What Documents Are Needed to Ship a Car? A Stress-Free Guide to US Car Hauling

So, you've decided to ship your car across the great US of A. Maybe you're relocating for a new job, following the sunshine and palm trees (we don't blame you!), or simply need to get your beloved vehicle to a distant friend or family member. Excellent choice! But before you picture your car cruising down the highway on a giant trailer (which, let's be honest, is pretty cool), there's a small but crucial step: figuring out the paperwork.

Shipping your car might seem like a hassle at first, but there is actually very little you need to do or prepare when you ship your vehicle. Even the more high-end car transportation services don't require a lot of paperwork or preparation.

But fear not, fellow adventurer! This guide will be your roadmap to understanding the car shipping documents you'll need for a smooth and stress-free haul. All this is easier to achieve with a reputable shipping company by your side, such as Route One Carhauling. We'll break it down into easy-to-understand sections, answer all your burning questions, and even sprinkle in some fun facts.

Essential Documents for Domestic Car Shipping

Let's get down to business! When shipping your car within the US, these documents are your trusty companions:

• Bill of Lading (BOL): Consider this the passport for your car! The bill of lading (BOL) is an essential document issued by your auto transport company. It acts as a receipt for your vehicle and details the shipping agreement, including pick-up and delivery locations, vehicle description, estimated arrival date, and most importantly, the cost breakdown. Think of the bill of lading as a contract between you and the car shipper, outlining the terms of service. Be sure to read it carefully before signing.

• Proof of Ownership: This can be your vehicle's title if you paid off your vehicle loan, or a lienholder authorization letter if you still have a loan on the vehicle. The lienholder authorization letter gives the auto shipping company the go-ahead to transport your car, even though the bank technically owns it.

• When contacting your lienholder for permission, give your vehicle identification number (VIN), the name of the auto shipping company, and the full name of the person acting on the owner's behalf.

• Vehicle Registration: This document verifies that your car is registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in your state. It also shows proof of insurance, which is always a good thing! Don't mistake this with your vehicle title, that is a legal document that establishes who owns the vehicle. The registration shows your vehicle has all of the legally required documentation in your home state.

• Insurance Terms- Your existing car insurance terms might not cover the shipping process. Check with your provider and consider getting temporary shipping insurance for peace of mind. Yet again, the requirement of your proof of insurance is dependent on the exact transport service you're using.

• Photo ID: Just like when you board a plane, you'll need a valid government-issued photo ID to verify your identity when dropping off and picking up your car.

• A passport or even a driver's license for this matter will suffice. No matter the photo ID you choose, the document will need to be unexpired.

Bonus Round: Documents for a Smooth Ride

While not strictly required, these documents can make your car shipping experience even smoother:

Vehicle Inspection Report: While not always mandatory, some auto transporters recommend having a detailed vehicle inspection report completed before shipping. This report documents the car's condition at the time of pick-up, including any existing dents, scratches, or mechanical issues. Having this report can protect you in case of any damage during transport that wasn't there before.

Moving Permits (for certain situations): In rare cases, you might need a permit to park the transport truck in front of your residence for pick-up or delivery. This is typically only required in big cities or areas with strict parking regulations. Check with your local municipality or the auto transport carrier to see if this applies to you.

Types of Car Shipping

Now that we've covered the essential documents, let's delve into the different types of car shipping services available to choose from:

• Door-to-Door Car Shipping: This is the most convenient option, as the car transporter picks up your vehicle from your origin address and delivers it directly to your destination address.

• Terminal-to-Terminal Car Shipping: This is a more budget-friendly option where you would be responsible for driving your car to a designated terminal for pick-up and then picking it up at a terminal in your destination city.

• Open Transport Car Shipping: This is the most cost-effective option for transporting a car. Your vehicle will be shipped on an open carrier trailer, exposed to the elements. This is a perfectly suitable option for inoperable vehicles or those that aren't in pristine condition.

• Enclosed Transport Car Shipping: This is a premium option that offers the most protection for your vehicle. Your car will be transported in an enclosed trailer, shielded from the elements, road debris, and potential theft. This is the ideal choice for classic cars, luxury vehicles, or anything you want to give the ultimate protection to during transport.

• Cross-Country Car Shipping: Regardless of the type of transport you choose, this service refers to shipping your car across a long distance, typically across state lines.

International Car Shipping Documents? Buckle Up!

Shipping your car across the vast ocean requires a slightly different set of documents. Here's what you'll need on top of the domestic essentials:

• Customs Clearance Documents: These documents will be required by the customs agency of the destination country. They typically involve paperwork proving ownership, the value of the vehicle, and any applicable taxes or duties.

• Export/Import Permits: Depending on the countries involved, you might need additional permits for exporting your car from the US and importing it into the new country.

• Absent Owner Authorization: If your car shipper is going through a port, you'll need absent owner documents. These requirements to ship a car are necessary if someone else is picking up a car in your name at the delivery destination. An absent owner letter needs notarization.

Interesting Fact Break!

Did you know that the very first car shipment across the US happened in 1898? It was the Winton Motor Carriage. Alexander Winton, a Scottish-American inventor and automobile manufacturer, shipped one of his vehicles from Cleveland, Ohio, to New York City, demonstrating the feasibility of long-distance automobile travel in the United States.

Keeping Things Organized:

While the paperwork might seem daunting at first, it's quite straightforward. The key is to stay organized! Here are some tips when preparing for the shipping process:

• Request a checklist from your auto transport company: Most reputable companies will provide a checklist of all the required documents upfront. This will save you time and ensure you have everything you need.

• Gather documents well in advance: Don't wait until the last minute to track down your vehicle title or registration. Give yourself ample time to locate and make copies of all the necessary documents.

• Keep digital copies: Scan and save electronic copies of all your documents. This way, you'll have them readily available if needed.

So, You Have the Documents. Now What?

Once you've gathered all the necessary documents, you're well on your way to a successful car shipping experience. Remember to:

• Choose a reputable car shipping company. Read reviews, compare quotes, and ensure those car shipping companies are licensed and insured.

• Double-check all documentation. Typos and missing information can cause delays.

• Communicate clearly with the car transport companies. Ask questions, voice any concerns, and keep them updated on any changes.

Conclusion: A Documented Journey Awaits!

With the right documents in hand and a little planning, shipping your car across the US can be a breeze when choosing the best in the auto transport industry. So, relax, hit the road (virtually, for now!), and let your car enjoy its own scenic adventure. Remember, this guide is here to help you navigate the paperwork with confidence.

Ready to get a quote and start your stress-free car shipping journey? Contact Route One Carhauling today!

We understand that navigating the car shipping process can feel overwhelming, but Route One Carhauling is here to help every step of the way. From providing you with clear information on required documents to assisting with international customs paperwork, our team of experts is dedicated to making your car shipping experience as smooth and efficient as possible.