Car Moving Services: A Guide to Transporting Your Vehicle

Whether you are moving house, buying a car from another part of the country or arranging a longer-distance relocation, car moving services can take the effort out of getting a vehicle from A to B. Depending on your needs, a provider may transport your car on a carrier, drive it to its destination or arrange international shipping.

What Are Car Moving Services?

Car moving services transport vehicles between locations. They are used by individuals, businesses, dealerships and collectors. A provider will typically arrange a collection point, move the vehicle by road or sea, and deliver it to an agreed destination.

Some services operate within the UK, while others handle international transport. The right option depends on the distance, type and value of the vehicle, your timescale and your budget.

Common Types of Vehicle Transport

Open transport

An open carrier transports vehicles on a trailer exposed to the weather and road conditions. It is a common choice for standard cars and is often more affordable than enclosed transport. However, the vehicle may be exposed to rain, dust and road debris during the journey.

Enclosed transport

With enclosed transport, the vehicle travels inside a covered trailer. This offers extra protection and may suit classic, prestige, high-value or delicate cars. It generally costs more, and availability can be more limited.

Driveaway services

A driver collects the car and drives it to its destination. This can be convenient when a carrier is not practical, but it adds mileage to the vehicle. Before choosing this option, check how the provider handles fuel, tolls, driver cover and any unexpected delays.

International car shipping

For overseas moves, vehicles may be transported by sea, often in a shipping container or on a roll-on/roll-off vessel. International transport can involve extra paperwork, customs procedures, port charges and import requirements. Ask the provider to explain which parts of the process are included in the quoted price.

How Much Does It Cost to Move a Car?

The price depends on several factors, including the distance, vehicle size and condition, transport method, collection and delivery locations, and how quickly the car needs to arrive. Enclosed transport and international shipping usually cost more than standard open transport. Difficult access, non-running vehicles or additional handling may also affect the quote.

When comparing prices, check what is included. A low quote may not cover every charge, so ask about collection, delivery, insurance, storage, cancellation terms and any possible extra fees.

How to Choose a Car Transport Provider

• Check experience and reputation: Look for clear contact details, recent customer feedback and experience transporting vehicles similar to yours.
• Ask about insurance: Confirm what cover applies while the car is being handled and transported. Ask about limits, exclusions and how to report damage.
• Get a written quote: Make sure the quote states the collection and delivery arrangements, estimated timescale, transport method and any additional costs.
• Confirm who is doing the transport: Some providers use partner carriers. Ask who will collect the vehicle and who to contact during the move.
• Discuss access and vehicle condition: Tell the provider if the car is not running, has low ground clearance or is difficult to access.
• Check the terms: Read the booking conditions, including rules for delays, cancellations and changes to the collection or delivery address.

Preparing Your Car for Transport

A little preparation can help the collection and delivery go smoothly:

• Remove personal belongings and loose items from the car.
• Take photographs of the vehicle from several angles before collection.
• Note any existing scratches, dents or other damage on the handover paperwork.
• Leave only the amount of fuel requested by the provider.
• Check that the alarm and any security devices will not cause problems during transport.
• Provide accurate details about the car’s condition, keys and any special handling requirements.

At delivery, inspect the vehicle in good light before signing the paperwork. If you notice new damage, record it clearly and contact the provider promptly, following the claims process set out in your agreement.

Making the Move Easier

Car moving services can save time and help reduce the stress of relocating a vehicle. By choosing a suitable transport method, checking the provider’s insurance and terms, and preparing the car in advance, you can make the process more straightforward. Request written quotes from several providers and compare the details—not just the price—before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Transport Services in the UK

1. How much does it cost to transport a car 20 miles?
2. Can you hire someone to pick up a car?
3. What is the cheapest way to transport a car?
4. How much do car transporters cost?
5. Will the AA move my car?
6. What is the 12 car rule?
7. How much is it to get a car moved?
8. Is it possible to move a car?

How much does it cost to transport a car 20 miles?

The cost of transporting a car 20 miles depends on factors such as the vehicle’s size and condition, the collection and delivery locations, the transport method and the provider’s minimum charge. Short journeys may have a minimum fee, so the price may not be proportional to the distance. For an accurate estimate, request written quotes from several providers and check whether collection, delivery and insurance are included.

Can you hire someone to pick up a car?

Yes, you can hire a professional car moving service to collect a vehicle and deliver it to a chosen destination. Depending on the provider, the car may be transported on a carrier or driven by an authorised driver. You’ll usually need to give the collection and delivery addresses, the vehicle’s details and its condition. Before booking, check the cost, estimated timescale, insurance cover and whether the service can collect from your specific location.

What is the cheapest way to transport a car?

The cheapest way to transport a car is usually by open carrier, especially if you can be flexible about collection and delivery dates and use locations that are easy for the transporter to access. Comparing written quotes from several providers can help you find a competitive price, but check what each quote includes, such as insurance, collection, delivery and any extra charges. If the car is drivable, a driveaway service may also be worth considering, though it adds mileage and may involve fuel or other costs.

How much do car transporters cost?

The cost of using a car transporter depends on factors such as the distance, vehicle size and condition, collection and delivery locations, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. Urgent bookings, difficult access and non-running vehicles may also increase the price. Ask for a written quote and check whether it includes insurance, collection and delivery, and any additional charges, so you can compare providers fairly.

Will the AA move my car?

The AA may be able to recover your car if it breaks down, depending on your membership and the circumstances, but this is different from arranging a car-moving service for a house move or a long-distance transfer. Check your cover and contact the AA to confirm what recovery options are available; if you need planned transport, you may need to book a vehicle transport provider.

What is the 12 car rule?

The “12 car rule” is not a standard UK law or industry-wide rule for car moving services. The phrase may be used by an individual provider to describe a carrier’s capacity or its own booking arrangements, so its meaning can vary. If it appears in a quote or contract, ask the company to explain exactly what it means and whether it affects the price, collection date or delivery arrangements.

How much is it to get a car moved?

The cost of moving a car depends on the distance, vehicle size and condition, transport method, collection and delivery locations, and how quickly it needs to arrive. Open transport is generally more affordable than enclosed transport, while non-running vehicles or difficult access may add to the price. For an accurate estimate, request a written quote and check whether it includes collection, delivery, insurance and any additional fees.

Is it possible to move a car?

Yes, it is possible to move a car using a professional car transport service. Depending on the distance, vehicle and budget, it can be carried on an open or enclosed transporter, driven to its destination by an insured driver, or shipped overseas. Before booking, check the provider’s insurance, collection and delivery arrangements, costs and estimated timescale, and let them know if the car is not roadworthy or has any special requirements.