How Auto
Shipping Works
No jargon, no fine print, no surprises. Here’s exactly what happens from the moment you contact us to the moment your vehicle arrives at its destination.
Four Steps to
Door-to-Door Delivery
Fill out our online form or call us directly at (678) 666-1399. When you submit a quote request, it goes directly to a trained transport specialist — not a computer, not an automated system. We compare rates across our carrier network to ensure our quote is the most competitive available. Expect to hear back almost instantly during business hours.
Be wary of other companies: many “auto shipping” websites are actually lead-generation companies that sell your information to 10+ carriers. You’ll know when you’ve hit one because the calls won’t stop for a month. With Atlanta Auto Transport, your information stays with us — period.
Once you accept a quote, you choose your preferred pickup date. We confirm a qualified carrier from our vetted network and coordinate timing directly with you. Unlike most transport companies, we allow you to pay your deposit after your vehicle is loaded — not before. Your money is protected until we actually deliver on our end of the deal.
We do not move your vehicle on any carrier that doesn’t meet our strict qualification standards. Every carrier in our network is licensed, insured, and proven. No exceptions.
All transport with Atlanta Auto Transport is door-to-door. The carrier comes to your designated pickup location — your home, office, or dealership. Before loading, your vehicle is inspected and documented with a Bill of Lading, noting any pre-existing condition. You’ll receive a copy for your records.
Your vehicle is then loaded and secured on the carrier. We keep you informed of any changes as they occur throughout transit — no black hole of silence between pickup and delivery.
Your vehicle is delivered directly to the destination address you provided — no terminal drop-off, no meeting the driver at a parking lot. Upon delivery, your vehicle is inspected again against the original Bill of Lading. If everything matches (and it almost always does), you sign off and you’re done.
That’s it. Four steps, honest communication throughout, and your vehicle delivered safely to its new home. If honesty and customer satisfaction are important to you — you’ve found the right company.
Open vs. Enclosed
Transport
At Atlanta Auto Transport, you can ship your vehicle either way. Here’s the difference — and how to choose what’s right for you.
Open transport is the most common and cost-effective way to ship a vehicle. Your car is loaded onto an open multi-car trailer — the same method used by dealerships nationwide to move new inventory. Safe, reliable, and significantly cheaper than enclosed.
- Best for standard sedans, SUVs, trucks & everyday vehicles
- Exposed to weather and road debris — normal wear, rarely an issue
- Can carry more vehicles per load = lower cost per car
- Carriers hold cargo insurance for all vehicles transported
- Available for most vehicle types and sizes
- Fastest dispatch times due to carrier availability
Enclosed transport provides maximum protection for collector cars, show cars, luxury and exotic vehicles, or any vehicle where condition is paramount. Your vehicle travels in a fully enclosed trailer — protected from weather, road debris, and prying eyes.
- Best for classic, exotic, luxury, and high-value vehicles
- Complete protection from weather, rocks, and road debris
- Fewer vehicles per load = more attention to each car
- Soft-tie systems prevent scratches from straps
- Climate-control options available for sensitive vehicles
- Worth every penny for irreplaceable or high-value cars
Questions We
Hear All the Time
It depends on distance and your situation. For moves over 500 miles, shipping is often more cost-effective once you factor in fuel, lodging, meals, wear and tear, and your time. We’ll help you think it through honestly — even if driving turns out to be the better option for you.
Generally, we recommend keeping personal items out of the vehicle. Carriers are not licensed to transport household goods, and extra weight can cause issues. A small bag in the trunk is typically fine, but don’t pack it like a moving truck. Ask your specialist and we’ll give you the honest answer for your situation.
Transit time depends on distance and route. Short hauls (under 500 miles) typically take 1–3 days. Cross-country shipments generally take 5–10 days. We’ll give you an honest estimate for your specific route — not the optimistic number other companies use to close the sale.
Cost depends on distance, vehicle type, carrier type, and current market rates. We compare rates across our carrier network to make sure our quote is always competitive. What we quote is what you pay — no surprise fees at delivery.
Yes. All carriers in our network are required to carry cargo insurance that covers your vehicle during transit. Your vehicle is documented before loading (Bill of Lading) and inspected again at delivery so any discrepancies can be identified and addressed.
Someone should be present — either you or a trusted representative — to sign the Bill of Lading at pickup and delivery. If you can’t be there, contact your specialist and we’ll work through the options with you.
Many “cheap” quotes come from lead-generation companies that sell your information to multiple brokers who then underquote to win the job — and can’t find a driver at that price. Most companies that buy these leads will underquote your job and leave you without a driver. Our pricing is honest and our quotes are based on real carrier rates, not wishful thinking.
Started?
Call us or fill out the quote form — a real specialist responds almost instantly with honest, competitive pricing. No hidden fees, pay after loading.