Article -> Article Details

Car transporters have become an essential part of modern vehicle logistics. Whether you're relocating for work, buying a car from another state, or sending a vehicle to a college student, Car Shipping Services make it possible to move your car efficiently, safely, and with minimal hassle. But while these services can handle much of the heavy lifting, there are certain things that car transporters simply do not do. Understanding these limitations can help you plan better, avoid surprises, and ensure your vehicle shipping experience goes smoothly.

In this blog, we’ll break down what car transporters can and cannot do, helping you make informed decisions when using Car Shipping Services.

What Car Transporters Typically Do

Before diving into what they don’t do, it’s worth reviewing the main responsibilities of a car transporter. Most transport companies provide:

1. Vehicle Pickup and Delivery
   A reputable car transporter will pick up your vehicle from a designated location and deliver it to the specified destination. Depending on your arrangement, this can be a curbside service, a business address, or a transport terminal.

2. Safe Loading and Unloading
   Experienced transporters use specialized equipment to load and unload vehicles safely, minimizing the risk of damage. This includes using ramps, tie-downs, and other tools to secure cars during transit.

3. Transport Insurance
   Most companies provide some level of insurance coverage during transit. This ensures that in the unlikely event of damage, you have a financial safety net.

4. Scheduling and Coordination
   A transporter helps coordinate pickup and delivery schedules, often providing tracking updates so you know where your car is at any given time.

5. Handling Interstate Regulations
   Professional Car Shipping Services are familiar with state-by-state regulations, including transport permits and safety requirements, which ensures compliance during the move.

These services cover the core aspects of vehicle shipping, making it convenient for customers who may not have the time, tools, or expertise to transport their car themselves.

What Car Transporters Don’t Do

Despite their broad range of services, there are several tasks that car transporters do not handle. Understanding these limitations can prevent misunderstandings and help you prepare your vehicle properly.

1. They Don’t Wash or Detail Your Car

While transporters handle your car with care, they are not responsible for cleaning or detailing it. Many people assume that since the car will be carefully loaded and unloaded, it will arrive spotless—but this isn’t the case. In fact, transport companies often ask that you deliver your vehicle clean so any existing damage is easier to document before shipment.

Tip: Wash your car before transport and take clear photos from multiple angles to record its condition. This protects you if any claims arise.

2. They Don’t Remove Personal Belongings

Transporters generally do not allow personal items inside the vehicle during shipment. Items in the car can shift during transit, causing damage or imbalance on the carrier. If personal belongings are inside, the company may refuse coverage for any damage, leaving you liable.

Tip: Remove all valuables, loose items, and aftermarket accessories before the car is picked up.

3. They Don’t Perform Repairs or Maintenance

Car transporters are not mechanics. They cannot fix engine issues, flat tires, or mechanical problems. If your vehicle is inoperable, you must inform the company in advance. Many transporters can handle non-operational cars, but they may require special equipment or additional fees.

Tip: Ensure your car is in drivable condition unless you’ve arranged for a specialized non-operational transport.

4. They Don’t Handle Registration or Licensing

Transporters do not manage DMV paperwork, registration, or title transfers. While they can transport your vehicle across state lines, it is your responsibility to ensure the car is legally registered and meets all licensing requirements.

Tip: Double-check your registration and any state-specific regulations before shipping your car.

5. They Don’t Offer Long-Term Storage

Car shipping is meant for transport, not storage. Most carriers cannot hold your vehicle for extended periods. If you need long-term storage, you must arrange it separately through a storage facility.

Tip: Schedule delivery and pickup dates carefully to avoid leaving your car idle in transit or at a terminal.

6. They Don’t Customize or Modify Your Vehicle

If you’re hoping a transporter can install accessories, upgrade tires, or add custom parts during transit, that’s not something they do. Transport companies focus solely on moving vehicles safely from one point to another.

Tip: Complete all modifications before shipping. Transporters are not responsible for changes made en route.

7. They Don’t Clean Up Environmental Damage

Transporters cannot remove oil leaks, rust, or other environmental hazards from your car. If your vehicle has mechanical issues or leaks, the carrier may refuse service, or you may be liable for damage caused during transit.

8. They Don’t Provide Full Insurance Beyond Transport

While Car Shipping Services often provide basic insurance coverage, it usually only applies during transit. They do not cover pre-existing damage or events unrelated to transport, such as accidents after delivery or personal use of the car.

Tip: Verify the insurance policy in detail. Consider supplemental coverage if your car is high-value or at risk.

9. They Don’t Guarantee Exact Delivery Times

While transporters strive to deliver on schedule, they cannot promise exact arrival times. Weather, traffic, and other unforeseen factors can affect delivery. Reliable companies will provide a window for pickup and delivery, and most offer tracking to keep you updated.

10. They Don’t Handle Vehicle Financing or Sales

Car transporters are strictly shipping providers. They do not manage payments, financing, or sales transactions. If you are shipping a car you purchased online, ensure all payments, titles, and documentation are handled separately.

Preparing Your Car for Shipping

Since there are limitations on what transporters can do, preparation is key. Here’s how to get your vehicle ready for a smooth transport experience:

1. Clean Your Vehicle – Helps document pre-existing damage.

2. Remove Personal Items – Protects your belongings and prevents damage.

3. Check for Leaks or Mechanical Issues – Transporters may refuse inoperable cars unless arranged in advance.

4. Document the Car’s Condition – Take photos from all angles.

5. Secure Loose Parts – Remove antennas or aftermarket additions if possible.

6. Verify Insurance Coverage – Know what is covered during transport.

Following these steps ensures your Car Shipping Services experience is seamless and stress-free.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Service

To avoid surprises, it’s crucial to select a reputable transport company. Consider the following:

• Experience: Look for companies with a solid track record in state-to-state and local transport.

• Licensing: Ensure the company is registered with the Department of Transportation.

• Insurance: Confirm coverage details, limits, and exclusions.

• Customer Reviews: Check online feedback for reliability and transparency.

• Quotes and Rates: Compare multiple companies to get the best balance of cost and service quality.

By doing your homework, you can avoid issues like delays, damage, or unexpected fees.

Common Misconceptions About Car Transporters

Many people assume that a car transporter will handle everything, from paperwork to maintenance. Here are some myths clarified:

• Myth 1: “They’ll clean my car for me.” – False. Cleaning is your responsibility.

• Myth 2: “They’ll insure personal items inside the car.” – False. Personal belongings are not covered.

• Myth 3: “They guarantee exact delivery times.” – False. Only delivery windows are provided.

• Myth 4: “They can fix mechanical issues en route.” – False. Transporters are not mechanics.

Understanding these realities helps manage expectations and ensures a smoother shipping process.

Final Thoughts

While car transporters handle most of the heavy lifting in Car Shipping Services, they are not a catch-all solution. They focus on safely and efficiently transporting vehicles from point A to point B. Tasks like cleaning, repairs, personal item removal, registration, and storage remain your responsibility.

Proper preparation, choosing the right company, and understanding the limits of their service will help ensure your car arrives in excellent condition. By knowing what transporters don’t do, you can plan ahead, avoid delays, and reduce stress.

Looking to ship your car? Get a quote at our Ship a Car Direct website today.