15 questions.
Straight answers.
Everything you need to know before shipping your vehicle — from pricing and timelines to insurance, preparation, and what to do if something goes wrong.
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Every vehicle and every route is different. Rather than relying on generic pricing estimates, NTS evaluates your specific shipment and provides a transparent, itemized quote based on your vehicle, route, timing, and transportation requirements. No hidden fees. No surprises. Just a clear price before you book.
Every route is different. Transit times depend on distance, route, vehicle requirements, carrier availability, and seasonal conditions. Before dispatch, your NTS coordinator will provide a realistic estimated delivery window based on your specific shipment. We keep you informed throughout the process and communicate any meaningful changes along the way.
Open carriers are the standard multi-vehicle trailers you see on the highway. They are cost-effective and widely available, but your vehicle is exposed to the elements. Enclosed carriers are fully covered trailers that protect vehicles from weather, road debris, and prying eyes. Enclosed transport is strongly recommended for collector cars, exotics, and any vehicle with significant value or irreplaceable condition.
Yes. Every carrier in the NTS network is required to maintain active cargo insurance, which we verify before each shipment. Your vehicle's condition is documented with photographs before loading and again at delivery, creating a clear record of its condition before and after transport.
Someone must be present at both pickup and delivery to sign the Bill of Lading — the official condition report. This can be you, a trusted representative, a dealer contact, or a family member. If you cannot be present, let your NTS coordinator know in advance and we will work with you to arrange an authorized representative.
Keep the fuel tank between a quarter and a half full — enough to load and unload, but not so much that it adds unnecessary weight. Remove personal items from the interior; they are not covered by carrier insurance. Disable any toll transponders or parking passes. Document any existing damage with photos before pickup. Retract or remove any aftermarket antennas, spoilers, or accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Yes. NTS ships inoperable vehicles regularly. Carriers use winches and specialized loading equipment to handle vehicles that cannot be driven onto the trailer under their own power. There is an additional fee for inoperable vehicles, which is reflected in your quote. Please disclose inoperability when booking — it affects carrier selection and loading logistics.
No. Personal belongings should not be in the vehicle during transport. Carriers are insured for the vehicle itself — not for anything inside it. Items left in the cabin or trunk are transported at your own risk, are not covered under any cargo claim, and can add unaccounted weight that affects loading. Please remove all personal items before pickup.
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is the official condition report signed at pickup and delivery. It documents the vehicle's condition at each handoff — existing scratches, dents, paint chips, and any other pre-existing damage. Review it carefully before signing at both ends. If new damage appears at delivery that was not on the pickup BOL, note it on the delivery BOL before signing and contact NTS immediately.
For standard transport, booking 1–2 weeks in advance gives us the best ability to match you with the right carrier at the best rate. For enclosed transport of collector or exotic vehicles, 2–4 weeks is ideal. Last-minute shipments are possible but may carry a premium and limit carrier options. For auction pickups or event deadlines, contact us directly — we handle time-sensitive logistics regularly.
Yes. NTS provides vehicle transportation throughout all 50 states and to Puerto Rico. These shipments may involve overland transportation, ocean freight, or other specialized logistics depending on the destination. Because requirements and transit times vary by route, we provide personalized quotes based on the vehicle, origin, destination, and transportation requirements.
Document the damage on the delivery Bill of Lading before signing — this is critical. Take photographs immediately. Contact NTS within 24 hours of delivery. We will initiate a claim with the carrier's insurance on your behalf and advocate for a fair resolution. Damage claims filed after signing a clean BOL are significantly harder to process, which is why the delivery inspection matters.
Yes. NTS provides direct contact with your assigned transport coordinator throughout the shipment. You will have a phone number and email for your coordinator, who can provide real-time status updates. Many of our carriers also provide direct driver contact once your vehicle is in transit. We do not use anonymous ticket systems — you always have a person to call.
In most cases, yes. However, some residential streets, gated communities, or tight urban areas may not be accessible to a full-size transport trailer. In those situations, the carrier will arrange a nearby meeting point — typically a large parking lot or wide street — that is safe and convenient. Your coordinator will communicate any access limitations before pickup.
NTS takes a more hands-on approach to vehicle transportation. We maintain a vetted carrier network, independently verify insurance and safety information, and assign a dedicated coordinator to every shipment. You have a direct line to the person responsible for managing your vehicle from pickup through delivery.
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