Frequently asked questions

Is Autoline Transport a broker or a carrier?

Autoline transport is both a broker and an auto transport carrier. With our in-house carrier network (ICC/MC-595008), our fleet covers approximately 10 major routes across the US. As a Bonded Broker (ICC/MC-737302), we deal with a large network of auto shipping and car transport companies who service the remainder of the US routes. We deal only with reputable carriers who are properly licensed and insured, and parallel the standards that of Autoline Carriers. When contracting a load to a network carrier, Autoline will act as the liaison between the carrier and you, the customer. We have a well established base of trucks providing quality service to assure you a worry free move. So whether your on an Autoline Truck or a Contracted Truck, you can rest assured that your getting the best service in the industry either way.



Is my vehicle insured?

Your vehicle(s) will be insured against in-transit damage caused by carrier negligence or equipment failure by the auto shipping or car transport truck that we assign. These auto shipping and car transport trucks, by law, carry a minimum of $750,000 public liability insurance. Autoline requires our carriers to hold an additional $50,000 per vehicle minimum, Cargo Insurance Policy for your protection. Autoline’s Protection Guarantee: If your vehicle(s) incur damage during transit at the fault of our carrier, and if said carrier’s insurance does not pay for these damages in full Autoline will pay your personal insurance deductible (up to $500).



What is door-to-door service?

Door-to-Door means the auto shipping or car transport driver will get as close to your door as they can legally and safely. Many cities have restrictions on large trucks that prohibit them from driving into some residential areas. Transport trucks are enormous and need lots of room to maneuver and turn around, so if access to your home is restricted by narrow streets, low-hanging trees, speed bumps or tight turns, the driver may ask that you meet the truck at a large parking lot nearby such as a grocery store.



When can you pickup my vehicle?

Pickup timeframes for auto transport are a bit hard to nail down – Your vehicle will usually be picked up within 1-3 days of the date you request, but could be longer (up to 7 days) on certain overbooked or un-common routes. Talk to your Autoline rep to get a better idea of the pickup timeframes on your specific route.



How long does transport take?

Delivery times for auto shipments are pretty straight forward – Delivery takes about 1-2 days for every 500 miles traveled. So for example; if you are shipping from Houston, Texas to Los Angeles, Ca, about 1500 miles, you should expect your vehicle to be delivered within 3-6 days.



Do I have to pay a deposit?

With Autoline you'll pay nothing until your order is scheduled for pickup.



Do I need a credit card to reserve myt shipment?

Yes, making a reservation online or over the phone requires a credit card.



Do I have to be present at pickup and/or delivery?

Yes, you or your designated individual must be present at both the pickup and delivery.



Can I leave my vehicle with someone else?

Yes, as long as they have been added to the bill of lading as the official pickup and/or delivery contact.



Will my vehicle be driven?

The auto shipping driver will drive your car on and off the car transport, and may have to unload and re-load your car occasionally during transport to optimize space on the trailer. This unloading / reloading is kept to a minimum. Your car should not be driven in any case other than this. Odometer readings should be noted at pickup and delivery. Discrepancies should be noted on the delivery receipt and signed off by the driver.



Can I leave personal items in the vehicle?

Autoline allows no more than 75 pounds of soft goods such as pillows or blankets may be left in the vehicles trunk only. No items are allowed to be left inside the passenger area. Please understand that the items that you put in your vehicle will not be available to you until the vehicle is delivered. Please do not put items such as medicine, presents, or any other item that is needed by a specific time. If the truck is delayed, the items will not be available to you until the vehicle is delivered. Not only are auto shipping and car transport companies not insured for household goods, it is against the law for them to transport anything except your vehicle. The auto shipping and car transport truck is subject to inspection by the DOT and the Police at every state line and can be fined up to $10,000 if found to be carrying household goods. The car is subject to being impounded and all fines and expenses will be passed along to the owner of the car. Under NO circumstances can the car contain firearms, hazardous materials, illegal substances, or contraband.



How do I prepare my vehicle for shipment?

Secure or remove any loose parts or specialty items such as ground effects, spoilers, fog lights, or wide mirrors, and lower or remove the antenna if possible. Repair or seal any tears or open seams on convertible tops to prevent fast-moving air from causing further damage. Make sure the radiator has adequate levels of fresh antifreeze. Be sure that the battery is secure, has no leaks, and that the fluid levels are low enough to accommodate expansion. Leave only about ¼ tank of gas in the vehicle, as a full tank of gasoline adds a lot of costly weight to the transport. Deactivate or disconnect anti-theft devices. There can be serious problems and unnecessary expenses if the driver is locked out or if the alarm goes off during the auto shipping process or the car transport. And finally, make sure that your vehicle is clean enough to ensure an accurate pickup inspection.



When do I pay?

Once your order is scheduled for pickup you'll be requierd to pay $200 per vehicle deposit. Balance will then be due upon delivery.



How can I track my shipment?

You can track your order through our online tracking system. If you need more information than what is posted on your account, then by all means feel free to contact us anytime by email or phone.



What are your hours?

Below are our business hours. All times are Pacific Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm
Sat – Sun 10am – 2pm