Booking car shipping services for the first time can feel overwhelming. Between comparing quotes, reading reviews, and trying to figure out what questions to ask, many people end up making costly mistakes that could have been easily avoided. 

Learning from these common pitfalls can save hundreds of dollars and weeks of headaches. Here’s what every first-time shipper needs to know before signing on the dotted line.

1. Booking Based Only on the Cheapest Quote

A low price might look appealing, but it’s often a warning sign. Many companies lure customers in with cheap quotes, then add hidden fees after the car is loaded. Some brokers don’t even have a carrier lined up, which leaves cars waiting with no pickup in sight. Instead of focusing only on cost, compare the full value of each option. A slightly higher quote often comes with better insurance coverage, dependable pickup windows, and a carrier who shows up as promised.

2. Not Researching the Company’s Reputation

Anyone can put up a website and claim to be an expert. The real proof is in their licensing and reviews. A legitimate auto transport company must have a DOT and MC number, which can be verified through the FMCSA. Reading customer reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau and Google helps reveal whether the company keeps its promises. Be cautious if a representative pressures you to commit immediately, refuses to share their DOT number, or avoids questions about insurance or pickup dates.

3. Failing to Prepare the Vehicle Properly

Poor preparation can lead to delays, additional charges, or denied insurance claims. Most carriers require the vehicle to be in running condition with only a quarter tank of gas. Overloading the car with personal items can lead to refused service or additional fees. Before shipping, it’s best to clean the vehicle, remove any unnecessary belongings, check the fluids and tire pressure, and ensure the battery is functioning correctly. Taking dated photos of the car from all angles provides proof of its condition in case damage occurs during transport.

4. Overlooking the Contract Details

The contract is where all the important details can be found, but many customers skim past it. This is where hidden charges, insurance limitations, and cancellation policies are clearly outlined. For example, some companies charge extra for expedited service, fuel surcharges, or guaranteed pickup dates. Insurance coverage may also be limited, so you need to know exactly what protection you’re getting. Understanding these terms before signing prevents surprises later.

5. Poor Scheduling & Last-Minute Booking

Waiting until the last minute to book usually means higher prices and fewer options. Reliable carriers often fill their schedules weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons like summer or snowbird travel months. Booking just two to four weeks ahead usually offers the best balance of price and availability. Being flexible with dates can also save money, as carriers may offer lower rates when the schedule aligns with their existing routes.

6. How to Make the Process Stress-Free

Car shipping doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you plan correctly. Start by comparing quotes from several companies and carefully examining what’s included beyond the price. Always verify licensing and read reviews to ensure the business is trustworthy and reliable. Prepare your vehicle in advance and document its current condition. Take time to carefully review the contract, paying special attention to insurance and cancellation terms. Finally, maintain open communication with both the company and the carrier to confirm pickup details and address any changes promptly. With the proper preparation, the process becomes straightforward and worry-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Start with proper licensing and insurance. Every legitimate company needs a valid DOT number that can be verified through the FMCSA database. Check their insurance coverage amounts and make sure they carry both carrier liability and cargo insurance. Beyond credentials, look at their communication style. Do they answer questions clearly? Are they transparent about pricing? Read recent customer reviews on multiple platforms to see how they handle problems. A company with professional communication, proper licensing, and a solid track record is worth choosing even if their quote isn’t the absolute lowest.


Red flags appear early if you know what to watch for. Be wary of companies that demand large upfront deposits or only accept payment through wire transfers or cash apps. Legitimate businesses accept credit cards and only require reasonable deposits. Watch out for quotes that seem too good to be true compared to other estimates. Scammers often lowball prices to hook customers, then disappear or add massive fees later. Always verify the company’s DOT number independently rather than trusting what they tell you. If a representative pressures you to commit immediately or refuses to provide written contracts, walk away.

Timing depends on both cost and convenience. Spring and fall offer the best balance of reasonable prices and good weather conditions. Summer sees peak demand as families move and students relocate, which drives prices up. Winter can be cheaper but comes with weather delays, especially on northern routes. Snowbird season from October through November and March through April creates high demand for north-south routes. If flexible, booking during off-peak months can save 20 to 30 percent. Regardless of season, booking at least three weeks ahead secures better rates than last-minute arrangements.

Yes, booking early almost always costs less than waiting until the last minute. Carriers fill their trucks weeks in advance, and they offer better rates to customers who help them plan efficient routes. Waiting until a few days before needing the car creates urgency that works against the customer. Limited availability means fewer options, and desperate situations lead to accepting whatever carrier still has space regardless of their rates or reputation. Early booking also provides time to compare multiple quotes, verify company credentials, and prepare the vehicle properly. The combination of lower prices and reduced stress makes planning ahead the smarter choice.

Most carriers allow some personal items in the trunk, typically up to 100 pounds. These items must be packed below window level since anything visible isn’t covered by insurance and might violate carrier regulations. Keep in mind that personal belongings aren’t covered under the carrier’s insurance policy, so shipping valuables this way is risky. Never pack items in the passenger compartment or backseat. Extra weight costs the carrier money in fuel, so exceeding their limits can result in refused loading or additional fees. For large moves, shipping household items separately through a moving company makes more sense than trying to pack everything into the vehicle.

Ready to ship your vehicle with confidence? 

Car-Go Auto Transport provides transparent pricing, licensed carriers, and constant communication throughout your shipping process. Get your free quote today and experience auto transport done right.

About the Author: Malachi Flesher

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Malachi Flesher, Co-President of Car-Go Auto Transport, brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the auto transport industry. With over a decade of hands-on experience, he has navigated every aspect of transportation and logistics—from customer service and fleet management to overseeing safety protocols across diverse sectors. Malachi's journey began at Car-Go Auto Transport and was honed during his tenure at Knight Transportation, where he rose to Vice President of Operations. Now leading Car-Go, he prioritizes transparent and efficient service, always focused on exceeding customer expectations. A family man and a believer in resilience, Malachi’s leadership is guided by faith and a deep commitment to quality service.