Classic car transport

Ship your classic, collector, antique, and vintage cars affordably, safely, and completely protected with WeShipCars

Price match

Zero upfront payment

Insurance coverage

24/7 customer support

Price match

Zero upfront payment

Insurance coverage

24/7 customer support

Real stories from real people - see how we make car shipping smooth, safe, and stress-free:

Customer experiences, in their own words:

Rated 5.0 by hundreds of satisfied shippers

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Classic car transport

What is classic car transport?

Classic car transport is a specialized service for transporting classic, antique, vintage, and collector vehicles from Point A to Point B. These services typically use enclosed trailers for added protection and include extra care in handling to ensure the car's preservation throughout its journey.

When do you need classic car transport?

You need classic car transport when moving a vintage, antique, collector, or classic car for events, auctions, or relocations. Specialized transport ensures added protection and careful handling to preserve the car’s condition, making it ideal for valuable or delicate vehicles that require extra care during transit.

What is the safest way to ship a classic car?

The safest way to ship a classic car is by using enclosed car transport. This method protects the vehicle from weather, road debris, and potential damage during transit. Also, choose a reputable classic car hauler with experience handling classic cars, ensuring the highest standards of care and professionalism.

If you want to ship a classic car, the other option is open car transport. It is safe, but your classic vehicle won’t be as protected because the carrier uses an open trailer. Open car transport is cheaper for several reasons, mainly because multiple vehicles can be shipped simultaneously, thereby sharing the cost.

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Real stories from real people - see how we make car shipping smooth, safe, and stress-free:

Customer experiences, in their own words:

Rated 5.0 by hundreds of satisfied shippers

Why classic car owners prefer vintage car shipping:

Vehicles are shipped with care

With vintage car shipping, we transport your investment with the utmost care and attention from the moment of collection to the final delivery. We’ll support you throughout the shipping process, and you can feel confident in your special vehicle arriving safely and on time.

Zero exposure to the elements

If you choose our enclosed classic car transport option, your vehicle isn’t exposed to the elements or extreme weather during shipping.

Regular status updates are available

Shipping your classic car can be stressful, especially for the first time. We make the process easy by providing regular status updates and the contact information of the truck driver and our dispatch department.

Experienced classic car transport companies

Shipping vehicles can be unpredictable, even at the best of times, but with our years of classic car experience, you know your precious vehicle is being taken good care of at all times.

Which auto transport service do classic, vintage, antique, and collector car owners prefer?

Enclosed car shipping

Classic car owners prefer enclosed car shipping because it’s the safest way to ship your car. Classic car transport companies can tailor the service to meet your unique needs. For example, if you need hydraulic gates to protect your low-ground clearance car, we can provide them with no problem. We can also pick up your latest dream car purchase from any auction and deliver it as close as legally and safely possible to your home.

Why choose WeShipCars for your vintage car shipping services

Zero upfront payment

With WeShipCars, there’s no need to pay in advance. Payment is only due once a carrier has been assigned to your shipment.

Free cancellation

We understand life can be unpredictable, so we offer free booking cancellation to give you the flexibility you need.

Full insurance coverage

Ship your car confidently, knowing it’s fully covered during shipping. Comprehensive cover is included in the price, so you can have complete peace of mind throughout the classic car transportation process.

Fully vetted and insured car shipping carriers

Your vehicle’s safety and your satisfaction are our top priorities. That’s why we work exclusively with carefully screened, fully insured classic car transporters who meet our high standards for professionalism and care.

Customizable services and dedicated car shipping experts

Choose our classic car transport services, and you can tailor them to meet your needs. Our dedicated classic car transport experts are by your side throughout the process to ensure you have the best experience possible.

24/7 customer support

Our customer support team is available around the clock to answer your questions and address your concerns at any stage of the process.

How does classic vehicle shipping work?

Classic car covered transport is a straightforward process. We ship your vehicle in three easy steps:

1.
Get a quote and book your order: Request your quote to get things moving. Use our free instant online calculator to receive pricing in seconds, call us at (708) 300-0063 to speak directly with our car shipping experts, or connect through live chat.
2.
We pick up your car: We assign a fully vetted and insured carrier to collect your car from a location as close as safely and legally possible to your chosen address.
3.
We deliver your car: Before arrival, the driver will contact you to inform you they’re nearing the destination. You’ll then inspect your car to confirm its condition and sign to complete the delivery.

step 1

Get a free, instant quote and book your order

Start your auto transport journey by requesting classic car shipping quotes. Use our free instant car shipping calculator for quick pricing, or connect with our car shipping experts by phone or live chat for a more tailored experience.

The online calculator is the fastest and easiest option. Just enter a few basic details, and you’ll get your quote within seconds. Provide your pick-up and delivery city or ZIP code, the year, make, and model of your vehicle, its condition, the number of cars you wish to ship, and the type of transport you need.

We also need to know the date when your vehicle is ready for pick-up. This is known as the First Available Pick-Up Date in the industry.

We’ll also ask for your email address and telephone number. We use your email and phone number to send a copy of your quote and to verify your authenticity.

The quote you receive is all-inclusive, meaning there are no hidden charges. You are not obligated to complete the process or make your booking at this stage. Your quote is valid for 14 days, but if you decide to book later, we can recalculate the cost without needing you to input your details again. Our system securely records all your information.

If you’re unhappy with the price, take advantage of our price match promise. Contact us immediately; we’d appreciate the opportunity to match a direct competitor's price.

When you’re ready to book, use the link in your quote email to go directly to the booking page. Alternatively, you can secure your classic car transport services by calling (708) 300-0063 or using our live chat. At this point, we require no upfront payment.

We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your booking, let us know immediately. Cancellation is free before we schedule your shipment. If we’ve already assigned a carrier, we’ll retain any charged amount up to $199 and refund the difference.

We have an extensive network of fully insured and vetted carriers. We’ll find the best one to suit your needs. Once a carrier is assigned, we’ll contact you to explain the next steps and provide the carrier’s details.

After confirming all your shipment details, you can choose how to pay. We offer two options: cash on delivery (COD) or full payment via credit/debit card or Zelle at the time of booking.

Start your journey confidently and efficiently with our seamless, customer-focused classic car transport service!

step 2

We pick up your vehicle

The carrier will reach out the day before your scheduled pick-up and again a few hours prior to arrival. This isn’t just a courtesy. It’s to confirm that someone will be available to hand over the vehicle. If you can’t be there, you may appoint another person, provided they are 18 or older.

The carrier ensures the pick-up location is accessible for large trucks and trailers. If there are parking or access restrictions, low-hanging trees, or overhead powerlines, discuss a more suitable nearby location with the driver. You might meet the driver at a parking lot, workplace, or a wider street.

When the carrier arrives, you and the driver carefully inspect your vehicle. Any existing damage, such as dents, dings, scratches, or chips, is noted on the Bill of Lading (BOL), which may be a paper document or an app used by carriers.

Once you’ve completed all documentation, you must hand over the keys and bid farewell to your vehicle. Rest assured, you’ll be reunited with your car in just a few days.

For peace of mind, you can contact our car shipping experts, the carrier, or the driver for regular updates via phone, live chat, or email.

step 3

We deliver your vehicle

Before long, the carrier will call to let you know they’re on their way. You can expect one call the day before and another a few hours prior to arrival. During these calls, they’ll confirm you’re available to receive your vehicle and that the delivery location is safe and compliant.

If you cannot receive your vehicle, you can nominate someone to act on your behalf. You could choose a neighbor, relative, friend, or work colleague. We're happy with this arrangement as long as they are over 18.

When your vehicle arrives, inspect it closely with the driver and compare it with the original Bill of Lading (BOL). Once everything is in order, sign the Bill of Lading (BOL) to accept delivery and make the necessary payment.

Real stories from real people - see how we make car shipping smooth, safe, and stress-free:

Customer experiences, in their own words:

Rated 5.0 by hundreds of satisfied shippers

Ready to ship?
Your journey starts here:

GET AN INSTANT QUOTE

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does classic vehicle transport cost?

The cost of collector car transport depends on factors such as market demand, distance, type of vehicle, value and condition, time of year, fuel prices, pick-up and delivery locations, and any extra services you require.

Understanding the factors that impact antique car transport costs can help you make informed decisions.

Market demand: Vintage car shipping prices fluctuate based on market demand, which can change cyclically (seasonally) or non-cyclically (due to mass relocations). Urban areas see price fluctuations based on demand, while rural areas generally have higher prices due to lower demand.
Truck availability: Truck availability correlates with market demand, with fewer trucks leading to increased demand and higher prices.
Distance: While distance is a pricing factor, market demand often dictates prices. Busy short routes may have high prices, while longer routes might have lower prices.
Vehicle dimensions: Bulkier and heavier vehicles cost more to transport due to height and weight restrictions, optimizing truckload capacity.
Vehicle value: Transporting expensive vehicles generally costs more, especially when using enclosed car shipping for added protection.
Vehicle condition: Non-running vehicles require special equipment and more handling time, affecting shipping costs.
Seasonality: Shipping during peak seasons like summer and holidays can result in higher costs, while off-peak times may offer savings.
Fuel prices: Fuel costs influence shipping prices, with higher fuel prices increasing overall costs.
Expedited/express transport: Priority pick-up and quicker delivery options are more expensive due to the increased service level and faster timelines.
Guaranteed pick-up date: Ensures pick-up within a specified window, incurring additional costs for pre-allocated carriers.
Transport type: Open car transport is more common and cost-effective, while enclosed car shipping offers added protection but is more expensive.
Pick-up and delivery locations: Certain locations may incur extra costs due to accessibility issues or additional fees.
Extra services: Additional services beyond standard shipping may come with extra charges.
Discounts: Qualifying for military or student car shipping discounts can help reduce shipping costs.

How long does classic car auto transport take?

The duration of vintage car shipping can vary based on several factors, including distance, the specific route, potential delays (weather or traffic), and a carrier’s schedule and policies.

Generally, shorter distances within the same region might take a few days, while longer distances, such as cross-country classic car shipping, could take 7-9 days.

While distance is the most obvious factor, others can affect the time it takes to ship your classic vehicle door-to-door:

Pick-up and drop-off locations: Shipping from metropolitan areas tends to be faster due to better infrastructure and higher demand. In contrast, rural areas may experience longer transit times due to limited access and fewer service providers.
Distance: Longer distances naturally take more time, with transit times ranging from 1-2 days for short distances to 7-9 days for cross-country shipments.
Seasonal demand: Peak moving seasons (late spring to early fall) see higher demand and shorter transit times. At the same time, winter months may experience longer wait times due to reduced demand and holiday breaks for carriers.
Weather conditions: Severe weather, such as snowstorms or heavy rain, can slow transport, as safety takes precedence. Poor driving conditions lead to slower driving speeds or temporary halts.
Road conditions and traffic: Road construction, detours, and traffic congestion in urban areas can cause delays, while rural areas may have fewer alternative routes and slower responses to road issues.
Driver regulations: Strict regulations limit driving hours for truck drivers, ensuring safety but potentially extending transit times.
Vehicle type: Larger, heavier, or specialized vehicles may require more time for loading, handling, and finding suitable carriers.
Vehicle condition: Operable vehicles can be shipped more quickly than inoperable ones, which require special handling and preparation.
Transportation method: Open transport is faster due to higher availability and simultaneous shipment of multiple vehicles. In contrast, enclosed car shipping offers more excellent protection but may take longer due to fewer available carriers and more meticulous handling processes. For classic vehicle transport, enclosed car shipping is the method of choice for most owners because of its protection.
Service level: Express/expedited services prioritize faster delivery but come at a higher cost, while terminal-to-terminal shipping may add time due to additional drop-off and pick-up requirements.

Is enclosed car shipping the best way to ship my classic car?

Enclosed car shipping is often considered the best way to ship a classic car due to its higher protection level. Here are the key reasons why enclosed transport is ideal for classic cars:

Protection from the Elements: Enclosed trailers shield your classic car from weather conditions such as rain, snow, hail, and sun, which can cause damage over time.
Security: With enclosed shipping, your vehicle is not visible to the public, reducing the risk of theft or vandalism during transit.
Minimized Risk of Road Debris: Enclosed trailers protect your car from road debris, such as rocks, dirt, and other particles that could cause scratches or dents.
Specialized Handling: Enclosed transport often includes services from carriers experienced with handling classic and luxury cars, ensuring careful loading, unloading, and securing of the vehicle.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your classic car is being transported in a secure, protected environment can provide significant peace of mind, especially for valuable or rare vehicles.

While enclosed car shipping tends to be more expensive than open transport, its added protection and security make it the preferred choice for many classic car owners.

Is my car insured during transportation?

Your vehicle is covered under the classic car hauler’s cargo insurance policy from pick up to delivery. WeShipCars pre-screens all motor carriers we work with to ensure that they meet the insurance requirements of the US Department of Transport (DOT) regulation.

How much your vehicle is insured for depends on the classic car transporter’s coverage and the value of your vehicle. Open car carrier's cargo insurance coverage is typically between $100,000 and $150,000. For enclosed car carriers, the cargo insurance coverage is between $250,000 and $3,000,000.

Is top load another option for shipping my classic car?

Top load is another option for shipping your classic car, especially if you want a balance between cost and protection. Here's how top-load transport works and why it might be suitable for your classic car:

Reduced Risk of Damage: Top load transport places your car on the upper deck of an open or enclosed carrier, reducing the risk of damage from road debris and fluids leaking from vehicles above.
Better Air Flow: Being on the top deck means your car benefits from better airflow and less exposure to dust and dirt kicked up by the road compared to vehicles on the lower deck.
Minimized Contact: Vehicles on the top deck are less likely to be jostled by other cars during loading and unloading, which can help prevent scratches and dents.
Cost-Effective: While more expensive than standard open transport, top load is generally less costly than fully enclosed shipping, offering a middle ground for budget-conscious classic car owners.
Availability: Many carriers offer top load as an option, making it a relatively accessible choice for those seeking additional protection for their classic car.

If you're considering top-load transport, discuss it with our car shipping experts to understand the specific benefits and availability of your route. This option provides an extra layer of care without the higher costs associated with enclosed shipping.

How can I best prepare my collector car for transport?

Preparing your collector car for transport involves several essential steps to ensure its safety and protection during the journey. Here are some detailed tips to help you get your car ready:

Clean your car thoroughly: Give your vehicle a thorough wash to remove dirt and grime and make it easier to spot any pre-existing damage. Clean the interior and remove any personal items. The transporter’s insurance does not cover personal items and can add unnecessary weight.
Document the condition: Take detailed photos of your car from multiple angles, including close-ups of any existing damage, such as scratches, dents, or chips. Make a written record of any pre-existing damage. This documentation can be helpful for insurance purposes.
Perform maintenance checks: Check and top off all fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.) but avoid overfilling. Ensure you properly inflate your tires. Over-inflated or under-inflated tires can cause issues during loading and unloading. Confirm that the battery is fully charged and secure.
Secure loose parts: Remove or secure any loose parts, such as antennas, spoilers, and side mirrors. Secure or remove any loose items inside the car to prevent damage during transport.
Check for leaks: Inspect your car for any fluid leaks. If you find any, have them repaired before transport to avoid additional charges or issues during transit.
Disable alarms: If your car has an alarm system, disable it to prevent it from going off during transport, which can be a nuisance and may drain the battery.
Reduce fuel level: Keep the fuel tank between one-quarter and one-half full. This is enough for loading and unloading but reduces the car's weight for transport.
Disable toll tags and EZ passes: Remove or disable any toll tags or EZ Passes to avoid accumulating toll charges during transport.
Communicate with your classic car hauler: Inform your transporter of any special instructions or quirks your car might have, such as a non-standard starting procedure. Provide your contact information and that of the person receiving the vehicle if it’s not you.
Confirm pick-up and delivery details: Verify the pick-up and delivery locations and ensure they are accessible for large transport trucks. If not, arrange for a more suitable nearby location.

These steps ensure your collector car is well-prepared for a safe and smooth transport experience.

How will the carrier load my classic car?

When transporting your classic car, the carrier inspects it upon arrival, noting any existing damage. They'll use low-angle loading ramps to ensure safe loading without scraping. Once on the trailer, the car is secured with wheel straps to prevent movement. After double-checking that everything is secure, they'll update the Bill of Lading and notify you of the estimated arrival time.

Can I track the shipment of my antique car?

Certainly! You can stay updated on your antique car shipment status through regular updates from the carrier. By contacting the carrier directly and reaching out to WeShipCars' dispatch department, you can get timely information about the progress and estimated arrival time of your vehicle during transit.

Are there any specific requirements for shipping a classic car internationally?

Shipping a classic car internationally typically requires compliance with customs regulations, proper documentation (title, bill of sale), and possibly additional insurance. Ensure the vehicle is in good condition, with no leaks or mechanical issues. Choose a reputable international car shipping company experienced in handling classic vehicles.

Can I include spare parts or accessories with my classic car?

You can usually include spare parts or accessories with your classic car when shipping, but there are limitations and considerations. Ensure they are securely packed and documented. Some shipping companies may have restrictions or additional charges for transporting extra items. It's best to check with your scheduled classic car transport carrier for specific guidelines.

How do I verify the credibility of a classic auto transport company?

Verifying the credibility of a classic auto transport company involves several steps:

Check Reviews and Testimonials: Look for reviews on independent websites and testimonials from previous customers.
Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and has adequate insurance coverage.
Research Reputation: Look for complaints or warnings from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or similar consumer protection agencies.
Ask for References: Request references from the company and follow up with them to gauge their experience.
Review Contracts and Policies: Carefully read the company's contracts, terms, and conditions to understand their policies and procedures.
Communication and Transparency: A reputable company communicates clearly, answers your questions promptly, and is transparent about its services and pricing.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the classic auto transport company you choose is credible and reliable.

Can I request a specific pick-up or delivery date for my classic car?

Ensuring a specific delivery date for your classic car is challenging due to factors affecting transport timelines. However, WeShipCars offers a guaranteed pick-up date option for convenience and peace of mind. You can discuss this option with our car shipping experts to see if it aligns with your needs and their service offerings.

What if my classic car is inoperable?

If your classic car is inoperable, specialized transport options are available. Companies that transport classic cars often have the equipment and expertise to handle non-running vehicles. It's essential to inform our car shipping experts beforehand so they can make the necessary arrangements and provide you with accurate pricing and timelines for transport.

Can classic cars be transported during winter months?

Yes, you can transport classic cars during the winter months. However, you must consider weather conditions and potential impacts on transport schedules. Transport companies take precautions to protect vehicles from harsh weather, such as using enclosed trailers or adjusting routes to avoid areas prone to severe winter conditions.

Are there any restrictions on the types of classic cars that can be transported?

Yes, depending on the classic car transporter's policies and the vehicle's condition, there can be restrictions on the types of classic cars that can be transported. Some companies may have limitations on heavily modified vehicles, extremely oversized vehicles, or non-operable vehicles. Before booking, it's best to check with our car shipping experts regarding specific restrictions.