Dealer Shipments

When buying from a dealer in another state, transport coordination is straightforward — but requires attention to timing. The vehicle must be paid for and titles/paperwork must be completed before the carrier can pick up. Most dealers have a dedicated lot or staging area for transport pickup. Confirm with the dealer that the vehicle will be accessible and that someone at the dealership is authorized to release the vehicle to the carrier and sign the Bill of Lading.

Auction Shipments

Auction purchases (Copart, IAAI, Manheim) have stricter pickup deadlines. Most auctions charge daily storage fees starting 2–3 business days after the sale. Delayed transport can cost $15–$35 per day in storage. Book your transport before or immediately after winning the auction — don't wait until after payment clears. Auction lots have specific gate hours and pickup procedures that the carrier must follow. Provide the lot number, gate code, and any special instructions at booking.

Non-Running Auction Vehicles

A significant percentage of auction vehicles are non-running — salvage titles, flood damage, mechanical failures. Non-running vehicles require a carrier with winch or forklift capability, which limits the available carrier pool and increases cost by approximately 15%. If the vehicle doesn't roll, steer, or brake, be upfront about the condition at booking. A carrier who arrives expecting a running vehicle and finds a non-runner can refuse the load or charge an additional fee on the spot.

Title and Release Issues

The carrier needs authorization to take the vehicle. For dealer purchases, a paid invoice or dealer release form is typically sufficient. For auction purchases, you'll need to provide the carrier with the auction release documentation and gate pass. If the title hasn't been transferred yet (common with auction buys), the carrier can still transport the vehicle — they're moving property, not transferring ownership. But the release documentation must be in order.

Cost Considerations

Dealer and auction shipments follow the same pricing structure as personal moves, with two potential additions: storage fees if pickup is delayed, and non-running surcharges if applicable. Location also matters — rural auction yards may be harder for carriers to access than metro dealerships. If the auction is in a low-traffic area, carrier availability may be limited and pricing slightly higher.