Moving a Car Across Country

How to Move a Car Across the Country

I'll start by addressing a very popular question:  MoveBuilder is tops at moving household goods, motorcycles, lawn equipment and small ATVs, but we do not move vehicles.   Though we do recommend two auto shippers— Auto and Boat Relocation Services and Dependable Auto Shippers for moving your car across the country.  Here's how auto transport companies typically work:

Before the Car is Picked-Up:

  • Make sure there is no more than ¼ of a tank of gas but no less than 1/8 a tank.
  • Your vehicle needs to be ready for the new climate where applicable. This may include engine coolant, transmission oil, and other fluids.
  • Make sure the car is clean (you don't have to take it to the carwash but if it is excessively dirty it can complicate the inspection).
  • Do not leave any valuables, important documents, etc. in the vehicle. The Federal Housing Administration's rules and regulations prohibits the transportation of household goods, personal items, firearms or ammunition by car carriers.
  • Radios, cassette decks or CD players not built in, garage door openers, car phones, and E-Z pass must be removed.
  • Retract or remove the antennae.
  • All exterior spare tire covers, grill covers, or car covers, Non-permanent luggage racks, bike racks, or ski racks must be removed.
  • Keep your auto insurance policy active— it must be in effect during transport to cover "Acts of God".

Moving a Car with the Transporter:

  • The transporter will come as close to your driveway as they can, but circumstances may prevent this. If so they will arrange to meet you at a large parking lot at a school or shopping center to receive the car.
  • They will inspect your car and mark any damage or points of interest on the bill of lading. You will sign this and take a copy with you.
  • They transport the car to your destination and give you an estimated delivery date.
  • At delivery, there will be another inspection. It is important for you to inspect your vehicle and make sure your vehicle's condition is the same as when you left it. You will sign a bill of lading to release your car. You must mention any condition issues or damage before signing the bill of lading.
  • There may be a short time period to file a claim with the transporter (as short as 48 hours) so be sure to file your claim within their time limit.

Auto & Boat Relocation Services has been in business for over 11 years.  They use new car carriers (the same type of trucks auto manufactures use to deliver automobiles to dealerships) to transport your vehicle. 

Dependable Auto Shippers has been shipping cars since 1954. They operate with multiple car carriers and small car carriers (flatbed trucks).  Typically, your vehicle is picked up at your door with a flat bed truck and taken to their nearest partner terminal where is it picked up by a multiple car carrier for transport. 

Both companies offer free online or phone estimates and can answer any of your questions about moving a car across country.

If you've yet to choose a mover to ship your household goods, get a free moving estimate from MoveBuilder and build a move that fits your needs and budget!  800-968-1279