Introduction
Moving to a new city or state is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. Between packing, planning, and handling logistics, figuring out how to get your car to your new destination is often one of the biggest concerns.
At Cross State Car Movers, we’ve helped thousands of customers transport their vehicles safely across the country. We know that the process can seem complicated at first, but with the right planning, auto transport can be simple and stress-free.
In this guide, we’ll share our top 5 expert tips for cross-state car shipping to help you move with confidence.
1. Choose a Licensed and Insured Auto Transport Company
The first step toward a stress-free experience is selecting the right shipping partner. Not all transport companies are created equal, so it’s crucial to choose one that is licensed, bonded, and insured.
What to Look For:
- FMCSA Registration – Legitimate carriers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- Insurance Coverage – Ensure your vehicle is fully insured during transport.
- Customer Reviews – Look for real customer feedback on platforms like Google, BBB, or Trustpilot.
At Cross State Car Movers:
We’re fully licensed, insured, and backed by years of experience in safe nationwide auto transport.
2. Book Your Transport Early
Timing is everything when it comes to car shipping. Many customers wait until the last minute, which can lead to limited availability and higher prices.
Why Booking Early Helps:
- Better Rates – Early bookings often come with more competitive pricing.
- Flexible Scheduling – Choose pickup and delivery dates that work best for you.
- Peace of Mind – Avoid last-minute stress by locking in your transport ahead of time.
Pro Tip: Book your transport at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during busy moving seasons like summer or holidays
3. Prepare Your Car Before Pickup
Getting your vehicle ready for shipping makes the process smoother and helps protect your car.
Key Preparation Steps:
- Clean Your Car – Easier to document any pre-existing damage.
- Remove Personal Items – Carriers typically don’t allow personal belongings inside.
- Check Fluids and Tire Pressure – Prevents mechanical issues during loading/unloading.
- Leave ¼ Tank of Fuel – Just enough for short moves, but keeps the car light.
- Document Condition – Take photos of your car before pickup.
When your car is ready, your driver can load it quickly and efficiently—saving time and avoiding issues.
4. Be Flexible with Pickup and Delivery Windows
Auto transport isn’t like ordering a package—your car is traveling hundreds or even thousands of miles on shared routes. While carriers work hard to meet timelines, weather, traffic, and route changes can affect delivery.
What to Expect:
- Pickup and delivery times are typically given in windows (2–3 days) rather than exact hours.
- Cross-state transport usually takes 3–7 business days, depending on distance.
- Expedited services are available if you need faster delivery.
At Cross State Car Movers:
We provide regular updates and communication so you always know where your vehicle is in the process.
5. Stay Informed and Track Your Shipment
The best way to keep stress at bay is to stay informed during the shipping process. Reputable auto transport companies will provide clear communication and tracking updates.
What You Can Do:
- Confirm your driver’s contact information.
- Stay available by phone for updates.
- Ask about tracking options for added peace of mind.
With the right partner, you’ll never be left wondering where your car is or when it will arrive.
Bonus Tip: Consider Open vs. Enclosed Transport
Depending on your vehicle type, you’ll want to choose the right shipping method:
- Open Transport – Affordable and ideal for standard vehicles.
- Enclosed Transport – Maximum protection for luxury, exotic, or classic cars.
We covered this in detail in our previous blog post, but the choice can have a big impact on your overall shipping experience.
Conclusion
Shipping your car across states doesn’t have to be stressful. By choosing a licensed company, booking early, preparing your car, staying flexible, and staying informed, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free transport experience.
At Cross State Car Movers, we make car shipping simple, safe, and reliable. Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to family, our team is here to deliver peace of mind with every move.