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FAQS

Most Asked Questions

To receive a vehicle transport quote, you have two convenient options. You can use our quick online car shipping quote calculator above or reach out to us by calling (888) 277-8212 to speak with one of our transportation experts. To generate a personalized estimate, simply provide us with the pickup and delivery locations, the make and model of your vehicle, and your preferred pick-up date. Additionally, let us know whether your car(s) are in running condition or not. Our team is here to assist you in obtaining an accurate quote tailored to your specific needs.

Certainly, we do allow you to include personal items in your vehicle during transport, but with some restrictions. You are welcome to place personal items weighing up to 100 lbs. in a securely packed box or single piece of luggage. These items should be stowed in the trunk of the car, ensuring they don’t obstruct the driver’s view or interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle. While we do accommodate this, please note that these personal items will not be covered by our insurance. Your vehicle’s safety remains our priority, and we appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines.

Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during its journey with Safemile Auto Transport. We take the safety and security of your vehicle seriously. Our comprehensive insurance coverage provides protection against any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during transit. This coverage ensures that your vehicle is safeguarded against damage or loss, giving you peace of mind throughout the entire shipping process. Rest assured that we prioritize the well-being of your vehicle from pick-up to delivery.

Delivery Time Estimate Guide;

100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days
500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days
1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days
1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days
2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days
2500-3000+ miles takes 7 to 9 days

Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or a week until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 8-9 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

Your car shipping cost is determined by several key factors that contribute to the overall pricing of our services. These factors include the distance of transportation, the type of vehicle being shipped, the transport method chosen (such as open-air or enclosed transport), the current fuel prices, and any additional services you may require, such as expedited shipping or inoperable vehicle handling.

To provide you with an accurate and competitive quote, we take into account these variables and tailor our pricing to your specific needs. You can request a quote through our website or by reaching out to our customer service team. Rest assured that our commitment to transparency ensures that you’re fully aware of the costs involved before making any decisions.

Absolutely, Safemile Auto Transport is a fully legitimate and reputable company. We hold a valid license and are bonded with the Department of Transportation under MC number: 1377278 and DOT number: 3813643. Our commitment to transparency and excellence is underscored by our A rating and accreditation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Moreover, we’ve garnered thousands of 5-star reviews across various platforms, reflecting our dedication to providing trustworthy and exceptional auto transport services. Your vehicle’s safety and your peace of mind are our top priorities.

HELP DESK

Safemile Auto Transport FAQ: Your Questions, Our Answers

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How do I pay the carrier at delivery?

Your final payment process aligns with your initial payment choice. If you’ve opted for the Pay in full option, you’ve already prepaid your auto transport service in full. However, if you’ve chosen the Discounted Cash Price, the remaining balance will be due at the time of delivery. You can settle this balance using cash, a cashier’s check, or a money order. Please ensure the cashier’s check or money order is made payable to the carrier assigned for your order. To avoid any confusion, it’s recommended to confirm all payment details with a shipping advisor before the delivery date. Your convenience and smooth transaction are our priorities.

Can I change my First Available Pick-up Date?

Absolutely, you have the flexibility to modify your First Available Pick-up Date. You can do so through various means such as phone (at (888) 277-8212), Live Chat, or email, both before and after booking. If you wish to alter the pick-up date before booking, simply generate a new quote specifying your preferred date. For changes post-booking, kindly reach out to us directly. However, please be aware that if you make changes to your First Available Pick-up Date after a carrier has been assigned, your deposit may become non-refundable if the assigned carrier is unable to accommodate the change. Your convenience and satisfaction remain our priority.

What if there is damage to my car caused by my personal items?

It’s important to note that any damage resulting from personal items would not fall under the coverage of the carrier’s cargo insurance policy. When you choose to transport personal belongings along with your vehicle, you assume the associated risk. To ensure the safety of your vehicle and its contents, we highly recommend carefully packing and securing personal items within the trunk or rear cargo area of the vehicle. This proactive approach significantly reduces the likelihood of damage to your car during transport.

What should I do if my car is damaged during car transport?

While it’s rare, we have a recommended procedure in case of damage. When your vehicle is delivered, carefully inspect it. If you find any damages, please:

Note Damages on the Bill of Lading (BOL): Document the damages on the Bill of Lading.
Receive a Copy of the Delivery BOL from the Carrier: Ensure you obtain a copy of the delivery Bill of Lading from the carrier.
Take Detailed Pictures: Capture detailed pictures of the vehicle and the areas that are damaged.
Contact Us: Reach out to us at (888) 277-8212 or [email protected] to request the carrier’s Certificate of Insurance (COI).

This procedure helps ensure a smooth process in addressing any issues related to damage during transport.

Can I pay the full transport cost with my credit card?

Yes, you have the option to pay the entire transportation cost using a credit card. If you prefer to pay in full online at the time of booking, you can make a convenient one-time payment using a credit or debit card. Alternatively, you can choose to pay a deposit with your credit card and then settle the remaining balance in cash upon delivery. This flexible payment approach offers you convenience and choice throughout the process.

How do I pay for my auto transport service?

You can make payment for your auto transport service through the following methods:

Credit/Debit Cards: We accept major credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
Electronic Bank Transfers: You can arrange an electronic transfer directly from your bank account.
Other Electronic Payment Methods: Depending on your location and our available payment options, we also accept other electronic payment methods such as Cash App, Zelle, or Venmo.Note: If a balance is owed at delivery, you may not be able to pay with your debit/credit card and it may be paid to the driver directly and in cash, bank/certified check, or money order.

How is my vehicle transport cost calculated?

A few things that we consider when telling you how much it will cost to ship your car are the mileage between where your vehicle is and its destination, the type of car being shipped, and the time of year. The last one is important because prices change depending on how busy it is for cars to be transported.

Rates are subject to change, depending on the weather, route demands, and national holidays. It will have an impact on intrastate shipments since gas prices in certain states are extremely high. Each quotation is based on the season and current rates for pick-up/drop-off locations.

There are also more choices, such as enclosed carriers, top-load service, and fast delivery, which can be added to your order at the time of booking for a higher level of service.

For what reason do you need my credit or debit card number?

We do not demand any sort of deposit from you until your vehicle has been assigned to a reputable driver for a price that you agree upon. Before we begin working on finding you a carrier, though, we do take your credit card information.

We do this because it’s typical for customers to “double book” with multiple carriers, believing this will improve their chances of getting their car transferred. All auto transport businesses are leveraging the same tools to locate a carrier for your automobile. So if a vehicle is “double booked,” it just delays the process and muddles the carriers looking for their next vehicle on their route. By providing your credit card information in advance, we can work in good faith toward locating you a driver based on our efforts.

We guarantee that if we are unable to locate you a carrier at a price you are comfortable with, there will be no cancellation fees and your card will not be charged. We simply ask that you allow us to work on obtaining the finest carrier and best price for you.

Your credit or debit card number guarantees that we will do everything possible to get you a reputable driver on the dates and at the price you request. We don’t get paid until your vehicle is shipped, so it’s always in our best interest to provide stellar service.

How refunds work ?

Refunds are determined by the status of your order:

If your order has NOT been assigned (dispatched) for loading: In this case, a full refund will be issued to you.
If your order HAS been dispatched for loading and is no longer changeable:

If your order HAS been assigned (dispatched) for loading, your payment is refundable, minus a service fee of $250 or the amount of your partial payment, whichever is lower. This policy ensures fairness while accounting for the progress made in the shipping process.

For more information about refunds, please visit our Terms & Conditions page and scroll down to section 11.

Will I receive a vehicle shipping contract?

When you book a service with Safemile, you are entering into an agreement based on our Terms and Conditions, which serves as the contract governing the transaction.

What is top load service?

Top load service involves loading your vehicle onto the upper deck of an open auto transport trailer. This method is preferred due to its superior protection. Unlike vehicles on the lower level that might be exposed to liquid seepage from cars above, top load service minimizes such risks.

Please note that while we offer top load service for added security, additional charges may apply. Your peace of mind is our priority, and we’re here to ensure your vehicle’s safe and worry-free journey.

What sort of truck will be used to transport my car?

The type of truck used to transport your car depends on the service you choose:

Open Transport: Your vehicle will be loaded onto an open trailer, similar to those you see transporting multiple cars on highways.
Enclosed Transport: We use enclosed trailers equipped with walls and a roof to provide extra protection for high-value or delicate vehicles.

Our carriers meet industry standards and maintain the required insurance coverage to ensure your vehicle’s safety during transit. Rest assured that regardless of the type of truck used, your vehicle will be handled with care and expertise.

What types of car shipping services do you provide?

We offer a range of car shipping services to cater to your specific needs:

Open Transport: This cost-effective option involves transporting your vehicle on an open trailer, suitable for most cars.
Enclosed Transport: For added protection, we provide enclosed trailers that shield your vehicle from the elements and road debris. Ideal for luxury, classic, or delicate vehicles.
Inoperable Vehicle Transport: Our specialized service accommodates non-running vehicles, ensuring safe handling and transport.
Expedited Shipping: When time is of the essence, choose our expedited service for quicker delivery.
Door-to-Door Transport: We pick up and deliver your vehicle to your chosen locations, providing maximum convenience.
Military Vehicle Transport: Serving our military personnel with specialized vehicle shipping solutions.
Dealer and Auction Transport: Reliable transportation for dealerships and auction houses.
Snowbird Transport: Catering to seasonal travel needs, ensuring your vehicle is where you need it, when you need it.
We’re committed to meeting your diverse car shipping requirements with precision and care.

What is door-to-door car transport?

Door-to-door car transport is the full-service delivery of your vehicle where our drivers take it directly from its current location to the door at your desired destination. Our drivers do their utmost to get as close as physically and legally possible to the pickup and delivery locations, but there may be external factors beyond our control that prevent us from getting to your door. For the safety of your vehicle and our drivers, we need a hazard-free route to get to your car. If there aren’t any nearby large parking lots or shopping centers, consider meeting us at a location where our driver will have enough space to load/unload safely.

How can I receive a shipping quote for my car?

Can I track the progress of my shipment online?

Yes, you can easily track your shipment online at your convenience. Upon arranging the shipping, you will receive a unique booking number that allows you to monitor the progress of your shipment through our tracking portal. However, it’s important to note that not all drivers utilize live GPS services. Instead, we ensure regular communication with you via email, phone, or text updates about your vehicle’s status. This approach keeps you informed every step of the way and addresses any inquiries you might have about your vehicle’s journey.

Is insurance included in my quote?

Yes, insurance is included in your quote. We prioritize the safety of your vehicle and provide comprehensive insurance coverage as part of our service. Our open carriers maintain a minimum of $200,000 in cargo insurance, while our enclosed carriers are insured up to $1,000,000, offering you the assurance that your vehicle is protected during transit.

What information is required to place an order?

We will need the following information from you to provide our services:

-The address for the locations that your vehicle will be picked up from and delivered to, along with the name and phone number of the contact person at each location.

-The date that your vehicle will be ready

-The year, make, and model of the vehicle(s) that will be transported.

Are there any discounts available?

We provide discounts to military personnel, students, first responders, medical professionals, repeat customers, and multi-vehicle purchases. Call us for a discount. We may need a copy of your identification to apply a deal to your quotation.

Can I place an order without knowing the exact address?

Yes, the city and zip code will be sufficient until we know your exact pickup or delivery location.

How far in advance do I need to schedule my shipment?

Booking your transport in advance increases the likelihood of us meeting your preferred timeframes. For optimal results, we recommend scheduling your shipment 1-2 weeks ahead whenever feasible. This lead time allows us to effectively plan and accommodate your needs, particularly during peak seasons.

However, we also understand that urgent situations arise. For those times when you require swift action, we offer expedited shipping options, including same-day or next-day services. Your flexibility in scheduling greatly enhances our ability to provide you with a seamless and timely vehicle transport experience.

Where will my car be picked up and delivered?

The driver will attempt to bring the car trailer as near to your home as is lawfully and safely possible. In most situations, the driver will be able to pick up and deliver straight to your doorstep. Some cities may have rules on big trucks that ban them from driving into residential neighborhoods. Because auto transport trucks are large and need a lot of room to turn around, if access to the pickup or delivery spot is limited by narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or tight turns, the driver may request that you meet at a site with a big parking lot, such as a grocery store nearby.

Is it possible to ship a car from or to a U.S. port?

Yes. Typically, it will cost an extra $100-200 to cover the permit fees for picking up or dropping off a vehicle from a port.

Do I have to be there for both pick up and delivery?

No, you don’t necessarily need to be present for both the pick-up and delivery of your vehicle. While it’s not mandatory, having someone available for either end of the process can be helpful. If you can’t be there in person, it’s advisable to designate a trusted representative who can oversee the process, inspect the vehicle, and sign the necessary paperwork on your behalf. Keep in mind that having someone available ensures a smoother communication and inspection process, but we understand that it might not always be feasible.

What if the Truck can’t access my pick-up or drop-off location?

Most auto transport trucks are notably large, spanning up to 75 feet in length. This size can pose challenges in navigating through numerous residential areas. Should any access issues arise during your vehicle’s transportation, rest assured that your carrier will make diligent efforts to approach the drop-off point as closely as feasible.

Moreover, we offer the flexibility to arrange a convenient rendezvous spot, like a shopping mall, for either the collection or delivery of your vehicle. This option ensures ease and accessibility, ensuring a smooth and accommodating experience throughout the transport process.

Can you ensure that my order will be picked up or delivered on a specific date and time?

Yes, we can provide a guaranteed pickup date(s). All you have to do now is decide if you need the vehicle picked up by a specific date or on a specific date, which will determine the extra cost involved in guaranteeing your deadline. If you require a special pickup date(s), please contact us for a personalized quote.

However, it’s essential to note that while we can guarantee pickup dates, the automobile transport industry refrains from promising exact delivery dates. The unpredictability of road conditions and unforeseen circumstances is inherent, making it unfeasible to assure precise delivery timelines.

What is the bill of lading, and what role does it play in my shipment?

The bill of lading holds significant importance within the car transportation process. It plays a vital role by documenting any pre-existing vehicle damage upon pickup. Additionally, it acts as a repository for your contact details and serves as the formal agreement for transport. Should you need to file an insurance claim for your shipment, the Bill of Lading becomes essential.

Furthermore, the Bill of Lading acts as a transaction receipt. Although the vehicle’s owner or the booking customer isn’t necessarily required to be present at pickup or delivery to sign it, we strongly advise that someone aged eighteen or older signs it. This precaution is crucial due to the document’s legal significance in the context of our business transactions.

How can I find out my pick-up date and time?

We’ll send you a ‘dispatch notification’ via text and email, including the expected pick-up/loading date and the trucker’s name and phone number once your vehicle has been assigned for transport. Typically, the driver will contact you a few hours before their arrival to let you know the estimated time they’ll reach your chosen location. If needed, we can also make special arrangements upon request.

Is there a vehicle title or registration required to transport it?

No, all we need are the keys and the vehicle(s).

Can I ship my vehicle if it’s not drivable?

Yes, we can ship vehicles that are non-running or inoperable. When shipping an inoperable car, a special auto carrier is required that uses a winch to connect to your car and pull it onto the carrier slowly and safely. There is an additional fee for inoperable vehicles because of the extra work involved with securing the vehicle on the transporter.

What types of vehicles do you ship?

At Safemile Auto Transport, we specialize in shipping all types of vehicles including but not limited to sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, minivans, oversized vehicles, antique cars, classic cars, motorcycles ATV/UTV construction vehicles, and farm equipment. If you have any questions regarding what type of vehicle we can ship for you give us a call today!

Do I need to have license plates on my vehicle before I transport it?

No, we just need the vehicle and keys.

If a car has low ground clearance, can I still ship it?

Yes, however any vehicle with a clearance of fewer than 4 inches will almost certainly need to be transported on an enclosed trailer with a liftgate. Low-clearance cars can’t be loaded onto an open trailer because the vehicle would Bottom out while being loaded.

Is it possible to transport a vehicle that has been modified or is too large?

Yes, even if your vehicle is oversized or modified, we can still ship it. Our network of specialized carriers nationwide allows us to accommodate vehicles of any size. However, since pricing is based on the dimensions of the vehicle, you will need to call for a quote. The online quote calculator cannot generate an accurate quote because it uses standard and unmodified vehicle sizes and specifications.

Can I ship a Motorcycle or ATV/UTV?

Yes, we can ship motorcycles and ATVs/UTVs. Call us at 888-277-8212 or use our instant car shipping cost calculator online to get your free car shipping quote now.

What should I do with my E-ZPass or automatic toll collection pass ?

Please remove your E-ZPass or any other electronic toll collection mechanism from your vehicle entirely and mail it to your destination or bring it with you. Due to the nature of the automated toll road systems, if your device is left in your car as it is transported, you will incur toll fees as if you were driving the vehicle. Safemile Auto Transport will not take responsibility for this avoidable expense.

How can I prepare my vehicle for shipment?

Make sure your vehicle has been cleaned thoroughly inside and out, so the trucker can do a thorough examination of any existing scratches or dings. Also, make sure there aren’t any more personal belongings in the vehicle unless you intend to include them (remember those items must total less than 100 pounds combined and be kept in the trunk or back seat below the window-line of the vehicle). Remove all loose components attached to the body, any non-permanent luggage, bike, or ski racks. Be sure to inform the driver of any special circumstances concerning the vehicle.

Remove all antennas and loose parts, toll tags and parking passes. Make sure the battery is fully charged. The vehicle is clean and there are no personal items (other than those discussed).

What is the difference between open and enclosed transport?

The main difference between open and enclosed transport lies in the level of protection and exposure your vehicle receives during shipping.

Open Transport: This is the more common and cost-effective option. Vehicles are loaded onto an open trailer, exposed to the elements and road debris. While it’s a safe method, your vehicle will be visible and may be subject to weather conditions.
Enclosed Transport: This premium option provides enhanced protection. Vehicles are transported in an enclosed trailer, shielding them from weather, debris, and potential damage. This method is ideal for high-value, classic, luxury cars, or vehicles with sentimental value.

The choice depends on your vehicle’s value, your preference for protection, and your budget. Both methods are handled with care, ensuring your vehicle arrives at its destination safely.

Can I store personal belongings in my car?

Is my vehicle insured during transport?

When will my car arrive?