Shipping your vehicle across the country or internationally can be a smart decision for relocation, long-distance sales, or seasonal moves. But a common concern for many car owners is: what happens to your warranty if you ship your car?
Understanding how vehicle shipping impacts your warranty is crucial for maintaining coverage and avoiding future disputes with the dealership or manufacturer. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about auto warranties and car shipping — and help you ship confidently.
🚗 What Is a Vehicle Warranty?
A vehicle warranty is a contract provided by the car manufacturer or dealership that covers certain repairs and services for a set period or mileage (e.g., 3 years/36,000 miles). It’s essentially a promise that your car will be repaired at little or no cost if specific issues arise during the coverage period.
There are usually three types of warranties:
- Manufacturer Warranty (Bumper-to-Bumper): Covers most vehicle systems.
- Powertrain Warranty: Focuses on engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
- Extended Warranty: Purchased additionally, usually from third parties.
📦 Does Shipping Your Car Void the Warranty?
No, shipping your car using a professional auto transport company does not void your warranty. However, there are important details to keep in mind.
Here’s how your warranty remains safe:
- Licensed Transporters Only: Use only FMCSA-licensed and insured carriers.
- Avoid Unauthorized Drivers: Driving your car long distances may rack up unnecessary miles and mechanical wear, which can impact your warranty coverage.
- Document Everything: Take pre- and post-shipping photos of your vehicle to protect against false claims of damage.
So if you’re wondering “what happens to your warranty if you ship your car,” rest assured that with the right auto transport partner, your coverage remains intact.
🔍 Why Dealerships May Mislead You
Some dealerships might discourage car shipping, suggesting that using an auto transport company could lead to denied claims. But that’s not entirely accurate. They may prefer customers to service vehicles only within their network. However, manufacturers must honor warranty coverage as long as terms are followed — and shipping is not against any warranty term.
🔧 Real Risk: Damage During Shipping
While shipping won’t void your warranty, physical damage during transport might lead to complications:
- Cosmetic scratches, dents, or broken parts caused by shipping companies may not be covered under your warranty.
- This is where auto transport insurance becomes essential.
Tip: Always ask for a copy of the carrier’s cargo insurance and verify coverage limits before handing over your keys.
✅ How to Ship Your Car Without Warranty Issues
To ensure your warranty stays valid while shipping your vehicle:
- Choose a Reputable Auto Transport Broker
Work with a licensed company like MBM Logistics to find trusted carriers across the U.S. - Request Proper Documentation
Get a copy of the bill of lading, insurance certificate, and the transport contract. - Avoid Driving Cross-Country
Driving 1,500+ miles adds wear, miles, and stress to the vehicle — hurting resale value and warranty mileage limits. - Inspect Upon Arrival
Perform a thorough inspection before signing delivery. Report any new damage immediately.
🔗 Want to Protect Your Warranty? Ship Your Car With Confidence
Whether you’re relocating, selling a vehicle out-of-state, or sending a car to your college student — MBM Logistics helps you ship it safely, affordably, and without voiding your warranty.
🛠️ Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Myths Cost You Coverage
So, what happens to your warranty if you ship your car? The truth is, nothing — provided you follow a few simple rules and work with a qualified, insured shipping company. Shipping your vehicle does not automatically void the warranty. In fact, it helps preserve the condition of your car by avoiding unnecessary miles and road stress.
In today’s world, vehicle owners are increasingly mobile. Whether it’s for job relocation, seasonal travel, or online car sales, shipping your car is often the most practical choice. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your warranty remains intact is invaluable. Just ensure that you choose a licensed transporter, document the vehicle’s condition, and avoid exceeding mileage limits tied to warranty coverage.
At MBM Logistics, we make it our mission to ensure your car arrives safely, on time, and without risk to your factory or extended warranty. We take care of everything from pickup to drop-off, so you don’t have to stress.
Next time you hear someone ask, “what happens to your warranty if you ship your car?” — share this post and ship smart. Your warranty is safe with MBM by your side.
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