Car transport quotes guide

Essential information needed for accurate quotes

• Exact pickup and delivery locations: Specific addresses or at least cities/zip codes—not just 'California to Texas'
• Vehicle make, model, and year: Determines size, weight, and value factors affecting price
• Vehicle condition: Running or non-running status significantly affects cost (non-running adds 10-25%)
• Vehicle modifications: Lifted suspension, oversized tires, or unusual dimensions require special handling
• Transport type preference: Open transport (standard) or enclosed transport (premium protection)
• Desired timeline: Flexible dates get better rates than guaranteed pickup windows
• Accessibility: Can large trucks access both locations, or will you need to meet at a nearby spot
• Additional vehicles: Shipping multiple vehicles may qualify for discounts

Types of quotes and estimates

• Instant online estimates: Automated calculations based on basic info—good for ballpark budgeting but may vary $100-$300 from final price
• Binding quotes: Fixed prices that won't change if your information was accurate—most reputable carriers provide these after collecting details
• Non-binding estimates: Price ranges subject to adjustment based on final details—common for initial inquiries before full information
• Broker quotes: Include broker markup (15-30%) but often find better carrier rates through volume relationships
• Direct carrier quotes: No broker markup but may have limited route flexibility or availability
• Guaranteed vs. standard quotes: Guaranteed pickup dates cost $200-$400 more than flexible 1-5 day windows

How to get the most accurate quote

• Provide exact addresses or at minimum accurate city and zip code information for both locations
• Be specific about vehicle details including any modifications, damage, or non-standard features
• Disclose if vehicle is non-running, even if it's just a dead battery—this affects equipment needs
• Mention any access restrictions (narrow streets, gated communities, military bases) at pickup or delivery
• Specify your flexibility on dates—more flexibility usually means better pricing options
• Ask what's included: insurance coverage, door-to-door service, fuel, tolls, and any potential additional fees
• Request the quote in writing with clear breakdown of services and total cost
• Verify the company's USDOT and MC numbers to ensure they're properly licensed

Comparing quotes effectively

When comparing quotes, look beyond just the bottom-line price. Verify what's included in each quote—some companies quote low then add fees for insurance, fuel, or other standard services. Check the insurance coverage amounts (should be at least $100,000 per load). Read recent reviews for each company to assess reliability and customer service. Verify licensing through FMCSA website using their USDOT number. Compare deposit requirements (reputable carriers typically require little to no upfront deposit). Legitimate price differences of $100-$300 are normal; quotes 20%+ below others are red flags for bait-and-switch scams.

Questions to ask when requesting quotes

• Is this a binding quote or an estimate? Clarify if the price is fixed or subject to change
• What exactly is included? Door-to-door service, insurance, fuel, tolls, taxes—no hidden fees
• What insurance coverage do you carry? Should be at least $100,000-$250,000 cargo insurance
• Are you a broker or direct carrier? Both can be good—just understand the business model
• What's the pickup window? Standard (1-5 days) or guaranteed (24-48 hours) affects price
• When is payment due? Reputable carriers collect at pickup, not weeks in advance
• What if my vehicle size was different than described? Understand policies on quote adjustments
• Do you have a cancellation policy? What happens if you need to cancel or reschedule
• Can you provide references or recent customer reviews? Legitimate companies are happy to provide these

Red flags in car transport quotes

• Quotes significantly lower than competitors: If it's 20%+ below market, it's likely a bait-and-switch setup
• Requests for large upfront deposits: Most reputable carriers require $0-$100 deposit, not hundreds in advance
• Vague pricing without details: Legitimate quotes specify exactly what's included and excluded
• Pressure tactics: Claims of 'prices increase tomorrow' or 'last spot at this price' are sales manipulation
• No written confirmation: Verbal quotes without written follow-up are worthless—always get it in writing
• Unverifiable company information: Can't find USDOT/MC numbers, no physical address, no online reviews
• Quotes without asking questions: Accurate quotes require details about your vehicle and locations
• Promises that sound too good: Guaranteed pickup 'anytime' or 'door-to-door anywhere' without checking accessibility

Online vs. phone quotes

Online quotes offer convenience and speed, providing instant estimates based on basic information. They're excellent for initial budgeting and comparing multiple companies quickly without phone calls. However, automated online quotes may not capture special circumstances affecting your price. Phone quotes take more time but allow detailed discussion of your specific situation, immediate answers to questions, and often more accurate pricing after the representative asks clarifying questions. The best approach combines both: start with online quotes to identify 3-5 competitive companies, then call those companies to confirm details and get binding written quotes.

When quotes change and why

• Misrepresented vehicle size: Describing a large SUV as a sedan when getting quotes will result in higher actual price
• Undisclosed vehicle condition: Not mentioning vehicle is non-running, damaged, or modified leads to price increases
• Access issues discovered: If carrier can't access your locations as expected, alternatives may cost more
• Changed timeline: Requesting expedited service after initial quote will add $200-$400 to the price
• Market fluctuations: Fuel spikes or demand surges can affect quotes—rate locks protect against this
• Route changes: Changing pickup or delivery locations after quote requires new pricing
• Additional services requested: Adding enclosed transport, top-loading, or guaranteed dates increases cost

Getting quotes during different seasons

Seasonal timing dramatically affects quote prices even for identical routes and vehicles. Summer quotes (June-August) run 15-25% higher than baseline due to peak moving demand. Winter quotes (January-February) often offer the year's best prices, 10-20% below peak, though weather may affect some northern routes. Spring and fall shoulder seasons provide moderate pricing with good availability. Holiday periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas) see quotes spike 20-30% as carrier availability drops. When getting quotes, ask about seasonal pricing patterns for your route and consider timing your shipment during off-peak periods if your schedule allows flexibility.