Sometimes a car changes hands inside the family. A parent passes down the old sedan to a grandchild across the country. A sibling sells their SUV to you. Or you inherit a vehicle that’s sitting in another state. In each case, the car needs to get from where it is to where it’s going.
Sort out ownership first
Before shipping, make sure the title situation is clear. Gifting, selling and inheriting a car each come with their own paperwork, and the rules vary by state. Check with the DMV in the state where the car will be registered so you know which documents you’ll need.
You don’t have to be there
One of the best parts of shipping a family car is that the sender and receiver don’t need to be in the same place. Someone hands the keys to the driver at pickup, and someone else receives the car at delivery. Just make sure both people know the plan and are reachable on the day.
If the car hasn’t been driven in a while
Inherited cars and hand-me-downs sometimes sit for months. Before pickup, check that the battery holds a charge, the tires hold air and the brakes work. If the car doesn’t run, tell us when you request a quote so we can arrange the right equipment. We covered this in shipping vehicles that don’t run.
Sentimental or classic cars
If it’s Grandpa’s restored classic or a car with a lot of family history, enclosed transport adds protection from weather and road debris. See classic and luxury car transport.
Before pickup
- Clean out personal items, including the trunk and glove box
- Take dated photos from every angle
- Leave about a quarter tank of fuel
- Share any quirks with the driver
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone else release the car at pickup?
Yes. Any adult you designate can hand over the keys and sign at pickup, and someone else can receive it at delivery.
Can you ship a car that doesn’t run?
Often, yes. Let us know when you request a quote so the carrier brings the right equipment.
Do I need the title to ship a car?
Requirements vary, so have ownership documents ready and ask us when you book.
Ready to get started? Request a free quote or call American Car Transporters at 877-688-1545.
