Common Mistakes in Scheduling Car Shipping

Shipping a car isn’t something most people do often, which makes it easy to miss important steps. Whether you are moving across the state or across the country, avoiding common mistakes can save you time, stress, and extra costs.

If you are based in New York or shipping a car to or from the city, planning ahead becomes even more important. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make when scheduling car shipping and how you can avoid them.

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute

One of the biggest mistakes is trying to book a carrier just a few days before you need your car moved. While some companies offer rush service, it’s usually more expensive and may limit your options.

What to do instead:

• Book at least 1 to 2 weeks in advance
• If shipping during busy seasons (like summer), allow even more time
• Be flexible with your pickup window when possible

Planning ahead gives you more choices and often leads to better pricing.

2. Not Researching the Carrier

Some people choose the first company they find online without checking reviews, insurance coverage, or licensing. This can lead to poor communication, delays, or even damage with no proper coverage.

Things to look for:

• A registered and insured carrier
• Clear terms in the contract
• Positive reviews from verified customers
• No vague answers to your questions

Choosing a trusted company with experience is key to a smooth shipping experience.

3. Ignoring the Type of Transport You Need

Not all shipping methods are the same. Some people automatically go with the cheapest option without thinking about their vehicle type or needs.

For example, if you own a luxury or classic car, enclosed transport may be worth the extra cost. On the other hand, open transport is perfectly fine for most standard vehicles and is more budget-friendly.

If you are using a New York car delivery service, ask what types of carriers they offer and what’s best for your vehicle and route.

4. Overlooking Delivery and Pickup Conditions

Carriers need space to load and unload your vehicle safely. In busy areas like New York, tight streets or restricted zones can make door-to-door service difficult.

To avoid issues:

• Let the company know if there are any delivery restrictions in your area
• Plan for a nearby meeting point if needed (like a parking lot or wide street)
• Be available or assign someone to meet the driver

Preparing for pickup and delivery can help avoid last-minute delays.

5. Skipping the Inspection

Before your car is picked up, a driver will inspect it and make a note of any existing damage. Some people don’t pay much attention during this process, but it’s very important.

Make sure to:

• Walk around the car with the driver
• Take your own photos (from all angles)
• Keep a copy of the inspection report

This protects you in case there’s any new damage during transit.

6. Leaving Personal Items in the Car

Many people think they can pack personal items in the car while it’s being shipped, but this is not usually allowed. Even if the company lets you leave a small amount, there are still risks.

Items left inside are not covered by insurance and may shift or cause damage during transport. They can also add extra weight, which could lead to added fees or even delay pickup.

Best practice:

• Remove everything from the car, including chargers, tools, and paperwork
• Keep only the spare tire, jack, and essential car tools

7. Not Confirming Details in Writing

Sometimes, people book a service over the phone and assume everything is set. But without written confirmation, you could run into problems later.

What to confirm:

• Pickup and delivery windows
• Total cost and deposit
• Transport type (open or enclosed)
• Insurance details

Getting everything in writing gives you something to refer back to in case of confusion.

A Quick Wrap-Up

Scheduling car shipping doesn’t need to be difficult, but small mistakes can cause unnecessary stress. Start early, ask the right questions, and make sure everything is clearly confirmed. Choosing a reliable company makes a big difference, especially when shipping from a busy area like New York. Whether you are moving a car across the country or just a few states away, the right plan can make the process feel much easier.

If you want support from a team that understands the details of vehicle transport, East Coast Auto Haulers is a solid choice. They provide insured, professional service with a focus on clear communication and timely delivery. With experience moving vehicles across state lines, they strive to keep the process simple and stress-free.

Call (844) 931-8774 to learn more!