Moving to a new state with a leased car? You’re not alone, and it’s usually very doable. But a leased vehicle isn’t fully yours, which means there are a few extra things to check before you book transport. Sorting them out early saves headaches later.
Start with your leasing company
Before anything else, call the leasing company or read through your lease agreement. Many leases have rules about moving the vehicle to another state, and some ask you to notify them when you do. They may also need to update the registration or title paperwork once the car is in its new home state.
Questions worth asking:
- Do I need permission or just notice to move the car out of state?
- Who handles re-registration in the new state, and what documents do you need from me?
- Are there any mileage or location terms I should know about?
Shipping helps protect your mileage
Most leases come with an annual mileage limit, and going over it can cost you at lease-end. A long cross-country drive can burn through a big chunk of that allowance in a few days. Shipping the car keeps those miles off the odometer and cuts wear and tear on a vehicle you’ll eventually return. We compare the two options in shipping a car vs. driving.
Document the condition carefully
With a lease, the car’s condition matters when you turn it in. At pickup and delivery, the driver completes an inspection report noting the vehicle’s condition. Take your own dated photos too, from every angle, so you have a clear record. Learn more about inspection and condition reports.
Update insurance and registration
Let your insurance company know about the move, since coverage and rates can change by state. Then follow your new state’s timeline for registering the vehicle, working with the leasing company on any title paperwork they hold.
Choosing open or enclosed
For most leased daily drivers, open transport is a practical, popular choice. If you’re leasing a high-end or luxury vehicle and want extra protection from weather and road debris, enclosed transport is worth a look. See open vs. enclosed auto transport for the full comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship a leased car to another state?
In most cases, yes. Check your lease terms and contact your leasing company first, since many ask to be notified of an out-of-state move.
Does shipping a leased car add miles?
Only the small amount needed to load and unload it. That’s one of the main reasons people ship leased cars instead of driving them.
Who registers a leased car in the new state?
It depends on the leasing company. Many handle part of the process because they hold the title, so ask them what they need from you.
Ready to get started? Request a free quote or call American Car Transporters at 877-688-1545.
