What Documents Do I Need to Ship My Car?
Shipping a car requires almost no paperwork from you. Here's the complete list of what you need, and what you don't, for a standard domestic auto transport.
The Good News: Very Little Paperwork Required
Domestic car shipping (within the 48 continental U.S. states) requires almost no documents from you. Here's the complete picture:
What You Actually Need
At Booking
- Nothing. You provide vehicle details and contact information through the quote and booking form. No documents required.
At Pickup
- Valid photo ID (for you or your authorized representative, used for identity verification if requested)
- One set of keys (ignition, doors, trunk)
- A copy of your booking confirmation is helpful but not required
At Delivery
- Valid photo ID (for you or your authorized representative)
- Your copy of the pickup Bill of Lading (for comparison during final inspection)
- Payment (for Cash Saver customers)
What You Do NOT Need
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle title | No | Not needed for domestic transport |
| Vehicle registration | No | Not needed in most cases |
| Proof of insurance | No | Carrier's cargo insurance covers the vehicle |
| Bill of sale | No | May be helpful for auction vehicles |
| Power of attorney | No | Only needed if a third party is signing for a leased/financed vehicle in specific cases |
Special Situations That Require More Documentation
Leased or Financed Vehicles
Check your lease or finance agreement. Some lenders require:
- Written notification that the vehicle is being transported
- A signed authorization letter (often just an email)
Web Auto Transport does not require this documentation from you, but your lender may.
Auction Purchases (Copart, IAA, etc.)
You'll need:
- Buyer ID / lot number from the auction
- Gate pass / lot release authorizing the carrier to pick up the vehicle
See Shipping from an Auto Auction for full details.
Military Shipments
You may need:
- Military ID for base access coordination
- PCS orders if seeking reimbursement through your military transportation office
Inoperable Vehicles from Out-of-State
No special documents, but disclose the condition clearly when booking.
The One Document That IS Essential: The Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is created by the carrier at pickup, you don't bring it, you sign it. It's the most important document in the entire process. See Understanding the Bill of Lading (BOL) for a complete guide.
Q&A
Q: Do I need to transfer the title to ship a car I just bought?
No. You can ship a vehicle before completing the title transfer. The car is being transported, not sold.
Q: What if I don't have the keys?
Keys are required for loading and unloading operable vehicles. If keys are missing, notify us at booking so we can plan accordingly.
Q: What if I'm shipping a car for someone else?
You'll need written or verbal authorization from the owner. The driver may ask for the vehicle owner's name at pickup.
No paperwork stress. Get a free quote at webautotransport.com, call (760) 932-2886. or use LiveChat. Email: info@webautotransport.com