Car Shipping FAQ — Your Questions Answered

Car shipping typically ranges from about $0.40 to $1.60 per mile depending on distance, vehicle size, transport type, and season. Short local moves cost more per mile than long cross-country routes. The fastest way to get an exact price is our free instant quote — it takes under 60 seconds and there's no obligation.

Most shipments are delivered within 1 to 9 days depending on distance. A short regional move may take 1–3 days, while a coast-to-coast route usually takes 7–9 days. We give you a pickup window and delivery estimate before anything is charged.

Yes. Every carrier we dispatch is FMCSA-licensed and carries active cargo insurance, which we verify before your vehicle is picked up. For high-value vehicles, higher coverage limits are available through enclosed transport.

No. You never pay a deposit before your carrier is confirmed and dispatched. This is one of the core promises of Universe Auto Ship — you only pay once we've matched you with a vetted carrier and your shipment is scheduled.

Open transport ships your vehicle on an open multi-car trailer — it's the most affordable and popular option, used for about 90% of shipments. Enclosed transport moves your vehicle inside a fully covered trailer for maximum protection, recommended for luxury, classic, and exotic vehicles.

Carriers generally allow up to about 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk, kept below the window line. Items are not covered by cargo insurance, so we recommend keeping valuables with you. Check with us for the specifics on your shipment.

Yes — you or an authorized adult (18+) must be present at both pickup and delivery to release and receive the vehicle and sign the inspection report (Bill of Lading). If you can't be there, you can designate someone to act on your behalf.

Once your carrier is dispatched, you'll receive the driver's name and direct contact information. You can call or text the driver for location updates, and our team is always available at (717) 794-6951 to help.

Damage is rare, but if it happens, note it on the Bill of Lading at delivery and take photos. The carrier's cargo insurance covers transit damage, and our team will help you file and resolve the claim. Always inspect your vehicle before signing off.

We recommend booking 1–2 weeks ahead when possible, especially during peak snowbird season (fall and spring). That said, we can often arrange expedited pickup within 24–72 hours when you're on a tight timeline.

Wash the car so existing damage is visible, remove personal items and toll transponders, leave about a quarter tank of fuel, disable alarms, and note any pre-existing damage. Fold in mirrors and remove loose accessories. We'll send a full checklist after booking.

Yes. We can ship vehicles that don't run using carriers equipped with winches and specialized loading equipment. There's a small additional fee (typically $150–$200) because inoperable vehicles require extra handling.

Yes — we offer dedicated motorcycle shipping with soft straps, wheel chocks, and optional crating for high-value or vintage bikes. Both open and enclosed options are available.

Yes. We offer a military discount for active-duty service members and veterans, along with flexible scheduling around PCS orders. Just mention your service when you request a quote.

We ship to and from all 50 US states, door-to-door. From Miami to Seattle and New York to Los Angeles, we cover every major corridor in the country — including Alaska and Hawaii via port and ocean freight.