Buying a car from an out-of-state dealer, an online marketplace, or an auction is now completely normal — but then you have to get it home. Here's how car shipping works when you've bought remotely, and how to avoid the common traps.
Get the shipping cost before you buy
The smartest move is to price transport before you commit, so it's part of your total cost. Enter the seller's city and yours in the cost calculator for an instant range — a cross-country car can add anywhere from a few hundred to well over a thousand dollars.
Auction & dealer pickups have quirks
- Auctions (Copart, IAA, Manheim): carriers know these lots well, but you'll usually need a gate pass / buyer ID and the lot number ready for pickup.
- Dealers: easy pickups near major highways — often cheaper than a rural private seller.
- Non-running vehicles (common at auctions) cost more, since they need a winch or forklift to load.
Protect yourself on a remote purchase
- Confirm the car's condition with photos/video and the carrier's Bill of Lading inspection at pickup — that's your baseline for any transit damage claim.
- Don't release full payment to a private seller until pickup is arranged and documented.
- Ask the carrier about cargo insurance and coverage limits for your car's value.
Bottom line
Price the shipment up front, have your auction/gate paperwork ready, and document condition at both ends. See how we estimate the cost, and check how to choose a company so you don't fall for a lowball quote.