First Time Shipping a Car? What to Expect From Pickup to Delivery

If you've never shipped a car before, the process can feel like a black box. Here's the whole journey, start to finish, so there are no surprises.

Step 1: Get a quote

You share the basics: where the car is, where it's going, what kind of vehicle it is, and your rough timing. A good broker prices it from what carriers are actually charging on that route right now, and explains exactly what's included.

Step 2: Book your shipment

Once you approve the quote, your broker starts matching your car with a vetted, insured carrier running your route. At HIYAAKS, nothing is charged at this stage – you pay nothing until pickup.

Step 3: Your carrier is assigned

You'll find out which carrier has your load and get your pickup window. On typical routes, expect pickup within about 3-5 days of booking. Need it faster or on a specific day? Say so upfront – tight timing is possible but affects the price.

Step 4: Pickup day

The driver calls ahead to coordinate, usually with a window of a few hours. Together you'll walk around the car and record its condition on the bill of lading – the official inspection document. Take your own photos too. Then the car is loaded and on its way. This is when the $150 deposit is collected, by credit card.

Step 5: In transit

Transit time depends on distance: a few days for a regional move, about one to two weeks coast to coast, depending on the route. The driver handles the route; your broker tracks the move and is your contact for updates along the way. You don't need to chase anyone – but you always can.

Step 6: Delivery day

The driver calls ahead again before arriving. You'll inspect the car against the same condition report from pickup, then sign for delivery. The remaining balance is due at delivery. If you can't be there yourself, someone you designate can receive the car – just arrange it in advance.

That's the whole process

One quote, one pickup, one delivery, one point of contact. Most first-timers tell us afterward it was far simpler than they expected.

Ready when you are – get a free quote at hiyaaksincautoshipper.com.