Most auto transport companies offer door-to-door service, meaning that your car will be delivered to your home or place of business (or wherever you choose to have it delivered). In most cases, this is the typical delivery method for shipping consumer-owned vehicles.
However, door-to-door shipping may not always be an option. Here are two instances in which an alternative delivery method may be needed.
Car carriers are not allowed on your street. If your street is too narrow for a car carrier to fit, or if the HOA does not permit large trucks, door-to-door delivery will not work. In this case, you will be contacted by the driver of the car carrier when he arrives and then meet at an agreed-upon location where it will be easier for the driver to park and unload the vehicle (such as a parking lot).
You are unable to meet the car carrier for delivery. If you cannot schedule a delivery date for a time when you will be at the delivery location, you need to have your car delivered to a terminal.
A terminal is a storage facility for vehicles. When your car is delivered to a terminal, it is stored there until you are able to pick it up at your convenience. However, when choosing this option, keep in mind you are typically charged a daily storage fee. Talk with your car shipping company ahead of time to discuss any costs for terminal storage.
MoveCars.com is a comprehensive online directory of car shipping companies, including enclosed auto transport and international shipping companies. Even before you start looking for a car shipping company, you can find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about car moving, car shipping tips , and a glossary of auto transport terms.