How Car Shipping Works
From your first quote to final delivery, here's exactly what to expect when you ship a vehicle with Bronco Car Hauling.
Get Your Free Quote Call 719-249-6543Shipping a Vehicle Is Easier Than You Think
We've shipped over 12,000+ vehicles in 15 years. Here's how the process works from start to finish.
Get Your Free Quote
Start by getting an instant price estimate through our online quote tool or by calling us at 719-249-6543. You'll need a few basic details: the vehicle's year, make, and model, plus the pickup and delivery locations. Our quotes are based on current market rates, distance, vehicle dimensions, and your chosen transport type. There are no hidden fees and no obligation. Most customers get their quote in under 60 seconds. If you have questions about pricing or want to compare open versus enclosed options, our transport advisors are happy to walk you through it.
Schedule Your Pickup
Once you're ready to move forward, we'll lock in your pickup date and assign a carrier. We work with a vetted network of drivers who are licensed, bonded, and insured. You'll get a pickup window (usually 1 to 3 days) so you can plan ahead. Before the scheduled date, we'll confirm the details and send you the driver's contact information. If your schedule changes, just let us know. We can adjust your pickup window at no extra charge as long as you give us at least 48 hours' notice. Our dispatch team handles all the coordination so you don't have to chase anyone down.
Vehicle Pickup and Transport
On pickup day, the driver arrives and performs a thorough inspection of your vehicle. They'll document any existing scratches, dents, or other cosmetic details on a Bill of Lading, which you'll both sign. This creates a clear record of your vehicle's condition before it goes on the trailer. Once loaded, the driver secures your car using professional-grade tie-downs and wheel straps. During transit, your vehicle is fully insured. You'll receive updates along the way, and you can call our office anytime for a status check. Most shipments travel between 300 and 500 miles per day depending on the route.
Delivery and Final Inspection
When your vehicle reaches its destination, the driver will contact you (or your designated representative) to arrange the final handoff. You'll walk around the vehicle together and compare its current condition to the original Bill of Lading. If everything checks out, and it almost always does, you sign off and you're done. In the rare case that any damage occurred during transit, we'll walk you through the insurance claims process step by step. From the moment you get your quote to the moment you get your keys back, our team is here to keep things simple and stress-free.
What to Expect During Your Shipment
Shipping a vehicle is a straightforward process, but it helps to know what's normal. Here's a quick rundown of common questions we get from first-time shippers.
Transit Times
Delivery timelines depend on distance and route availability. Local shipments within Colorado or to neighboring states like Kansas, Nebraska, or New Mexico usually take 1 to 3 days. Cross-country routes (Colorado to Florida, California, or New York) typically take 5 to 10 days. We'll always give you an estimated delivery window when you book, and we'll update you if anything changes along the way.
Communication
We don't leave you guessing. Once your vehicle is picked up, you'll get regular updates from our dispatch team. If you ever want a live status update, just call us at 719-249-6543. We pick up the phone.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal
Most of our customers choose door-to-door service, which means the carrier picks up and delivers as close to your addresses as safely possible. In some cases (narrow streets, low-clearance areas, gated communities), the driver may need to meet you at a nearby open lot. Terminal-to-terminal is also an option if you'd prefer to drop off and pick up your vehicle at a designated location.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping
Checklist Before Pickup
Getting your car ready doesn't take long, but these steps make a real difference:
- Remove personal items from the interior and trunk (carrier insurance doesn't cover them)
- Take out toll transponders, garage door openers, and any loose aftermarket accessories
- Keep the gas tank at about a quarter full to reduce weight
- Make sure the battery is charged and the vehicle starts
- Disable any aftermarket alarm systems
- Note any existing damage and take dated photos
- Leave one set of keys with the driver (they need to load and unload)
Non-Running Vehicles
We can absolutely ship vehicles that don't run or start. Just let us know upfront, because the carrier will need a winch or special equipment to load it. There's usually an additional fee of $100 to $200 for non-running vehicles.
Insurance Coverage
Every carrier in our network is required to carry cargo insurance, which is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This insurance covers your vehicle from the moment it's loaded until it's delivered. You'll receive a copy of the carrier's insurance certificate before pickup.
On top of the carrier's policy, Bronco Car Hauling carries additional coverage for extra peace of mind. If anything happens to your vehicle during transit, we handle the claims process for you. In 15 years and over 12,000+ vehicles shipped, damage claims have been extremely rare, but when they do happen, we make sure you're taken care of quickly.
Last updated: April 1, 2026
Car Shipping FAQs
How long does it take to ship a car?
Most shipments within the continental U.S. take 3 to 10 days depending on distance. A route from Colorado to California typically takes 3 to 5 days, while coast-to-coast shipments can take 7 to 10 days. We'll give you a specific delivery window when you book.
How much does it cost to ship a vehicle?
Pricing depends on distance, vehicle size, transport type (open or enclosed), and time of year. A typical cross-country shipment ranges from $800 to $1,500. Short-haul routes within Colorado or neighboring states often run $400 to $700. Get an instant quote on our site for exact pricing.
Is my vehicle insured during transport?
Yes. Every carrier in our network carries cargo insurance that covers your vehicle while it's on the trailer. We also carry our own additional coverage. You'll receive proof of insurance before your vehicle is loaded.
Can I ship personal items inside my car?
You can leave a small amount of personal items in the trunk, usually up to 100 pounds. Items must be below the window line and securely stored. Keep in mind that personal belongings aren't covered by carrier insurance, so don't leave anything valuable.
What's the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport uses an open-air car carrier, which is the most common and affordable option. Your car is exposed to weather and road debris, but damage is extremely rare. Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer that provides complete protection, making it the best choice for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?
Someone over 18 needs to be present at both pickup and delivery to sign the Bill of Lading and complete the vehicle inspection. If you can't be there personally, you can designate a representative like a friend, family member, or dealership contact.
How do I prepare my vehicle for shipping?
Remove all personal items, toll transponders, and aftermarket accessories that could come loose. Make sure the gas tank is about a quarter full. Take photos of your vehicle from every angle before pickup. Disable any alarm systems and make sure the battery is charged.
Can I track my vehicle during transport?
Yes. We provide tracking updates throughout the shipping process. You'll know when your vehicle has been picked up, where it is in transit, and when to expect delivery. Our team is also available by phone if you need a live update at any point.
Ready to Ship Your Vehicle?
Get a free quote in under 60 seconds or call us at 719-249-6543.