# What to Know Before Shipping a Car Across State Lines
Moving a vehicle from one state to another can be a major task. Driving several hundred or even thousands of miles requires time, planning, fuel, and energy. For many vehicle owners, state-to-state auto transport offers a more convenient alternative.
Whether you are relocating, purchasing a vehicle from another state, helping a family member move, or transporting a vehicle for another reason, preparing in advance can make the process much easier.
Here are some important things to know before arranging state-to-state auto transport.
## Understand How Auto Transport Works
Professional auto transport involves arranging for a carrier to pick up your vehicle and transport it to a specified destination.
Depending on your needs, you may select open or enclosed transportation. Open transport is commonly chosen for standard vehicles because it can be more economical, while enclosed transport provides additional protection for specialty, luxury, classic, and collector vehicles.
Before scheduling transportation, make sure you understand which option is appropriate for your vehicle.
## Prepare Your Vehicle
Proper preparation can help make the transportation process smoother.
Start by removing personal belongings from the vehicle. Items left inside the car may move during transportation and can potentially cause damage. Personal property may also not be covered under the carrier’s vehicle transportation coverage.
It is also a good idea to remove unnecessary accessories or loose items that could become damaged.
Clean the exterior of the vehicle before pickup. A clean vehicle makes it easier to identify existing scratches, dents, or other exterior damage during the inspection process.
## Document Existing Vehicle Condition
Before the vehicle is picked up, take photographs of its exterior from multiple angles.
Consider photographing:
* Front and rear
* Both sides
* Wheels
* Windshield
* Bumpers
* Existing scratches
* Existing dents
* Other visible damage
Keeping a record of the vehicle’s condition can help establish what the vehicle looked like before transportation.
## Check Vehicle Operability
Let your auto transport provider know whether the vehicle is running and operable.
An inoperable vehicle may require additional equipment or handling procedures. Providing accurate information before scheduling helps the transportation provider plan appropriately.
Be prepared to provide details such as whether the vehicle starts, rolls, steers, and brakes.
## Choose the Right Pickup and Delivery Locations
Door-to-door auto transport can make the process more convenient, but the carrier needs a safe and accessible location for loading and unloading.
Large vehicle carriers may not be able to enter narrow residential streets, private roads, dead ends, low-clearance areas, or locations with parking restrictions.
If the exact address is not safely accessible, the carrier may coordinate a nearby suitable location.
## Understand Timing
Auto transportation involves multiple variables, including traffic, weather, road conditions, carrier availability, distance, and pickup and delivery logistics.
For that reason, transportation schedules can sometimes change.
When planning a move, avoid scheduling your vehicle’s arrival so tightly that you have no flexibility. Allowing reasonable time for transportation can make the process less stressful.
## Choose Open or Enclosed Transport
The right carrier type depends on your priorities.
### Open Transport
Open transportation is commonly selected because it can provide a cost-effective option for many everyday vehicles.
### Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transportation provides additional coverage from outdoor conditions and may be preferable for classic, collector, exotic, luxury, or high-value vehicles.
Discuss your vehicle with the transportation provider before making a decision.
## Ask Questions Before Booking
Before scheduling your shipment, make sure you understand the service you are purchasing.
Useful questions include:
* What type of carrier will be used?
* Is my vehicle operable?
* Where will pickup and delivery occur?
* What is the expected transportation timeframe?
* What information is needed before pickup?
* How will the vehicle be inspected?
* What factors can affect the final transportation price?
Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings later.
## Make Your State-to-State Move Easier
Shipping a vehicle between states does not have to be complicated. With proper preparation and a transportation provider that understands the process, you can avoid the burden of driving a long distance yourself.
ApexRoad Auto Transport provides **state-to-state auto transport**, along with open, enclosed, and door-to-door transportation options.
If you are planning to move a vehicle from or to Port St. Lucie, Florida, contact ApexRoad Auto Transport at **(772) 295-5983** or **[info@apexroadautotransport.us](mailto:info@apexroadautotransport.us)** to discuss your transportation needs.