Auto Transport FAQ.

American Auto Express coordinates vehicle transportation rather than physically operating every transport vehicle. The assigned motor carrier operates the equipment that transports your vehicle.

For more information about the difference between auto transport brokers and carriers, see the FMCSA Automobile Transporter Advisory .

You should be prepared to provide the pickup and delivery locations, vehicle year, make and model, whether the vehicle runs, your preferred transportation method and your requested timing.

American Auto Express coordinates vehicle transportation across the United States. Carrier availability varies by route, location and requested timing.

Learn more on our nationwide auto transport page .

Transportation can be coordinated for many types of cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, EVs, classic vehicles, luxury vehicles and specialty vehicles. Exact carrier requirements can depend on vehicle dimensions, condition and modifications.

The cost depends on distance, vehicle size, route, season, transport method, vehicle condition, requested timing and current carrier availability.

For planning ranges, visit our car shipping cost page or use the shipping cost calculator .

Longer transportation distances generally result in a higher total price, but cost per mile may change as distance increases. Route demand and carrier availability also affect the final rate.

It can. Larger SUVs, pickups and specialty vehicles take up more carrier space and may add more weight than smaller passenger vehicles.

It can. A vehicle that cannot move under its own power may require additional loading equipment or a carrier with specific capabilities. Always disclose the vehicle condition before transportation is coordinated.

Enclosed transportation generally costs more because enclosed equipment and available capacity are more specialized than standard open transportation.

No. Online estimates should be treated as general planning ranges. Actual transportation pricing depends on current shipment details and carrier market conditions.

Providing more lead time can create more transportation options, especially on less common routes. Availability still depends on the vehicle, route, time of year and carrier capacity.

Pickup dates should generally be treated as scheduling windows unless a specific arrangement has been confirmed. Carrier schedules can change as previous stops, traffic, weather and route conditions change.

Transit and delivery timing can be affected by distance, weather, traffic, road conditions, carrier stops and other operational factors. Delivery timing should normally be considered an estimate rather than an absolute guarantee.

Transit time varies significantly based on distance and route. A short regional shipment can require far less travel time than a cross-country move. Pickup scheduling time and transit time should also be viewed as separate parts of the process.

Priority coordination may be available depending on the route and current carrier capacity. Expedited transport does not automatically mean a guaranteed pickup or delivery date.

Learn more about expedited auto transport .

Door-to-door transportation generally means the carrier attempts to get as close as safely and legally possible to the requested pickup and delivery locations.

Large transport trucks may not be able to enter narrow streets, restricted neighborhoods, apartment complexes, low-clearance areas or roads with weight restrictions.

You may need to meet the carrier at a nearby accessible location such as a larger parking area or another safe public meeting point.

An appropriate responsible party should generally be available for vehicle pickup, condition inspection, keys and transportation documentation. Exact carrier requirements should be confirmed before pickup.

Inspect the vehicle in good lighting when possible and compare its condition with your pickup documentation and photographs before completing the delivery process.

A designated person may be able to handle the delivery if the required contact and authorization details are provided. Confirm the arrangement before transportation begins.

Remove loose items, check for major leaks, confirm tire condition, provide working keys and document the vehicle's condition with photographs. Specific requirements can vary by carrier.

A reasonably clean exterior can make visible scratches, dents and other existing condition easier to document during pickup inspection.

Extra fuel adds vehicle weight, so a lower fuel level is generally preferable for transportation. Confirm any specific carrier requirement before pickup.

Personal item policies can vary by carrier and shipment details. Do not assume belongings are automatically allowed. Confirm the specific carrier's requirements before loading personal property into the vehicle.

Tell us in advance if the vehicle is inoperable. A non-running vehicle may require additional carrier equipment or loading capabilities.

Yes. Clear photographs from multiple angles provide useful condition documentation before the vehicle is loaded. Inspect and photograph the vehicle again at delivery if needed.

Open auto transport moves vehicles on an open vehicle carrier. It is widely used for everyday cars, trucks and SUVs and is generally the more economical option.

See our open auto transport page .

Enclosed auto transport places the vehicle inside a covered trailer. It is frequently considered for classic, exotic, luxury, collector and specialty vehicles.

See our enclosed auto transport page .

Neither option is automatically better for every vehicle. Open transportation is often selected for value and broad availability. Enclosed transportation is often selected when covered transportation is a priority.

See the complete open vs enclosed auto transport comparison .

No transportation method should be described as risk-free or guaranteed to prevent every type of damage. Vehicle inspection and documentation remain important regardless of carrier type.

Yes. Transportation can be coordinated for many classic, exotic, collector and specialty vehicles. Owners frequently consider enclosed transportation for these vehicles.

Visit our classic and exotic car shipping page for more information.