Navigating the world of car shipping can bring up a lot of questions. At RoadRunner Auto Transport, we believe in making the process as transparent and straightforward as possible. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you understand the ins and outs of vehicle shipping and how Roadrunner Car Transport can assist you.
Understanding Car Shipping Costs
How much does it cost to ship a car with RoadRunner Car Transport?
The cost to ship a car isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, as several factors influence the final price. At RoadRunner Auto Transport, we consider these key elements to provide you with the most accurate quote:
- Mileage: The distance between your vehicle’s origin and destination is the most significant factor. Longer distances naturally incur higher shipping costs.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: The size and type of vehicle (sedan, SUV, truck, etc.) and whether it’s inoperable can affect the price. Larger vehicles or those requiring special handling may cost more to ship.
- Shipping Timeline: Your desired pickup date can also play a role. Flexibility in your schedule can sometimes lead to more economical options.
- Service Options: For added protection, RoadRunner Car Transport offers options like enclosed carrier transport and top-load service, which may increase the overall cost but provide enhanced security for your vehicle.
For a detailed breakdown of pricing factors, you can explore our comprehensive guide on how much it costs to ship a car.
Getting a Car Shipping Quote
How do I get a car shipping quote from RoadRunner Car Transport?
Getting a quote from RoadRunner Car Transport is quick and easy. You have two convenient options:
- Instant Online Quote Calculator: For immediate pricing, use our instant online car shipping quote calculator. Simply enter your shipping details, and you’ll receive a quote in moments.
- Call a Car Transport Specialist: For personalized assistance, call us at (888) 422-7584. Our experienced car transport pricing specialists are ready to provide you with a detailed quote and answer any questions you may have.
To provide you with an accurate quote, we’ll need a few key details:
- Origin and Destination: Where are you shipping your car from and to?
- Vehicle Information: What type of vehicle are you shipping (make, model, year)?
- Ready Date: When will your vehicle be ready for pickup?
Understanding Vehicle Delivery Timeframes
When will my vehicle be delivered by RoadRunner Car Transport?
Transit time for vehicle shipments primarily depends on the distance between the pickup and delivery locations. As a general guideline with RoadRunner Car Transport:
- Estimated Transit Time: For every 500 miles of transport distance, allow approximately one day of transit time. For example, a 1,000-mile transport typically takes 2-3 days.
For a more detailed estimate, refer to our estimated transit times chart, which provides approximate delivery times for various routes. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and actual transit times can vary due to factors like weather and traffic conditions.
Shipment Tracking and Updates
Can I track my vehicle shipment online with RoadRunner Car Transport?
Yes! RoadRunner Car Transport provides online tracking for your peace of mind. Our tracking system is available 24/7 and updated in real-time, allowing you to monitor your shipment’s progress at any time.
Once you schedule your shipment with RoadRunner Car Transport, you’ll receive a unique booking number. Use this number to access your personal tracking portal online. In addition to tracking your vehicle’s location, the portal also offers a live chat feature, connecting you directly with a shipping agent who can address any questions or concerns you may have about your shipment’s status.
Vehicle Insurance During Shipping
Is my vehicle insured during transport with RoadRunner Car Transport?
Absolutely. RoadRunner Car Transport includes basic liability coverage with every shipment at no additional cost. This provides you with fundamental protection during transit.
For enhanced peace of mind and more comprehensive coverage, we also offer optional comprehensive insurance plans. You can select your desired level of coverage during the booking process. If you have any questions regarding insurance options or need help choosing the right plan for your needs, please call our customer service team.
Payment Options for Car Shipping
How do I pay for RoadRunner Auto Transport’s car shipping services?
RoadRunner Auto Transport offers flexible payment options for your convenience:
- Deposit or Full Pre-Payment: We accept major credit cards, electronic transfers, postal money orders, and bank/certified checks for your initial deposit or full payment.
- Balance Due Upon Delivery: If you have a remaining balance due upon delivery, you can pay the driver directly using cash, bank/certified checks, or postal money orders.
We strive to make the payment process as smooth and convenient as possible for our customers.
Pickup and Delivery Procedures
Does someone need to be present for vehicle pickup and delivery with RoadRunner Car Transport?
Yes, it is necessary for someone to be present at both the pickup and delivery locations. This ensures a smooth and secure vehicle handover process.
- Vehicle Release and Acceptance: Someone must be present to release the vehicle to the driver at pickup and accept it at delivery.
- Key Handover: Keys must be provided to the driver at pickup.
- Inspection Reports: Both the initial and final inspection reports need to be signed at pickup and delivery, respectively.
The designated person can be anyone over the age of 18 that you trust to handle the vehicle release and acceptance on your behalf.
Transporting Personal Items in Your Vehicle
Can I put personal items in my car when shipping with RoadRunner Car Transport?
Yes, RoadRunner Car Transport allows you to transport personal belongings inside your vehicle under certain conditions:
- Weight Limit: The total weight of personal items must not exceed 100 pounds.
- Storage Location: Items must be stored securely in the trunk or back seat, below the window line, and out of plain sight.
Please be aware that while your vehicle is insured, personal belongings are transported at your own risk and are not covered by our shipping insurance if they are damaged or go missing. We recommend shipping valuable or irreplaceable items separately.
Scheduling Your Car Shipment
How far in advance should I schedule my car transport with RoadRunner Car Transport?
Scheduling your car shipment in advance with RoadRunner Car Transport is highly recommended to ensure we can meet your desired timeframe.
- Recommended Lead Time: For best results, we suggest scheduling your transport at least 2 to 3 weeks prior to your preferred pickup date.
- Expedited Shipping: If you have urgent shipping needs, expedited shipping options are available. Contact our car shipping experts to discuss your schedule and explore available options.
Planning ahead gives us ample time to arrange the most suitable carrier and service for your specific requirements.
Pickup and Delivery Locations
Where will RoadRunner Car Transport pick up and deliver my vehicle?
RoadRunner Car Transport offers convenient door-to-door service. Our drivers will strive to pick up and deliver your vehicle as close to your specified addresses as safely and legally possible.
- Door-to-Door Service: In most cases, pickup and delivery will be directly at your door.
- Accessibility Considerations: Large auto transport trucks require considerable space to maneuver. If your location has narrow streets, low-hanging trees, tight turns, or other accessibility restrictions, the driver may request to meet you at a nearby, more accessible location. This could be a large parking lot, shopping center, or another safe and spacious area.
We always aim for maximum convenience while ensuring the safety and efficiency of the transport process.
Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport
What is the difference between open and enclosed car transport with RoadRunner Car Transport?
RoadRunner Car Transport offers two main types of transport methods: open transport and enclosed transport.
- Open Transport: This is the most common and economical car shipping method. Vehicles are transported on open-air carriers, similar to those you frequently see on highways. Open transport is suitable for most standard vehicle shipments.
- Enclosed Transport: For classic, luxury, or exotic vehicles, we recommend enclosed car shipping. Enclosed carriers provide maximum protection from weather elements and road debris, as your vehicle is transported within a fully enclosed trailer. Due to limited availability, enclosed transport often requires advance booking.
Learn more about the benefits of each option in our detailed guide on the difference between open and enclosed transport.
Types of Vehicles We Ship
What types of vehicles does RoadRunner Auto Transport ship?
RoadRunner Auto Transport specializes in shipping a wide range of vehicles, including:
- Sedans
- SUVs
- Pickup Trucks
- Minivans
- Oversized Vehicles
- Antique Cars
- Classic Cars
- Motorcycles
- Construction Vehicles
- Inoperable Cars
- Boats
If you have a vehicle type not listed or have any questions about whether we can ship your specific vehicle, please don’t hesitate to call us. Our team can advise you on the best transport solutions.
Preparing Your Car for Shipping
How much gas should I have in my car during transport with RoadRunner Car Transport?
For car transport with RoadRunner, it’s recommended to have approximately a quarter (1/4) tank of gas in your vehicle at the time of shipment.
- Sufficient Fuel for Loading/Unloading: This amount provides enough fuel for the driver to load and unload your vehicle and move it as needed during transport logistics.
- Minimize Weight: Keeping the fuel level at a quarter tank helps minimize unnecessary weight during transport.
The Bill of Lading Explained
What is the Bill of Lading and why is it important for my RoadRunner Car Transport shipment?
The Bill of Lading is a crucial document in the car shipping process with RoadRunner Car Transport. It serves multiple important functions:
- Vehicle Condition Report: It meticulously documents any pre-existing damage to your vehicle at the time of pickup. This is a critical step in protecting both you and the carrier.
- Transport Agreement: The Bill of Lading acts as the official contract for your vehicle transport service, outlining the terms and conditions.
- Insurance Claim Documentation: In the unlikely event of needing to file an insurance claim, the Bill of Lading is an essential document to support your claim.
Always carefully review the Bill of Lading with the driver at both pickup and delivery and ensure all details are accurate before signing.
Top Load Service Explained
What is top load service with RoadRunner Car Transport?
Top load service is an optional service offered by RoadRunner Car Transport that provides an added layer of protection for your vehicle during open transport.
- Placement on Carrier: With top load service, your car is strategically placed on the upper deck or level of an open auto transport trailer.
- Reduced Risk of Leaks: This is often considered preferable to bottom loading because it minimizes the risk of fluids from vehicles on the upper deck potentially leaking onto cars below.
While open transport is generally safe, top load service offers extra peace of mind, particularly for customers concerned about potential minor contamination from other vehicles during transit.
Preparing Your Car for Shipment – Checklist
How do I get my car ready for shipment with RoadRunner Car Transport?
Proper preparation is key to a smooth car shipping experience with RoadRunner Car Transport. Here’s a checklist to help you get your vehicle ready:
- Clean Your Vehicle: Thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior of your car. This is essential for the driver’s inspection to accurately document any pre-existing damage on the Bill of Lading.
- Remove or Secure Personal Items: Remove any valuable personal belongings. If you are transporting items, ensure they adhere to the weight and storage guidelines (under 100 lbs, stored in the trunk or below the window line).
- Inform Driver of Special Conditions: Notify the driver of any specific details or operational quirks about your vehicle.
- Check Fluid Levels: Ensure there are no active leaks and fluids are at appropriate levels.
- Fuel Level: Have approximately a quarter tank of gas in your car.
- Disable Alarms: Deactivate any car alarms to prevent them from going off during transport.
- Loose Parts: Secure or remove any loose exterior parts, such as antennas or spoilers, that could be damaged during transit.
Visit our comprehensive car shipping checklist for a detailed guide to ensure your vehicle is fully prepared for transport.
Shipping Inoperable Vehicles
Can I ship my vehicle with RoadRunner Car Transport if it isn’t running?
Yes, RoadRunner Car Transport can certainly ship vehicles that are non-running or inoperable.
- Specialized Equipment: Transporting inoperable vehicles requires specialized auto carriers equipped with winches. These winches are used to safely and slowly load the non-running vehicle onto the carrier.
- Inoperable Vehicle Fee: Due to the need for specialized equipment and the additional labor involved in securing an inoperable vehicle, there is typically an additional fee for shipping non-running vehicles.
When booking, be sure to specify that your vehicle is inoperable, either through the online booking form or by informing your shipping agent when booking by phone. This ensures that the proper arrangements and carrier type are assigned to your shipment.
Car Shipping Service Options
What methods of car shipping services does RoadRunner Car Transport offer?
RoadRunner Car Transport provides both open car shipping and enclosed transport services to meet a variety of needs and budgets.
- Open Car Shipping: As mentioned earlier, open car shipping is the more common and cost-effective method. Your vehicle is transported on a multi-car carrier exposed to the elements.
- Enclosed Transport Services: Enclosed transport provides premium protection, with your vehicle shipped inside a fully enclosed trailer. This method is highly recommended for luxury, exotic, or classic cars where maximum protection is desired.
Both methods are reliable and safe, and the best choice depends on your vehicle type, budget, and desired level of protection.
Door-to-Door Car Transport Explained
What is Door-to-Door car transport with RoadRunner Car Transport?
Door-to-door car transport with RoadRunner Car Transport means we aim to provide the most convenient service possible by picking up your vehicle directly from your specified pickup location and delivering it to your desired destination address.
- Maximum Convenience: Our drivers will make every effort to get as close to your doorsteps as physically and legally permissible.
- Accessibility Limitations: Due to the size and maneuverability requirements of car transport trucks, there may be situations where true door-to-door service isn’t feasible. Factors such as street width, turning radius, and local regulations can sometimes restrict truck access to certain residential areas. In such cases, the driver will arrange a mutually convenient and nearby location, like a large parking lot or shopping center, for pickup or delivery.
We are committed to making car shipping as hassle-free as possible, and door-to-door service is a cornerstone of our customer commitment.
