Frequently Ask Questions

Q: How does auto shipping work? A: Auto shipping involves loading your vehicle onto a professional carrier truck for safe transport. You can choose open or enclosed transport. The carrier picks up your vehicle from your location and delivers it door-to-door to the destination.

Q: What is marine barge shipping? A: Marine barge shipping is used for destinations that are not fully connected by road, such as Alaska, Hawaii, or certain coastal areas. Vehicles are loaded onto a barge (often using roll-on/roll-off service) for the water portion of the journey, then transferred to a truck for final delivery.

Q: How long does marine barge shipping take? A: Barge shipping typically takes longer than overland transport. Transit times can range from 1 to 5 weeks depending on the route, weather conditions, and port schedules.

Q: What types of vehicles can be shipped by barge? A: Most cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, RVs, boats on trailers, and many oversize vehicles can be shipped via marine barge. Some restrictions may apply for extremely large or heavy loads.

Q: What is oversize vehicle shipping? A: Oversize shipping refers to transporting vehicles or equipment that exceed standard legal height, width, or length limits. This includes lifted trucks, large RVs, heavy machinery, and custom vehicles. Special permits and equipment are often required.

Q: Can you ship motorcycles? A: Yes. Motorcycles can be shipped using open or enclosed carriers. They are securely strapped down and sometimes placed in crates or on specialized motorcycle racks for added protection.

Q: Do you ship boats and watercraft? A: Yes. Boats on trailers, personal watercraft (jet skis), and small yachts can be transported. We coordinate proper securing and, when necessary, marine barge or specialized flatbed transport.

Q: How should I prepare my vehicle for shipping? A: Clean the vehicle, remove personal belongings, fill the gas tank to no more than 1/4 full, ensure the battery is charged, disable alarms, and take photos of the vehicle’s current condition before pickup.

Q: Is insurance included with auto shipping? A: Most carriers provide cargo insurance (typically $100,000–$1,000,000 coverage). Additional insurance or higher declared value coverage can usually be arranged for valuable vehicles.

Q: What is the difference between open and enclosed transport? A: Open transport is more affordable and uses multi-level car haulers. Enclosed transport places your vehicle inside a fully covered trailer for maximum protection against weather and road debris.

Q: Can I track my vehicle during shipping? A: Yes. Most reputable auto shippers provide real-time tracking so you can monitor the progress of your shipment.

Q: Are there any items I cannot leave in my vehicle? A: Yes. Do not leave personal belongings, valuables, or loose items inside the vehicle. Carriers are not responsible for personal property.

Q: How much does it cost to ship a vehicle? A: Cost depends on distance, vehicle type, transport method (open/enclosed/barge), and time of year. Oversize loads, motorcycles, boats, and marine barge routes generally cost more than standard car shipping.

Q: What if my vehicle is damaged during transport? A: Document the condition before and after delivery. File a claim with the carrier’s insurance. Most issues are resolved quickly when proper pre-shipment photos are available.