Shipping a Classic, Antique, or Exotic Car
Classic, antique, and exotic cars deserve specialized care during transport. Here's how enclosed shipping, liftgates, and white-glove handling protect your most valuable vehicle.
Why Standard Shipping Isn't Enough
A 1967 Mustang Fastback, a Ferrari F8, or a 1955 Mercedes-Benz Gullwing deserves better than a spot on a nine-car open hauler. Classic, antique, and exotic vehicles require:
- Enclosed transport to protect from weather, road debris, and UV exposure
- Soft-tie or wheel-net securing never chains on custom paint or bodywork
- Liftgate loading for low-clearance vehicles to prevent scraping
- Carriers experienced with high-value vehicles
- Higher insurance limits to match the vehicle's actual value
Definitions: Classic vs. Antique vs. Exotic
| Type | Typical Definition | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Classic car | 20-40 years old, collectible | 1985 Ferrari Testarossa, 1970 Dodge Challenger |
| Antique car | 45+ years old | 1957 Chevy Bel Air, 1965 Shelby Cobra |
| Exotic car | High-performance luxury/supercar | Lamborghini Huracán, McLaren 720S, Bugatti |
Recommended Setup: Enclosed Transport with Liftgate
For most classic and exotic vehicles, the ideal transport setup is:
- Hard-sided enclosed trailer (maximum weather and debris protection)
- Hydraulic liftgate for loading, eliminates ramp scraping risk
- Soft wheel straps or wheel nets no contact with body or frame
- Carrier with documented specialty vehicle experience
How to Prepare Your Classic or Exotic for Shipping
- Photograph extensively: every panel, all four sides, interior, engine bay, undercarriage. Date-stamp every photo.
- Fuel under ¼ tank. Reduce fire risk during transport.
- Remove or secure loose accessories: antennas, mirror caps, spoiler end caps.
- Convertible tops: ensure the top is fully secured and sealed.
- Disable alarm systems that may not be familiar to the driver.
- Inflate tires to spec: check for slow leaks that could worsen in transit.
- Note any quirks in writing for the driver: sensitive throttle, unusual parking brake, manual transmission sequence.
Insurance for High-Value Vehicles
Standard carrier cargo insurance typically covers $100,000–$250,000. For vehicles worth more:
- Request a carrier with higher policy limits (up to $500,000 or $1,000,000)
- Consider supplemental insurance through your collector car insurer (Hagerty, Grundy, American Collectors Insurance)
- Ensure the Certificate of Insurance names the vehicle type explicitly
Ask your Web Auto Transport logistics specialist about high-value shipping options when booking.
Auto Show, Auction, and Event Transport
We regularly coordinate transport to and from:
- Barrett-Jackson (Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Las Vegas)
- Mecum Auctions (nationwide)
- SEMA Show (Las Vegas)
- Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance
- Private collections and storage facilities
Event transport requires coordinated scheduling with venue logistics teams. Book at least 3-4 weeks in advance for show-season moves.
Q&A
Q: Is open transport ever acceptable for a classic car?
For a reliable, well-maintained daily driver classic (e.g., a running 1980s muscle car), open transport may be acceptable. For concours-condition, freshly restored, or irreplaceable vehicles, enclosed is always the right choice.
Q: How are soft-tie straps different from standard straps?
Soft ties contact the tire only (not the wheel, rocker panel, or undercarriage). They eliminate the risk of scratching chrome, custom paint, or original bodywork.
Q: What if my classic car doesn't run?
We arrange a winch or liftgate-equipped enclosed carrier. Inoperable exotic vehicles are handled regularly, just disclose the condition when booking.
Q: Do you transport to international auto shows?
Web Auto Transport handles domestic U.S. transport. We can deliver your vehicle to a port or freight forwarder for international shipments.
Shipping something irreplaceable? Call (760) 932-2886) / (760) WEB-AUTO for white-glove transport options, get a non-obliged quote at webautotransport.com, or use LiveChat. Email: info@webautotransport.com. USDOT# 4574725 | FMCSA Licensed and Bonded.