Your auto transport company will take a lot of factors into consideration before giving you a vehicle shipping rates estimate. The point of origin and delivery of the vehicle, the date of departure and the size of the car are all taken into consideration. The weight of the car is also a major issue to be considered. A lighter car will cost lesser than an SUV or similar larger model. This is because your car will likely be transported on a large car transporter along with a number of other cars that are all heading to the same point of delivery. A heavier car will cost the company more to load and will take up more weightage space on the transporter.

Once the car transport company has given you their auto shipping quote, expect them to ask for a deposit. The reason for this is quite simple. A deposit will ensure that you continue with the services of the same auto transport company from the time of signing the papers to the time of delivery. Car transport companies incur a considerable expense in transporting your car regardless of the manner in which it is transported or the make of the car. Making a deposit ensures that the customer won't decide to switch car transport companies midway. If a customer decides to cancel a car shipping order, a cancellation fee will also be charged before the deposit is refunded. This is normal practice and should not be cause for worry.

The remainder balance will be paid at the time of delivery. Most companies will ask for cash payments. Credit or check payments are not desired methods of payment during delivery.