How to Choose a Car Transporter — A Buyer's Guide

Handing your car over to a stranger and trusting it to arrive safely takes a bit of research. Here's what to look for before you book a car transporter.

1. Check the equipment is right for your car

Not all transporters are set up for all vehicles. Before booking, check:

• Low-clearance cars: Sports cars, modified vehicles, or anything with lowered suspension need a low-loader or tilt-and-slide truck — not a standard ramp transporter. Ask explicitly if they can handle your car's ground clearance.
• Large vehicles: Long-wheelbase vehicles, large SUVs, or vans may not fit on standard car transporters. Describe your vehicle accurately so the driver can confirm they have the right kit.
• Non-runners: Make sure the transporter has a winch or skates — they shouldn't be pushing your car by hand.

2. Verify their insurance

Ask specifically: what is your Goods in Transit insurance, and what is the per-vehicle cover limit? A professional transporter will tell you straight away. If they're vague, it's a warning sign. Make sure the cover limit is appropriate for your vehicle's value — particularly important for prestige, classic, or modified cars.

3. Read reviews carefully

Look for reviews that mention: vehicle condition on arrival, communication during transit, and whether the driver stuck to the agreed time window. Reviews that just say "great service" tell you less than ones that describe what specifically went well. One or two detailed positive reviews about vehicle transport are more valuable than twenty generic ones.

4. Ask about the delivery window

For long-distance transport, drivers often can't give an exact delivery time — traffic and route logistics make that difficult. But they should be able to give you a realistic window (e.g. "between 2pm and 6pm") and commit to calling you an hour before arrival. If they can't give any indication of timing, that's worth probing.

5. Document the vehicle before handover

Do a walkaround with the transporter before the car is loaded. Note existing marks together — scratches, chips, dents — and take dated photos. A professional transporter will expect this and won't be offended. It's standard practice and protects both parties.

6. Declare everything upfront

Tell the transporter:

• Whether the car is a runner or non-runner
• Any modifications that affect loading (lowered suspension, wide body kit, roof rack)
• Whether the battery is flat or there are any mechanical issues
• Any existing damage, so there's no dispute about what was pre-existing

Surprises on collection day cause delays and frustration. The more information you give upfront, the smoother the process.

Finding a trusted car transporter

Post your vehicle transport job on We Got The Move for free. Describe your vehicle and route, receive bids from experienced transporters with verified reviews, and choose the one you trust. You pay £9.99 to unlock contact details — then deal directly with your driver, no middleman.