Auto transport is the professional service of moving vehicles from one location to another using specialized carrier trucks. Unlike driving a vehicle yourself, auto transport saves hundreds of miles of wear and tear on your odometer, eliminates the risk of road-trip damage, and frees you from spending days behind the wheel on long-distance moves.
The auto transport industry in the United States moves millions of vehicles annually. Carriers range from single-truck owner-operators to large fleet companies operating dozens of trucks across national networks. Most vehicles are shipped on open carriers that hold 7 to 10 cars at once, though enclosed carriers are available for higher-value vehicles.
The process typically begins with a quote based on origin, destination, vehicle type, and desired transport method. Once booked, a carrier is dispatched to pick up the vehicle, conduct a condition inspection, load it onto the truck, and deliver it to the destination. The entire process from booking to delivery usually takes 5 to 14 days depending on distance and route availability.
Auto transport is used by a wide range of customers including car dealerships transferring inventory, individuals relocating to new states, snowbirds moving vehicles seasonally, military personnel on PCS orders, online car buyers receiving purchased vehicles, and collector car owners moving prized vehicles to shows or storage. The industry is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which requires all carriers to maintain proper licensing and insurance.