You've spent months (or even years) restoring your classic car to mint condition. Now it's time to get it home.
More restorers are turning to professional auto haulers every day and here's why. A full restoration is one of the most expensive, time-consuming projects you can sink money into. So why risk ruining thousands of dollars of work with subpar vehicle shipping?
Professional auto haulers keep your restoration safe. Here's how:
This quick guide covers the reasons classic car restorers choose professionals for transportation and how you can too. From enclosed vs. open carriers to inspecting your vehicle pre and post shipping... It's all here.
What you'll pick up:
- Why Classic Car Restorers Should Use Professional Haulers
- Why Does Reliable Vehicle Shipping Matter?
- 5 Things To Look For In A Professional Auto Hauler
- How To Protect Your Vehicle Before Transport
Why Classic Car Restorers Should Use Professional Haulers
Professional auto haulers are popping up everywhere. It's now easier than ever to find dependable vehicle shipping but are they worth the money? If you've spent any significant amount of time or money restoring a vehicle, the answer is yes.
Classic cars are popping up left and right. In fact, the restoration market was valued at $39.7 billion in 2024. The market isn't slowing down anytime soon which means more and more cars will be shipped across the country.
Here's the catch.
Restored classics are meant to sit in your garage and look pretty. They aren't daily drivers. A tiny scratch could decrease your vehicle's value by thousands. Original parts are rare and expensive. Paint jobs aren't cheap either.
You get the point.
Driving your newly restored ride from Florida to Montana isn't wise. Finding secure car transportation services is the easiest way to ensure your car arrives exactly how you left it. No matter where the destination is, using a professional hauler for reliable vehicle shipping is always the right call.
Why Does Reliable Vehicle Shipping Matter?
Not all car transport is created equal. Classic cars aren't your average ride rolling off the dealership lot. These vehicles require special care you just can't get with standard shipping companies.
That's why...
Professional auto haulers offer reliable vehicle shipping in the form of enclosed carriers. Unlike open transportation these trucks provide a fully sealed unit to protect your vehicle from top to bottom.
But why is this important? Well, think about it.
- Enclosed carriers drastically reduce the risk of damages during transport
- They protect your vehicle from harsh weather conditions and road debris
- You can rest easy knowing your new restoration is in good hands
Research shows fewer than 5% of shipped vehicles report any damages. That number continues to decline as more people choose enclosed carriers for their car transportation needs. Standard carriers work great for newer vehicles but older, classic cars are not worth risking.
5 Things To Look For In A Professional Auto Hauler
Research is your number one best friend when it comes to finding reliable vehicle shipping. Take the time to do your homework before choosing a company to transport your vehicle.
Here's what to keep your eye out for when browsing companies:
Check For Enclosed Transport
Again, this is non-negotiable if you have a classic car you want to transport. Any reputable auto hauler will offer an enclosed shipping option. Open carriers are fine for new vehicles, lower ticket items... But if you've spent months restoring your dream car you deserve to have it transported in an enclosed carrier.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
Search for the company's USDOT number. Every professional hauler is required to have licensing registered with the FMCSA before transporting any vehicles. If they can't provide this information upon request, find someone who can.
And insurance. A trustworthy auto hauler will always carry cargo insurance that covers the full value of your vehicle.
Ask About Experience With Classic Cars
There's a certain level of care needed when transporting older vehicles. Make sure the company you choose has experience working with classics or high-value vehicles. They'll know the proper procedures for loading, securing, and unloading your car.
Inquire About Tracking Information
You should always know where your vehicle is during transport. The best companies offer real-time tracking so you can access the truck's location at all times. They should also keep you updated about pickup and delivery.
Do Your Research
Look for online reviews, ask for references, and find companies with great reputations. Do your future self a favor and research any company you're interested in using before handing over the keys.
How To Protect Your Vehicle Before Transport
Prepping your vehicle before transport is just as important as choosing a reputable company to handle your shipment. Here are a few pro tips to protect your investment before it's shipped to its new home.
Start with a full vehicle inspection. Take detailed photos and videos of your vehicle before it's loaded onto the transport truck. Having visual evidence of your car's pre-transport condition will save you a ton of headache if any damages occur.
Remove anything loose or fragile. If your car has any extra attachments take them off. You don't want custom trim pieces flying off on the highway.
Empty out the fuel tank. Most companies recommend customers keep the gas tank at a quarter tank or less. It's lighter and safer for your vehicle.
Understand the Bill of Lading. Your car will have a Bill of Lading filled out when it's picked up. This form details the current condition of your vehicle. Ensure any existing damage is recorded on the BOL before shipment.
...and of course:
Inspect your vehicle when you receive it. Look the car over as soon as it arrives at the destination. Compare post-transport photos to the condition the car was delivered in. Report any damages within 24 hours.
Wrap Up
Transporting a vehicle you've spent countless hours and money restoring doesn't have to be scary. Professional auto haulers make it easy to safely transport your car across the country.
Here's the short of it:
- Don't drive your restored classic
- Invest in reliable vehicle shipping with enclosed carriers
- Verify licensing, experience, and reviews before shipping
- Protect your vehicle before it ships
- Inspect your car when you receive it
Classic cars are only becoming more popular. Restorers who take care to ship their vehicle properly are ensuring their hard work stays protected for years to come.
