This glossary explains common car shipping and vehicle transport terms to help you make informed decisions.
A
Auto Transport Broker – A company that arranges car shipping between customers and carriers.
Accessorial Fees – Extra charges for services like door-to-door pickup, oversized vehicles, or expedited shipping.
B
Bill of Lading (BOL) – A legal document outlining the terms of the car shipment and condition of the vehicle.
Broker Bond – A surety bond required for auto transport brokers to ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations.
C
Carrier – A licensed company that physically transports vehicles from pickup to delivery location.
Condition Report – Documentation of the vehicle’s condition before transport to protect against claims.
Cross Docking – Transfer of a vehicle from one carrier to another during transit.
D
Door-to-Door Service – Vehicle pickup and delivery at the customer’s location.
Drop Trailer – Trailer left at a location for carrier pickup later.
E
Enclosed Transport – Shipping where vehicles are fully covered for extra protection from weather and debris.
F
Flatbed Trailer – A trailer used for transporting vehicles, often for oversized or non-operational cars.
Fuel Surcharge – Extra cost added to cover fluctuating fuel prices during transport.
H
Hybrid Transport – A mix of open and enclosed carrier methods depending on route or vehicle requirements.
I
Insurance Coverage – Protection against damage or loss during transport, usually included but sometimes requiring extra purchase.
L
Loading – The process of placing a vehicle onto the carrier trailer for shipping.
Lift Gate Service – Use of a lift gate to load vehicles in areas without ramps.
M
Motor Carrier – A licensed company authorized by FMCSA to transport vehicles commercially.
O
Open Transport – Most common vehicle shipping method using open-air carriers.
Oversized Vehicle – Vehicles that require special transport equipment due to size or weight.
R
Rate Quote – Estimated price provided for a vehicle shipment based on distance, vehicle type, and service options.
Relocation – Transporting a vehicle when moving to a new city or state.
S
Seasonal Shipping – Adjusted transport pricing and timing during peak seasons like summer.
Shipper – The person or entity requesting vehicle transport.
Staging Area – Location where vehicles wait before loading onto a carrier.
T
Terminal-to-Terminal – Shipping service where vehicles are dropped off and picked up at carrier terminals.
Tracking – Monitoring vehicle location during transit, often via GPS or carrier updates.
U
Unloading – The process of removing a vehicle from the trailer at the delivery location.
Upfront Quote – A binding price provided before pickup, preventing surprise charges.