Driveaway Service: An Alternative to Car Shipping

Driveway auto shipping is a unique option for shipping your vehicle safely and efficiently without loading it into traditional open or enclosed transport but using a vetted driver to drive it to the delivery point.

While this auto transport method can be efficient, cost-effective, and convenient, it also carries unique risks. Many vehicle owners barely really know what a driveway service entails. 

In this guide, we break down what driveway shipping is, how it differs from traditional shipping, and when it makes sense to use it. Let’s dive in. 

What Driveway Service Actually Means

Driveway service means a licensed, insured driver drives your vehicle from pickup to delivery.   Instead of loading the vehicle onto a trailer, the driver drives it to the destination under its own power.   

It’s ideal for single-vehicle relocations, dealership movements, fleet transfers, or situations where the vehicle needs to arrive road-ready.  

How It Differs from Traditional Auto Transport

Driveaway Service vs.Traditional Auto Transport

When Driveaway Service Makes Sense

A driveway can make sense when: 

• You need one vehicle relocated: a dedicated driver can move a single car without waiting for a multi-car carrier.  
• Driveaway also makes sense when the trailer has reached full capacity; having someone drive the vehicle provides another transportation option.  
• It’s also a reasonable option when the vehicle needs to arrive operational. The driver has already kept it up and running and road-tested it.  
• If timing is important, Driveaway is a no-brainer because it optimizes the route and eliminates loading time. 

The Trade-Offs to Consider 

• Added Mileage and Wear 

This is one thing you can't rule out—your vehicle is doing the traveling.  

A 1,000-mile relocation means roughly 1,000 additional miles on the odometer, along with corresponding fuel consumption, tire wear, and mechanical exposure.   

Carrier transport is designed to avoid miles driven by the owner. That’s one of its core benefits.  

• Limited Availability 

Traditional auto transport has a large network. Drive-away is a limited company because it needs qualified drivers willing to take the specific route. 

• Different Pricing Structure 

Driveaway pricing isn’t simply the per-mile carrier rate used in conventional auto transport. 

In this case, the price can reflect: 

• Driver availability 
• Distance and route 
• Fuel 
• Travel expenses 
• Vehicle type 
• Delivery requirements 
• Timing and scheduling. 

So, it’s better to compare the total driveway quote against the carrier quote rather than using per mile. You will see the difference more clearly.  

Questions to Ask Before Booking Drive-Away Service 

Before handing over the keys to the Driveaway  company, ask these questions for safety purposes: 

• Is the driver properly licensed and insured to operate my vehicle? 
• What insurance covers my vehicle while the driver is transporting it? 
• How will the vehicle's mileage and condition be documented before pickup? 
• Who pays for fuel, tolls, and other travel expenses? 
• What happens if the vehicle breaks down during the trip? 
• Is the quote price all-inclusive, or are there some additional charges? 
• Will I receive pickup and delivery inspection records?

Conclusion

Driveaway service is a legitimate auto transport option that doesn't replace standard shipping, but it's a useful alternative when it fits. But If you want a standard shipping, we can help you to get an accurate shipping quote.

FAQ

Is driveaway service more expensive than traditional car shipping?

Yes. Driveaway shipping can be more expensive than traditional auto shipping when it involves long distance. 

Who drives my car during a driveaway service?

A certified, insured, and vetted driver from the auto shipping company you opt for.  

Does my car accumulate extra mileage with DriveAway service?

Yes. One of the key downsides of driveaway auto shipping is that it increases the vehicle's mileage.  

Is driveaway service insured the same way as carrier transport?

Yes. Driveaway service is insured the same way as carrier transport.  

Can I track my vehicle during a driveaway delivery?

Yes. You can track your vehicle during a drive-away delivery depending on your arrangement with the transport company.