Car Transport Services Across the U.S.

Car shipping services involve transporting a vehicle from one location to another using professional carriers, either on open-air trailers or inside enclosed transporters. The process starts when you request a quote from a company like Topline Auto Transport, providing details such as pick-up and drop-off locations, vehicle type, preferred trailer type, and desired delivery dates. Once the order is confirmed, the carrier schedules pick-up and keeps you informed at every stage. For open transport, vehicles are loaded onto multi-car trailers, which is the most cost-effective and widely used option. Enclosed transport offers added protection, ideal for luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles. Before shipping, you should prepare your car by cleaning it, documenting its condition, and removing personal items. During transport, your vehicle is fully insured. Delivery times depend on distance, route popularity, and weather conditions. Most companies provide real-time tracking or regular status updates. Upon delivery, you or a designated representative inspect the vehicle, confirm its condition matches the pre-shipping report, and sign off. This streamlined process makes nationwide vehicle shipping secure, efficient, and stress-free for customers.

The cost of car shipping services depends on several factors: distance, vehicle size, trailer type, route popularity, and seasonal demand. On average, open transport costs between $0.50 and $0.80 per mile for shorter trips and less per mile for longer routes. For example, a 300-mile shipment might cost around $500–$700, while a coast-to-coast trip (2,800+ miles) could range from $1,500–$2,000. Enclosed transport typically costs 30–60% more due to increased protection, fewer vehicles per load, and higher operational expenses. Prices can also change depending on fuel rates, weather, and how quickly you need delivery. Busy routes, like New York to Florida or California to Texas, often have more competitive rates because carriers regularly operate along them. Less common or remote destinations might cost more because carriers have to adjust their routes. Booking in advance usually helps you secure better pricing, while last-minute requests can increase the rate. To get the most accurate estimate, provide exact details to the shipping company — including make, model, and any special requirements. Always confirm whether the price includes insurance and whether there are extra fees for expedited service, additional stops, or non-running vehicles. Transparent pricing ensures no surprises upon delivery.

Open vs enclosed car shipping refers to the type of trailer used for transporting your vehicle. Open transport means your car is shipped on an open-air trailer, often alongside multiple other vehicles. This method is more affordable and widely available, making it ideal for standard cars, SUVs, and trucks. However, the vehicle is exposed to weather, road debris, and dust, although damage during transport is rare due to professional handling and full insurance coverage.

Enclosed transport, on the other hand, places your vehicle inside a fully covered trailer. This method offers the highest level of protection against environmental factors, making it the preferred choice for luxury vehicle shipping, classic car transport, and exotic car deliveries. It is more expensive — typically 30–60% higher than open transport — and has slightly longer wait times due to fewer enclosed carriers in operation. Both methods follow the same booking, pick-up, and delivery process, but enclosed transport often includes features like hydraulic lift gates, soft straps, and climate control. Choosing between open and enclosed transport depends on your vehicle’s value, condition, and your budget. If protection is your top priority, enclosed shipping is the best choice.

The time it takes to ship a car depends on distance, route popularity, weather, and scheduling. On average, short-distance shipments under 500 miles can take 1–3 days, while cross-country routes (2,500–3,000 miles) can take 7–10 days. Busy transport corridors, like New York to Florida or California to Texas, often have faster turnaround times because carriers frequently operate along these routes. Remote or less common destinations may take longer due to limited carrier availability.

Pick-up time also affects delivery speed. Standard service may take a few days to arrange a truck for pick-up, while expedited shipping can reduce wait time — though at a higher cost. Weather, traffic, and mechanical issues can also cause minor delays, which is why most companies provide estimated delivery windows instead of fixed dates. During transport, customers can often track their shipment online or receive updates from their carrier. To speed up the process, book early, choose flexible pick-up and delivery dates, and ensure your vehicle is ready for loading. Proper planning and clear communication with your shipping provider ensure a smooth and timely delivery, no matter the distance.

Luxury vehicle shipping is a specialized service designed to transport high-value, exotic, or collector cars with maximum protection and care. Companies like Topline Logistics typically use enclosed trailers equipped with features like climate control, hydraulic lift gates, and soft tie-down straps to prevent any damage. Each vehicle is handled by experienced drivers trained in transporting high-end models, from Lamborghinis and Ferraris to classic vintage cars.

The service often includes higher insurance coverage, detailed pre- and post-transport inspections, and sometimes GPS tracking for peace of mind. Because luxury vehicles require extra handling precautions, transport costs are typically higher than standard shipping — often 50% or more compared to open transport rates. Scheduling can also take longer since there are fewer enclosed carriers available nationwide. However, the trade-off is worth it for the added protection against weather, debris, and theft. Many luxury vehicle owners choose to ship their cars for long-distance moves, car shows, auctions, or seasonal relocations. With the right provider, luxury vehicle shipping ensures your investment arrives in pristine condition, regardless of distance. This level of care is why enclosed transport is the go-to choice for high-value cars.

Yes, many car shipping companies also offer motorcycle transport services, including motorcycle shipping in Sacramento and other cities across the U.S. Motorcycles require special equipment and handling to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. They are typically shipped on open or enclosed motorcycle trailers, secured with soft straps, wheel chocks, and sometimes placed inside wooden crates for added protection.

Costs depend on distance, type of trailer, and level of protection you choose. Open motorcycle transport is generally more affordable, but enclosed options provide better protection from weather and road debris. This is especially important for custom or vintage bikes. Preparation before shipping includes cleaning the motorcycle, documenting its condition, checking tire pressure, and ensuring the fuel tank is no more than one-quarter full. Some companies also recommend disconnecting the battery for safety. Delivery times are similar to car shipping — ranging from 1–3 days for short distances to 7–10 days for cross-country trips. Choosing a reputable provider with motorcycle shipping experience ensures your bike is transported safely and securely, no matter the destination.

The service often includes higher insurance coverage, detailed pre- and post-transport inspections, and sometimes GPS tracking for peace of mind. Because luxury vehicles require extra handling precautions, transport costs are typically higher than standard shipping — often 50% or more compared to open transport rates. Scheduling can also take longer since there are fewer enclosed carriers available nationwide. However, the trade-off is worth it for the added protection against weather, debris, and theft. Many luxury vehicle owners choose to ship their cars for long-distance moves, car shows, auctions, or seasonal relocations. With the right provider, luxury vehicle shipping ensures your investment arrives in pristine condition, regardless of distance. This level of care is why enclosed transport is the go-to choice for high-value cars.

Yes. At Topline Logistics, every shipment is fully insured with coverage of up to $1,000,000 for complete peace of mind. This means that in the rare event of damage during loading, transport, or unloading, you are financially protected. Insurance coverage applies to all vehicle types — from standard sedans to luxury cars, motorcycles, and specialty vehicles.

Before pick-up, the driver conducts a detailed inspection of your vehicle, noting any existing damage on a Bill of Lading. You receive a copy of this report so you can compare the vehicle’s condition upon delivery. If any new damage is found, it should be documented immediately and reported to both the carrier and our claims team. Claims are typically processed quickly, thanks to our streamlined system and direct cooperation with insurance providers.

It’s important to note that while the vehicle itself is fully covered, personal belongings inside are not insured and should be removed before transport. Our $1,000,000 policy is well above the industry standard, ensuring our clients have unmatched protection. This is especially valuable for high-value vehicles or long-distance cross-country transport, where peace of mind is just as important as on-time delivery.

Costs depend on distance, type of trailer, and level of protection you choose. Open motorcycle transport is generally more affordable, but enclosed options provide better protection from weather and road debris. This is especially important for custom or vintage bikes. Preparation before shipping includes cleaning the motorcycle, documenting its condition, checking tire pressure, and ensuring the fuel tank is no more than one-quarter full. Some companies also recommend disconnecting the battery for safety. Delivery times are similar to car shipping — ranging from 1–3 days for short distances to 7–10 days for cross-country trips. Choosing a reputable provider with motorcycle shipping experience ensures your bike is transported safely and securely, no matter the destination.

The service often includes higher insurance coverage, detailed pre- and post-transport inspections, and sometimes GPS tracking for peace of mind. Because luxury vehicles require extra handling precautions, transport costs are typically higher than standard shipping — often 50% or more compared to open transport rates. Scheduling can also take longer since there are fewer enclosed carriers available nationwide. However, the trade-off is worth it for the added protection against weather, debris, and theft. Many luxury vehicle owners choose to ship their cars for long-distance moves, car shows, auctions, or seasonal relocations. With the right provider, luxury vehicle shipping ensures your investment arrives in pristine condition, regardless of distance. This level of care is why enclosed transport is the go-to choice for high-value cars.

Preparing your car properly ensures a smooth and safe transport process. Start by thoroughly cleaning the exterior so any pre-existing damage is visible and can be noted during the inspection. Remove all personal items from inside the car, as they are not covered by insurance and may shift during transport. Check fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery charge to ensure the car can be safely driven onto and off the carrier.

For vehicles with custom modifications or low ground clearance, notify us in advance so the proper loading equipment, such as lift gates, can be arranged. Disable or deactivate toll tags and alarm systems to prevent unnecessary charges or interruptions. Fuel levels should be kept at around one-quarter of a tank — enough for short handling but light enough to reduce transport weight.

Take clear photos of your car from all angles, including close-ups of any scratches or dents, and store them with your shipping documents. If you have a luxury or classic car, consider enclosed transport for added protection. At Topline Logistics, our team guides you through every preparation step, ensuring your car is ready for secure, insured transport with up to $1,000,000 in coverage.

Yes, Topline Logistics can transport non-running or inoperable vehicles, but special equipment is required. Instead of simply driving the car onto the carrier, a winch or forklift is used to load and unload it safely. Because of the additional time and tools involved, shipping costs for non-running vehicles are slightly higher than for operational ones.

When booking, it’s important to provide accurate details about the car’s condition. For example, if it cannot roll, brake, or steer, our team needs to know in advance so we can arrange the appropriate trailer and loading method. We ship all types of non-running vehicles, from cars awaiting repair to salvaged or project cars purchased at auctions.

The insurance coverage of up to $1,000,000 still applies to inoperable vehicles, so you are fully protected throughout the process. Keep in mind that delivery times may vary depending on carrier availability for specialized equipment. With Topline Logistics, even non-running cars are shipped with the same care, professionalism, and safety standards as fully operational ones.

For vehicles with custom modifications or low ground clearance, notify us in advance so the proper loading equipment, such as lift gates, can be arranged. Disable or deactivate toll tags and alarm systems to prevent unnecessary charges or interruptions. Fuel levels should be kept at around one-quarter of a tank — enough for short handling but light enough to reduce transport weight.

Take clear photos of your car from all angles, including close-ups of any scratches or dents, and store them with your shipping documents. If you have a luxury or classic car, consider enclosed transport for added protection. At Topline Logistics, our team guides you through every preparation step, ensuring your car is ready for secure, insured transport with up to $1,000,000 in coverage.

Topline Logistics stands out for three main reasons: reliability, transparency, and unmatched protection. We provide nationwide coverage, shipping vehicles to all 48 continental U.S. states with both open and enclosed transport options. Every shipment is backed by $1,000,000 in insurance coverage, far exceeding most industry competitors.

Our pricing is upfront and clear — no hidden fees or surprise charges. We handle all types of vehicles, including standard sedans, SUVs, motorcycles, classic cars, and luxury models. For customers in Sacramento, we also offer specialized motorcycle shipping services. Our drivers are vetted, experienced, and trained to handle high-value vehicles with precision and care.

We keep you informed at every stage, from pick-up scheduling to delivery updates. Our customer service team is available to answer questions, explain the process, and resolve issues quickly. Whether you’re shipping across the state or across the country, Topline Logistics combines competitive rates with premium service, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely, on time, and in the same condition it left — every single time.

When booking, it’s important to provide accurate details about the car’s condition. For example, if it cannot roll, brake, or steer, our team needs to know in advance so we can arrange the appropriate trailer and loading method. We ship all types of non-running vehicles, from cars awaiting repair to salvaged or project cars purchased at auctions.

The insurance coverage of up to $1,000,000 still applies to inoperable vehicles, so you are fully protected throughout the process. Keep in mind that delivery times may vary depending on carrier availability for specialized equipment. With Topline Logistics, even non-running cars are shipped with the same care, professionalism, and safety standards as fully operational ones.

For vehicles with custom modifications or low ground clearance, notify us in advance so the proper loading equipment, such as lift gates, can be arranged. Disable or deactivate toll tags and alarm systems to prevent unnecessary charges or interruptions. Fuel levels should be kept at around one-quarter of a tank — enough for short handling but light enough to reduce transport weight.

Take clear photos of your car from all angles, including close-ups of any scratches or dents, and store them with your shipping documents. If you have a luxury or classic car, consider enclosed transport for added protection. At Topline Logistics, our team guides you through every preparation step, ensuring your car is ready for secure, insured transport with up to $1,000,000 in coverage.