Life sometimes moves faster than your car can keep up. Whether you are moving out of state, buying a car sight-unseen, going to school a few states away, or moving your family, you may be wondering to yourself: “Can I ship a car with me?”
Yes, yes you can. You can.
In fact, many cars arrive in the United States with the owner not present when the vehicle is picked up or delivered at its destination, and long distance car transport is rarely an issue with reputable car transport companies, such as Car Shipping Source.
This guide will explain how to ship a car out of state, what paperwork is needed, who is able to act as your representative, and how to prepare for the process.
Provide an Authorized Contact at Pickup and Delivery
If you can’t be present, the shipping company will simply need an authorized contact at:
- The pickup location
- The delivery destination
This person acts on your behalf to:
- Hand over or receive the keys
- Sign the Bill of Lading (inspection report)
- Verify the car’s condition
Who Can Serve as a Contact?
- A friend
- A family member
- A neighbor
- A dealership
building manager (or leasing office, as is common for apartment deliveries)
Just provide their:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Availability window
- Access instructions (gate codes, parking restrictions, etc.)
Many customers use an authorized contact to move, buy a car in their absence, or ship a family car to themselves.
Shipping a car out of state is fairly easy as it can be arranged online.
Complete the Booking Process Online or by Phone
Shipping a car while out of state is straightforward because everything can be done digitally.
You can:
- Request a quote online
- Book your shipment
- Pay a deposit
- Confirm vehicle details
- Upload documents
Receive tracking updates
- Quote requests can be submitted online
- Book your shipment
- Pay a deposit
- Confirm vehicle details
- Upload documents
- Receive tracking updates
If you’re moving to your new state, in transit or overseas, you can book through a website such as Car Shipping Source.
Tip:
Always double-check:
- Pickup address
- Delivery address
- Contact phone numbers
- Vehicle’s make, model, and condition
Accuracy ensures a smooth transport.
Prepare the Vehicle Before You Leave (or Have Someone Do It)
Whether you are present or not, your car needs to be prepared for shipment, either by yourself before you leave your state or by your designated authorized contact.
Checklist for Vehicle Preparation:
Remove personal items
- Turn off alarms
- Leave a quarter tank of gas
- Check tires and battery
- Document current condition (photos help)
If you buy a car through a dealer or auction house, then the dealer/auction house usually arranges the transport themselves. Car Shipping Source can help you connect with dealers who specialize in dealer/auction to home transport.
Arrange Key Handover and Access
The transporter will need:
- A key to start and steer the vehicle
- Any necessary remote access instructions
- Parking clearance if needed
If you’re not present, coordinate with:
- A friend holding your spare key
- A dealership storing the vehicle
- A locksmith (only if necessary)
Pro Tip:
Always provide only one key, preferably a copy, so you don’t risk losing your primary key set.
Track Your Car Throughout the Journey
Even when out of state, you can monitor your shipment closely.
Many carriers offer:
- Text updates
- Email notifications
- Phone check-ins
- GPS-enabled tracking
Car Shipping Source partners with transporters known for reliable communication, ensuring you never feel disconnected from the process.
This keeps you informed on:
- Pickup confirmation
- Transit progress
- Delivery estimates
- Arrival updates
Make Sure the Recipient Knows What to Expect
Whoever receives your car needs to:
- Inspect the vehicle upon delivery
- Compare it with the pickup condition
- Sign the Bill of Lading
- Note any discrepancies (if applicable)
Important:
Remind them not to rush the inspection, as that protects you in the extremely rare case that you need to file a claim.
Most carriers would still call you to let you know that delivery was made, even if you were hundreds of miles away.
Handle Payment and Documentation Remotely
Most shipping companies allow:
- Secure online payments
- Digital signatures
- Emailed invoices
- Mobile-friendly paperwork
This means you do not need to meet the driver, nor do you sign anything.
Why Shipping While Out of State Is So Common
Many people ship their vehicles remotely because:
- They relocate before their belongings
- They buy cars online from out-of-state sellers
- They attend out-of-state schools
- They manage estate vehicles
- They send cars to family members
- They move in stages rather than as a single group
Car Shipping Source has pre-qualified carriers with reviews from customers who make this trip to this remote location on a daily basis.
Final Thoughts
Your car can be shipped anywhere in the United States with an authorized point of contact, car preparation, paperwork completed online, and notification systems established.
If you’re ready to get started with a reliable carrier, Car Shipping Source is here to help you transport your vehicle anywhere conveniently and reliably.
