Shipping your car can feel stressful—especially when your vehicle is hundreds or even thousands of miles away. Naturally, one of the most common questions customers ask is: “How do I get real-time updates during transit?”
The good news is that today’s car transport industry offers multiple ways to stay informed, track progress, and stay connected with your carrier. This guide breaks down every method clearly and practically, so you always know where your vehicle is and when it will arrive.
If you want a service that prioritizes transparency and reliable communication, platforms like Car Shipping Source
make it simple to track your shipment from the moment your vehicle is picked up.
Use the Carrier’s Tracking System (If Available)
Many modern car shipping carriers now offer digital tracking tools. These tools allow you to see your vehicle’s progress in real time or near real time.
How It Works
After booking, the carrier provides a tracking link or login portal.
You can view your shipment status, estimated delivery window, and recent location updates.
Updates may be GPS-based or manually logged by the driver.
Why It Helps
- Gives peace of mind
- Allows you to plan for arrival
- Helps you anticipate delays due to traffic or weather
Tip: Always confirm whether your carrier offers tracking before booking. Car Shipping Source works only with reputable carriers, many of which offer real-time tools or frequent mapped updates.
Request Direct Communication With Your Driver
Even if a carrier doesn’t have a digital tracking portal, you can still receive regular updates from the driver.
How to Do It
- Ask for the driver’s phone number at pickup.
- Confirm their preferred contact method (call or text).
- Agree on when updates will be provided—daily, location-based, or milestone-based.
Types of Updates You’ll Receive
- Vehicle picked up
- Departing state
- Weather-related delays
- Break or rest stops
- ETA adjustments
- Approaching delivery address
Most professional drivers communicate well and welcome quick check-ins, as long as they’re not excessive.
Work With a Broker That Provides Dedicated Support
Many car shipping customers don’t realize how valuable a good broker can be in the communication process. Brokers don’t drive the trucks, but they stay in touch with carriers and relay updates—saving you time and stress.
- How Brokers Keep You Updated
- They contact the carrier on your behalf
- They confirm current location and status
- They notify you of schedule changes
- They help resolve communication gaps
If something seems uncertain, a reputable broker can clarify it quickly.
Platforms like Car Shipping Source connect you with responsive providers that prioritize timely communication throughout the journey.
Use Milestone Update Options
If real-time, minute-by-minute tracking isn’t available, you can still get milestone updates, which simplify the process while keeping you well-informed.
Typical Milestones Include:
- Pickup confirmation
- Departure from pickup city
- State border crossings
- Arrival at nearby terminal (if applicable)
- Final delivery notification
- How to Use Milestone Tracking Effectively
- Ask your carrier which milestones they provide
- Request approximate timeframes to avoid surprises
- Ask whether updates are sent automatically or manually
This option is especially common with carriers that transport many vehicles at once.
5. Use GPS Tracking Devices (Optional Add-On)
Some customers choose to place their own portable GPS device inside their vehicle before shipping. While not necessary, it can provide independent tracking.
How It Works
- Place a small tracker in the glove box or trunk
- Monitor the GPS location with your phone
- Receive alerts when the vehicle moves or reaches a new location
- When This Is Useful
- High-value vehicles
- Long-distance deliveries
- International shipments
- Customers wanting extra assurance
Before using one, confirm with your carrier that they allow non-invasive tracking devices.
6. What to Do If You’re Not Receiving Updates
Sometimes delays or communication gaps happen. If so, follow this simple workflow:
Step 1: Contact the driver
Send a polite text asking for a status update.
Step 2: Contact the carrier’s dispatch office
Dispatch can locate the driver quickly.
Step 3: Contact your broker
If you booked through a service like Car Shipping Source, they can investigate and follow up on your behalf.
Step 4: Review your contract
Check if it outlines update frequency or expected communication standards.
Important: Lack of constant movement does not mean something is wrong. Drivers take breaks, wait for route openings, or pause due to regulations.
Real-World Example: How Real-Time Updates Help
Scenario:
A customer shipping a luxury vehicle from Florida to California wanted detailed tracking. The carrier offered milestone updates, and the broker provided extra support.
What Happened:
- Pickup was confirmed with photos
- The driver sent updates at each state border
- The broker notified the customer of a weather delay in Arizona
- The customer felt informed throughout the entire journey
This combination of driver texts + broker support created a seamless experience.
Conclusion
So, how do you get real-time updates during transit? You can rely on several options, including digital tracking tools, direct communication with the driver, milestone updates, and support from your broker. The most important factor is choosing a shipping provider that prioritizes transparency and clear communication. Platforms like Car Shipping Source make it easy to connect with trustworthy carriers who keep you informed at every stage of the journey. If you want stress-free tracking and real-time updates, visit Car Shipping Source today to book a shipment with reliable communication options.
