Shipping a Car You Bought Online, Out of State

Buying a car online out of state is common now — but then it's sitting hundreds of miles away at a seller, dealer, or auction lot you've never visited. Here's how to get it home without a headache.

1. Line up transport before you pay in full

Get your shipping estimate before you close, so the transport cost is part of your math. On Loadgency you post the pickup and delivery, set your price, and see the flat fee up front — no surprise added to the car's cost.

2. Coordinate pickup with the seller

The carrier needs a real contact at the pickup end — the seller, dealer, or lot. Share the seller's name, address, phone, and hours, and let the seller know a carrier (not you) will arrive. For private sales, confirm the car will be accessible and the keys will be available.

3. Running or not?

Confirm whether the car runs and drives. A non-running vehicle needs a carrier with a winch, which affects price and equipment — say so when you post so the right driver claims it.

4. Protect yourself with documentation

Because you can't be there for pickup, the inspection photos and Bill of Lading at the pickup end are your record of the car's condition when it left. Ask the seller to be present for the walk-around, or have the carrier photograph any pre-existing damage. Compare against delivery photos before you accept.

5. Pay the driver on delivery

With Loadgency it's COD — you pay the assigned carrier directly when the car arrives at your door, and our flat fee is the only markup. No deposit sitting with a stranger, no money in the middle. You inspect, you pay, you're done.