Frequently Asked Questions

Cost depends on several factors: pickup and delivery distance, vehicle type, transport method (open or enclosed), and current carrier availability. As a general guide, open transport runs about 35c to 55c per mile for a car and 55c to 75c per mile for an SUV on long-distance routes, with enclosed transport typically costing about $400 more. You can get an exact, no-obligation estimate by requesting a quote.

Once we assign a carrier to your shipment, we'll collect a small upfront deposit. You can pay this using a credit/debit card, Zelle, or Venmo. You'll pay the remaining balance directly to the driver at delivery using cash or Zelle (depending on what the carrier accepts).

You can cancel before a driver is assigned at no cost. Once a carrier has been dispatched, a cancellation fee may apply.

We offer door-to-door vehicle transport as long as our trucks can physically access your desired location. If our driver cannot reach your door due to obstacles like low-hanging branches or weight restrictions, they will work with you to arrange a convenient meeting point, such as a grocery store or a parking lot.

Yes, either you or an authorized representative must be present to hand over keys and sign the Bill of Lading during pickup and delivery.

Yes. The driver will pick up and deliver your vehicle as close to your address as possible. If your street has restrictions (tight turns, low bridges), we'll arrange a nearby accessible location.

Inspect the vehicle carefully, compare it with the pickup inspection, and sign the Bill of Lading only after confirming everything is satisfactory.

The official answer from the FMCSA and DOT is "no." However, it's common practice to allow 50-100 lbs of items in the trunk or out of sight. This allowance is at the carrier's discretion, as transporting anything other than motor vehicles can lead to hefty fines and lengthy inspections.

It's recommended not to place personal items inside the vehicle. If allowed, the limit is usually up to 100 lbs and must be kept below window level. Personal belongings are not covered by carrier insurance.

We've put together a complete checklist covering photos, fuel level, personal items, and paperwork - read our full guide on how to prepare your car before shipping.

We provide both open transport (most common and economical) and enclosed transport (for luxury, exotic, or classic cars needing extra protection). You can choose based on your budget and vehicle needs.

Open transport carries your vehicle on a multi-car trailer exposed to the elements - it's the most common and affordable option and is safe for the vast majority of vehicles. Enclosed transport carries your vehicle in a fully covered trailer, shielding it from weather and road debris, and is generally recommended for classic, exotic, or luxury cars where extra protection is worth the added cost.

Yes, we can ship inoperable or non-running vehicles. However, special equipment may be required, so an additional fee may apply.

We handle cars, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles, luxury/exotics, commercial vehicles, and even oversized vehicles.

Yes. Every shipment includes carrier insurance that covers your vehicle against damage during transit. You will receive inspection reports at both pickup and delivery, and we recommend photographing your vehicle's condition beforehand so any claim, in the rare event one is needed, is straightforward.

If you notice any new damage on delivery, document it on the Bill of Lading and notify us immediately. We will guide you through the insurance claim process to assist with fast resolution.

Short-distance routes may take 1-2 days. Interstate shipping depends on the distance; trucks drive an average of 500 miles per day, so a 2,000-mile route typically takes 4 to 5 days from the date of pickup. Delivery times can also vary depending on weather, traffic, and carrier schedules.

Booking 1-5 days in advance is ideal. For busy seasons (summer, holidays), early booking ensures better pricing and faster pickup.

Yes. We provide status updates throughout the transport. You can also contact your assigned coordinator anytime and we'll check with the carrier for the latest available update.

Star Auto Shipping is a fully licensed and registered auto transport company (MC# 1664753, USDOT# 4282092) working with a broad network of FMCSA-registered carriers across all 50 states. We provide transparent, all-in quotes with no hidden fees, real carrier insurance on every shipment, and a support team that responds quickly from your first quote through final delivery.

Yes. We are fully licensed and registered with the FMCSA and DOT. Our credentials ensure safe and legal nationwide vehicle transportation.

Yes, we ship vehicles nationwide across all 50 states, including long-distance and coast-to-coast transport.

A good auto transport company is properly licensed (an active MC number and USDOT number registered with the FMCSA), carries verifiable cargo insurance, gives transparent all-in quotes with no hidden fees, and has a track record of real, verifiable customer reviews. Star Auto Shipping is a fully registered car transport provider (MC# 1664753, USDOT# 4282092) working with a broad network of FMCSA-registered carriers across all 50 states.

Compare car shipping companies on licensing and insurance first, then on pricing transparency and communication - a legitimate quote should include pickup and delivery windows, carrier type, and total cost with no surprise add-ons. Be cautious of quotes that seem far below the market average, since some brokers lowball a quote and renegotiate the price after your vehicle is already booked.