How To Get Work Transporting Cars

Being one of the leading car transport companies nationwide, Easy Auto Ship believes in complete transparency of its processes. So this guide is dedicated to helping our potential customers learn how to hire a carrier trailer for transporting cars.

This will also benefit those trying to start a career in the auto shipping company to learn how to get work transporting cars. So let’s get this show on the road and get started:

How to Get Work Transporting Cars - Behind The Scenes

Before we discuss different aspects of our auto transport process, let’s first see what a carrier has to do to even become a consideration for working with us. We take licensing, truck trailer condition, safety checks, insurance, and the reputation of the carrier very seriously. Here are some steps these carriers take to work with Easy Auto Ship:

Getting a Commercial Driving License

The process of starting a career in the car transport industry starts when a driver gets a Commercial Driving License (CDL). To legally operate a trailer for transporting cars or a truck carrying cars, they need a Class A CDL.

This allows them to drive single-car transport trucks with the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of at least 26,001 pounds or more. The driver needs to study for general knowledge, air brake, and combination vehicle tests to obtain their CDL.

Purchasing the Right Equipment

Once the CDL is secured, the next step involves purchasing the proper transportation equipment. A driver can choose between an enclosed trailer or a flatbed trailer. Enclosed trailers are best for securely shipping high-end or classic cars. Meanwhile, flatbed trailers can efficiently haul multiple vehicles like trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps.

Specialized car haulers, hotshot trucking car hauling, can also carry 6-10 vehicles at a time. Pairing this with a heavy-duty tow vehicle, preferably a diesel dually truck, is important for safely hauling loaded trailers.

Insuring the Business

Insuring the transportation equipment and operations is another crucial step. Commercial auto insurance covers the truck and trailer. Cargo insurance protects against any damage to transported cars.

Policies need to account for occupied and unoccupied transport. The driver can understand liabilities and properly insure their auto shipping venture by consulting experts.

Marketing the Services

With the license, gear, and paperwork in place, it’s time to market the car transport services. This can be done through a website or social directories, Facebook groups targeting wholesale car dealers and auctions.

Competitive rates and flexibility attract clients wanting swift transport vehicles by truck or transport car by train. Highlighting capabilities and reliability builds recognition as a reliable transporter.

Partnering with Companies

Another route is partnering with established brokers and transport firms. They provide a steady flow of loads shipping cars between dealerships, auctions, and destinations nationwide. The driver works as an independent contractor, using their own truck.

Top brokers like Easy Auto Ship are options after submitting documents and clearance. This opens opportunities to transport various vehicles from coast to coast.

Carriers can build a solid clientele for their car transport business with proper preparation and consistent marketing within months. However, safety compliance and on-time deliveries are a MUST to keep clients and transport companies happy.

Soon, even a newcomer will be enjoying the freedom of the open road, getting paid to transport various wheeled machines just like in the days of the old wagon pullers!

5 Types of Transport Trailers Easy Auto Ship Considers:

As a leading provider of car transport services, we work with various trailer types to efficiently handle your vehicle shipping needs. Here are the options we utilize:

Single-Vehicle Hotshot Trailers

Also known as “hotshot trucking car hauling,” these specialized trailers allow the transport of a single luxury vehicle in an enclosed environment. Ideal for exotic and classic cars needing the safest and gentlest ride. The enclosure protects against harsh weather that could otherwise damage exteriors during long trips.

Single-Level Multi-Car Trailers

Perfect for hauling 4-6 regular passenger vehicles securely. Interior tracks guide the wheels of each “car” into positioned slots. As one of the most affordable options, these open-concept trailers remain efficient when fully loaded.

Multi-Level, Multi-Vehicle Trailers

Fit up to 10 cars in the space of a standard semi-trailer through clever vertical stacking on layers. It immensely boosts our carrying capacity. Every make and model remains safely parked during transport.

Enclosed Single-Vehicle Trailers

Ideal for enclosed transport of a single new or used “vehicle.” Vents provide airflow while protecting against dings and paint damage from road grime and flying debris. UV-resistant composite keeps interiors pristine.

Open/Flatbed Trailers

Perfect for hauling trucks, SUVs, machinery, and other non-enclosed transport on a single level. Easily support large and heavy items. Durable surfaces protect cargo against weather and damage.

Let our trained agents review your transport needs. We’ll recommend the right trailer type from the above options to ship your vehicles nationwide fast, affordable, and reliable. Contact us today to plan your auto transport vehicle by truckwith Easy Auto Ship!

7 Steps of Our Car Transport Process:

Step 1: Collect Vehicle and Shipping Details from Customers

The first step in our car transport process involves getting key details from customers who need to transport their car to a new location. We collect information like the make, model, year of the vehicle to be shipped, pickup and delivery addresses, requested dates, and any special instructions.

Knowing these specifics allows us to match the transport needs with suitable trucks, trailers, and haulers. Getting the right equipment is crucial for a smooth and safe shipment, whether it’s a heavy-duty single-car transport truck or a multi-car trailer.

Step 2: Search for Qualified Car Transport Carriers

With the client data in hand, we get to work finding licensed and experienced auto shipping carriers that can handle the job. Some possibilities include independent haulers running hotshot trucking car hauling operations with an enclosed trailer for protected transport.

Larger haulage companies with multi-car flatbed or enclosed rigs are also considered. The choice depends on factors like shipment dates, route, vehicle size, and the need for an enclosed trailer. Our network of pre-approved haulers gives customers options to transport their cars seamlessly.

Step 3: Verify Carrier Credentials and Insurance

No matter who we match the client with, background checks on safety and license records are mandatory. We confirm the carrier has proper operating authority from the DOT and carries sufficient auto liability and cargo insurance.

Valid registrations, driver qualifications, and ongoing compliance with safety regulations provide assurance for clients relying on us to move their prized possessions cross-country. Only reputable haulers with a proven track record make our qualified list, allowing peace of mind throughout the transit process.

Step 4: Inspect Equipment for Safe Transport Compliance

Before booking any hauler, their trucks and trailers undergo rigorous pre-trip safety checks. They have to verify that all lights, signals, emergency equipment, brakes, suspension, and tires meet DOT standards to safely transport cars on public roads.

Particular attention goes to items like compatible hitches, proper load securing points, intact hardwood floors, and fully functioning ramps or lifts on enclosed trailers. Only when all mechanical and operational aspects pass scrutiny are carriers approved to transport client vehicles.

Step 5: Connect Approved Carrier and Customer

At this stage, we introduce the verified carrier to the client and facilitate scheduling pickup and delivery logistics. Important details like address locations, contact phone numbers, and special loading instructions are exchanged.

Our dedicated representatives are available throughout to ensure smooth communication between parties and address any concerns before the transport begins. As the middleman, we work to set clear expectations and instill confidence in our customers that their assets are in good hands for the journey.

Step 6: Provide Shipment Tracking and Status Updates

Continued updates during transit give peace of mind, so we closely monitor each shipment using onboard tracking devices and driver check-ins. Clients receive real-time notifications of pickup confirmation, estimated times of arrival, and any delays. They can easily see their vehicle’s location throughout the trip via online mapping on our portal.

Our responsive customer service team fields questions and addresses issues promptly. Regular status reports reassure owners their prized possessions are safely getting where needed using the most direct route.

Step 7: Conduct Post-Delivery Inspection and Feedback

Once delivered, we follow up to ensure everything goes smoothly and the customer is satisfied. A final walk-around inspection verifies there was no damage in transit. Feedback surveys collect valuable ratings on the carrier’s service, equipment, and professionalism. Any concerns are promptly resolved in cooperation with the hauler.

Honest reviews help improve our process over time to deliver even smoother experiences. Meanwhile, positive surveys allow us to continue recommending top-rated partners for reliable auto shipping.

It’s a proven system for hassle-free coordination of everything from single-car transport trucks to multi-vehicle shipments. Whether customers need shipping across town or clear across the country, our services pave the way for safe, tracked, and worry-free shipping every time.

5 Common Types of Vehicles Transported by Auto Carriers:

No matter the vehicle type - from economical sedans to luxury exotics or electric cars - auto shipping provides a reliable solution for shipping vehicles across town or nationwide.

Using enclosed trailers, expandable trailers, or specialized auto haulers, shipping companies can accommodate nearly any vehicle. Here are some of the vehicle types we frequently move:

Standard Cars

Cars are the most common vehicles that auto transporters ship. Anything from economy sedans to luxury sports or even electric cars like Tesla cars can be found onboard auto carriers. Whether it’s shipping a single car or hauling dozens, auto carriers are set up to securely transport vehicles. The cars are driven onto the carrier and strapped down tightly to prevent any shifting during transit.

Modern auto shipping trailers even have ramps that allow for easy vehicle loading and unloading. Cargo-like new models going to dealerships or used cars going to auctions are routinely shipped by auto shipping companies.

Trucks

In addition to passenger cars, auto transporters also haul pickup trucks and commercial trucks. Anything from a small, mid-size truck to a heavy-duty dually can be securely transported. Whether it’s a fleet of work trucks heading to a job site or a collection of pickup trucks going to auto auctions, trucks of varying sizes are regularly moved.

Larger commercial trucks may require a specialized semi-trailer equipped with adjustable ramps and straps to handle their bigger sizes. Even heavy machinery like bulldozers and excavators can be rolled onto carriers equipped for oversized cargo.

Buses, RVs and Luxury Vehicles

Other vehicle types routinely transported include buses, RVs, luxury vehicles, and more. Sold fleet buses are delivered, repair shop buses are retrieved, and consumer RVs are relocated. Meanwhile, specialty auto haulers with enclosed carriers provide secure transport for luxury vehicles, classic cars, concept cars, and dealer products.

Some transport high-end exotics in temperature-controlled trailers. RVs and luxury motorcoaches may require auto transport on specialized expandable trailers with adjustable ramps. Meanwhile, concept cars and exotics are often shipped using enclosed hotshot trucking for discrete transport.

Motorcycles and ATVs

In addition to four-wheel vehicles, auto transporters also move motorcycles, dirt bikes, ATVs, and other recreational off-road vehicles. Whether hauling a single motorcycle or a large quantity, motorcycle transport trailers are outfitted with tie-downs to carry bikes securely.

Larger multi-vehicle trailers can accommodate a mix of motorcycles and ATVs. Dealerships, auctions, rental fleets, and consumers all utilize auto transport services to relocate recreational power vehicles. The diversity of vehicles carried by auto haulers continues to expand alongside market demands.

Whether it’s for commercial use or private shipping needs, our reliable auto transport gets the job done under any conditions or circumstances. With proper preparations and following established protocols, shipping one car or dozens is seamlessly achieved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for transporting my car by train?

Transporting a car by train involves loading your vehicle onto an enclosed auto rack rail car. These special rail cars have multiple levels to hold vehicles in place during the journey securely. Your car will be driven onto the lower level of the auto rack by the transport company. It will then be safely secured with heavy-duty straps over the tires and various tie-down points on the vehicle.

An attendant will double-check that everything is properly fastened before the train departs with your car onboard. The entire process takes just a short amount of time and ensures your vehicle arrives at its destination protected from weather and damage. However, only Amtrak offers auto train transport for individuals and that too only from Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL.

What type of truck does a car shipping company use?

A truck that carries cars is called an auto shipping truck but is more specifically known as a car hauler or auto carrier. These specialized trucks are equipped with a car shipping trailer designed to stack vehicles for highway shipping vertically. The most common type is called a dually, which has two rear driving axles for increased weight capacity.

Dually car haulers can typically hold between 2-5 average-sized passenger cars. Some transport companies operate huge semi-trailers for very large loads that can hold up to 10 cars or more. No matter which type of truck is used, your car will be safely secured into place using heavy-duty straps and mounts during transit.

How much does it cost to ship a car?

The average cost to ship a car depends on several factors, such as distance, company rates, and size/weight of the vehicle.

For most standard domestic car shipments within the United States, prices range between $500-$2,000 per shipment.

The mileage covered by the shipping is the biggest determinant of price, with costs usually falling somewhere around $0.50-$1.00 per mile.

Shipping cross-country could cost $1,000-$2,000, while transport within a few hundred miles might be $500-800.

Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs with higher weights also tend to have slightly higher rates. Getting quotes from a few reputable shipping companies lets you compare prices for shipping your specific car.

How long does it take to ship a car?

The duration of a car transport can vary significantly based on pickup/delivery locations and routes taken, but here are some general timelines you can expect:

• Local/Regional (within 300 miles): 1-2 days
• Inter-regional (300-1,200 miles): 2-6 days
• Coast-to-coast: 5-10 days. Special equipment/oversized loads: 5-14 days
• Most standard door-to-door car shipments are completed within 1 week or less.
• Most shipping trucks utilize the most direct highway paths and make limited stops, allowing an average speed of 60-70 miles per hour and since they drive 11 hours per day, it takes around 600-750 miles per day.

Slight delays are possible due to weather, traffic, or other unforeseen issues. Using an established transport company ensures they communicate estimated transit times upfront. Plan a week or slightly more for long distances so your car is delivered safely without being rushed.

How is my car prepared for shipping?

To get your vehicle fully ready for shipping, the driver will perform a multi-point inspection and make any needed preparations. Tires are checked and inflated, fluids topped off, and the battery disconnected to prevent accidental drain.

Any loose items inside or out are removed or secured. The driver may place protective coverings over exterior trim, lights, and other prominent surfaces to shield from dirt and small debris during travel.

They will then safely secure straps or mounts over each tire and other anchor points on the chassis to tightly bind your car into place on the carrier for the journey ahead. A prepped vehicle means less risk of issues getting to its destination.

What type of car shipping trailer is used?

As mentioned earlier, the most common type of trailer used by automotive shipping companies is called a dually car hauler. As the name implies, these specialized trailers have dual rear driving axles to handle heavy loads.

Dually car haulers are typically 44 feet long with an aluminum or steel frame construction. The cargo area features multiple stackable automobile carrier decks, sometimes 2 levels high, designed specifically for safely shipping vehicles vertically.

Ramps at both the front and rear allow drivers to drive cars directly onto the secure steel carrier decks using tie-down tracks and restraints to firmly hold each vehicle in place en route to its destination.

How are cars secured during shipping?

Proper securement is absolutely vital when shipping cars to ensure safe transport without risk of damage from unexpected movement. Drivers are highly trained in proper tie-down procedures using heavy-duty cargo straps designed for automotive shipping. Each car’s tires are first secured individually by wrapping straps tightly around them and engaging ratchet locks.

Additional straps are then wrapped horizontally across the body at specific reinforced points such as the front suspension, rear axle, and, in some cases, even through open windows. Many cars also have steel, or rubber-tipped anchor mounts bolted directly to the frame that strap tie-downs can hook into.

This multi-point securement forms a safely immobile “crib” around each vehicle, holding it stationary regardless of road conditions.

What should I do before leaving my keys for shipping?

Before relinquishing your keys for your vehicle to be transported, you should do a few things to prepare it.

• First, ensure your gas tank is full to avoid running out of fuel during shipping.
• You’ll also want to remove any loose personal items from inside the car like phones, chargers, loose papers, etc.
• Disconnect and stow the car’s battery to prevent accidental drain over multiple days in transit.
• Inflate tires to the proper pressure listed in the owner’s manual as well.
• Consider leaving a set of spare keys with a family member in case of emergency rather than shipping the only set.
• And remember to scrub your car to remove any bugs or dirt beforehand so it arrives shiny and clean.

Taking these small steps helps protect your investment on its journey.

What kind of trailers do enclosed car transporters use?

Different specialized equipment is used for enclosed car shipping, where vehicles will be shielded inside a protective trailer rather than out in the open. Known as enclosed auto transport trailers or car carrier trucks, these operate much like giant moving truck boxes on wheels.

They have rigid aluminum or composite construction, durable seals, and locking ramp doors at both ends. Custom-built vehicle carriers made of hardwood or steel securely hold multiple cars in climate-controlled isolation.

The enclosed design better protects valuable or classic cars from dust, bugs, rocks, and other road hazards than open carriers. These trailers can transport 2-8 cars depending on size, keeping each one parked safely during even the longest distance moves.

What if my car breaks down during shipping?

Even with the best preventative maintenance, rare mechanical issues can still arise unexpectedly miles from home. Professional auto transport companies have policies and protections if your vehicle were to experience a problem while in transit. Drivers are equipped with tools, supplies, and training to diagnose basic trouble and make temporary repairs if needed to get the car to its destination safely.

For bigger breakdowns requiring a shop, the carrier takes responsibility and coordinates towing to a repair facility until fixed. They also provide rental cars or alternate transportation if long delays occur. Reputable transporters carry commercial cargo insurance, and the carrier’s policy would cover any costs associated with returning your car to good working order, not you the customer.

How can I track my car during shipping?

Modern auto transport allows real-time vehicle tracking so customers always know where their cars are during transit. Most carriers offer this as a complimentary service when booking your shipment. You’ll receive specific instructions on how to access online tracking through the company’s website using your shipment number and pickup/delivery details.

This provides updates on your car’s current location displayed on a map. It also shows the estimated time of arrivals updated daily. Some transporters let you opt-in to receive automated text or email alerts when major milestones occur, such as departing origins or arriving at destinations. Tracking delivers visibility and assurance that your vehicle is progressing smoothly across the country as scheduled. It’s a nice peace of mind feature for customers.

What is the safest time of year for car shipping?

While professional auto transport can handle shipments year-round, the spring and fall shoulder seasons before and after peak tourist traffic are generally the safest times of the year to ship your car. This avoids extreme temperatures, heavy precipitation, and other potential hazards. In particular:

• Late March through May and September through mid-November see milder road conditions with less snow, sleet, or ice incidents nationwide.
• June through August tends to be hot months when heavy rains or thunderstorms can disrupt travel. Heat also adds strain on vehicles without A/C.
• December through February winter months increase the risk of crashes from slippery roads, high winds, and other poor winter weather impacts.

Of course, shipping companies regularly transport vehicles in all seasons, but these shoulder periods in the