Auto Transport - Buyers Guide

Auto Transport Terminology

Someone who is in need of auto transport services may not always be familiar with the terminology used in the industry. We have put together a list of the more commonly used terms in the auto transport services sector so that you can speak like a pro and not get flustered wondering what something means.

Accessories delivery: The delivery of any vehicle accessories either along with the car being transported or separately.

Auto shipper: Another term used to describe a transporter of motor vehicles.

Automobile transport vehicle insurance: The insurance coverage that must be held by all companies offering auto transport services.

Backhaul: The return trip of a vehicle.

BBB: Better Business Bureau – a good place to call when doing a background check on any auto transport companies you may be planning to hire.

BOL: Bill of lading. The document explaining in detail exactly what you are shipping, with what company, to where, the value, the insurance – basically everything. It generally also comes with a tracking number so that you can track your shipment once it has left your home town.

Binding estimate: The cost agreement reached with your auto transport supplier when you sign your contract. The total cost of the services described in the estimate are set and cannot change after the contract is signed.

C.O.D.: Cash on delivery. Most auto transport companies require you to pay cash upon delivery. If you plan on paying with credit, then be prepared to have an additional 2-3% of the cost tacked onto your final bill.

Carrier: Can either refer to the company with which you are doing business or the type of truck or vehicle being used to physically transport your car to its ultimate destination.

Covering: Whatever material is used to protect your vehicle for transport. The most common material used is tarp.

EDT: Estimated delivery time. Most auto transport companies can only provide you with an estimate of when a vehicle can be delivered since most trucks carry several shipments at once.

Enclosed transport: A carrier that is protected on all sides. There are different types of enclosed transports including tarp-covered, partially enclosed and fully enclosed with solid mass on all sides. Enclosed transport is generally used for high-end cars or antiques – any vehicle that you want to protect from any kind of exposure.

Hauler: The mechanism normally used to load cars onto the transport trucks, trains, ships or aircraft.

Non-binding estimate: The quote given to you by the auto transport company based on an initial conversation about the services you require. The terms, conditions and cost are non-binding and can be revised either up or down based on changes to the service required.

Open auto transport: The mid-level option of auto transport. It is the option most commonly chosen for the transport of vehicles. The trucks that transport cars using an open transport method can carry up to 8 vehicles.

Pick-up-and-delivery rates: Different auto transport companies charge varying rates for pick-up and delivery. Generally the rates vary based on whether the vehicle will be picked-up at your home or at the terminal and delivered to your door or to the company’s terminal.

S.I.T.: Storage in transit.

Shipping mileage: The total distance between the point of pick-up and the point of delivery.

Zip cover: A zippered cover sometimes used to cover vehicles during transport.

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I had to put some items in storage and didn't know how to choose the best place. Within minutes I received a few phone calls from companies who were happy to help me. What a relief it was to discover this system!

Adrian, Buyer
Devon, UK