What Documents Are Required for Auto Transport?

The Most Important Documents: Photo ID

• The first document you should get ready is your government-issued ID (driver's license or passport). These documents will be used to verify vehicle release and pickup. 
• Next up is vehicle registration. 

Vehicle registration documents are not often required, but you should prepare for them in case they are. Get armed to the teeth! 

• Title: When (and When Not) You Need It. The title shows ownership of transported goods or cargo. They're often not required domestically.  

The Bill of Lading (The Single and Most Important Document)

The bill of lading is required domestically and internationally. 

• What's a bill of lading? 

A bill of lading is a contract that serves as proof of ownership of goods or cargo, a condition report, and a receipt. 

The bill of lading is signed at pickup and delivery.

• Why Bill of Lading Matters

It protects you and the carrier—legal proof of the transport service and a damage claim.

Insurance Documents:

• Ask the carrier if your goods or cargo are insured and what is covered (and what is not). 
• Once your vehicle is on the carrier, the auto transport company is responsible for it.  Ensure the carrier's certification includes coverage.

Special Situations That Require Extra Paperwork 

• Situation of leased vehicles. 
• Situation of inoperable vehicles. 
• The scenario may involve military or government relocations. 
• International auto transport.  

How to Prepare Your Documents Before Pickup

• Keep copies (digital and physical). Remarkably, if the name matches the booking, and there's no mismatch in the name. 
• Reviewing the bill of lading is essential to avoid blind spots. 
• Ensure authorized contacts (officially permitted persons) are available to sign, receive, or handle shipments.

Final Checklist: Auto Transport Documents You'll Need 

• Your Photo ID

Government-issued ID (driver's license or passport) to verify your identity at pickup or delivery. 

• Booking Confirmation

Booking Confirmation giving the necessary details for your transport order.

• Bill of Lading (provided at pickup) 

Contains shipping contract and proof for claim. 

• Authorization (if applicable).

Who else can receive the vehicle, where, and when?

In Conclusion 

Shipping documentation doesn't have to be stressful.  Understanding how shipping documentation works directly translates to smooth shipping.

FAQs

What documents are required to ship a car with an auto transport company?

Here are the four documents you typically need to ship your car:

• Valid photo ID (driver's license or passport)
• Booking confirmation from the auto transport company 
• Bill of Lading (issued at pickup and signed at delivery)
• An authorization letter if someone else is releasing or receiving the vehicle.  

Do I need a car title or registration to transport my vehicle? 

No, a car title is not required for auto transport. However, you will need to provide proof of identity and authorization. 

What is a bill of lading, and why is it essential for auto transport? 

The bill of lading is the most critical document in auto transport that serves as 

• A receipt for your vehicle 
• A condition report noting existing damage
• And ultimately serving as a legal contract between you and the carrier.