What documents do I need to ship my vehicle?

The documentation requirements for auto transport are simpler than most people expect. You do not need the vehicle title to ship a car. Many customers ship vehicles they have recently purchased, inherited, or are transporting for someone else, and may not have the title in hand. The only essential requirement is that you have the keys to the vehicle so the driver can start it and drive it onto the carrier.

The primary document involved in auto shipping is the Bill of Lading (BOL), which the carrier driver creates at pickup. The BOL is a combined contract and condition report — it documents the vehicle's existing condition (every scratch, dent, and ding), the terms of transport, the pickup and delivery locations, and the agreed-upon price. Both you and the driver sign the BOL at pickup, and you will sign it again at delivery after the final inspection. Keep your copy of the BOL — it is your legal proof of the vehicle's condition before transport.

You will also need a valid photo ID and a way to pay the delivery balance. If someone other than you is handling pickup or delivery, they should have a copy of your booking confirmation, the keys, and authorization (a simple written note or email works). For military PCS moves, you may need a copy of your orders. International shipments have additional customs documentation requirements — contact us for specifics on cross-border transport.