Is my vehicle insured during transport?
Yes, your vehicle is covered by two types of insurance:
• Standard Cargo Insurance Provided by the Carrier, this covers any damage caused by driver negligence during transport.
• Contingency Insurance: Arranged by American Auto Line, this offers coverage up to $100,000 for damages not covered by the Carrier’s policy. However, it does not cover pre-existing damage, minor cosmetic issues, or personal items left in the vehicle. Acts of nature such as hail or floods are also excluded.
What happens if my vehicle gets damaged during transport?
If your vehicle is damaged during transport, document the damage on the Bill of Lading at delivery and file a claim with the Carrier’s insurance within 24 hours. American Auto Line will assist you with any insurance claims.
How do I know the carrier that is picking up my vehicle is a good carrier?
At
American Auto Line, we ensure the highest quality service by partnering only with trusted and vetted Carriers. We have developed a
proprietary vetting system that conducts comprehensive background checks on all Carriers, ensuring they meet or exceed safety and legal requirements. This includes:
• Background Checks: We verify that every Carrier is properly registered with the FMCSA and is in good standing regarding safety compliance and customer satisfaction.
• Insurance Validation: All Carriers must have current and adequate insurance, including cargo insurance, to protect your vehicle throughout transport.
• Performance Monitoring: We continually monitor the performance of Carriers based on customer reviews, on-time deliveries, and any issues during transit. Carriers who fail to meet our standards are removed from our network.
What is the Bill of Lading and why is it important for auto transport?
The Bill of Lading is a critical document used during auto transport. It records the condition of your vehicle at pick-up and delivery and serves as the official contract for your car shipment. If you need to file an insurance claim for damages, the Bill of Lading is required for the process.
Can I put personal items in my car during transport?
Yes, but personal items are limited to 100 lbs. and must be stored in the trunk or storage area. Personal items are not covered by insurance during car shipping, and certain items (e.g., firearms, illegal substances) are prohibited.
Can I ship a non-operable vehicle?
Yes, non-operable vehicles can be shipped, but an additional fee will apply due to the special equipment required, such as winches. The vehicle must be able to roll and steer. If not, please inform us in advance so we can make appropriate arrangements.
How is my auto transport cost calculated?
Shipping costs depend on several factors, including:
• Distance between the pick-up and delivery locations.
• The vehicle’s make, model, and operability.
• Modifications like larger tires or lift kits.
• Enclosed versus open shipping options. We offer guaranteed quotes, ensuring no hidden fees for your vehicle shipping. For detailed cost estimates, check out our Auto Transport Cost Calculator.
How do I prepare my vehicle for shipping?
To ensure a smooth car shipping experience:
• Clean your vehicle for inspection.
• Remove all personal belongings.
• Ensure EV vehicles are fully charged.
• Ensure Internal Combustion Engine vehicle’s gas tank is no more than ¼ full.
• Disarm alarms and remove toll transponders to avoid charges during transport.
• You and the Carrier will inspect the vehicle at pick-up and delivery and note any damage on the Bill of Lading.
How long will I be without my vehicle during transport?
Transport time varies by distance:
• 0 – 200 miles: ~1-2 days
• 200 – 600 miles: ~2-4 days
• 600 – 1,000 miles: ~3-5 days
• 1,000 – 1,500 miles: ~4-6 days
• Over 1,500 miles: ~5-9 days
For faster service, explore our expedited shipping options.
Does someone need to be present for pick-up and delivery?
Yes, someone over the age of 18 must be present at both the pick-up and delivery locations to release and accept the vehicle, provide the keys, and sign the inspection reports.
When do I pay for the transport of my vehicle?
Payment is due upon dispatch confirmation, which occurs when a licensed Carrier is assigned to transport your vehicle. Payment must be made within 24 hours of dispatch confirmation via credit/debit card or cardless debit. Late payments may incur a $200 fee.
Can I cancel my car shipping order, and will I receive a refund?
You may cancel your transport at any time. A $250 cancellation fee applies if you cancel after dispatch but before pick-up. If you cancel after the vehicle is picked up, you will be responsible for any transport costs incurred up to that point. Refunds are processed within 7 business days.
How far in advance should I book my vehicle transport?
We recommend booking at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance for optimal scheduling. For urgent requests, consider using our expedited shipping options for quicker service.
Can I place an order if I don’t know the exact address?
Yes, you can place an order using just the city and zip code until your exact pick-up or delivery location is known. This allows us to begin preparing your shipment ahead of time.
What if the Carrier cannot reach my location?
If the Carrier cannot reach your exact location due to road restrictions or vehicle size, we will work with you to arrange a nearby meeting point, such as a large parking lot.
Why do car shipping rates vary by season?
Car shipping rates can fluctuate depending on the season. Factors such as supply and demand, route accessibility, and driver availability affect pricing. Shipping in the off-peak season (such as late winter or fall) can often result in lower costs.
How can I save money on car shipping?
To save on car shipping:
• Be flexible with your shipping dates: Shipping during off-peak times can save you money.
• Choose open transport: It’s generally more affordable than enclosed transport.
• Ensure easy access for pick-up and delivery: Locations that are easily accessible by the hauler can reduce costs.
What are my options for enclosed versus open shipping?
• Open Shipping: Cheaper but exposes the vehicle to weather and road debris.
• Enclosed Shipping: More expensive, offering full protection—ideal for luxury or classic cars.
Are there expedited shipping options available?
Yes, expedited shipping is available for faster delivery, but it costs more due to priority handling.
Accreditation
American Auto Line is licensed, bonded, and insured operating under the following credentials:
● DOT 4230662
● MC 1636734
● BBB
