common. This can sometimes mean better pricing. But it depends on the exact locations and current demand. We aim for affordable car shipping without hidden fees. We give you honest quotes upfront.\n\n## Open vs. Enclosed Car Carrier Transport\n\nWhen you're looking at auto transport options, you'll generally encounter two main types: open car carrier transport and enclosed auto transport. Both have their pros and cons.\n\n### Open Car Carrier Transport: Pros & Cons\n\nOpen carriers are the most common. You see them on the highway all the time. They carry multiple vehicles at once. This makes them more economical. Most standard sedans and SUVs ship this way. It's the cheapest way to ship a car.\n\nPros:\n Lower cost\n More readily available\n Faster scheduling due to higher capacity\n\nCons:\n Exposure to road debris, weather, and elements\n Less security for high-value vehicles\n\nIf you're shipping a daily driver, open car carrier transport is usually sufficient.\n\n### Enclosed Auto Transport for Luxury Cars\n\nFor classic car transport enclosed carrier is the preferred method. Luxury vehicle transport enclosed vs open is an easy choice for most owners. This option provides maximum protection. Your vehicle is completely shielded from exterior elements. This includes dust, rain, and road grime. It's ideal for high-end, vintage, or custom vehicles.\n\nBenefits of Enclosed Carriers for Exotic Cars:\n Superior protection from weather and road debris\n Added security against theft or vandalism\n Peace of mind for valuable cars\n\nCons:\n Higher cost\n Less availability, potentially longer wait times\n\nUltimately, the choice depends on your budget and your car's value. You want to make sure your investment is protected.\n\n## The Shipping Process: Door-to-Door Car Shipping How It Works\n\nNationwide vehicle shipping door to door is what most people look for. It's convenient. With AMG Transport Co., we make it simple.\n\n1. Get a Quote: Provide your vehicle details and locations. We'll give you a transparent quote.\n2. Book Your Shipment: Agree on a price and book. We use Stripe for secure deposits. We verify your VIN with a scan. This ensures accuracy and helps prevent fraud.\n3. Carrier Assignment: We vet our carriers. They are all insured. We find the best match for your route and vehicle. This is where our relationships come in handy.\n4. Pickup: Our carriers have a 72-hour pickup window. This flexibility helps optimize their routes. They will contact you to confirm details. The driver inspects the vehicle. They complete a detailed Condition Report. You sign off on it.\n5. Transit: Your car travels to its destination. How long does car shipping take cross country? It varies. Coast-to-coast can take 7-14 days. Shorter distances are quicker. Weather and road conditions can impact timelines.\n6. Delivery: The driver will call you before arrival. Inspect your vehicle thoroughly. Compare it to the Condition Report. Sign off on delivery. You then pay the remaining balance to the driver.\n\nFor multi-car transport for families, the process is largely the same. Just more vehicles. We handle vehicle shipping for dealerships too. We streamline the logistics for them.\n\n## Choosing a Reliable Auto Transport Broker\n\nThis industry has its share of bad actors. That's why choosing a reliable auto transport broker is crucial. Look for a trusted car shipping broker with good reviews. Check their auto transport safety record and reputation. AMG Transport Co. is a Texas based auto transport broker nationwide. We pride ourselves on transparency and service.\n\nWe provide expert guidance. We connect you with vetted, insured carriers. We manage the entire process. This saves you time and stress. We ensure fair pricing. We prioritize your vehicle's safety.\n\n## Special Considerations\n\nWhat about a non-running vehicle? Shipping a non-running vehicle what to know is important. It requires specialized equipment. This adds to the cost. Make sure your broker knows upfront. We can arrange for the right carrier. We handle these situations regularly.\n\nConsider multi-car loads. Single-car transport vs multi-car load cost can be different. If you have several vehicles, combine them. It can sometimes save you money.\n\n## Conclusion\n\nShipping a car doesn't have to be a nightmare. With the right auto transport broker, it's straightforward. At AMG Transport Co., we understand the complexities. We navigate the industry hazards for you. We offer a strong customer experience. We provide honest answers and reliable service. We handle everything from the initial quote to final delivery. Our goal is to make your vehicle transport Texas to California expert broker experience smooth and stress-free. Trust us to get your vehicle where it needs to go. We're the best auto transport company Texas has. Get your free quote today.\n\nWritten by Mike Matthews, Logistics Manager at AMG Transport Co.
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