10 Tips for a Safe Auto Transport 2025-2026 Edition

Auto transport is simple once you know what to look for. These tips will help you avoid common issues, understand timing, choose the right option, and work confidently with your carrier and agent.

1. Pay by Card or Secure Bank Transfer

This is one of the strongest protections you have. Cards give you fraud protection and the ability to dispute unauthorized charges. Cash, Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, and similar instant-transfer methods offer no protection and are commonly used in scam situations.

At Mercury, we keep things simple and secure by charging one payment, by card or secure bank transfer, once your carrier is assigned. There’s no cash at delivery, no split payments, no last-minute surprises, and no extra fees, just a straightforward, protected transaction from start to finish.

2. Understand Your Three Pricing Options

Every transport has different timing needs, so we offer three simple choices:

• Standby – Our lowest starting price if your schedule is flexible.
• Priority – This week’s standard rate on your route, with pickup and price confirmed by your agent. Most customers choose this.
• Rush – Fastest scheduling for urgent moves.

Pick the one that matches your timing and budget. If you’re unsure, your agent can help.

3. Know How Pickup Windows Work

Transport isn’t like parcel delivery. Carriers plan routes around traffic, other vehicle stops, weather, and capacity. Your pickup happens inside a window that varies by service tier, so the carrier can route your stop safely and efficiently.

We keep you updated as that window approaches and confirm the exact timing once the driver sets the route.

4. Verify Insurance and Carrier Credentials

Every carrier is required to have active cargo insurance and the proper authority to move vehicles. At Mercury, carriers are sourced through Central Dispatch and other national dispatch tools, then screened through Mercury Shield, our internal carrier-screening process that checks safety records, insurance, and past performance.

5. Make Sure the Driver Arriving Matches the Carrier You Were Told

Your confirmation will include the carrier name and sometimes the driver’s name. When the truck arrives, make sure the carrier name matches what we gave you. This simple step helps you avoid confusion and adds an extra layer of safety.

6. Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport

A clean car helps the driver easily document its condition at pickup. Remove personal items, turn off alarms, and keep the fuel level around one-quarter. If the vehicle isn’t running, let us know, non-running cars require different equipment.

7. Be Available During Your Pickup Window

Drivers run tight schedules. Being reachable makes the handoff smooth and avoids delays. If you can’t be present, designate someone you trust for pickup and delivery.

8. Review the Inspection at Pickup and Delivery

The driver will complete a condition report before loading your car. Walk around the vehicle with them and confirm everything is accurate before signing. Do the same at delivery. Note any discrepancies immediately.

9. Keep Communication in One Thread

Email, text, or call — just keep everything in one place. This helps your agent stay on top of updates and avoids missed details about timing or the carrier’s route.

10. Choose a Transport Company That Puts Everything in Writing

A reliable company should clearly explain how pricing, timing, insurance, and communication work. Your quote, pickup window, and payment process should always be transparent.

Whether you’re shipping a seasonal car, a new purchase, or a family vehicle, these tips help you avoid surprises and feel confident from start to finish. And if you ever want help choosing the right option or understanding timing, we’re here to make the process easy.