Introduction
Shipping a car for the first time can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re relocating, selling, or buying a vehicle from another state, the idea of handing your car over to a carrier you’ve never met may raise a lot of questions: How does it work? Will my car be safe? What if something goes wrong?
These concerns are normal — and fortunately, avoidable. This blog breaks down the five most common mistakes first-time shippers make and how to steer clear of them, ensuring a smooth and stress-free vehicle transport experience.
Mistake #1: Choosing the Cheapest Option to Shipping a Car Without Checking Credentials
It’s tempting to go with the lowest quote you get, especially when moving costs are adding up. But choosing a cheap, unverified transporter can lead to missed pickups, vehicle damage, hidden fees, and even scams.
What to do instead:
- Research transporters on trusted review platforms.
- Verify they’re licensed with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
- Check insurance coverage and claims history.
Mistake #2: Not Understanding Open vs. Enclosed Transport
Many first-timers automatically choose open carriers because they’re cheaper. But for luxury, exotic, or classic cars, enclosed transport is often worth the added cost.
| Feature | Open Carrier | Enclosed Carrier |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Protection | Basic | Maximum (weather & debris) |
| Visibility | High (car exposed) | Low (car hidden) |
| Use Case | Daily-use vehicles | Luxury/classic/high-value cars |
Mistake #3: Forgetting to Prepare the Vehicle Properly
Unsecured personal items, alarms that go off, and nearly full fuel tanks can delay or complicate the transport process.
What to do instead:
- Remove all personal belongings from the car.
- Turn off or disable alarms.
- Leave only ¼ tank of fuel.
- Check tire pressure and battery charge.
Mistake #4: Skipping the Pre-Shipment Inspection
A lot can happen in transit, and without proof of the vehicle’s original condition, you may face issues if a damage claim arises.
What to do instead:
- Take clear, dated photos of all sides of the vehicle before pickup.
- Walk through a condition report with the driver.
- Save documentation in case it’s needed later.
Mistake #5: Not Asking About Insurance Coverage
Assuming your car is automatically covered can be a costly oversight.
What to do instead:
- Ask for a certificate of insurance.
- Verify coverage limits.
- Consider purchasing supplemental coverage for high-value vehicles.
Where to Ship Your Car with Confidence
At Minute By Minute Logistics, we help first-time shippers feel confident, informed, and stress-free. We offer:
- Transparent quotes with no hidden fees
- Fully licensed and insured transport
- Open and enclosed carrier options
- Real-time tracking and proactive updates
- Exceptional customer service from pickup to drop-off
Start here with a free custom quote or explore more expert tips on our blog.
Read next: How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Cross-Country Shipping
Conclusion
Shipping a car doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding these common mistakes and partnering with a reliable transport company, your vehicle will arrive safely and on schedule. Let Minute By Minute Logistics guide you through your first (and every future) car shipping experience with care and clarity.
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