Car Shipping FAQs

Shipping a car for the first time can feel overwhelming, and choosing the right company may seem like a daunting task. At ALILE Freight Brokerage INC., we’re here to make your decision easier and help you feel confident about your choice. Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions.

Things to Know About Shipping Cars

How Can I Save Money on Shipping My Car?

There are a few ways to lower the cost of shipping your car:

  • Get quotes from multiple auto transport companies.
  • Choose an open trailer for transport instead of an enclosed one.
  • Book during the "off-season" when demand is lower.

These steps can help you save money while still getting reliable service.

What’s the Difference Between a Carrier and a Broker?

  • Carrier: A carrier is a company or individual with their own fleet of trucks that transport vehicles. They ship cars directly or work with brokers to arrange shipments.

  • Broker: A broker doesn’t own trucks. They act as a middleman, connecting you with reliable carriers. Brokers have a large network of carriers, and they handle all the work of finding a reputable company to transport your car. They ensure the carrier is licensed, insured, and trustworthy.

Is ALILE Freight Brokerage INC. a Carrier or a Broker?

We are a licensed broker. This means we don’t own trucks but instead work with a network of trusted carriers to transport your vehicle. We handle all the arrangements and ensure you get reliable, efficient service. Throughout the entire process, you’ll always have one point of contact with us.

What’s the Difference Between Door-to-Door and Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping?

  • Door-to-Door: Your vehicle is picked up and delivered at locations that are convenient for you. This is the easiest and most common option.

  • Terminal-to-Terminal: Your car is picked up from one terminal and dropped off at another terminal. Terminals may not always be close to your home, and there may be extra fees if your car stays at the terminal too long.

What’s the Difference Between Open and Enclosed Transport?

  • Open Transport: Your car is shipped on an open trailer, exposed to the elements. This is the most common and affordable option.

  • Enclosed Transport: Your car is shipped in a closed trailer, protecting it from weather and road conditions. Since fewer enclosed carriers exist, this option is more expensive and may take longer to arrange.

Things to Know to
Begin the Car Shipping Process

What’s the first step in having ALILE Freight Brokerage INC. ship my car?

The first thing you need to do is get an instant quote online.
You can also call us Monday to Friday, between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm, to get a quote.

What’s included in the instant quote?

The instant quote covers everything – there are no hidden fees, taxes, or extra charges. Insurance coverage is included in the price too!

How does your quote compare to other brokers?

Many brokers offer very low quotes to attract customers, but sometimes they can’t find a carrier to ship your car at that price or they’ll ask for more money later. Cheap quotes often come with hidden fees and unreliable service.
At ALILE Freight Brokerage INC., we know how to price our services for quick and reliable transport. Our quotes may be a little higher, but you can trust that we’ll get your vehicle delivered safely and on time, for the price we quote you!

Can I look up a quote I generated earlier?

Yes! Just go to our Quotes page, enter your quote ID and pick-up city or zip code, and your quote will appear.
Please note, quotes are only saved for 14 days. After that, you’ll need to generate a new one.

How long is my instant quote good for?

Your quote is valid for 14 days. After that, it expires, but you can easily get a new quote by visiting our website or calling us.

 

Factors that affect your instant quote

Can I get a quote for enclosed transport?

Yes, you can! When you get an instant quote on our website, the quote will be for an open trailer. Below that, you’ll also see the rate for enclosed transport.

We move vehicles in enclosed trailers regularly, but usually, it's for classic, valuable, or exotic cars. Enclosed transport generally costs 60% more than open transport.

Damage claims are rare with open trailers, and if anything happens, you’re covered by auto transport insurance. For most vehicles, open transport is the best and most affordable option. If you’re not sure which option is best for your vehicle, check out our blog post on open vs. enclosed car shipping. You can also call us or email us.

What if my vehicle is oversized?

We can still ship your oversized vehicle. However, you’ll pay more for oversized transport. This is true no matter which auto transport company you choose. Oversized vehicles require more care when loading and unloading, and they take up more room on the trailer.

What is considered an oversized vehicle?

Oversized vehicles include cargo vans, XL trucks (like 450s, 4500s), trucks with dual rear wheels, long beds, large grill guards, ladder racks, utility boxes, small campers, lift kits (body or altered suspension), and oversized tires. When you book with us, we’ll check the details to confirm if your vehicle is oversized.

What if my truck has a topper or camper?

Accessories like truck toppers with extended roofs and small campers may increase the price since they take up extra space on the trailer. However, standard toppers and accessories like bedliners and truck bed covers generally don’t affect your quote. Make sure all accessories are securely fastened with nuts and bolts, as C-clamps or straps aren’t enough. Loose accessories can blow off during transport.

What if my vehicle doesn’t operate?

If your vehicle doesn’t run, we may still be able to ship it, as long as it can roll, steer, and brake. The vehicle must have a set of keys, and there must be no obvious fluid leaks.

Shipping an inoperable vehicle costs more, sometimes twice as much, depending on the vehicle and the route. This is because it requires drivers with experience and trailers with winches. Some inoperable transports also need a tow truck to load and unload.

If you have an inoperable vehicle, call us or email us at and we’ll let you know if we can ship it and how much it will cost.

Book your order

How does the booking process work?

Once you get an instant quote on our website, you'll see a big green "Book Order" button to book your order online. You can also call us to book over the phone—just have your Quote ID ready.

When you book, we charge a 10% deposit with a credit or debit card. The remaining balance will be automatically charged to your card when we pick up your vehicle. No payment is needed when the driver delivers your vehicle!

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, and debit cards. We do not accept checks or cash.

When is the best time to book an order?
We recommend booking when you know your vehicle can be picked up within 7-10 days. This gives us enough time to try to schedule your vehicle’s pickup as close as possible to your earliest available date.
What if my truck has a topper or camper?
Accessories like truck toppers with extended roofs and small campers may increase the price since they take up extra space on the trailer. However, standard toppers and accessories like bedliners and truck bed covers generally don’t affect your quote. Make sure all accessories are securely fastened with nuts and bolts, as C-clamps or straps aren’t enough. Loose accessories can blow off during transport.
What if my vehicle doesn’t operate?

If your vehicle doesn’t run, we may still be able to ship it, as long as it can roll, steer, and brake. The vehicle must have a set of keys, and there must be no obvious fluid leaks.

Shipping an inoperable vehicle costs more, sometimes twice as much, depending on the vehicle and the route. This is because it requires drivers with experience and trailers with winches. Some inoperable transports also need a tow truck to load and unload.

If you have an inoperable vehicle, call us or email us at and we’ll let you know if we can ship it and how much it will cost.

Things to Know During and After the Car Shipping Process

Do I need to be present at pick-up and delivery?

Yes, you or someone at least 18 years old on your behalf must be present for both pick-up and delivery. A vehicle inspection will be done with the driver, and you’ll need to sign a vehicle condition report.

What is a vehicle condition report?

The vehicle condition report is a document that details the condition of the vehicle before it is transported. It helps us determine if any damage occurred during transit.

How do I prepare my vehicle for transport?

There are a few things you can do to get your car ready for transport. Check out our article below for more details.

Can I ship personal items in my vehicle?

Yes, you can ship one suitcase, duffle bag, tote, or box of personal belongings, up to 100 lbs.

Can my vehicle be transported without keys?

No, the driver needs to have the keys. If your vehicle uses an electronic fob or remote device to start, the driver must have that as well.

Is my vehicle covered by insurance during transport?

Yes, we provide liability and cargo insurance to cover your vehicle during transport. However, you must have your own personal vehicle insurance in place, as we don’t cover damages caused by Acts of God.

Can I track my vehicle during transit?
We don’t offer tracking, but we’ll keep you updated via phone, email, or text. You’ll receive a 24-hour notice and a 1-2 hour notice prior to pick-up. We’ll also provide an estimated delivery time and send you another 24-hour and 1-2 hour notice before delivery.
Will the driver call me before they arrive?

Yes, the driver will call you a few hours before they arrive for both pick-up and delivery to make arrangements. You’ll also get a 24-hour notice for both.

What should I do if I think my vehicle was damaged during transit?

If you believe your vehicle was damaged during transit, contact our dispatch team within 3 days of delivery and provide photos of the damage. Our Damage Claims Manager will get in touch with you. While damage is rare, we take claims seriously and will address your concerns quickly.

What happens at delivery?

At delivery, you (or your representative) and the driver will review the condition report completed at pick-up. You’ll inspect the vehicle to confirm that the condition matches what was recorded. If any damage is found, note it on the condition report. Be sure to get a copy of the final signed report that includes any damage, and both you and the driver will sign it again. It's also a good idea to take lots of photos of your vehicle at pick-up and delivery.