How car delivery works: from booking to key handover

If you’re a car hauler or thinking about becoming one, understanding the complete car delivery process is key to your success. Auto transport is about much more than just driving — it’s a series of important steps that protect you, the vehicle, and the customer.

In this article, we’ll break down how car delivery works — from booking a load to handing over the keys — so you can deliver vehicles smoothly, avoid common mistakes, and boost your reputation as a professional driver.

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1️⃣ Booking the Right Load

Every successful delivery starts with booking the right load.

Whether you find jobs through load boards, dispatchers, brokers, or direct customers, choosing the right load will save you time, money, and headaches.

What to check before booking:

• Vehicle type & size

• Pickup & delivery locations

• Pickup/delivery dates

• Rate and payment terms

• Broker/customer reputation

  
  

💡 Pro Tip: Always verify the job details — unclear loads often cause unexpected problems. Stick to brokers or clients with a proven track record.

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2️⃣ Planning Your Route

Once you’ve secured your load, the next step is route optimization. Poor planning leads to wasted fuel, extra miles, and late deliveries.

Plan for:

• Shortest safe route

• Fuel stops

• Overnight parking

• Traffic hotspots & construction zones

• Weather conditions

Modern dispatch systems and GPS apps for truckers can help you avoid restricted roads and low bridges.

💡 Pro Tip: Reduce deadhead miles by planning loads in clusters or along your preferred lanes.

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3️⃣ Vehicle Pickup & Inspection

When you reach the pickup location, it’s time for inspection and loading — a critical step that protects you from liability.

Inspection Checklist:

• Walk around the vehicle with the shipper

• Document pre-existing damage (photos are a must!)

• Record odometer reading

• Have the shipper sign the Bill of Lading (BOL)

Loading Tips:

• Check your trailer and equipment before loading

• Use proper tie-downs (winch/straps)

💡 Pro Tip: Take clear, visible photos of the vehicle at pickup — these can save you in case of claims or disputes.

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4️⃣ Safe Transit

In-Transit Best Practices:

• Drive smoothly, especially on rough roads

• Avoid hard braking and sudden turns

• Communicate ETA updates with your dispatcher or customer

  
  

💡 Pro Tip: Use apps or truck-specific GPS to stay aware of traffic, closures, and hazards in real time.

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5️⃣ Vehicle Delivery & Handover

The final leg of the job is delivering the vehicle — and this is your moment to shine.

A professional delivery experience builds trust and gets you repeat business.

Steps for a successful delivery:

• Confirm delivery time with the receiver in advance

• Unload the vehicle carefully

• Conduct a joint post-delivery inspection

• Have the receiver sign the BOL and confirm the vehicle’s condition

• If there are any claims of damage, stay professional and document everything thoroughly.

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6️⃣ Paperwork & Payment

Once the delivery is complete, it’s time to handle paperwork and payment tracking.

Final Steps:

• Submit signed BOL and required documents

• Invoice the broker or factoring service promptly

• Track payment and follow up if needed

💡 Pro Tip: Keep both digital and physical copies of all paperwork for at least 12 months.

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By following these tips, your business will run smoothly and profitably. It will also help you avoid a drop in your company’s rating and save your time, money, and nerves.