Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of shipping a vehicle depends on several factors, including distance, vehicle size and weight, transport type (open or enclosed), route popularity, seasonality, and fuel prices. For an accurate quote specific to your needs, we recommend using our online quote tool or calling our team directly.

Transit times vary based on distance and route. Typical timeframes are:

• 0-500 miles: 1-2 days
• 501-1000 miles: 2-4 days
• 1001-1500 miles: 3-5 days
• 1501-2000 miles: 4-6 days
• 2001-2500 miles: 5-7 days
• 2500+ miles: 7-9 days

These are estimates and can vary based on weather conditions, road closures, and carrier schedules. Expedited shipping options are available for time-sensitive deliveries.

Open Transport: Vehicles are shipped on an open-air carrier, exposed to the elements. This is the most common and economical option, suitable for everyday vehicles.

Enclosed Transport: Vehicles are shipped in a fully enclosed trailer, protecting them from weather conditions and road debris. This premium service is recommended for luxury, classic, exotic, or high-value vehicles.

You can get an instant quote by using our online quote form on our homepage, calling our customer service team at 415-839-9446, or sending us an email at info@onecarship.com. We'll need information about your vehicle and the pickup and delivery locations to provide an accurate quote.

We recommend booking your auto transport at least 2-3 weeks before your desired pickup date, especially during peak seasons (summer months and January). For expedited service or last-minute bookings, please contact our team directly to check availability.

To prepare your vehicle for transport:

• Clean your vehicle (inside and out) to make damage inspection easier
• Remove all personal belongings (insurance doesn't cover these items)
• Disable alarms and toll transponders
• Leave only 1/4 tank of fuel (reduces weight and complies with safety regulations)
• Document any existing damage with photos
• Remove or secure loose parts, custom accessories, or aftermarket equipment
• Check for and fix any fluid leaks
• Provide a set of keys to the carrier

We accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), debit cards, bank transfers, and electronic payment services like PayPal. A deposit is required to book your transport, with the remaining balance typically due at delivery. We do not accept cash payments directly to carriers for safety reasons.

We strongly advise against placing personal items in your vehicle during transport. Auto carriers' insurance policies typically do not cover personal belongings, and extra weight can lead to additional charges. Additionally, the Department of Transportation regulates the weight carriers can transport, and personal items may cause your vehicle to exceed these limits.

Yes, all vehicles are fully insured during transport. Our carriers maintain comprehensive cargo insurance that covers any damage that might occur during the transportation process. Before your vehicle is loaded, a detailed inspection will be conducted, and any pre-existing damage will be noted on the Bill of Lading. We recommend being present during both pickup and delivery to verify the condition of your vehicle.

Yes, we provide real-time tracking information for your shipment. You can track your vehicle through our online portal or by contacting your assigned transport coordinator. We also provide regular updates throughout the shipping process, including confirmation of pickup, estimated arrival time, and delivery notifications.

While we recommend that you or an authorized representative be present for both pickup and delivery to inspect the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading, we understand this isn't always possible. If you can't be present, you can designate a representative (friend, family member, etc.) to act on your behalf. Please inform us in advance so we can note this in your shipping instructions.

In the rare event that your vehicle is damaged during transport:

1. Note any damage on the Bill of Lading during delivery inspection
2. Take clear photos of the damage
3. Contact your transport coordinator immediately
4. Submit a claim with all documentation within 24 hours

Our carriers maintain comprehensive insurance coverage, and we'll work with you to ensure any legitimate claims are processed promptly and fairly.

Yes, we can transport non-running vehicles, but additional equipment and labor are required, which typically increases the cost. Please inform us in advance if your vehicle is not operational so we can arrange for the appropriate carrier with a winch or other specialized equipment. We'll need details about the specific issues with the vehicle to ensure proper handling.

Yes, we offer shipping services to and from Alaska and Hawaii. These routes involve a combination of land transport and sea freight. Due to the additional logistics involved, shipping times are longer, and costs are higher than continental routes. Please contact our team for specialized quotes for Alaska and Hawaii shipments.

Yes, we transport motorcycles, boats, RVs, ATVs, and other specialty vehicles. These vehicles require specialized handling and equipment, so please provide detailed information about your specialty vehicle when requesting a quote. We work with carriers specifically equipped to handle these types of vehicles safely.

Our quotes are comprehensive, but certain situations may incur additional fees:

• Limited access locations (narrow streets, gated communities, etc.)
• Modified vehicles that require special handling
• Expedited shipping requests
• Vehicle inoperable or oversized
• Last-minute changes to pickup or delivery locations
• Storage if delivery cannot be completed as scheduled

We strive to be transparent about all costs upfront. Any potential additional fees will be discussed with you before booking.