As online car buying becomes more common, dealerships are no longer limited to serving local customers. Buyers are now shopping nationwide for the best deals, unique models, or better availability. For dealerships, this creates an exciting opportunity to expand their market—but it also introduces a big challenge: how to ship cars to customers across state lines efficiently, affordably, and legally.
What is in this Article?
- Expand Your Sales Nationwide: Reach more buyers and move niche or slow-moving inventory by offering out-of-state car shipping—ideal for online shoppers seeking better deals or rare models.
- Choose a Trusted Transport Partner: Work with FMCSA-registered, fully insured carriers that offer real-time tracking and dealership integration to ensure smooth, scalable deliveries.
- Stay Compliant and Keep Customers in the Loop: Handle title, registration, and state-specific requirements properly while providing clear, proactive communication throughout the shipping process.
This guide breaks down everything dealerships need to know about cross-state vehicle delivery—from logistics and carrier selection to compliance and customer experience.
Why Dealerships Are Shipping Cars Across State Lines
Before diving into the “how,” it’s important to understand the “why.” Dealerships are embracing out-of-state car shipping for several key reasons:
- Online sales growth: Consumers browse, finance, and purchase vehicles online more than ever.
- Inventory reach: Selling to out-of-state buyers helps move slow or niche inventory.
- Higher margins: Some dealerships can command better prices in regions with less vehicle supply.
- Customer convenience: Home delivery adds major value and can differentiate your dealership.
With the right process in place, shipping cars across state lines can be seamless and profitable.
Step-by-Step: How Dealerships Can Ship Cars to Out-of-State Customers
Image Credit Goes to AutoStar Transport Express
1. Partner with a Reputable Auto Transport Company
The first step is choosing the right shipping partner. Most dealerships work with licensed car transport brokers or carriers who specialize in transporting cars from state to state.
What to Look for:
- FMCSA registration (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
- Fully insured carriers
- Experience with dealership deliveries
- Tracking and real-time updates
- Scalability to handle volume during busy sales months
Some top providers even integrate with dealership CRM systems to simplify the shipping process.
2. Choose the Right Transport Method
Dealerships typically use one of two transport types:
- Open carrier: More affordable and common; best for standard vehicles.
- Enclosed carrier: Offers protection for luxury or exotic cars; more expensive.
If the customer has specific preferences or the vehicle is high-value, offering both options builds trust.
3. Coordinate Pickup and Delivery Schedules
Work closely with your transport provider to schedule the pickup from your dealership and delivery to the customer’s home or designated location.
Pro Tip: Provide a delivery window rather than a specific day to account for traffic, weather, or DOT restrictions.
4. Prepare the Vehicle for Transport
Before shipping, ensure the car is ready:
- Clean interior and exterior
- Remove all personal items
- Inspect and document condition (photos recommended)
- Disable toll tags and alarms
- Ensure minimal gas (¼ tank is ideal)
These steps reduce liability and make the process smoother for both carrier and customer. For more in depth guidance review a guide how to ship your car for smooth car transportation.
Read also: The Benefits of Using a Fax Email Service for Business Communication
5. Handle Title, Registration, and Compliance
Each state has its own requirements for titling and registering out-of-state purchases. Dealerships should:
- Work with their title and tag department or use a DMV outsourcing service
- Provide the correct temporary tags
- Ensure the vehicle meets the destination state’s emission or inspection requirements
Keeping customers compliant ensures a hassle-free experience and avoids legal issues.
6. Communicate with the Customer Throughout the Process
Customers appreciate clear, proactive communication. Provide:
- Estimated delivery timelines
- Carrier contact info (if allowed)
- Real-time updates or tracking (if available)
- Final delivery confirmation and inspection process
Follow-up after delivery to confirm satisfaction—it builds trust and encourages referrals.
Pro Tips to Streamline the Process
- Automate shipping quotes on your website for online buyers
- Use a reputable auto transport provider with a dealer portal or API integration
- Offer shipping incentives or include delivery in premium packages
- Leverage volume discounts by bundling multiple shipments
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Cutting corners with cheap transporters – It can backfire with delays or damage
- Skipping insurance verification
- Lack of transparency with customers on timelines
- Not staying up to date with state-by-state title regulations
Final Thoughts
As more customers buy vehicles sight unseen, dealerships that master interstate shipping gain a serious competitive edge. With the right shipping partner, a strong process, and a customer-first mindset, delivering cars across state lines can be just as easy as handing over the keys at the lot.
Whether you’re a small used car dealer or a major franchise, investing in your shipping infrastructure now can unlock growth and customer loyalty for years to come.
