In this guide, we’ll reveal the Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Your Car, and how to prevent them with help from a professional transport team.
Shipping your vehicle across the country can be an efficient and stress-free experience—when done correctly. However, many car owners unknowingly fall into common pitfalls that can delay delivery, increase costs, or even damage their vehicle. At MAB Movers, we help clients every day avoid these mistakes and enjoy safe, smooth vehicle relocation.
1. Not Researching the Auto Transport Company
One of the biggest mistakes is failing to thoroughly research the company you’re trusting with your car. Look for:
- USDOT licensing
- Insurance coverage
- Verified customer reviews
- Experience in cross-country transport
At MAB Movers, we’re fully licensed and insured, with a strong reputation for delivering on-time and damage-free.
Tip: Avoid companies that only give quotes over the phone or won’t provide written documentation.
2. Choosing a Transporter Based Only on Price
It’s tempting to go with the lowest quote—but this can lead to major headaches. Low-cost carriers often cut corners or lack proper insurance.
Instead of only comparing rates, compare value. Ask what’s included in the service, turnaround time, and equipment quality.
MAB Movers offers affordable, budget-friendly vehicle transport without compromising on quality or safety.
3. Not Preparing the Vehicle for Shipping
Neglecting proper vehicle prep can delay your shipment or even result in extra charges. Before your pickup date, make sure to:
- Wash your car for easier inspection
- Remove personal items
- Disable alarms
- Document existing damage with photos
- Keep the gas tank no more than ¼ full
Our drivers at MAB Movers provide a thorough inspection checklist and guidance to help you prepare.
4. Forgetting to Verify Insurance Coverage
Many car owners assume their vehicle is fully protected—but don’t take this for granted. Ask your carrier for a Certificate of Insurance showing:
- Cargo insurance
- Liability coverage
- Damage protection limits
With MAB Movers, every shipment is protected with verified coverage, and we’re happy to walk you through the details.
5. Not Choosing the Right Type of Carrier
Your car’s value and condition should guide the type of transport you choose:
- Open carrier auto shipping – Best for standard, daily-use vehicles.
- Enclosed trailer vehicle transport – Ideal for luxury, classic, or high-end cars.
If you’re unsure, our team can recommend the best option for your car and route.
6. Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation
Missing paperwork can delay your shipment or create legal issues at drop-off. Be sure to:
- Provide a valid ID
- Include registration & ownership proof
- Sign the bill of lading
- Get a copy of the inspection report
Our customer service team helps ensure every detail is handled before your pickup.
7. Not Being Available for Pickup or Delivery
You (or an authorized representative) should be present during both pickup and drop-off to:
- Sign inspection reports
- Ask questions
- Confirm any issues or damage
MAB Movers offers flexible scheduling, real-time tracking, and courteous notifications to keep your shipment on schedule.
Car Shipping Made Easy Near You
Whether you’re looking for:
- Car shipping from New York to Florida
- Auto transport from California to Texas
- Vehicle relocation services across the USA
MAB Movers is your trusted partner for nationwide auto shipping. We’re headquartered in the U.S. and proudly serve clients in:
- Florida
- Texas
- California
- Georgia
- New Jersey
- North Carolina and beyond
Why Choose MAB Movers?
✅ Licensed & insured for interstate and long-distance transport
✅ Experienced with open & enclosed car shipping
✅ Door-to-door service across the U.S.
✅ Friendly-budget pricing with no hidden charges
✅ 24/7 customer support and shipment tracking
FAQs: Avoiding Mistakes in Cross-Country Auto Shipping
Q1: How far in advance should I schedule my car shipment?
A: Ideally, book at least 1–2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred pickup date and route.
Q2: What happens if my car is damaged during shipping?
A: MAB Movers has full cargo insurance. In the rare case of damage, we’ll help you file a claim and get repairs covered.
Q3: Can I put personal items in my car during shipping?
A: It’s not recommended. Most carriers prohibit or limit personal belongings due to weight and liability concerns.
Q4: Do I need to be present at pickup and delivery?
A: Yes, or you may assign a trusted person to be there on your behalf with proper documentation.
Q5: How long does coast-to-coast shipping usually take?
A: Typically, 7–10 days. However, actual times may vary based on traffic, weather, and route.
Final Thoughts
By avoiding these Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Your Car, you’ll ensure a safe, stress-free auto transport experience. With the right team—like MAB Movers—you can rest easy knowing your vehicle is in capable hands.
📞 Ready to ship your car across the country?
Contact MAB Movers today and get started with a trusted, transparent, and professional transport service.
