Shipping a car between states involves more than just driving it to another state on a car carrier. Interstate transport crosses federal lines. Legal requirements protect customers, carriers, and vehicles. Knowing about car shipping across state lines helps people pick a trustworthy company. It helps people avoid car shipping scams. It helps people prepare their car.
To simplify the process, it’s important to know the law if you are moving to another state, buying a vehicle from another state, or shipping your vehicle to a friend. CarShippingSource.com complies with and follows all federal and state regulations for safe, legal, and compliant interstate vehicle shipping throughout.
Why Regulations Matter in Interstate Vehicle Shipping
The rules are designed to ensure that each vehicle transport is performed legally and safely, and to protect consumers from unlicensed carriers and fraudulent brokers.
These laws exist to:
- Maintain safety standards
- Ensure carriers are insured
- Protect consumers from liability
- Establish accountability for damage
- Regulate customer–carrier contracts
Without regulation, auto transport would be a much more dangerous prospect for the driver and customers.
Key Federal Regulations for Interstate Car Shipping
Many federal agencies regulate interstate auto transport. Knowledge about these agencies helps the consumer identify professional and reputable carriers and brokers.
FMCSA Licensing Requirements
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates all auto transport companies that service customers in interstate commerce.
- A valid Motor Carrier (MC) Number
- A USDOT Number
- Up-to-date registration in FMCSA systems
Those numbers indicate the legal authority for the carrier to operate as a motor carrier and you can check them on the FMCSA website.
Never hire a transporter who cannot provide their MC and USDOT credentials.
Broker Bond Requirement
Auto transport brokers are required by federal law to carry a surety bond of $75,000. The surety bond protects customers from fraud and breach of contract by an auto transport broker.
A legitimate broker must:
- Be bonded
- Be listed in FMCSA records
- Operate transparently when assigning a carrier
CarShippingSource.com only works with licensed and bonded brokers and carriers.
Insurance Regulations
Every interstate motor vehicle transporter must carry:
- Liability insurance
- Cargo insurance
Federal law requires damage, theft and accident coverage for automobiles being transported.
Before booking, ask the company to provide:
- Proof of insurance
- Coverage details
- Exclusions or limitations
Good carriers, however, have no problems sharing their insurance credentials.
Bill of Lading (BOL) Requirements
Your Bill of Lading is an legally binding contract between you and the carrier, and includes:
- Vehicle details
- Pickup and delivery addresses
- Pre-existing condition report
- Insurance and liability terms
- Delivery confirmation
Never ship a vehicle without signing a BOL as it protects you during the shipment.
State-Level Regulations for Interstate Vehicle Transport
Interstate transport is regulated by the federal government, but states may have their own transportation laws.
Weight and Height Restrictions
Each state sets limits for:
- Vehicle carrier weight
- Trailer height
- Bridge clearances
- Road restrictions
These rules may affect:
- Delivery routes
- Transport timing
- Local meeting points
If a truck cannot reach your destination, you may be taken to a nearby point for you to transfer.
Permit Requirements
Oversized or otherwise modified vehicles may require:
- Temporary transport permits
- Special escort certifications
- Examples include:
- Lifted SUVs
- Extra-wide trucks
- Vehicles with heavy modifications
Your transportation company can help you navigate the permit process.
Road and Seasonal Regulations
Some states enforce:
- Snow chain laws
- Mountain pass restrictions
- Seasonal closures
These can also affect travel times in winter/mountain areas.
Regulations That Apply to You as the Customer
Most of these rules concern transport companies, but some apply to customers to ensure safety and legal compliance.
Preparing the Vehicle Correctly
Before shipment, you must:
- Remove personal items
- Reduce fuel to ¼ tank
- Secure loose parts
- Disclose mechanical issues
- Provide accurate contact and address information
Preparation ensures compliance with legal and insurance requirements.
Providing Documentation
You may need to provide:
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of ownership
- Photo ID
The documents prove to everyone that the car is legally cleared for transport.
Inspecting the Vehicle at Pickup and Delivery
By signing of the Bill of Lading, you acknowledge the condition of the vehicle at both pickup and delivery. Insist on a thorough inspection, for insurance.
How to Ensure Your Transport Company Follows Interstate Regulations
Using a reputable shipping service can save you from scams, hidden fees, and insurance issues.
Check Their MC and USDOT Numbers
Verify their legality using the FMCSA website search engine.
Request Proof of Insurance
A reputable carrier will never hesitate to provide documentation.
Read the Contract Carefully
Ensure:
- No hidden fees
- Insurance terms are clear
- Delivery windows are stated
Look Up Company Reviews
Reputable companies welcome and respond to customer feedback.
CarShippingSource.com abides by all federal regulations, making the car shipping process safe and worry-free.
Why Choose CarShippingSource.com for Interstate Vehicle Transport?
A compliance-oriented approach shows professionalism and commitment to customer protection and service, which CarShippingSource.com achieves by:
- Fully licensed carriers
- Verified MC and USDOT numbers
- Clear insurance policies
- Door-to-door service where accessible
- Transparent pricing
- Safe and timely delivery for all vehicle types
Every shipping project we handle gives you the assurance that your car is transported legally and safely across state lines.
Know the Rules Before Shipping Your Vehicle
Making sure of how to ship a car across the state line can help you protect your vehicle, money, and peace of mind. Some paperwork, preparation, and making sure you use a compliant transport provider will get your car there without incident.
Ready to ship your car across the country? Head to CarShippingSource.com today for licensed, insured and regulation-compliant auto transport services.
