car hauler business plan

We earn commissions if you shop through the links below.  Read more

Car Hauling Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Launch Your Own Profitable Car Hauling Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on January 31, 2022

Investment range

$6,950 - $14,600

Revenue potential

$180,000 - $900,000 p.a.

Time to build

1 – 3 months

Profit potential

$130,000 - $180,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Here are the most important aspects to think about when starting a car-hauling business:

• Equipment — You will need reliable equipment like a truck, hauler trailer, tie-downs, straps, winch, and ramps. Also consider investing in safety gear such as safety cones, reflective vests, gloves, and hard hats.
• Location — Choose a location that’s close to major highways and thoroughfares to reduce travel time and fuel consumption. You’ll need to ensure that your operating base is in a commercially zoned area that allows for the type of business activities you plan to conduct, such as parking large vehicles, operating heavy equipment, and potentially performing vehicle maintenance.
• Licenses — You will need a CDL or commercial driver’s license for you and all drivers due to the size and weight of the trucks and trailers used in this business. You will also need a USDOT number and Motor Carrier Operating Authority (MC Number) .
• Register your business — A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple. Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the best LLC services on the market.
• Insurance — You will need various types of insurance, including liability insurance, cargo insurance, and possibly additional coverage depending on your business operations and client requirements.
• Legal business aspects — Register for taxes, open a business bank account, and get an EIN .
• Tracking software — Invest in good GPS and fleet management software to help you with route planning and vehicle monitoring.

Interactive Checklist at your fingertips—begin your car hauling business today!

You May Also Wonder:

How profitable can a car hauling business be?

A car hauling business can be extremely profitable. With a 7-car hauler trailer, you can make as much as $5,000 a load. If you work by yourself, your only expenses will be fuel and maintenance, so you’ll keep a lot of that cash in your pocket.

How can I get customers for my car hauling business?

Your best bet is to call on car dealers directly. You can also network or advertise on LinkedIn to find dealership owners. If you want to haul cars for consumers, you can also advertise on Facebook. 

What type of hauling pays the most?

Being an owner-operator truck driver pays the most in the trucking field. Another type of hauling that’s profitable is car hauling. You can charge $300 to $700 per car or even more for long distances.

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting an auto transport business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Independence — Work on your own, running your business from home
• High profit potential — Make $300–$700 per car hauled
• Travel — Interstate hauling presents opportunity to see new places
• Licenses needed — CDL license and operating authority are required
• High startup costs — Large trucks don’t come cheap

Car Hauling Industry Trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth — The US vehicle shipping services industry is worth nearly $10 billion.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/vehicle-shipping-services-united-states/ ))  
• Growth forecast — The market is projected to decline in the next five years.
• Number of businesses — Almost 6,000 businesses in the US provide vehicle shipping services.
• Number of people employed — The industry employs more than 38,000 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/vehicle-shipping-services-industry/ ))

Trends and Challenges

• Auto sales are expected to increase in the near future, which means more cars will need to be hauled from place to place. 
• Car haulers are moving toward more environmentally friendly auto carriers with lower carbon emissions.
• Rising fuel prices are forcing car haulers to increase prices to keep profit margins high.
• Delays in car manufacturing due to supply chain issues cause a slowdown in the car hauling industry.

What Kind of People Work in Car Hauling?

• Gender — 97% of auto haulers are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/auto-hauler-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education — 67% of auto haulers completed high school.(( https://www.zippia.com/auto-hauler-jobs/education/ ))
• Average age — The average age of auto haulers is about 48 years old.((​​ https://www.zippia.com/auto-hauler-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Car Hauling Business?

Startup costs for a car hauling business range from $7,000 to $15,000. The largest expense is a down payment on a seven-car hauler trailer, which can run from $35,000 used to $70,000 or more for a new one.

How Much Can You Earn From a Car Hauling Business?

Typically, you can charge $300 to $700 per car, but this can be much higher for long-distance hauls or expensive cars. These calculations will assume $500 per car. Your profit margin after fuel and maintenance should be about 70%.

In your first year or two, you could do one seven-car haul per week, bringing in about $180,000 in annual revenue. This would mean a tidy profit of nearly $130,000, assuming that 70% margin. As you expand your fleet sales could climb to five hauls per week. At this stage, you would rent a commercial space and hire drivers and staff, reducing your margin to 20%. With an annual revenue of over $900,000, you’d still make a cool $180,000.

What Barriers to Entry Are There?

There are a few barriers to entry for a car hauling business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Experience — You need to be an experienced, licensed truck driver
• Funding — You’ll need the down payment on the hauler and qualify for financing

Related Business Ideas

How to Start a Successful Towing Business in 13 Steps

How to Start a Hot Shot Trucking Business in 13 Steps

How to Start a Successful Trucking Business in 13 Steps

Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a car hauling business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an Opportunity

Research car hauling businesses in your area to examine their services and price points. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a long-distance car hauler.

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as used cars.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine Your Services and Type of Hauling

You need to determine whether you want to do interstate hauling or local hauling. You’ll also need to decide whether you want to haul just multiple loads for dealers or ship individual cars for consumers.

How Much Should You Charge for Car Hauling Services?

Car hauling prices range from $300 to $700 per car, but these prices could be higher for long-distance hauls or more expensive cars. When you’re working by yourself, your profit margin should be around 75% after fuel and maintenance. 

Once you know your costs, you can use our profit margin calculator to determine your markup and final price point. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify Your Target Market

Your target market is likely to be car dealers. You can find them by networking or advertising on LinkedIn or just calling them directly. You can also offer services to private buyers and sellers and find them on sites like Facebook. 

Where? Choose Your Business Premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent an office. Find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Car Hauling Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “hauling” or “car hauling,” boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for example, “Vehicle Transport Group” over “Show Car Hauling”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Discover over 220 unique car hauling business name ideas here . If you want your business name to include specific keywords, you can also use our car hauling business name generator. Just type in a few keywords, hit Generate, and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

Powered by GoDaddy.com

Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Car Hauling Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive summary — A brief summary outlining the key aspects of the car hauling business plan, including its mission, objectives, and potential for success
• Business overview — An overview of the car hauling business, detailing its structure, legal status, and the specific niche or market it aims to serve
• Product and services — Clearly define the car hauling services offered, including vehicle types, delivery options, and any additional services provided
• Market analysis — A comprehensive analysis of the car hauling market, identifying target customers, market trends, and potential opportunities or challenges
• Competitive analysis — An examination of competitors in the car hauling industry, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and strategies to gain a competitive edge
• Sales and marketing — A detailed plan for promoting and selling car hauling services, outlining target customer demographics, pricing strategies, and marketing channels
• Management team — Introductions and brief bios of key individuals leading the car hauling business, emphasizing their skills and experience relevant to the industry
• Operations plan — An outline of the day-to-day operations of the car hauling business, covering logistics, fleet management, and any partnerships or collaborations
• Financial plan — A detailed financial forecast, including startup costs, revenue projections, and a break-even analysis, providing a clear picture of the business’s financial health
• Appendix — Supporting documents and additional information, such as market research data, legal documents, and any other relevant materials that strengthen the car hauling business plan

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose Where to Register Your Company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to car hauling businesses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind that it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose Your Business Structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your car hauling business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole proprietorship — The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General partnership — Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) — Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corporation — Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corporation — This refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. A corporation or an LLC can elect to be an S Corp for tax status. In an S Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number or EIN. You can file for your EIN online, or by mail/fax. Visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund Your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans — This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and a strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans — The Small Business Administration can act as a guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants — A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and family — Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding — Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal — Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a car hauling business.

Step 8: Apply for Car Hauling Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a car hauling business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

First, you’ll need to obtain a commercial driver’s license from your state DMV. You’ll also need a Department of Transportation number and a Motor Carrier Authority number, both of which you can get by registering with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) . Finally, you’ll need to complete a unified carrier’s registration , and if you plan to drive to other states or Canada, an International Registration Plan tag and an International Fuel Tax Agreement decal.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your car hauling business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability — The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business property — Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment breakdown insurance — Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation — Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property — Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto — Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability — Protects against claims from clients who say they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) — This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential Software and Tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as Shipwell , Samsara , or SuperDispatch , to manage your loads, trips, payments, invoicing, and dispatching.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , FreshBooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences of filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop Your Website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

However, people are unlikely to find your website unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Local SEO — If you operate locally, optimize your Yelp and Google Business profiles and encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews to enhance local visibility.
• Branding — Develop a cohesive and strong branding strategy, including your logo, employee uniforms, and truck designs to project reliability.
• Networking — Forge relationships with car dealerships, auction houses, and moving companies to secure regular clientele and build partnerships.
• Website and SEO — Create a comprehensive website detailing your services and safety measures for car transport, using SEO to boost search engine rankings.
• Social media engagement — Utilize platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook to share customer stories, industry tips, and company updates, targeting businesses and consumers alike.
• Content marketing — Publish blogs on car transport safety, industry news, and practical guides for selecting car hauling services.
• Events and expos — Participate in car and transport events, as well as local business expos, to network and promote your services.
• Referral rewards program — Implement a system where customers who refer new clients receive benefits, fostering word-of-mouth marketing.
• B2B advertising — Target other businesses through LinkedIn ads that may require car transport services.
• Email marketing — Maintain communication with past and potential clients through regular newsletters featuring service updates and special offers.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Today, customers are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your car hauling business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your car hauling business could be: 

• Car hauling anywhere, anytime 
• Car hauling, on-time guaranteed
• Handle with care — let us haul your luxury cars

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain but your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a car hauling business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in car hauling for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in car hauling. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a car hauling business include:

• Drivers — driving additional loads
• Dispatcher — dispatching drivers to pickups
• General manager — staff management, scheduling, accounting
• Marketing lead — SEO strategies, social media, other marketing

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Car Hauling Business — Start Making Money!

Car hauling is a great way for truck drivers to start their own businesses. In a $10 billion industry, you know that demand for your services exists as long as people are buying cars. You’ll be your own boss, completely in control of your time and your income, and you can make very good money. 

It takes a bit of an investment, but you can see a huge return. You’ve now got some business savvy to combine with your truck driving skills, so go ahead and get on the road to your entrepreneurial destination.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Car Hauling Business Name
• Create a Car Hauling Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund Your Business
• Apply for Car Hauling Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Car Hauling Business — Start Making Money!

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Featured resources.

10 Best Repair Business Ideas for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Carolyn Young

Published on December 1, 2022

It’s usually cheaper to have a corrupted hard drive or a defective battery replaced than buying a new laptop, which could be twice as expensive.Th ...

57 In-Demand Service Business Ideas You Can Launch Today

David Lepeska

The services sector is undoubtedly the biggest economic sector in the US as it accounts for nearly 70% of the country’s gross domestic product. It ...

26 Profitable Automobile/Car Business Ideas

Esther Strauss

Published on July 21, 2022

From car washing to limo services, there are countless lucrative business opportunities related to cars. If you’re looking for a business ideathat ...

No thanks, I don't want to stay up to date on industry trends and news.

• About Apex Factoring
• Get Started
• Apex Factoring Reviews
• Freight Factoring Guide
• Factoring FAQs
• Client Success Stories
• Apex Fuel Card
• Apex Fuel Finder
• Free Guide to Save More on Fuel
• Start a Trucking Company
• Trucking Authority
• Costs to Start a Trucking Company
• Startup FAQ
• About Our Tools
• blynk® Payment System
• Client Website: AMP
• Apex Credit Checks
• Mobile Factoring™ App
• Roadside Rescue
• Cash Flow Assistance
• All Discounts
• Tires & Service
• Free Load Board
• Extra Discounts
• About Apex Capital
• Apex Careers
• Apex Racing
• Media Information
• Privacy Policy

How to Start a Car Hauling Business

You’re a good company driver with a solid two-year record of dependability and over-the-road excellence. You’re also the type of person that can’t help but stare lovingly at the truck on the next lane, the one with the 7-car carrier and the neatly stacked array of shiny, colorful vehicles. Well, then you’ve come to the right place.

Do you dream of owning your own car hauling business? As a trucker with valuable experience in your back pocket, that dream could certainly be a reality. You already have an advantage from your years of safe driving. And we’re here to help you make that dream come true. So, we put together a checklist that leads you to owning your car hauling company.

A Checklist to Car Hauling Business Success

Getting your authority to start hauling cars is the same as getting your standard “for-hire” authority. Just make sure you have auto hauler elected as your commodity type. Don’t forget that part of the process of getting your operating authority is also about fulfilling all the federal and local/state legal requirements. The Apex Startup Program can help you with all the paperwork filings. We make it easy for you!

You’ll need a special car carrier trailer. Those are going to cost you. For example, a good condition used dry van would cost you approximately $20,000. By comparison, a good condition used 7-car hauler trailer would run you about $27,000. A brand new 7-car hauler trailer is in the $70,000 range.

As a car hauler, your load is high-value. That means more insurance coverage, especially cargo insurance. It’s standard for carriers and owner-operators to have $1 million in liability insurance and up to $250,000 in cargo insurance. An auto hauler will want to double that – $2 million in liability and at least $500,000 in cargo insurance. The key here is extra cargo insurance, as brokers and shippers will want to see more coverage to safeguard that valuable load.

How Do You Write an Auto Hauling Business Plan?

Write your business plan.

How do you write an auto transport business plan? The same way you write a business plan for all trucking companies. The same principles apply – Where will you network to find customers? What are your goals? How do you plan to grow? What do you project to be your company’s expenses and profits? How do you plan to build a successful auto hauling company? Apex can help you here, too. Download our “How to Write a Business Plan ” guide and watch our business plan videos for in-depth, step-by-step pointers.

Prepare for the Risk

Keep in mind that hauling seven or more cars can be good money. But with a bigger paycheck comes some bigger risks, one being that you probably won’t get paid right away. That’s where Apex freight factoring comes in. Factoring your auto hauling freight bills can alleviate the cash flow headache. Especially since in the auto hauling business under payment is common. If a car is damaged during the haul, or if there is a last-minute change in the number of cars you are contracted to haul – both can lead to under payment. For extra peace of mind, Apex offers credit checks on freight brokers .

“Car hauling by nature is riskier,” says Dax Johnson, Account Executive at Apex Capital. “You need to always pay attention to the weather, the driving conditions, and exactly where you are driving. All those things translate to potential damage on the autos. You always want to know who you are hauling for but pay extra attention in auto hauling because the risks are magnified.”

What to Read Next: Learn How to Make Money Hauling Cars

Ready to start your car hauling business.

Fill out the form below to get more information!

[form-startup]

• Business Ideas
• Registered Agents

How to Start a Car Hauling Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   January 10, 2024

BusinessGuru.co is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The global car hauling and carrying industry hit $9.04 billion in 2022 . With a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.7% from 2022 to 2029, it could reach $10.89 billion by 2029. For a new business owner looking to enter the auto transport industry, now’s the time.

This guide will explain how to start a car hauling business. Topics include obtaining liability insurance, creating a domain name and website for your successful car hauling business, registering an EIN, performing market research, and more. Here’s everything you need to know to start a new car hauling company.

1. Conduct Car Hauling Market Research

The car hauling industry transports new and used vehicles across the country. This vital service enables auto manufacturers, dealerships, auction houses, and more to move inventory efficiently.

Some things you’ll discover through your market research for your own business include:

• In 2021, there were over 270,000 car carrier trucks on the road.
• As dealers move more pre-owned inventory, demand for car haulers rises.
• New car sales in the U.S. also remain strong. Around 15 million light vehicles will be sold in 2021. Most new cars and trucks need transport from manufacturing plants to dealers.
• More cars moving through auctions means more need for car hauling services. Manheim , the largest U.S. auto auction company, sold over 8 million vehicles last year.
• Rising auto exports further boost business.
• Ongoing vehicle recalls and buybacks create transportation needs as well.
• While the major car haulers dominate the landscape, small operators can still compete effectively in regional niches.
• Focusing on local dealer networks or particular makes/models allows independents to thrive.
• Specializing in services like door-to-door deliveries or enclosed shipping of vintage autos offers other avenues for smaller startups to succeed.
• The used car market looks especially promising for new car hauling ventures.
• Used vehicle sales are projected to reach over 40 million units by 2024, driven by rising used car values.
• Capturing even a sliver of this fast-growing segment can yield substantial rewards for savvy entrepreneurs.

So for those with the drive and determination, car hauling offers an appealing small business opportunity. As America continues its long love affair with automobiles, vehicles will need transporting coast-to-coast and door-to-door.

2. Analyze the Competition

Before hitting the road, wise entrepreneurs research their competition. A few key steps can help analyze rival car hauling companies and find strategic advantages.

Some ways to investigate the auto transport business competition include:

• Look locally first. Search Google Maps for terms like “car transport” and “auto shipping” near your area. This reveals competitors’ locations and service regions.
• Check their websites and call for rate quotes on common routes.
• Compare service offerings, years in business, fleet sizes, and reviews.
• Search industry forums like Central Dispatch to find active owner-operators. Learn what challenges they face and where they source loads.
• Join groups to connect with fellow car haulers and gain insider knowledge.
• Check registration databases. Review the DOT numbers of bigger competitors to uncover fleet dimensions, safety ratings, and insurance levels. This helps set benchmarks for your new venture.
• Monitor online review sites like TransportReviews .
• Beyond measuring customer satisfaction, look for common complaints and unmet needs. This reveals pain points a new entrant could resolve.

While the car hauling field has some major leaguers, room remains for agile rookies. Do your homework on the competition, find your niche, and you can carve out a route to success.

3. Costs to Start a Car Hauling Business

Starting a car hauling company requires careful financial planning and budgeting. From truck purchases to insurance, costs can add up quickly. Here is an in-depth look at typical expenses when launching and operating a car hauling venture.

Start-Up Costs

• Trucks – $80,000 to $150,000+ per truck The biggest upfront investment will be acquiring your hauling vehicles. New car carrier trailers range from around $80k up to $150k. Opt for used trucks to save funds initially.
• DOT Registration – $300 to $2,500 Registering as a motor carrier with your state’s Department of Transportation runs between $300 to $2,500 depending on fleet size. This covers application fees, licensing, and processes like drug testing.
• Insurance – $9,000 to $20,000 annually General liability insurance for car haulers starts at around $9k per year. Added cargo/damage coverage can push premiums over $20k annually. Work with an agent experienced in auto transporters’ needs.
• Business Formation Fees – $50 to $500 Filing business documents like articles of incorporation runs $50 to $150. Any licensing fees are extra – check state and local requirements.
• Accounting Software – $0 to $200 per month Basic accounting apps like Wave start free. QuickBooks runs up to $200 monthly for added features like payroll, invoicing, and reporting.
• Office Equipment – $500 to $2,000 A computer, phone system, printer/copier, and office furniture will likely cost between $500 to $2,000 to start. Lease office space or work from home to minimize costs.
• Marketing – $2,000 to $5,000 Plan for $2k to $5k in initial brand building and lead generation efforts. Opt for low-cost channels like social media, SEO, and networking to launch.

Ongoing Costs

• Fuel – $3,000 to $7,000 monthly With today’s diesel prices, budget several thousand in fuel costs monthly. Actual spending varies based on routes, mileage, and fleet efficiency.
• Maintenance – $1,500 to $3,000 monthly Expect $1,500 to $3,000 for ongoing truck repairs, compliance checks, and preventative maintenance. This ensures the safety and longevity of your fleet.
• Labor – $4,000 to $9,000 monthly Driver wages and benefits for 2-3 truck operators run $4k to $9k monthly. Running solo to start helps minimize payroll costs.
• Insurance – $750 to $2,000 monthly Payment plans make premiums more affordable, around $750 to $2,000 per month rather than one lump sum.
• Software/Apps – $100 to $300 monthly GPS tracking, load boards, routing, and dispatching tools can run $100 to $300 per month collectively for a small fleet.
• Accounting – $200 to $500 monthly Expect $200 to $500 monthly for a bookkeeper to handle compliance, taxes, invoices, and payroll.
• Marketing – $500 to $1,500 monthly Allocate several hundred dollars monthly for targeted digital ads, SEO maintenance, and website hosting to keep driving leads.

While launching a car hauling company requires significant capital, smart budgeting, and lean starting can pave the road to profitability. Adjustments can be made over time to scale operations and expenses in step with rising revenues.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

Choosing the right business structure is key when launching a car hauling venture. The legal entity you form influences everything from taxes to liability protection. Here is an at-a-glance look at the pros and cons of each option:

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most common set-up for transport businesses like car hauling. You operate as an individual owner reporting all income and losses on your tax return.

• Pros: Easy and inexpensive to establish. Complete control over all decisions. Keep all profits.
• Cons: Unlimited personal liability – your assets can be seized to settle business debts and legal claims. Harder to raise investment capital for growth. Seen as less credible by customers.

Partnership

A partnership involves two or more owners sharing control and profits. You can divvy up duties based on each partner’s strengths.

• Pros: Easy to establish. Shared capital and expertise.
• Cons: Joint and several liability – each partner is personally responsible for the actions of the other(s). Profit-sharing must be negotiated. Disagreements between partners can turn ugly.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

LLCs limit owners’ liability and allow more flexibility in management and profit-sharing. Owners are called members.

• Pros: Liability protection for personal assets. Retains tax benefits of a partnership. Managed directly by members or hired managers. Customizable ownership and profit allocation. Easy to add members or sell ownership stakes. Enhances credibility with banks/customers.
• Cons: More complex to establish with state filing fees. Requires Articles of Organization and Operating Agreement.

Corporation

A corporation is a separate legal entity from its owners. Shareholders own stock and can elect directors to oversee operations.

• Pros: Limited liability for shareholders – only their investment is at risk. Ability to issue stock options to attract investment. Perpetual existence.
• Cons: Most complex and expensive to set up and maintain with extensive recordkeeping. Double taxation on profits unless filing as an S-Corp. Strict regulations on governance and operations.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

Before hauling your first vehicle, take an important legal step – obtain an Employer Identification Number or EIN from the IRS.

An EIN is a unique nine-digit number that identifies your business for tax purposes. It’s like a Social Security Number for your company.

An EIN is required to open any business bank accounts, apply for business licenses, and file tax returns. It establishes your company as a separate legal entity.

Car hauling businesses need an EIN to register their DOT operating authority as well. Having an EIN adds legitimacy with partners and lenders too.

Applying for an EIN is free and fast online. Simply go to IRS.gov and search “apply for EIN”. Follow the steps to get your EIN instantly.

You’ll need basic information like your company’s legal name, address, and ownership structure. No paperwork is required – the EIN is generated at the end of the online application.

The same IRS portal also lets you apply for any state tax IDs you may need later on.

If providing transportation exclusively, your car hauling company may not need to collect sales tax. However, double-check the rules for any states you’ll operate in by visiting [state Department of Revenue websites].

If sales tax obligations apply, you’ll need to register for the proper business tax certificates. This helps you collect, file, and remit sales tax correctly. Failing to adhere to sales tax laws can lead to penalties down the road.

6. Setup Your Accounting

From tracking miles to reporting income, car hauling operations generate volumes of financial data. Without orderly record-keeping, you’ll quickly find your finances getting confusing, or worse, in trouble with the Internal Revenue Service. Here are some ways car transport businesses can keep finances clear.

Accounting Software

Accounting software like QuickBooks creates the structure needed to organize every transaction from fuel costs to invoice payments. QuickBooks seamlessly syncs with bank accounts to log spending automatically. It generates reports on profitability, taxes owed, and cash flow at tax time.

Hire an Accountant

While the software does the heavy lifting, working with an accountant or bookkeeper provides expertise no program can match. A good accountant handles tasks like:

• Setting up QuickBooks properly customized for your business
• Entering bills & income consistently using the correct categories
• Reconciling accounts monthly to identify any discrepancies
• Providing monthly Profit & Loss statements to analyze performance
• Ensuring sales tax compliance on state filings
• Advising on business entity structure for optimal tax treatment
• Preparing and filing annual tax returns

Expect to invest around $200 to $500 monthly for bookkeeping and $1,000 to $3,000 for income tax preparation. However, accountants can save far more by maximizing write-offs and avoiding costly IRS penalties.

Open a Business Bank Account

Keeping business and personal finances partitioned is also critical. Commingling funds triggers tax headaches and makes audits more likely. Open a dedicated business checking account that your bookkeeper can monitor.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Using a business credit card further separates spending. It also builds your commercial credit profile for bigger loans down the road. Apply with issuers like Capital One Spark Cash that understand transit companies’ needs.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Before hauling your first vehicle, secure all required credentials to keep your new venture compliant and road-ready. Find federal license requirements through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers a local search tool for state requirements.

The most crucial permit for car hauling is your U.S. Department of Transportation operating authority. This unique identifier registers your company as an approved interstate carrier.

Apply for the free DOT number by submitting form MC-90018 via FMCSA’s website. You’ll need info like your business structure, insurance levels, and vehicle details. Once approved, display the DOT number prominently on all trucks.

Tied to your DOT permit is your MC number – think of it like a driver’s license for your motor carrier business. This gets linked to your safety rating and insurance info. The MC number must appear on vehicles too.

Beyond federal credentials, individual state permits apply based on regions serviced. Common examples include:

• IRP (International Registration Plan) – Prorates vehicle registration fees between states
• IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) – Simplifies fuel tax reporting
• UCR (Unified Carrier Registration) – Mandatory fee providing state funds for enforcement
• OS/OW Permits – For oversize/overweight vehicle loads
• Intrastate Licenses – If hauling only within one state

Refer to your state DOT website to find the required credentials and apply. Pro-tip: Enlist a permitting service to handle this bureaucratic maze for you.

Check city and county rules to see if any additional licenses apply for home offices or storage lots. A business license or privilege tax certificate may be needed. Zoning approval might be required too.

8. Get Business Insurance

When vehicles are your inventory and the open road is your office, insurance coverage provides essential protection. The right policies can be your company’s guardrail should the unexpected occur.

Without adequate insurance, a single accident or lawsuit could total your budding business. Imagine:

• A driver crashes resulting in severe cargo damage. Without motor truck cargo or auto liability coverage, you pay all losses.
• An oil slick on the highway causes your truck to hydroplane. Repairs come straight from your pocket if you lack comprehensive and collision policies.
• A family sues after an auto transporter clips their SUV on the interstate. Without proper liability limits, the legal costs could crush you.

Safeguard against financial ruin through business insurance. Key coverages like commercial auto, general liability, cargo, and umbrella insurance all have a role in managing risk.

Work with an agent that understands car haulers’ unique needs. Provide details on your fleet, routes, and more so they can tailor recommendations.

9. Create an Office Space

While much of your workday may be spent on the road, securing office space can provide a professional home base for your car-hauling venture. Here are a few options to consider:

Home Office

A home office offers the most convenience and cost savings. By designating a spare bedroom or basement area as your workspace, you avoid paying rent. This works if you run a solo operation or have just a couple of employees stopping in occasionally.

Coworking Office

For interaction with clients or part-time access for a small team, explore coworking spaces like WeWork . The communal layout and amenities like high-speed internet, printing, and conference rooms provide office-like perks without the overhead of a long-term lease.

Commercial Office

Leasing a small stand-alone office space in a commercial building offers privacy and professionalism for meetings with customers or partners. Expect to pay about $15-$30 per square foot in lease costs annually. This ranges from $750 to $1,500 monthly for a modest 500-square-foot office.

10. Source Your Equipment

Once your business basics are covered, securing reliable trucks and trailers becomes a priority one. As a new car hauling outfit, strategic selection and sourcing of equipment can stretch dollars further.

Purchasing shiny new rigs from dealers like Freightliner or Peterbilt provides the latest features and tech, customized to your specifications. But the luxury comes at a steep price – expect to spend $80k to $150k per truck.

Searching classified and auction sites like Truck Paper . uncovers quality used trucks and trailers at significant discounts. Core inventory like tractors, carriers, and forklifts can cost 50% less when buying second-hand. Vet listings carefully and inspect purchases thoroughly before buying.

For more savings, buy directly from other owner-operators via forums like Central Dispatch . This insider market often yields deals on equipment coming off of leases. Just be sure to verify maintenance records and DOT inspections.

Rent or Lease

Rather than tie up capital in equipment, leasing trucks through companies often makes sense for newcomers. Lease terms like 36 or 48 months allow you to operate newer vehicles with warranty protections for less upfront cash.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Beyond DOT registrations and insurance, creating professional brand assets brings your budding car hauling venture to life. A polished image inspires trust in customers and helps you stand out from competitors.

Get a Business Phone Number

Start by securing a memorable business phone number through providers like RingCentral . Choose an easy-to-remember vanity number like “555-HAUL” if available. Make sure it offers call routing and voicemail so you never miss an opportunity.

Design a Logo

Design a sleek logo that becomes synonymous with your brand. Consider bright colors and visuals that connect to transportation and the open highway. A talented designer at Looka can create a custom logo tailored to your vision and needs for under $50.

Print Business Cards

With logo files in hand, order professional business cards, letterhead, and truck decals from Vistaprint . Look sharp from your first client meeting by handing a crisp card with your logo, phone, and site. Quality signs on your fleet spread brand visibility to every road traveled.

Buy a Domain Name

Secure the perfect .com domain name next. Aim for your company name or targeted keywords like “NYCCarTransport”. Use Namecheap to register available names for under $20 annually.

Design a Website

With your domain registered, the next step is getting your website live. Easily build one yourself through drag-and-drop services like Wix to maintain full control. Or hire a freelancer on Fiverr to custom code a site tailored to your goals starting around $500.

12. Join Associations and Groups

While running a mostly solo operation from your truck cab, connecting with others in the car hauling field should remain a priority. Local associations, meetups, and online groups provide invaluable networking and learning opportunities.

Local Associations

Joining associations like the Professional Car Shippers Association offers insider access to established haulers. Tap into their know-how through member forums, training events, and industry intel. Annual dues of around $300 gain you access to tight-knit communities for mentorship.

Local Meetups

Attend local industry trade shows and meetups to expand your network. Sites like Meetup help locate nearby events for transport professionals. Grab coffee with other solo haulers or connect with fleet operators at conferences. Exchanging insights across all experience levels ultimately betters the industry.

Facebook Groups

For on-demand advice, join Facebook Groups like HotShot Trucking & Car Hauling 101 or TRUCKS & TRAILERS, TOWING & HAULING – GROUP . These massive online communities address every imaginable issue fellow haulers face. Search for guidance or post questions to tap into real-world tips from thousands of drivers.

13. How to Market a Car Hauling Business

With your trucks registered and branded, securing a steady stream of clients becomes the next priority. Implementing the right marketing mix keeps your schedules filled and cargo bays stacked.

Some ways to market your own car hauling business include:

Personal Networking

Let professional contacts and friends know about your new venture and highlight your capability to reliably transport vehicles door-to-door. Satisfied customers who spread the word about their positive experience become your best promoters. Consider offering referral bonuses like discounted future shipping to further encourage endorsements.

Digital Marketing

• Launch Google Ads campaigns targeting search terms like “auto transport Los Angeles” to appear at the top of results
• Run localized Facebook ads promoting your services to dealerships and private owners
• Create YouTube videos highlighting your drivers, processes, and fleet to humanize your brand.
• Initiate an email newsletter campaign providing helpful tips for vehicle owners
• Blog about your journey as an owner-operator to attract and inform potential clients

Traditional Marketing

• Design eye-catching mailers and flyers to distribute at dealerships, auctions, and truck stops
• Take out ads in automotive magazines and other niche publications
• Sponsor relevant trade shows and community events to raise local visibility
• Invest in billboards or radio spots along major transportation routes
• Provide co-branded merch (t-shirts, hats, etc) to happy customers to become moving ads

The most effective strategy combines digital visibility with feet-on-the-ground networking. As your reputation builds, inbound inquiries increase. Still aim to spend at least 10 hours weekly dedicated solely to promoting your services across multiple channels.

14. Focus on the Customer

On the open roads, your reputation is everything. Providing an amazing customer service experience becomes your most powerful marketing tool. Some ways to improve customer focus in your car transport business include:

• Exceeding expectations at every turn earns loyal repeat customers. For instance, proactively updating a dealer on your ETA or handling last-minute route changes with grace shows you go the extra mile.
• additionally, delighted customers become advocates. A taxi company thrilled by your timely airport delivery of a vintage car tells all their repeat high-end riders about your care and reliability.
• An auto museum blown away by your white glove vintage automobile transport gives you a glowing endorsement on their social media.
• Small touches like follow-up thank you calls and customer satisfaction surveys show you value feedback for continuous improvement.
• In an industry where bumps in the road are inevitable, how you respond and recover cement trust. Patience, empathy, and accountability when issues arise demonstrate customer-centricity.

For startups, flawless service fills order books faster than any ad. Put your customers first, get them raving about experiences, and let your reputation as a 5-star hauler hit the highway at full speed.

You Might Also Like

March 1, 2024

0  comments

How to Start an ATV Rental Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

The ATV rental industry has seen impressive growth over the last decade. It is ...

How to Start a Driving School in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

The need for professional drivers isn’t going away anytime soon. The US trucking industry ...

How to Start a Car Restoration Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Classic car restoration is big business, with the global automotive restoration industry reaching $5.5 ...

How to Start an Auto Repair Shop in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

The auto repair industry in the United States reached $188.13 billion in 2024 and ...

Check Out Our Latest Articles

How to start a dog clothing business in 14 steps (in-depth guide), how to start a vintage clothing business in 14 steps (in-depth guide), how to start a bamboo clothing business in 14 steps (in-depth guide), how to start a garage cleaning business in 14 steps (in-depth guide).

US Car-Go Freight

How to Start a Car Hauling Business

Starting a car hauling business

Car hauling business can be a lucrative venture for entrepreneurs interested in the transportation and logistics industry. It is also a great opportunity for growth and financial independence. However, it requires careful planning, industrial knowledge, and the right resources.

In this blog, US Car-Go Freight takes you through the key steps to get your car-hauling business off the ground.

What is a Car Hauling Business?

Car hauling involves the transportation of vehicles from one location to another, whether for dealerships, auctions, or individual customers.

The car hauling business is a vital part of the shipping industry responsible for transporting vehicles seamlessly across the nation. A car hauler is responsible for shipping vehicles from one location to another .

Steps To Start Your Car-Hauling Business

Research and business planning.

Before diving into the car hauling business , it is important to conduct thorough market research. Identify potential customers, such as car dealerships, online car sales platforms, and individual car owners. Furthermore, understand the demand for car hauling services in your target area and study your competition.

Create a detailed business plan outlining your goals, target market, pricing strategy, and operational plan. Your business plan should also include financial projections and a marketing strategy.

Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Starting a car hauling business requires obtaining specific licenses and permits. Some of them includes the following:

• Motor Carrier Operating Authority : It is required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• USDOT Number : The number is issued by the Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial vehicles.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): the license is essential for driving large car haulers.

In the United States, these licenses are essential for operating legally and ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

Insurance coverage is also vital for a successful and compliant car-hauling business. Obtain your commercial auto insurance, cargo insurance, and liability insurance to protect your business, your vehicles, and the cargo when shipping. Do thorough research and compare insurance providers to find the best coverage at a reasonable cost.

Register Your Business Structure

Decide on the legal structure of your business, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC (Limited Liability Company), or corporation. Each business structure has its legal and tax implications. Therefore, it is wise to consult a business attorney to choose the best business option.

How to Register :  Go through the official website for business registration in your state and provide the necessary information. These include company name, business location, and entity type. Submit the form with the required fees after filling it out.

Purchase The Right Equipment The core of every successful car shipping business is the equipment used to transport vehicles. Start by buying a single-car hauler or invest in a multi-car trailer depending on your budget and the scale of operations.

Ensure your trucks and trailers are equipped with GPS tracking systems to manage routes efficiently and provide real-time updates to customers.

Pricing and Services Develop a competitive pricing strategy based on market research and your operating costs. Consider factors such as distance, the number of vehicles transported, and any additional services offered. Transparent and fair pricing will attract customers and build trust.

Promote Your Business Having an online presence is crucial in today’s digital age to create a strong brand identity. Design a professional logo, develop a user-friendly website, and optimize your website for search engines (SEO) to ensure potential customers can find you easily

Open a business account on social media platforms and use advertising tools like Google Ads and social media ads, to reach a wider audience.

Additionally, build great relationships within the car shipping industry for recommendation and community. Attend industry events, join trade associations, and connect with local car dealerships and auction houses.

Networking and consistent branding help build trust and lead to valuable partnerships and referrals.

The Benefits of Starting a Car Hauling Business

Starting a car hauling business offers numerous benefits, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs. Here are some key advantages:

High Demand According to statistics, the need for car shipping services is consistently high. Car dealerships, auction houses, and individuals relocating frequently require reliable car haulers. This steady demand ensures a constant flow of business opportunities.

Increased Revenue Growth Car hauling can be highly profitable when done with adequate planning and knowledge. Depending on the distance and number of vehicles transported, you can charge significant fees per trip. Efficient operations and repeat customers can lead to substantial earnings.

Flexibility & Scalability Running a car hauling business offers flexibility and scalability with working hours and locations. You can choose to operate locally, regionally, or even nationally.

Growth Potential The car hauling industry offers ample growth opportunities. As your business gains a reputation, you can expand your fleet, hire more drivers, and take on larger contracts. You can also increase the services you provide, such as enclosed transport for luxury cars, door-to-door and many more . This gives your car shipping business the potential to grow while boosting revenue.

Business Independence Owning a car-hauling business gives you the freedom to be independent and make crucial business decisions based on your preference. You make decisions regarding operations, marketing, and growth strategies. This independence can be highly rewarding and satisfying.

Wrapping Up Starting a car hauling business requires great skills and knowledge of how the industry works. Stay informed about industry trends, continuously improve your operations, and prioritize customer satisfaction to build a reputable and profitable business.

US Car-Go Freight is a reliable car shipping company that offers comprehensive services tailored to your needs. We ensure safe and reliable delivery every time regardless of the shipping method you want.

Contact us today to get a quote and experience an outstanding shipping process.

Recent Posts .

Fill Up the Get Quote Form

And get a guaranteed best competitive price ., ship your vehicle with us cargo, leave a comment cancel reply.

How to Start a Car Transport Business

Starting a car transport business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful car transport business.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a car transport business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

Start a Car Transport Business in 14 Steps:

To start a car transport business, you will need a few key things. First, you are going to need vehicles, like trucks and trailers, that can safely transport cars. You will also need to conduct market research, create a solid business plan, register your business, obtain necessary licenses and insurance, purchase equipment, hire drivers, and implement a strong marketing strategies. Following the below 14 steps will help you get off to a great start.

• Choose the Name for Your Car Transport Business
• Develop Your Car Transport Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Car Transport Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Car Transport Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Car Transport Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Car Transport Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Car Transport Business Equipment
• Develop Your Car Transport Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Car Transport Business
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Car Transport Business

The first step to starting a car transport business is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your new company:

• Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your car transport business.

2. Develop Your Car Transport Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting your own car hauling business is to develop your business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your car transport business.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your auto transport business and what type of car transport business you operate. For example, are you a car rental agency, car shipping company, or a car transport broker?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the car transport industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your car transport business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your car transport business make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

3. choose the legal structure for your car transport business.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your auto transport business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the business owner and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small businesses. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a car hauling business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a car transport business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a car transport business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your car transport business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

Incorporate Your Business at the Guaranteed Lowest Price

We are proud to have partnered with Business Rocket to help you incorporate your business at the lowest price, guaranteed.

Not only does BusinessRocket have a 4.9 out of 5 rating on TrustPilot (with over 1,000 reviews) because of their amazing quality…but they also guarantee the most affordable incorporation packages and the fastest processing time in the industry.

4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Car Transport Business (If Needed)

In developing your car transport business plan, you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a car hauling business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a car transport business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Car Transport Business

To find a location for your auto hauling business, you’ll need to consider a few things. You’ll need to find a place that is accessible to your customers, in an area that is safe and has plenty of parking. You will also need to make sure the location is affordable and has the necessary infrastructure in place to support your business.

6. Register Your Car Transport Business with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your car transport business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, commercial driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your car transport business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

There are a few licenses and permits you will need in order to start a car transport business. You will need a business license and a permit to transport cars. You should also contact your state’s department of transportation to find out about any additional permits or regulations that may apply to your business.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Car Transport Business

The type of insurance you need to be a car hauler will depend on the type of business you are running.

Business insurance policies you should consider for your car transport business include:

• General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
• Auto insurance : If a vehicle is used in your business, this type of insurance will cover if a vehicle is damaged or stolen.
• Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
• Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
• Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
• Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs. 

11. Buy or Lease the Right Car Transport Business Equipment

You will need the right equipment to start your car hauling company. You will need a van or truck to transport the cars, as well as ramps and a trailer to load and unload the cars. You may also want to invest in a tow bar, so that you can tow cars for transport.

12. Develop Your Car Transport Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your new business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your car transport business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website : Likewise, a professional car transport business website provides potential customers with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your car transport business.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Car Transport Business

There are a few key types of software you will need to run your car transport business. You’ll need accounting software to track your finances and a customer relationship management (CRM) system to keep track of your clients. You may also want to invest in a vehicle tracking system to keep tabs on your truck drivers and vehicles.

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your car transport business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

How to Finish Your Ultimate Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your car transport business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

How to Start a Car Transport Business FAQs

Is it hard to start a car transport business.

No, it’s not hard if you have a truck, trailer, and good knowledge of the industry. The level of difficulty involved in starting a car transport business will vary depending on your location, the regulations in your area, and the competition in the transportation business . If you have the drive and ambition to start a successful car transport business, then it is definitely possible with careful planning and execution.

How can I start a car transport business with no experience?

The best way to start a car transport business with no experience is by doing some research to learn about the industry. You can also reach out to friends and family members who are in the car transport business to get advice and tips. Finally, you can attend workshops and seminars that are related to the car transport business.

What type of car transport business is most profitable?

The most profitable type of car transport business is a long-distance trucking company. This is because the fixed costs of running the business are spread out over more miles, allowing the company to make a larger profit on each shipment. Additionally, there is less competition in the long-distance trucking market, giving the company a competitive advantage.

How much does it cost to start a car transport business?

To start a car transport business, you will need to invest in a truck and trailers to haul the cars, as well as insurance and permits. The cost of starting a car transport business can vary depending on the size and scope of your business. It can cost anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars to get started. The largest expenses are the truck and trailers.

What are the ongoing expenses for a car transport business?

The ongoing expenses for a car hauling business can include:

• Equipment rental costs
• Employee wages and benefits
• Office or storage space leases
• Vehicle maintenance and repair costs
• Insurance premiums, licensing fees and permits
• Marketing expenses including mailers, print ads, website hosting and design services

How does a car transport business make money?

There are a few ways that a car hauler can make money. One way is to charge by the mile. Another way is to charge by the weight of the car. A third way is to charge a flat rate for transporting cars . They may also charge a fee to store a car.

Is owning a car transport business profitable?

Yes, because the demand for car transport is growing as more people are foregoing public transportation and ride shares to purchase their own cars instead. Additionally, the trend of purchasing cars online is increasing, requiring more need for car transport services. The ongoing costs of running a car transport business are relatively low, and there are many ways to market a car transport business.

Why do car transport businesses fail?

There are a variety of reasons car transport businesses fail. The most common reason is that the business does not have enough capital to cover the costs of starting and running the business. Other reasons why other car haulers fail include inadequate planning, poor customer service, and stiff competition.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Car Hauling Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Transportation Industry » Car Hauling

Are you about starting a car hauling company? If YES, here is a complete sample car hauling business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE . Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a car hauling company. If you have an interest in the automobile industry, then you may want to start your own car hauling business.

Then car hauling/car towing business is indeed a profitable business because when your car breaks down on the road or when you need to tow a non – functional car from an accident site to the auto mechanical garage, you would definitely call a car hauling company.

Suggested for You

• How to Start a Car Hauling Business
• How Much Do Car Hauling Businesses Make Yearly? [Profit Margin]
• Is Car Hauling a Good Profitable Business?
• How to Get Car Hauling Contracts from Companies & Individuals
• How Much Does Car Hauling Business Insurance Cost?

Even though you don’t need a college degree to establish your own car hauling business , yet you still need some form of informal training; you might have to work as an apprentice with someone who owns a car hauling services business. It makes it easier for you to learn the ropes on how to manage your own car hauling services business when you get started.

It is important to point out that a car hauling business is one the businesses that may not go out of fashion simply because of the role it plays in the auto industry. Depending on the scale you want to start, the startup capital for this type of business can be considered to be moderate.

As a matter of fact, you can start your own car hauling services business as a one man show and then grow it big within a short period of time by reinvesting your profits back to the business. If you are sure this type of business is what you want to do after you must have undertaken your feasibility studies and market research, the next step is to write a decent business plan.

It is one thing to have a fantastic idea cum business plan, and it is entirely another thing for the business plan to translate to profits, that is why it is important to assemble a team of dedicated workers if you want to be successful with your car hauling business.

Below is a sample car hauling business plan template that will help you successfully write yours without much stress.

A Sample Car Hauling Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Car hauling services companies are part of the automobile towing industry and players in this industry generally tow light or heavy vehicles over short and long distances.

Car hauling services companies may also provide incidental services such as storage and emergency road repair services. As a matter of fact, car hauling services companies can be found in all parts of the world as long as there are automobiles there.

If you are a close watcher of the Automobile Towing industry, you may agree that the industry has kept on tagging along. As the economy of the united states continues to improve, as individuals returned to work and disposable income started to rise, more consumers felt comfortable driving on their own as opposed to carpooling or taking public transportation.

It is a known fact that when more cars are on the road, the chances of an accident or need for roadside assistance rises, hence increasing demand for car hauling services. Going forward, the revenue generated in the industry will continue to increase positively.

The Automobile Towing Industry is indeed a large industry and pretty much active in all the countries of the world. Statistics has it that in the United States of America alone, there are about 38,376 registered and licensed large and small-scale automobile towing services companies scattered all across the United States responsible for directly employing about 86,829 people and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $6 billion annually.

The industry is projected to grow at 2.5 percent annual growth within 2011 and 2016. It is important to state no company has a lion share of the available market share in the industry.

A recent report released by IBISWorld shows that industry establishments are generally located in regions with relatively high population and vehicle concentrations, notably the Southeast and West regions. The report further stated that the Automobile Towing industry is a needs-based industry and companies typically locate where there is the highest concentration of drivers and a lack of public transportation.

The report also shows that the Southeast region is home to the largest concentration of population relative to any other region in the nation. This region lacks the public transportation infrastructure of the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions.

Therefore, industry operators located here take advantage of a large proportion of the population using automotive vehicles as a primary means of transportation. This region accounts for about 24.3 percent of industry establishments.

Lastly, the automobile towing industry is pretty much open for aspiring entrepreneurs to launch their business in the industry.

One good thing about car hauling business is that the business can be opened in any part of the United States with just one car hauling truck and if proper market survey and feasibility studies are conducted, then you can be rest assured of the profitability of the business.

2. Executive Summary

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC is a standard and licensed towing truck company that will be based in Nashville – Tennessee, US. We will provide essential services to the United States by moving broken down, improperly parked, impounded, or otherwise indisposed cars away from to the road so as to avoid obstruction of free flow of traffic.

Our services and operations will center around highways in an around Tennessee, South Dakota, North Dakota, Southern Illinois; St Louis, Missouri; Southeast Missouri; Evansville, Nashville, Memphis, Western Kentucky and Chicago land areas et al.

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC has been able to secure all the relevant licenses and permits to operate throughout the United States. We will ensure that we abide by the rules and regulations guiding the automobile towing industry and we will only hire experienced and qualified drivers with valid commercial driver’s license.

At Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC our clients’ overall best interest would always come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics. We will ensure that we put standard structures and processes in place that will enable us meet and surpass our business goals and also stay highly competitive in the industry.

Our customers and potential customers alike can be rest assured that they will get quality services at competitive rates when they hire our services. We will go the extra mile to ensure the safety of cars under our care and that our customers get value for their money. At Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC our goal is to provide excellent car hauling service to our customers and we pride ourselves on the integrity and competence of our employees.

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC will ensure that all our deliveries are on time and we supersede the expectation of our customers. We will only put towing trucks that are in top shape on the road, and all our towing truck drivers will be trained to be courteous, friendly and to abide by the rules and regulations of the industry.

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC will at all times demonstrate her commitment to sustainability by actively participating in our communities and integrating sustainable business practices wherever possible. We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our clients’ needs precisely and completely.

Our overall business goal is to position Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC to become one of the leading towing truck company brands in the United States of America within the first 5 years of operation. This might look too tall a dream but we are optimistic that this will surely come to pass because we have done our research and feasibility studies and we are enthusiastic and confident that Nashville – Tennessee is the right place to launch our towing truck business.

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC is a family business; it is owned by Robert Crowther and his immediate family members. Robert Crowther has a Diploma in Transport and Logistics with over 9 years of hands on experience working for some of the leading brands in the transport and logistics industry in the United States of America.

3. Our Products and Services

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC is a company that looks forward to delivering excellent services in terms of helping our customers move their broken – down car from one destination to another. We want to be known as the car hauling company that truly cares for her customers.

Our intention of starting our car hauling company is to favorable compete in the industry and of course to make profits from the industry and we will do all that is permitted by the law in the United States of America to achieve our aims and business goals.

Our business offerings are listed below;

• Car hauling services
• Emergency road repair services
• Roadside assistance services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to become one of the preferred choices when it comes to the demand for car hauling services in and around Nashville – Tennessee and the whole of the United States of America.
• Our mission is to ensure that we build a car hauling company that will operate in the whole of the United States of America; a company that will boast of having some of the best and reliable tow truck drivers in the whole of the United States of America.

Our Business Structure

At Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC, our business structure will be designed in such a way that it can accommodate both full-time and part-time staff.

As a means of maximizing operational cost, we will contract the maintenance of all our towing trucks to service providers; we don’t intend to maintain a very large overhead from the onset. But as soon as the business grows and stabilizes, we will assemble our own professional in – house maintenance team.

Below are the business structure and the roles that will be available at Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC;

• Chief Operating Officer (Owner)

Admin and HR Manager

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Professional Towing Truck Drivers
• Client Service Executive/Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• In authority of fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Assesses the success of the organization
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Improves department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.
• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding sales
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the company
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managers with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the company
• Serves as internal auditor for the company

Truck Drivers

• Drives towing trucks
• Maintains a logbook of their driving activities to ensure compliance with federal regulations governing the rest and work periods for operators.
• Keeps a record of vehicle inspections and make sure the towing truck is equipped with safety equipment, such as hazardous material placards.
• Inspects vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues and perform preventative maintenance
• Complies with towing truck driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, parking, break periods etc.) as well as with company policies and procedures
• Collects and verifies delivery instructions
• Reports defects, accidents or violations

Client Service Executive

• Welcomes/receive clients by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with parents and students on the phone, uses every opportunity to build clients’ interest in the organizations’ products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the HR and Admin Manager or Transport & Logistic Manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries
• Receives parcels/documents for the organization
• Distribute mails in the organization
• Handles any other duties as assigned by HR and Admin Manager or Transport & Logistic Manager

6. SWOT Analysis

Our intention of starting Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC in Nashville – Tennessee is to test run the business for a period of 3 to 6 months to know if we will invest more money, and expand the business all around in the United States of America.

We are quite aware that there are several car hauling service businesses all over the United States and even in the same locations we intend starting ours, which is why we are following the due process of establishing a business. We know that if a proper SWOT analysis is conducted for our business, we will be able to position our business to maximize our strength, leverage on the opportunities that will be available to us, mitigate our risks and be well – equipped to confront our threats.

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC employed the services of an expert HR and Business Analyst with bias in startups to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to help us create a Business model that will help us achieve our business goals and objectives.

This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC;

Our highly qualified and experienced management team, robust fleet operations, our car hauling transportation network, size advantage, cost advantage, supply chain, customer loyalty and strong reputation amongst domestic industry players will surely count as a strength for Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC.

Our weakness could be lack of finance, high debt burden, cost structure, lack of scale compared to our peers who have already gained ground in the automobile towing industry.

• Opportunities:

The opportunities that are available to us as a car hauling company operating in the United States of America are online market, new services, new technology, and of course the opening of new markets within our target locations. In addition, as the average age of vehicles on the road increases, it will surely result to more repairs and car hauling services.

Some of the threats that we are likely going to face are mature markets, bad economy (economy downturn), stiff competition, volatile costs, and rising fuel prices. Basically, just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a car hauling company in same location where ours is located. unfavorable government policies can also pose a major threat to businesses such as ours.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The market trends as it involves the automobile towing industry especially in the United States of America are indeed dynamic and at the same time highly competitive and challenging. But one thing is certain, once a car hauling services company can gain credibility; it will be much easier for the company to secure permanent deals/contracts with big time haulage/transportation companies who are always moving goods and equipment from one part of The United States of America to another part (such companies usually have broken – down vehicles).

Some of the major factors that counts positively in this line of business are trust, honesty, good relationship management and of course timely and safe delivery.

The advancement in technology in areas such as computers, satellite communication, and the internet, has contributed immensely to the growth of the automobile towing industry. The advancement in technology is responsible for increase of productivity of car hauling company’s operations, it helps them effectively monitor their towing trucks and their drivers and it helps driver save time and effort.

Lastly, another common trend in this industry is that once a car hauling services company has gained credibility, it is easier for them to go for brand new towing trucks on a long – term leasing contract as against making use of second hand towing trucks which are usually expensive to maintain due to constant wear and tear.

8. Our Target Market

Our target market is basically transportation and haulage companies and of course every individual we own cars throughout the United States of America. We cover both short distance (inter states) and long distance (intra states). In other words, our target market is the whole of the United States of America and below is a list of the people and organizations that we have plans to do business with;

• Car garages
• Transportation companies
• Haulage companies

Our Competitive Advantage

We are aware of the competitive nature of the automobile towing industry and we are ready to get into the mix and favorably compete with players in the industry.

Our major competitive advantage is the vast industry experience and solid reputation of our owner, and our management team.

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC no doubt is a new car hauling services company, which is why we took our time to do a thorough market research and feasibility studies before launching the business. We were able to highlight some factors that will give us competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Some of the factors are trust, honesty, good network and excellent relationship management, well – qualified and experienced management team, robust fleet operations, direct access to all major highways, our car hauling network serves some of the largest population centers and construction sites in the United States of America, our size advantages, cost advantages, customer loyalty and strong reputation amongst domestic industry players.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC will ensure that we leverage on our strength and the opportunities available to us in the U.S. to generate enough income that will help us drive the business to stability. We will go all the way to explore every available source of income in the automobile towing industry.

Below are the sources we intend exploring to generate income for Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain, there would always be vehicle owners, haulage and transportation companies who would need the services of car hauling service companies to help them move their broken – down vehicles from one location to another throughout the United States of America.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in the United States of America and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income from the first six months of operation and grow our business and our clientele base.

We have been able to critically examine the automobile towing industry market in the United States of America, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projections are based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in The United States of America.

• First Fiscal Year: $250,000
• Second Fiscal Year: $550,000
• Third Fiscal Year: $900,000

N.B : This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and natural disasters within the period stated above. So also, there won’t be any major competitor offering same additional services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Networking is an effective way to begin building your client base as a business man or woman and we have plans in place to leverage on all our networks. In view of that, we will look out for gatherings where we can network with vehicle owners, transport and haulage companies and merchants et al. As a matter of fact, our first port of call will be to connect with the nearest Chamber of Commerce; we are likely going to get our first major deal from them.

At Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC all our employees will be directly or indirectly involved in sales and marketing of our services. We will create provision for our employees to earn commission when they bring in business for the organization. We will also encourage freelancers to work with us; whenever they refer clients to us they will earn a percentage of the deal as agreed by both parties.

Lastly, we will leverage on the power of the media by advertising our services using both online and offline platforms. We will work hard to ensure that we get repeated business from any business deal we execute and also, we will encourage our customers to help us refer their friends to us. Part of our strategy is to reward loyal customers and to leverage on word of mouth marketing from satisfied customers.

Over and above, we have perfected strategies to network with people who are likely to refer business our way on a regular basis. In summary, Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC will adopt the following sales and marketing strategies in sourcing for clients for our business;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to households/car owners, car garages, corporate organizations, businesses in the transportation and haulage industry and related industries in Nashville – Tennessee and throughout the United States
• Print handbills about our car hauling service business and its locations and drop them in public facilities
• Advertise on the internet on blogs and forums, and also on social media like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn to get our message across
• Creating a basic website for our business so as to give our business an online presence
• Directly market our towing truck business
• Join local towing truck cum car hauling service associations and chambers of commerce for industry trends and tips
• Provide discount days for our customers
• Advertise our business in community based newspapers, local TV and radio stations
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing (referrals)

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

In spite of the fact that our car hauling services company will be well located, we will still go ahead to intensify publicity for the business. We are going to explore all available means to promote our business.

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC has a long – term plan of covering various locations in major cities in the United States which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted on highways in an around South Dakota, North Dakota, Southern Illinois; St Louis, Missouri; Southeast Missouri; Evansville, IN; Nashville, Tennessee; Memphis, Western Kentucky, Tennessee and Chicago land areas et al before venturing out to other cities in the United States of America.

As a matter of fact, our publicity and advertising strategy is not solely for winning customers over but to effectively communicate our brand. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC;

• Place adverts on both print (community based newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms to promote our brand
• Install our billboards in strategic locations all around Nashville – Tennessee
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Ensure that all our workers wear our branded shirts and all our trucks are well branded with our company’s logo

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC has a lease arrangement with various companies and the company’s pricing is based on miles per vehicle moved. We have perfected our plans to charge competitive rates since we have minimal full – time overhead compared to our competition in the industry.

We will ensure that we leverage on price to win over customers; our prices will be affordable and negotiable. The fact that our business door is open to both individuals and organizations means that we will have different price range for different category of clients.

As the business grows, we will continue to review our pricing system to accommodate a wide range of clientele.

• Payment Options

At Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC, our payment policy will be inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will not accept payment by cash because of the volume of cash that will be involved in most of our transactions.

Here are the payment options that Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards / Point of Sale Machines
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our client make payment for services rendered without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business. The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

When it comes to starting a car hauling services company, the major areas that you look towards spending the bulk of your cash is in the purchase of standard towing trucks and of course renting or leasing a well-located facility large enough to accommodate your towing trucks.

Aside from that, you are not expected to spend much except for paying of your employees, maintaining your towing trucks and fueling. These are the key areas where we will spend our startup capital;

• The Total Fee for incorporating the Business in the United States of America – $750
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license – $2,500
• The Amount needed to acquire a suitable Office facility with enough parking space for our trucks in Nashville – Tennessee for 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive) – $40,000.
• The amount required to finance the purchase of the first set of towing trucks – $800,000
• The Cost for equipping the office (computers, printers, fax machines, furniture, telephones, filing cabins, safety gadgets and electronics et al) – $5,000
• Cost of accounting software, CRM software and Payroll Software – $3,000
• Other start-up expenses including stationery – $1000
• Phone and Utility (gas, sewer, water and electric) deposits – ( $3,500 )
• Operational cost for the first 3 months  – $40,000
• The cost of launching our official Website – $600
• The Amount needed to pay staff for the first 2 months – $20,000
• Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $2,500

Going by the report from our market research and feasibility studies, we will need an estimate of $1.2 Million to set up a standard car hauling services company in Nashville – Tennessee.

Generating Startup Capital for Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC is a family business that will be owned and managed by Robert Crowther and his immediate family members. They are the sole financier of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital for the business to just three major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our startup capital;

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the startup capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $400,000 ( Personal savings $350,000 and soft loan from family members $50,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $800,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of any business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of their employees, their investment strategy and their business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business, then it won’t be too long before the business closes shop.

One of our major goals of starting Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running. We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to engage in affordable, timely, safe and efficient car  hauling/towing services at all times.

Car Links® Hauling Services, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Acquiring of tow trucks and relevant equipment: In progress
• Leasing of Office Facility/Yard large enough in Nashville – Tennessee: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Startup Capital Generation: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees and drivers: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with key players in the industry (networking and membership of relevant organizations and chambers of commerce): Completed

How To Start a Car Hauling Business

Are you looking to set up your business in the trucking industry? If so, starting a car hauling business could be your best bet. Read this guide to learn everything it takes to start your vehicle hauling business and become your own boss. From how to acquire legal permissions to launching an official auto shipping website, we have got you covered!

1. Do Market Research and Develop a Business Plan

When starting a car hauling business, it's crucial to develop a solid business plan beforehand. The auto shipping industry offers numerous niches, and to succeed, you need to identify and start with the one that best aligns with your goals.

Begin by preparing a checklist of the objectives you want to complete. Additionally, note potential challenges and strategize how to navigate them. Finally, don’t forget to outline your budget, as it will guide the launch of your hauling setup.

2. Obtain Legal Authorization to Establish Your Transport Business

No matter what business you start, obtaining legal authorization is essential. For your auto hauling business, you'll need to secure the following documents:

Apply for a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

To drive a hauling trailer, obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is essential. Make sure to apply for the right type of license for your intended load. For example, if you plan to haul cars, apply for a license specific to that niche. A CDL demonstrates that you are a reliable and responsible hauler with the necessary skills.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a Commercial Driver's License:

• Start by applying for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), which allows you to practice driving commercial vehicles under supervision.
• Once you have a CLP for at least 14 days, you can start applying for CDL.
• You should determine the specific type of CDL you need based on the vehicles you plan to drive and the loads you'll haul.
• With your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), schedule an appointment to take the skills test, which includes a written test and a driving test. As soon as you pass these tests, you will receive your CDL.

Register Your Car Hauling Company

To register your car hauling company, follow these steps:

• Navigate to the official website for business registration in your state.
• Provide essential information such as your company name, business location, and entity type (e.g., LLC, Sole Proprietorship, Corporation, Partnership).
• Complete the form and submit it along with any required fees.

Once your business is registered, you will be directed to the IRS website to obtain your Employer Identification Number (EIN). The EIN is crucial for tax purposes and will also let you open a business bank account.

File UCR Registration

The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) is a federally appointed system that oversees companies operating in interstate travel. This regulatory authority requires an annual fee based on the number of vehicles you have. To register, visit the UCR's official website and pay the initial fees to complete the registration process.

Obtain a USDOT Number

To obtain a DOT number for your commercial vehicle, you need to register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the United States Department of Transportation . This DOT number serves as a unique identifier for your company.

You can apply for it by visiting the FMCSA website, navigating to the registration section , and following the instructions provided.

Apply for a Motor Carrier Number

The FMCSA provides MC numbers, which serve as unique identifiers for your trucking authority. To obtain an MC number, visit the FMCSA website and complete the application process, which includes a $300 fee. However, keep in mind that you must have your DOT number before you can apply for an MC number.

Secure Licenses for Interstate Travel

The International Registration Plan (IRP) is essential for commercial vehicles engaged in interstate operations. Through IRP, you must remit specified fees to every state your truck operates in, calculated based on the percentage of miles driven in each state.

To initiate your IRP, visit the website of your local government's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Acquire BOC-3 Process Agents

Federal law mandates the designation of a BOC-3 processing agent in each state where you plan to conduct business. An individual can only be named as an agent in one state.

This process agent is legally authorized to accept legal documents on behalf of your business in the specified state. You can submit your BOC-3 processing agent forms on the official website .

3. Purchase Commercial Auto Insurance

Before legally establishing your hauling business, securing insurance is essential. This protects both you and your clients from any unintentional harm that may occur during transit.

Make sure to carefully consider the amount of insurance coverage you obtain. As a car hauler handling high-value loads, you need insurance that thoroughly covers the vehicles in case of unforeseen events.

4. Acquire Necessary Equipment

Now that you have obtained all your licenses, it's time to purchase the necessary equipment to start your hauling business. Most car haulers need two essential equipment these are:

Open Vehicle Haulers

Open vehicle haulers are trailers specifically designed to transport multiple cars simultaneously. These trailers are typically open-air, lacking sides or a roof. While they are more common and cost-effective, they do expose vehicles to external elements.

Enclosed Vehicle Haulers

Enclosed vehicle haulers offer enhanced protection for vehicles during transit. Unlike open-air trailers, these haulers feature walls and a roof, providing a shield against damage. They are particularly favored for transporting high-value or classic cars due to their superior protection against external elements.

5. Establish an Online Presence with a Company Website

In today's digital age, establishing a robust online presence is important for the success of your car hauling business. To have your auto hauling website reach its audience:

• Invest in a professionally designed website. Ensure the site layout is easy to navigate and responsive on smartphones.
• Craft your site using engaging content that showcases your car hauling services, expertise, and distinguishing features.
• Provide multiple contact options so your audience can easily reach out to you. Mention your phone number, email address, and contact form to make contacting you effortless.

Nexus Auto Transport: One Stop Solution For Hauling Cars

Starting a car hauling business requires careful planning and attention to detail. However, if you're not quite ready to tackle this venture, you can always rely on professional auto shipping companies.

Nexus Auto Transport is among the most reliable car haulers. It offers comprehensive vehicle transportation services tailored to your needs. Whether you're transporting standard vehicles or high-value classics, Nexus Auto Transport ensures safe and reliable delivery every time.

Contact us today to learn more about the services we provide or to get a quote for shipping your vehicle by visiting our website !

Are you looking for an excellent company for your heavy equipment transport? Are you overwhelmed with all the different companies available and you don't know which one to choose?

Are you planning to move your boat across town or to a completely different region of the country? Are you worried about the boat transport price and process? We know that when it comes to shipping your prized boat, you want the safest transportation.

If you're looking for a great job with projected growth of 2.7% by 2032, then you're in the right place. Working for a car transport company is one of the most challenging yet incredibly rewarding driving jobs out there.

How to Start a Car Hauling Business

Starting a car hauling business is a venture filled with opportunities, but navigating the process requires a detailed plan and some basic info. As a team of ex-haulers ourselves, we understand this journey firsthand. 

All the challenges and flaws we’ve witnessed in the niche inspired us to create HaulK, a specialized platform to fill some gaps and make car hauling management much easier.

But every ambitious hauler must first go through a bunch of business kick-off and organization stages that can’t really be automated or paid for. In this guide, we share our insights to help you build a successful car hauling business .

Create a roadmap and plan things out

Before diving headfirst into the practicalities of car hauling, it's essential to grasp the broader landscape of the transportation and logistics industry. A solid understanding of logistics is not just beneficial; it's crucial for the smooth operation and growth of your business. This is where learning how to get into logistics comes into play. 

By familiarizing yourself with the ins and outs of logistics, from the flow of goods to the intricacies of supply chain management, you equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions and strategize effectively. Whether you're negotiating with clients or planning the most efficient route for a haul, a foundational understanding of logistics principles can set you apart in the competitive car hauling market.

Any business foundation crumbles without a sturdy plan backing it up. So start with some brainstorming and priority settling.

Draft a detailed car hauling business plan that outlines your:

• goals, aspirations, and expected milestones;
• target market, target audience, niche trends, and direct competitors;
• selling points, marketing ideas, and promotion strategies;
• overhead budget, financial projections, and growth strategy.

Keep it open-ended - this document will serve as your baseline and guide through the various stages of business development.

Settle on a business type

Another crucial point of your plan is the structure of your business — is it a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation? Each has its own implications for liability, taxation, and operations.

Apart from that, you may not be sure what exact type of trucking services to provide just yet. Here are some ideas:

• Local car hauling — moving vehicles in the immediate vicinity;
• Long-distance hauling — interstate or cross-border hauling services;
• Transport shipping — transportation of vehicles across deep-sea and coastal areas.

You can start small and move on beyond the border. It all depends on your business capacities and ambitions.

Get a truck and/or trailer

Your vehicle is the lifeline of your business. Whether you'll drive one yourself or hire drivers, you need sturdy, high-quality vehicles that can be safely certified and used for work. This calls for separate research to make on your own — you can try to save a little by opting for a used truck or trailer.

You may as well find some cheaper options that can still do the trick and handle work conditions. All in all, make sure to invest in reliable trucks and trailers that match your budget and business goals.

What Size Trailer Do You Need to Haul Cars

Obtain a CDL

A Commercial Drivers License is a legal permit to use heavy-duty trucks and haul huge loads (with a total weight of 26,000 lbs and beyond) on a commercial basis. It is also proof of the trucker’s ability to handle strictly commercial aspects of road driving, like pre-trip inspection, GVWR check, etc. 

A Class A CDL is the go-to license for those looking to operate professionally and work with non-conventional loads (e.g., more than two-three light vehicles). However, certain providers prefer Non-CDL hauling, which is possible but riddled with nuances (learn more about all the nuances of CDL in our article).

Keep up with other legal requirements

CDL isn’t the only necessary permit you must obtain. There are also federal and state regulations governing the transportation industry. This includes vehicle registration, tax regulations, and compliance with safety standards. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse, so knowledge is your shield.

You will have to get an MC (Motor Carrier) number assigned by the FMCSA and fulfill all USDOT requirements . The taxes and fees you’ll need to cover for safe commercial performance include:

• UCR — Unified Carrier Registration fees;
• HVUT — Heavy Vehicle Use Tax;
• IFTA — International Fuel Tax Agreement taxes;
• DOT — Department of Transportation fees;
• IRP — International Registration Plan taxes.

Yes, handling all that single-handedly can be quite confusing. This is why you should also consider hiring a Process Agent at this stage. A qualified professional will help you organize all legal paperwork, prepare documents, and help with court papers.

What is a USDOT Number?

Hire drivers for a crew

Assembling a trucking business crew, look for qualified (best off certified ) professionals with years of field experience. Again, this calls for some independent research. Look for specialists with a registered CDL or those ready to apply for one. Your area of search can start with LinkedIn and Craigslist and span to all reputable job boards you can find online.

Insure your business

With all the resources, effort, and nerves invested into it, it’s only logical to protect your newly organized business from potential losses through timely insurance. While newly bought trucks may come insured “out-of-the-box” (you will only need to prolong and maintain the insurance), there are two types of insurance you must cover as a business owner:

• Life insurance — compensation for physical risks you or your truckers take upon themselves.
• P&C insurance — protects private belongings and compensates for accidents.

Seek financing

Determine your financial needs and explore financing options. You need to secure the necessary funds to both kickstart and sustain your car hauling business, be it through loans, grants, or investors. Right off the bat, make sure to have a separate business bank account for these purposes. 

The burning question is, how much exactly can a car transportation business cost? Let’s break this down:

• Insurance: Depending on a particular type of coverage — $800-$1,500.
• CDL: Depending on the state and school — ~$100 fee for test completion and CDL registration.
• Equipment: Trucks (both new and used) can come in the $15,000 to $180,000 price range, with about a $1,000-10,000 down payment.
• Operating authority: MC acquisition and USDOT fee can make up to ~$300.
• Auto transport carrier fixed and variable costs: All of the above, plus the fleet’s tech needs and monthly legal fees, add up to a very ranged approximate number. Such expenses can only be calculated in action. Make sure to use a reliable TMS to track all costs. 

If you already have an overhead budget, it’s good to plan out how you will accumulate and maintain it in the future. Keep in mind that a car transport business with a fleet, employees, and active operations is more interesting to investors and potential partners, so you may take your time establishing before going off to search for external financing. 

Subscribe to a load board and carrier TMS

Once you’re all set and ready to take on the road, you need jobs. You can find your first load to transport on one of the top load boards in the USA :

• Centraldispatch.com;
• uShip Car Hauling.

Now, the most important thing is to tie things up and structure your business in a productive, cost-efficient, and reliable format. You can do that by adopting a feature-rich TMS — a transportation management system with collaborative, communication, and monitoring tools. 

Look for a reliable platform with active expert support that gives you:

• Storage for order-related data and other BI;
• Digital automation tools, like e-signatures and paperwork sharing;
• Dashboards or any sort of reporting features;
• Features for digitized order and fleet management.

For instance, HaulK offers a robust solution for managing orders efficiently — try it out for free.  And good luck with starting a profitable vehicle transport business!

Interested in our solution?

You may also like.

This site uses cookies to make your experience more comfortable. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to the use of cookies.

• Customer Reviews
• Net 30 Account
• Wise Services
• Steps & Timeline
• Work at a Glance
• Market Research at a Glance
• Business Plan Writing Services
• Bank Business Plan
• Investor Business Plan
• Franchise Business Plan
• Cannabis Business Plan
• Strategic Business Plan
• Corporate Business Plan
• Merge and Acquisition Business Plan (M&A)
• Private Placement Memorandums (PPM)
• Sample Business Plans
• Professional Feasibility Study
• PowerPoint Presentations
• Pitch Deck Presentation Services
• Business Plan Printing
• Market Research
• L-1 Business Plan
• E-2 Business Plan
• EB-5 Business Plan
• EB-5 Regional Centers
• Immigration Attorneys
• Nonprofit Business Plan
• Exit Business Planning
• Business Planning
• Business Formation
• Business License
• Business Website
• Business Branding
• Business Bank Account
• Digital Marketing
• Business Funding Resources
• Small Business Loans
• Venture Capital
• Net 30 Apply

How to Start a Car Hauling Business: 5 Easy Steps

If you have a passion for cars and are looking to start your own business, a car hauling business can be an exciting and profitable opportunity. Car hauling involves transporting multiple vehicles at once, providing a valuable service to individuals, dealerships, and businesses in the automotive industry. Whether it’s transporting newly manufactured cars from factories to dealerships, delivering vehicles for auctions, or catering to the needs of car enthusiasts who require vehicle transportation, a car hauling business plays a vital role in the automotive ecosystem.

Starting a car hauling business requires careful planning, knowledge of the industry, and the ability to deliver exceptional service. By following the right steps and strategies, you can establish a successful car hauling venture that not only meets the needs of your customers but also contributes to your own professional and financial growth. You will know how to start a car hauling business in this comprehensive article. 

Step 1: Research and Planning

Before launching your car hauling business, it’s important to conduct thorough research and develop a solid plan. Familiarize yourself with the car hauling industry, market demand, and competition in your area. Determine your target market and identify potential clients. This research will help you understand the industry dynamics, assess the viability of your business, and develop effective strategies to differentiate yourself from competitors.

Here are some key aspects to consider during this research phase:

• Industry Overview: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the car hauling industry, including its current state, trends, and future projections. Identify the main players, their services, and pricing models. This will help you identify gaps and opportunities for your business.
• Target Market: Define your target market based on demographics, geography, and specific needs. Determine if you will focus on individuals, dealerships, auctions, or a combination. Assess the demand for car hauling services in your target market and analyze the competition in that area.
• Business Differentiation: Research the existing car hauling businesses in your area and identify their strengths and weaknesses. Determine how you can differentiate your business by offering unique services, competitive pricing, or exceptional customer service. Understanding your competitors will help you position your business strategically.
• Pricing and Profitability: Study the pricing models of other car hauling businesses and calculate your own pricing structure. Consider factors such as distance, vehicle type, and additional services. Ensure that your pricing is competitive yet profitable, taking into account your operational costs and desired profit margins.
• Marketing Strategies: Explore effective marketing strategies to promote your car hauling business. Identify the most suitable channels to reach your target market, such as online platforms, industry associations, and local networking events. Develop a marketing plan that includes branding, online presence, advertising, and lead generation strategies.
• Operational Considerations: Research the operational aspects of running a car hauling business. Determine the equipment you’ll need, such as car hauling trailers, loading and unloading tools, and vehicle securing mechanisms. Understand safety regulations, insurance requirements, and maintenance protocols to ensure compliance and smooth operations.

Want to write a business plan? Get help from top business plan writers now!

Step 2: obtain the necessary licenses and permits.

To operate a car hauling business legally, you’ll need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits. Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles or transportation authorities to understand the specific requirements in your area. Common licenses and permits include motor carrier authority, USDOT number, and FMCSA registration. Ensure that you comply with all regulations and obtain the proper documentation before starting your operations.

Follow these steps to navigate the licensing process effectively:

Research Local Requirements: Begin by researching the licensing and permit requirements specific to your area. Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles or transportation authorities to gather information on the necessary permits and licenses for a car hauling business. Each jurisdiction may have its own set of regulations, so understanding the local requirements is crucial.

Motor Carrier Authority: In many cases, obtaining motor carrier authority is a fundamental requirement for car hauling businesses. This authority grants you the legal right to operate as a commercial carrier. Research the specific application process and any associated fees for obtaining motor carrier authority in your jurisdiction.

USDOT Number: The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number is another important identification requirement for businesses involved in interstate commerce. Determine if your car hauling business will be engaged in interstate operations, as this will likely necessitate obtaining a USDOT number. Consult with the USDOT or local transportation authorities to understand the application process.

FMCSA Registration: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration is typically required for businesses involved in interstate commerce. It involves registering your car hauling business and vehicles with the FMCSA. Research the FMCSA registration process and ensure you fulfill all the necessary requirements, such as insurance coverage and safety regulations.

Compliance and Documentation: Once you have identified the specific licenses and permits required for your car hauling business, gather the necessary documentation. This may include proof of insurance, vehicle registrations, safety certifications, and any other supporting documents required by your local authorities. Ensure that you have all the required paperwork in order to submit a complete and accurate application.

Application Submission and Follow-up: Follow the guidelines provided by your local Department of Motor Vehicles or transportation authorities to submit your license and permit applications. Pay attention to any required fees and submission deadlines. After submitting your applications, be proactive in following up to ensure timely processing and address any potential issues that may arise.

Download our 14 free business plan examples now!

Step 3: acquire the right equipment.

Investing in the appropriate equipment is crucial for a car hauling business. Purchase or lease car hauling trailers that meet industry standards and safety regulations. Consider the capacity and types of vehicles you plan to transport to determine the right trailer size and features. Additionally, you’ll need loading and unloading equipment such as winches, ramps, and straps. Acquire reliable and high-quality equipment that will ensure the safe and efficient transportation of vehicles.

Follow these steps to ensure you have the right tools to safely and efficiently transport vehicles:

Assess Your Needs: Begin by assessing your business requirements and determining the types of vehicles you plan to transport. Consider factors such as the maximum weight capacity, vehicle dimensions, and the variety of vehicles you expect to haul. This assessment will help you determine the appropriate equipment specifications.

Car Hauling Trailers: Purchase or lease car hauling trailers that meet industry standards and safety regulations. There are various types of trailers available, including open carriers and enclosed trailers. Evaluate the advantages and limitations of each type based on your target market and the vehicles you plan to transport. Ensure that the trailers have proper tie-down points, secure loading ramps, and effective braking systems.

Trailer Size and Features: Consider the size and features of the trailers you need. The trailer size will depend on your hauling capacity requirements and the types of vehicles you plan to transport. Evaluate options such as multi-car carriers or single-vehicle carriers based on your business model and target market. Additionally, consider features like hydraulic or electric lift systems, adjustable ramps, and enhanced security measures for added convenience and safety.

Loading and Unloading Equipment: Alongside the car hauling trailers, you’ll require loading and unloading equipment to facilitate the safe transportation of vehicles. Invest in winches, straps, and securement devices to properly secure the vehicles during transport. Ramps and lift systems are crucial for efficient loading and unloading operations. Ensure that all equipment meets safety regulations and industry standards.

Quality and Reliability: Acquire reliable and high-quality equipment that can withstand the demands of car hauling. Choose reputable manufacturers or suppliers known for their durable and well-built trailers and loading equipment. Reliable equipment reduces the risk of breakdowns, ensures the safety of the vehicles being transported, and contributes to the overall professionalism of your business.

Maintenance and Inspection: Regularly inspect and maintain your equipment to ensure its proper functioning and adherence to safety standards. Implement a maintenance schedule for routine checks, servicing, and repairs. This proactive approach will help prevent breakdowns, extend the lifespan of your equipment, and maintain a high level of service reliability.

Going to write a business plan?

Need a business plan writer?

Step 4: Build a Network and Establish Partnerships

Building a strong network and establishing partnerships within the automotive industry is essential for the growth of your car hauling business. Network with local car dealerships, manufacturers, auctions, and other businesses that require vehicle transportation services. Attend industry events, join trade associations, and participate in online forums to connect with potential clients and partners. Collaborating with other industry professionals can lead to valuable referrals and business opportunities.

Follow these steps to expand your network and foster valuable connections:

Attend Industry Events: Participate in local and regional automotive industry events, trade shows, and conferences. These events provide excellent opportunities to connect with potential clients and industry professionals. Network with car dealerships, manufacturers, auto auctions, and other businesses involved in the automotive sector. Engage in conversations, exchange business cards, and showcase your expertise and services.

Join Trade Associations: Become a member of trade associations and organizations related to the automotive industry. These associations offer networking events, industry insights, and access to a community of professionals. Engage actively in association activities, attend meetings, and contribute to discussions. This involvement will help you establish your credibility and build relationships with like-minded individuals and businesses.

Utilize Online Platforms: Leverage the power of online platforms and social media to expand your network. Join online forums and communities dedicated to the automotive industry. Participate in discussions, share valuable insights, and connect with potential clients and partners. Utilize professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your expertise and establish connections with industry professionals.

Collaborate with Complementary Businesses: Identify businesses that complement your car hauling services and establish partnerships with them. This can include auto repair shops, vehicle storage facilities, car rental companies, or automotive detailing services. Collaborating with these businesses can lead to cross-referrals and mutually beneficial relationships. By offering integrated solutions to customers, you can create a more comprehensive and convenient service experience.

Offer Exceptional Customer Service: Providing excellent customer service is key to building a strong network. Prioritize client satisfaction by delivering vehicles on time, handling inquiries promptly, and addressing any concerns professionally. Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers can significantly contribute to expanding your network and attracting new clients.

Maintain Long-Term Relationships: Building a network is not just about making initial connections; it’s about nurturing and maintaining long-term relationships. Stay in touch with industry professionals, clients, and partners through periodic communication. Attend networking events regularly and engage in follow-ups to strengthen your connections. By fostering trust and reliability, you increase the likelihood of repeat business and referrals.

Example: Building a strong network and establishing partnerships within the automotive industry is essential for the growth of your car hauling business. One successful example of a company that has effectively built its network and established valuable partnerships is “ AutoStar Transport Express .”

AutoStar Car Haulers has strategically networked with local car dealerships , manufacturers, and auctions to expand its client base and strengthen its position in the industry. By attending automotive industry events, such as trade shows and conferences, Autostar Transport Express has had the opportunity to connect with potential clients and establish valuable relationships with industry professionals.

Step 5: Market Your Car Hauling Business

To attract customers and increase awareness of your services, implement effective marketing strategies. Create a professional website that showcases your expertise, highlights your services, and includes contact information for inquiries. Utilize social media platforms to engage with potential customers, share informative content, and run targeted advertising campaigns. Consider attending automotive trade shows, advertising in local publications, and utilizing online directories to reach a wider audience.

Follow these steps to create a strong marketing presence for your business:

Professional Website: Develop a professional website that showcases your expertise, highlights your services, and provides essential information for potential customers. Optimize your website with relevant keywords and ensure it is mobile-friendly for easy accessibility. Include a clear call-to-action and contact information to encourage inquiries.

Social Media Presence: Establish a strong presence on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Create engaging content related to car hauling, industry updates, and helpful tips. Share photos and videos of your equipment, successful deliveries, and satisfied customers. Interact with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and inquiries promptly.

Targeted Advertising Campaigns: Run targeted online advertising campaigns to reach a wider audience. Utilize platforms like Google Ads and social media advertising to promote your services to individuals and businesses in need of car hauling. Target specific demographics, geographical locations, and interests relevant to your target market. Monitor and optimize your campaigns to maximize your return on investment.

Participate in Trade Shows and Events: Consider attending automotive trade shows, expos, and industry events. Set up a booth to showcase your services and interact with potential clients. Engage in conversations, distribute promotional materials, and collect leads. Trade shows provide valuable networking opportunities and allow you to stay updated on industry trends.

Local Advertising: Advertise your car hauling business in local publications such as newspapers, magazines, and community newsletters. This targeted approach helps you reach potential customers in your area. Additionally, consider sponsoring local events or sports teams to increase brand visibility within your community.

Online Directories and Review Platforms: List your car hauling business on online directories and review platforms such as Google My Business, Yelp, and Angie’s List. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews, as they can significantly influence potential clients’ decision-making process. Respond to reviews, both positive and negative, in a professional and timely manner.

Referral Programs and Partnerships: Implement referral programs to incentivize satisfied customers and industry partners to refer clients to your car hauling business. Offer discounts, rewards, or commission-based referral systems. Additionally, establish partnerships with local car dealerships, manufacturers, and auto repair shops. These partnerships can lead to mutual referrals and collaborative marketing efforts.

To attract customers and increase awareness of your car hauling services, it’s essential to implement effective marketing strategies. One successful example of a company that excelled in marketing their car hauling business is “Global AutoMovers.”

Global AutoMovers created a professional and user-friendly website that showcased their expertise in car hauling and highlighted their comprehensive range of services. The website provided detailed information about their fleet of specialized car hauling trailers, safety measures, and their commitment to delivering vehicles on time and in pristine condition.

Utilizing social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, Global AutoMovers engaged with potential customers by sharing informative content about car hauling tips, industry updates, and success stories. They leveraged visually appealing images and videos to showcase their professional equipment and successful vehicle deliveries.

Fuel Your Financial Growth with Exciting Business Ideas!

How much does a car hauling business cost.

A car hauling business can be profitable, with average annual profits ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 or more. Profitability depends on market conditions, competition, pricing strategy, and operational efficiency. Thorough financial planning and effective cost management are crucial for maximizing profitability.

Yes, it is possible to start a hauling business on a part-time basis. Many individuals begin by operating their hauling business alongside their current job or commitments. Starting part-time allows for gradual growth and a smoother transition into full-time operations as the business expands and customer demand increases.

To attract customers to your car hauling business, you can implement various strategies. These include creating a strong online presence with a professional website and utilizing social media platforms to engage with potential customers. Additionally, attending industry events, advertising in local publications, and leveraging online directories can help you reach a wider audience and attract customers to your services.

When it comes to earning potential, specialized hauling services often offer higher rates compared to general hauling. This includes transporting high-value vehicles, luxury cars, classic cars, or specialized equipment. These niche markets typically command premium prices, allowing for higher earning potential in the car hauling industry.

It is essential to familiarize yourself with safety regulations regarding vehicle securement, driver qualifications, maintenance inspections, and any specific regulations in your jurisdiction to ensure compliance and safe operations.

Related Posts

What Are Mobile App Development Services? Guide for Businesses and Startups

Big Companies Using .NET technologies for Product Development

10 Essential Time Management Tips for Busy Professionals

Quick links.

• Investor Business Plans
• M&A Business Plan
• Private Placement
• Feasibility Study
• Hire a Business Plan Writer
• Business Valuation Calculator
• Business Plan Examples
• Real Estate Business Plan
• Business Plan Template
• Business Plan Pricing Guide
• Business Plan Makeover
• SBA Loans, Bank Funding & Business Credit
• Finding & Qualifying for Business Grants
• Leadership for the New Manager
• Content Marketing for Beginners
• All About Crowdfunding
• EB-5 Regional Centers, A Step-By-Step Guide
• Logo Designer
• Landing Page
• PPC Advertising

• Business Entity
• Business Licensing
• Virtual Assistant
• Business Phone
• Business Address
• E-1 Visa Business Plan
• EB1-A Visa Business Plan
• EB1-C Visa Business Plan
• EB2-NIW Business Plan
• H1B Visa Business Plan
• O1 Visa Business Plan
• Business Brokers
• Merger & Acquisition Advisors
• Franchisors

Proud Sponsor of

• 1-800-496-1056

• (613) 800-0227

• +44 (1549) 409190

• +61 (2) 72510077

How to start a car hauling business

Running your own car hauling business may be a great idea, but you need to know exactly what is involved in getting started. Before you make any permanent plans, let us help you learn how to start a car hauling business. 

TAFS is More than Freight Factoring

What is a car hauling business .

The term car hauling refers to transporting automotive vehicles from one place to another. Drivers engaged in this business are responsible for loading each vehicle onto a specially-designed trailer and ensuring that the vehicles are secure. They must also make sure the trailer meets all weight restrictions and safety standards. 

As a rule, vehicle manufacturers and dealerships are not involved in the transport aspect of moving vehicles. This aspect of their business is handled by the trucking industry instead. Essentially, a car hauling business acts as a middleman between the shipper and the customer.

Car hauling can also mean shipping a car to a new location for individuals who move. 

How does a car hauling business work? 

When deciding how to start a car hauling business, you can choose to work with a broker who will help you get loads, find your own customers, or work for an auto transport company. 

Pros & cons of owning a car hauling business

Owning a car hauling business sounds good in theory, but are you ready to take on the responsibility? Take a look at the pros and cons, and then decide whether you wouldn’t be better off working on your own or with a reputable company.

Advantages 

• Be your own boss
• High profit margin
• Build your business brand
• Open trailers offer better visibility
• A growing industry

Disadvantages 

• High maintenance costs
• Rigorous licensing costs 
• Hard to get established
• More responsibilities 
• Unexpected expenses

10 steps for starting a car hauling business 

Are you interested in the business of hauling cars but aren’t sure how to begin? The best way is to follow specific steps to avoid legal issues or other problems.

If you’re not sure how to start a car hauling business, here are 10 steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Get your CDL

The first step in starting a car hauling business is to obtain a CDL-A license. The license will make it easier to get insured, and fees will be cheaper. 

In addition to the CDL , you need to obtain a standard “for-hire” authority to fulfill the company’s state and federal legal requirements. 

Step 2: Create a business plan

Trying to start a new car hauling company without a business plan is setting yourself up for problems. For instance, you need to know what you’ll be hauling, where you can find customers, your goals, and how you plan to grow the business.

Your car hauling business plan will serve as a guide to help you handle unexpected responsibilities and costs. You may want to get professional help creating the business plan to make sure it’s realistic.

Step 3: Create your budget

Before starting any business, it’s important to know your overall costs. They may include initial, ongoing, and future costs. Do you know where your working capital is coming from, the daily operating costs, and how to cover unexpected expenses? Setting up a budget will help you plan for these costs.

Step 4: Get insurance quotes

In the car hauling business, the freight you carry is high-value. As such, insurance companies want to make sure you have adequate coverage. You can expect to carry about $2 million in liability insurance and $500,000 in cargo insurance.

Step 5: Learn how to load and unload properly

Loading and unloading an auto transport trailer is a complex process. It requires a lot of skill to ensure all moving parts come together properly. The driver must consider the size of each vehicle and the order in which they are to be unloaded. 

Before starting a car hauling business, make sure you gain experience in this critical aspect of the profession.

Step 6: Fulfill legal requirements

Before you can hit the road with your car transport business, you will need several permits:

• UCR — Unified Carrier Registration fees
• IFTA — International Fuel Tax Agreement taxes
• IRP — International Registration Plan taxes 
• HVUT — Heavy Vehicle Use Tax
• DOT — Department of Transportation fees
• MC Number — Assigned by the FMCSA

It’s important to pay the fees on time to avoid paying heavy fines or having your vehicle placed out-of-service. 

Step 7: Purchase equipment and insurance

After applying your operating authority, you have 30 days to buy a truck and obtain insurance. If you fail to complete these steps, the DOT may shut down your operation. 

Step 8: Set up contact information

At first, you may decide to work with a broker to get your business started, but it’s better to have an alternate plan. Setting up your business email and website is a step toward independence. When you generate your leads, you will increase revenues and build a reputation as a reliable, trustworthy car hauling company.

Step 9: Sign up for the load board

After the FMCSA approves your authority, your next step is to sign up for the load board . A load board is used by brokers, dealers, and carriers. You can use the board to find and book loads for a fee .

Step 10: Get to work

Stay legal, drive safely, and start making money. It won’t be easy, and you’ll make mistakes, but you’re off to a good start.

Are you ready to start hauling cars?

Hauling cars for a living can be a profitable venture if you plan well, stay up-to-date with regulations, and work hard. You may want to consider working with a logistics company to ensure that you get the loads you want, keep your company organized, and have the support and guidance you need in the early stages of your business. 

You can make money hauling cars by transporting vehicles for dealerships, auctions, or individual clients and charging fees based on distance and services provided. One satisfied customer leads to another and ensures repeat business.

Get the right equipment, licenses, and insurance, and gain experience loading and unloading vehicles. Next, create a business plan, and determine where your operating capital is coming from.

It depends. Hotshot car hauling can be lucrative if you have the right setup, skills, and clientele. Research thoroughly before deciding.

More From Careers

What are the highest paying jobs in supply chain management, 5 best intermodal trucking companies, best hydro excavation companies, pros and cons of becoming a long haul trucker.

FreightWaves Ratings reference a list of approved sources for use of research to support editorial research and drafting. These include the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, U.S Department of Transportation, Better Business Bureau®, International Fuel Tax Association, Inc, Federal Highway Administration, additional Federal, State, and Local government websites, internal data compiling, original research, and commentary from industry experts.

As one of the industry leaders, TAFS assists trucking companies to increase cash flow with some of the lowest factoring rates in the industry and a 1-hour advance option.

TAFS Freight Factoring

As one of the industry leaders, TAFS assists trucking companies to increase cash flow with some of the lowest factoring rates in the industry and 1-hour advance option.

Business & The Enterprise Diary

How to start a profitable car hauling business: essential tips.

Starting a car hauling business can be a profitable venture if you approach it the right way. The demand for vehicle transportation services is consistently high, especially with online car sales booming. Whether you’re looking to haul cars for dealerships, private owners, or auctions, knowing the essentials is crucial to launching and running a successful business.

Here Are Some Pointers to Help You Get Started:

1. research the industry.

Before dipping your toes into this business, study other car hauling companies to learn about their pricing, services, and operations. Whether you plan to run an auto transporter for classic cars or serve everyday needs, knowing the market helps you identify gaps and opportunities.

Also, research regulations governing car haulers, especially the Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for your car hauler trailer. Compliance with these rules is essential to avoid fines and ensure your business runs smoothly. If you’re operating across state lines, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) governs your operations, so stay informed about their requirements.

2. Choose the Right Equipment

The backbone of a successful car hauling business is choosing the right equipment. At a minimum, you’ll need a reliable truck and a car hauler trailer. There are various trailer types, from open transport to enclosed options. While open car transport is common and cost-effective, enclosed trailers offer extra protection for high-end or classic cars, often preferred by high-paying clients. Ensure the trailer matches the weight capacity needed to transport multiple cars.

In addition, consider auto hauler equipment like ramps, tie-downs, and winches to secure vehicles safely. Investing in high-quality car trailers and accessories from reputable suppliers can enhance your reputation as a trusted auto transport provider.

3. Get Proper Licensing and Insurance

To legally operate, you’ll need the correct licenses and insurance. Start by applying for a USDOT number if you’re transporting vehicles across state lines. Local regulations may also require additional permits for in-state transport. Make sure your auto transport company complies with all licensing requirements.

Comprehensive insurance is a must. Auto transport services require commercial auto insurance, cargo coverage, and liability insurance. These policies protect you against accidents and damages during the shipping process. Though insurance costs can be high, they provide essential coverage that could save you from financial disaster.

4. Set Competitive Pricing

Pricing your services right is key to staying competitive and making a profit. Research what other car haulers in your area charge and consider factors like the distance, number of vehicles, and the type of trailer. So, how much do car haulers make per car ? It varies, as payouts differ for each load. The price depends on distance, the vehicle’s value, and the client’s needs. You could make anywhere from $300 to $800 per car.

It’s also a good idea to offer flexible pricing options for different customers. For instance, you could charge a flat rate for short-distance hauls and a per-mile rate for longer distances. Being transparent about your pricing structure helps build trust with customers and can lead to repeat business.

5. Market Your Business Effectively

No matter how efficient your car shipping service is, customers won’t find you without effective marketing. Start by building a professional website that highlights your services and offers customers an instant quote feature.

Social media marketing can also help your business rank higher in search results, making it easier for potential clients to find you. Auto shipping companies often use social media ads and Google ads to reach more customers.

Furthermore, connect with local dealerships, auction houses, and car rental agencies to form partnerships. They’re often in need of reliable vehicle transportation services, so building relationships can generate steady work.

6. Build a Strong Customer Service Reputation

Your success in the car hauling business will largely depend on how well you treat your customers. Always be punctual, communicate clearly, and handle vehicles with care. Word of mouth can be your strongest marketing tool, especially in a business where trust is critical. If customers are happy with your service, they’ll likely recommend you to others.

You can also encourage customers to leave reviews online. Positive reviews not only enhance your reputation but also improve your online presence, making it easier for potential customers to find you.

7. Manage Your Finances and Operations

Running a profitable car hauling business involves more than just transporting vehicles. You need to manage your finances carefully to stay afloat. Start by setting up a business bank account to separate personal and business finances . This will help you track expenses, file taxes, and manage cash flow more easily.

Next, create a budget that includes all operating costs—fuel, maintenance, insurance, marketing, and loan payments. This gives you a clear view of your financial obligations and helps you avoid overspending. Keep a close eye on cash flow and avoid taking on too much debt early on.

To stay organized, consider transport management software. Many auto shipping businesses use these tools to simplify billing, scheduling, and route planning, allowing you to manage hauls, track vehicles, and handle finances efficiently in one place.

Final Thoughts

Launching a car hauling business offers a path to profitability, but it requires careful preparation and smart decisions. From understanding industry dynamics to building a solid reputation, every step counts.

Challenges are inevitable, but staying adaptable and consistently delivering quality service will create opportunities for growth. With a commitment to excellence, you can carve out a strong presence in the industry and build a business that stands the test of time.

Did You like the post? Share it now:

Read more from the enterprise world.

Top 11 Road Trip Ideas Around The World to Inspire Your Next Adventure

Women in Tech and Their Fight for Equality: Coding Courage and Bridging Gaps

These Actions Sabotage Your Mental Health

Can You Recover From Addiction on Your Own?

Join the newsletter.

Subscribe to our newsletter now and stay informed!

The Enterprise World, is a business magazine, a platform for all the master business minds to share their stories of success, and the loopholes they encountered to become the overnight stars they are now of the enterprise world.

Quick Links

The enterprise diary.

• Press Release
• Become an Author
• Term of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Phone: +1 614 385 1709
• Email: [email protected]

Brilliantly

Content & links.

Verified by Sur.ly

Copyright © 2024: The Enterprise World | All rights reserved.

AMERICAS EDITION

North America, South America & Canada

EMEA EDITION

Europe, Middle East & Africa

APAC EDITION

East Asia, Southeast Asia, & Oceania

HALL OF FAME

Americas Edition, Europe Edition & APAC Edition

Technology, AR/VR, AI/ML, Electronics

Healthcare, HealthTech, Pharma, Fitness

Digital Marketing, Sales, Website, SEO, SMM

Business Guide, Startups, Operations, Mistakes to Avoid

Finance, FinTech, Cryptocurrency, Wealth, Markets

Education, EdTech, ELearning, Motivation

MANUFACTURING

Manufacturing, Industry, Construction, Auto

Consulting, HR, Strategy, Management, Operations

Financial modeling spreadsheets and templates in Excel & Google Sheets

• Your cart is empty.

Ultimate Guide To Creating A Profitable Car Hauling Business Plan

Picture this: the car hauling industry is worth over $20 billion annually in the U.S. alone. With the right business plan, you could tap into this lucrative market and achieve impressive returns. However, success isn’t just about owning a truck; it’s about strategically planning every aspect of your business.

Creating a profitable car hauling business plan involves understanding market demand, regulatory requirements, and efficient logistics management. Historically, those who tailored their strategies to the ever-evolving automotive industry saw significant growth. Leveraging innovative solutions and technologies can further streamline operations, making your business more competitive and profitable.

Ultimate Guide to Creating a Profitable Car Hauling Business Plan

The car hauling industry offers vast opportunities for entrepreneurs willing to invest in this niche market. A well-crafted business plan acts as a roadmap, guiding each step to profitability. It helps in outlining your business model , marketing strategies, and financial goals. Clear objectives and detailed market analysis are essential for success. Without them, even the most ambitious business ideas can falter.

Key elements of a profitable business plan for car hauling include an assessment of market demand, identification of target clients, and an effective sales strategy. It’s vital to know who needs your services and why. Potential clients can range from car dealerships to individuals relocating vehicles. Understanding client needs can help tailor your services accordingly. An effective marketing plan converts prospects into loyal customers.

Regarding financial planning , start with a detailed budget covering all operational costs. This includes expenses like fuel, maintenance, and salaries for staff. Accurate financial forecasts help in managing resources efficiently. Consider potential challenges like fluctuating fuel prices. A solid financial plan prepares you for such variables.

Leveraging technology can significantly boost your car hauling business. Use GPS tracking for efficient route planning and delivery monitoring. Digital marketing tools help in reaching a broader audience. Keeping an updated online presence attracts more clients. These tech tools simplify operations and enhance customer satisfaction. Productivity and profitability improve as a result.

Key Elements of a Car Hauling Business Plan

A solid business plan begins with identifying your market and competition. Research is fundamental; understanding who your competitors are and what services they provide is crucial. By evaluating their strengths and weaknesses, you can design your unique selling proposition. This makes your business stand out. Always keep an eye on market trends.

Next, outlining your services and pricing model is essential. Determine whether you will cater to commercial clients, individual customers, or both. Establish competitive pricing that reflects the quality of your services and market demand. Use clear and concise service descriptions. Transparency builds trust with customers.

Your operational plan is the backbone of your business. It should cover logistics, vehicle maintenance, and staffing needs. For efficient operations, build a reliable schedule and stick to it. Routinely maintain and inspect your vehicles to minimize downtime. Hiring a skilled team ensures smooth operations.

Financial forecasting is another key element. Prepare detailed revenue and expense projections and set benchmarks for profitability. Utilize

• software tools
• spreadsheets
• analytical reports

to track your financial performance. Regularly review these projections and adjust your strategy as needed. Proactive financial management paves the way for sustainable growth.

Analyzing Market Demand for Car Hauling Services

Understanding market demand is crucial for a profitable car hauling business. Start by researching various regions to identify high-demand areas. Look for places with a lot of car dealerships, auctions, and relocation needs. Use online tools to gather data on these regions. Understanding where the demand is highest can guide your business location and service areas.

It’s also helpful to identify the types of vehicles commonly transported in these regions. Are there more luxury cars, standard vehicles, or perhaps even classic cars? Knowing this helps in tailoring your services to meet specific needs. Moreover, different vehicles may require specialized equipment. This insight can influence your investment in tools and resources.

Gathering feedback from potential clients can provide valuable insights. Reach out to car dealers, auction houses, and moving companies. Ask them about their hauling needs and pain points. This primary research will help you understand what clients are looking for. Addressing these needs can give you a competitive advantage.

Use this valuable data to create a market analysis report. This report should include data points like potential client segments, average demand levels, and peak times. A table can help visualize this information:

This structured data will guide strategic decisions, leading to better service and higher profitability.

Understanding Regulatory Requirements in the Car Hauling Industry

The car hauling industry is governed by various regulations to ensure safety and compliance. One of the first steps is securing the necessary permits and licenses. This includes a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and a USDOT number. These credentials are critical for legally operating your business. Without them, you risk heavy penalties.

Insurance is another important requirement. Car haulers must have adequate insurance coverage to protect against liabilities. This includes cargo insurance to cover the vehicles you transport and liability insurance for accidents. The specific coverage needed can vary by state. Always check local requirements to ensure compliance.

Weight limits and vehicle dimensions are strictly regulated in the car hauling industry. Overloaded trucks can cause safety hazards and result in fines. Compliance with weight restrictions is essential. Utilize weigh stations and portable scales to monitor your loads. Keeping within limits improves safety and avoids legal issues.

Regulations also cover vehicle maintenance and inspections. Regular inspections ensure that your hauling equipment is in good working order. This reduces the risk of breakdowns and accidents. Maintenance records are often reviewed during audits. Keeping detailed logs can demonstrate compliance and avoid problems.

In addition, electronic logging devices (ELDs) are mandatory for tracking hours of service (HOS). These devices record driving time automatically. This information is crucial for complying with federal HOS regulations. Using an ELD helps prevent driver fatigue. It’s a key component in maintaining safety standards.

Efficient Logistic Management Strategies for Profitability

Effective route planning is crucial for improving logistics in the car hauling industry. Using advanced GPS technology can help optimize routes, reducing fuel costs and delivery time. It’s important to consider traffic patterns and road conditions. Dynamic route adjustments can be made in real-time. This ensures timely deliveries and satisfied clients.

Vehicle maintenance is another critical aspect of efficient logistics. Regular checks and timely repairs can prevent unexpected breakdowns. Keeping your fleet in top condition enhances reliability and service quality. Well-maintained vehicles are also more fuel-efficient. Schedule routine maintenance to avoid operational disruptions.

Driver management plays a vital role in logistics efficiency. Hire skilled and experienced drivers who understand the importance of safety and punctuality. Providing ongoing training can keep their skills sharp. An incentivized reward system can motivate drivers. Happy drivers are more productive and efficient.

• Optimize routes regularly
• Maintain vehicles
• Manage drivers efficiently
• Leverage technology for tracking
• Use data analytics for decision making

Leveraging technology for tracking and monitoring can significantly improve logistics. Tools like fleet management software offer real-time updates on vehicle locations and conditions. This data helps in making informed decisions. Technologies like geofencing can enhance security. Using these tools leads to better resource utilization.

Analyzing logistics data is essential for continuous improvement. Use data analytics to identify patterns and areas for enhancement. This can include anything from fuel consumption to delivery times. A data-driven approach helps in refining logistics strategies. Consistent analysis leads to sustained profitability.

Leveraging Technology in Car Hauling Business for Increased Efficiency

Technology plays a significant role in enhancing the efficiency of car hauling businesses. Fleet management software offers real-time data on vehicle locations and maintenance needs. This technology helps in preventing costly breakdowns. It ensures that vehicles are serviced on time. Efficient fleet management leads to smoother operations.

GPS tracking systems are invaluable tools for car haulers. These systems provide accurate information on trip routes and travel time. They help drivers avoid traffic congestion and road closures. Real-time updates allow for dynamic route adjustments. This results in timely deliveries and satisfied customers.

Mobile apps for drivers streamline communication and document management. Drivers can easily update their status, log hours, and report issues. These applications make it easier to manage workloads and track performance. They also reduce paperwork. Streamlined communication boosts overall productivity.

Data analytics tools provide insights into various aspects of the business. Analyzing data on fuel consumption, route efficiency, and vehicle performance can reveal areas for improvement. This helps in making informed decisions. Optimizing these aspects leads to cost savings and better resource allocation.

Automated systems for booking and invoicing simplify administrative tasks. Clients can easily book services online, reducing the need for manual intervention. Automated invoicing ensures timely payments and accurate records. These systems reduce administrative costs. Simplified processes contribute to increased efficiency.

Case Study: Successful Car Hauling Business Strategies and Their Impact

Consider the story of XYZ Car Haulers, a company that saw exponential growth by implementing smart strategies. They started by focusing on niche markets, such as luxury car dealerships and auction houses. By tailoring services to these high-demand sectors, they built strong client relationships. This focus helped them establish a reputable brand quickly. Word-of-mouth referrals significantly boosted their client base.

XYZ Car Haulers also invested in fleet management technology early on. This allowed them to monitor vehicle performance and optimize routes efficiently. Using GPS tracking systems, they could adjust routes in real-time to avoid traffic jams and road closures.

. Better route planning led to increased delivery reliability and reduced operational costs.

Their approach to driver management was another key factor in their success. By offering competitive salaries and benefits, they attracted experienced drivers who valued safety and efficiency. Regular training sessions kept their team updated on best practices and new technologies. Happy drivers meant better service quality for clients. Consistent training ensured compliance with industry standards.

Marketing strategies emphasized transparency and customer satisfaction. XYZ Car Haulers utilized digital marketing tools to reach potential clients effectively. Social media campaigns highlighted customer testimonials and case studies showcasing successful deliveries. A user-friendly website made it easy for clients to book services online. This online presence attracted more customers.

The impact of these combined strategies was clear: rapid business expansion and solid financial performance. XYZ Car Haulers doubled their fleet size within three years, showing the effectiveness of focused market strategies and investment in technology:

• Niche market focus
• Early technology adoption
• Competitive driver management
• Effective marketing strategies

These elements worked together seamlessly, creating a sustainable business model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Creating a profitable car hauling business involves several critical steps and considerations. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate this complex process.

1. What are the essential permits required for a car hauling business?

The most crucial permit for a car hauling business is the commercial driver’s license (CDL). Additionally, you need a USDOT number for interstate operations. These permits ensure that your drivers are qualified and your vehicles meet federal safety standards.

You may also require special permits or licenses depending on state regulations. These could include motor carrier permits or specific endorsements on your CDL. Always check local requirements to stay compliant with all legal aspects of running your business.

2. How can technology improve my car hauling services?

Implementing technology like GPS tracking and fleet management software can significantly enhance your operations. GPS tracking helps in optimizing routes, saving both fuel and time, which leads to increased profitability. Fleet management software keeps track of vehicle maintenance schedules, reducing breakdowns and downtime.

Additionally, using mobile apps for driver communication can simplify updates and document management, making your workload easier to manage. Data analytics tools offer valuable insights into various operational metrics, helping you make informed decisions for further improvements.

3. Why is market research important before starting a car hauling business?

Market research helps you identify demand in different regions and target clients such as car dealerships or auction houses. By understanding market needs, you can tailor your services accordingly and position yourself better against competitors.

This research also helps you understand seasonal trends and peak times for transporting vehicles. Armed with this knowledge, you can make strategic decisions regarding resource allocation, pricing models, and marketing initiatives to maximize profits.

4. What types of insurance do I need for my car hauling business?

A comprehensive insurance plan includes multiple types of coverage to protect against various risks. Cargo insurance covers the vehicles you’re transporting in case of damage or loss during transit.

You should also have liability insurance to cover accidents involving third parties and physical damage insurance for your own trucks. Specific state regulations may mandate additional coverage types, so it’s crucial to consult an insurance expert familiar with the industry requirements.

5. How do I effectively market my car hauling business?

An effective marketing strategy starts with establishing an online presence through a user-friendly website where clients can easily book services. Use social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram for targeted advertising campaigns that showcase customer testimonials and case studies.

Email marketing campaigns can keep potential clients informed about new services or promotions you’re offering. Networking within industry events like auto shows or dealer conventions can also help build relationships that lead to long-term contracts.

Creating a profitable car hauling business plan requires a mix of strategic planning, market research, and regulatory compliance. Leveraging technology and focusing on efficient logistics can greatly enhance your operations. Understanding industry-specific insurance and permits is crucial for legal compliance and risk management.

Effective marketing strategies further support business growth by attracting and retaining clients. By combining these elements, you can build a robust and profitable car hauling business. The key lies in continuous improvement and adapting to market changes to stay competitive.

Beverage Manufacturing Start-up Financial Model

The beverage manufacturing industry is a dynamic and rapidly growing sector that caters to a diverse market ranging from soft drinks and juices to alc... read more

•   Excel Model  –  $199.95 Version 5.2
•   PDF Demo  –  $0.00 Version 5.2

Liquor Distillery Financial Plan Template

Distilleries, with their rich history of crafting spirits, have experienced a resurgence in popularity, driven by consumer interest in artisanal and l... read more

•   Excel Version  –  $199.95 Version 5.5
•   PDF Demo Version  –  $0.00 Version 5.5

Corporate Finance Toolkit – 25 Financial Models Excel Templates

The toolkit is an essential resource for any organization, providing a comprehensive collection of tools and templates designed to streamline financia... read more

•   All Excel Model Templates  –  $249.00 Version 1
•   PDF Demo & Excel Free Download  –  $0.00 Version 1

Taxi Company Business Financial Model

Embark on the road to success by starting your own Taxi Company Business. This comprehensive 10-year monthly Excel financial model template offers an ... read more

•   Excel Version  –  $129.95 Version 1.6
•   PDF Demo Version  –  $0.00 Version 1.6

Trucking Company Financial Model

Embrace the road ahead, where every mile traveled isn’t just a journey—it’s a commitment to keeping the gears of the global economy turning. Sta... read more

•   Excel Version  –  $129.95 Version 1.3
•   PDF Version  –  $0.00 Version 1.3

Crypto Trading Platform – 5 Year Financial Model

Financial Model presenting an advanced 5-year financial plan of a Crypto Trading Platform allowing customers to trade cryptocurrencies or digital curr... read more

•   Excel Financial Model  –  $139.00 Version 1
•   PDF Free Demo  –  $0.00 Version 1

Truck Rental Company Financial Model

This detailed 10-year monthly Excel template is specifically designed to formulate a business plan for a Truck Rental Business. It employs a thorough ... read more

•   Excel Version  –  $129.95 Version 2.4
•   PDF Version  –  $0.00 Version 2.4

Kayak Boat Rental Business Model

Dive into the future of your kayak boat rental business with our cutting-edge 10-year monthly financial model, tailored to empower entrepreneurs and b... read more

Event Organizer Business Model Template

Elevate your event planning business to new heights with our state-of-the-art Event Organizer Business Financial Model Template in Excel. The Excel sp... read more

•   Event Organizer Template - Full Excel  –  $129.95 Version 1.4
•   Event Organizer Template PDF Demo  –  $0.00 Version 1.4

Motorboat Rental Business Financial Model

Dive into the heart of financial planning with our Motorboat Rental Business Financial Model, designed to propel your venture into uncharted waters wi... read more

Webinar Organizer Business Plan Template

Discover the key to financial success in your webinar ventures with our Webinar Organizer Business Plan Template. This webinar business template is an... read more

•   Excel Version  –  $129.95 Version 1.4
•   PDF Version  –  $0.00 Version 1.4

Paddle Boat Rental Business Model

The Paddle Boat Rental Business Financial Model is a pivotal tool for entrepreneurs venturing into the leisure and tourism industry. Crafted with prec... read more

Gantt Chart Template: Intuitive and Innovative Planning Tool

Very simple to use, intuitive and innovative planning tool/Gantt Chart

•   Gantt Chart Tool  –  $20.00 Version 1

Gas / EV Charging Station 10-year Financial Forecasting Model

This model is adaptable and useful for a Gas Station, an EV Charging Station, or a combination of both types of Stations. The model is coherent, easy ... read more

•   Full Open Excel  –  $50.00 Version 7
•   PDF Preview  –  $0.00 Version 7

Three Statement Financial Model Template

The three statement financial model template offers a fundamental Excel template designed to project the three key financial statements over the next ... read more

•   Free Excel Version  –  $0.00 Version 1.1

Student Accommodation / Village Development Model – 20 years

This Student Accommodation 20-year Development Model (hold and lease) will produce 20 years of Three Statement Analysis, Re-valuations and the consequ... read more

•   Excel Full Open  –  $50.00 Version 7
•   PDF Explainer  –  $0.00 Version 7

Party Planning Business Financial Model

Introducing the Party Planning Business Financial Model – Your Ultimate Tool for Flawless Financial Management in Event Planning! In a highly person... read more

•   PDF Demo Version  –  $0.00 Version 1.4

Tennis Court and Club Development – 10-year Financial Forecasting Model

Introducing our Tennis Courts and Club Financial Forecasting Model – your winning strategy for tennis court and club development. With unmatched coh... read more

•   Full Open Excel  –  $49.00 Version 8
•   PDF Preview  –  $0.00 Version 8

Gym and Fitness Club 10 year Financial Forecasting Model

Introducing our indispensable 10-Year Excel Financial Forecasting Model, a vital asset for gym and fitness club owners navigating the complexities of ... read more

•   Full Open Excel  –  $40.00 Version 8
•   PDF Explainer  –  $0.00 Version 8

Business Plan on Two Pages

Simple but effective business plan template - on two pages.

•   Business Plan Template  –  $32.00 Version 1

Squash Court and Club Dynamic Financial Model 10 years

Introducing our Squash Courts and Club Financial Forecasting Model – a game-changer for aspiring squash enthusiasts and club developers. With unpara... read more

•   Free PDF Preview  –  $0.00 Version 8

Self-Storage Park Development Model

This Self-Storage Park development model will produce 20 years of three-statement analysis and valuations. There is a sheet focused on the Investor An... read more

•   Free PDF Explainer  –  $0.00 Version 7

McKinsey 7S Model Excel Template

Originating in the late 1970s by consultants at McKinsey & Company, the McKinsey 7S framework is a strategic management tool designed to align sev... read more

•   Excel Template  –  $39.00 Version 1

Surfboard Rental Business Financial Model

Surfing is not just a sport—it's a lifestyle booming globally. With eco-tourism on the rise and outdoor adventures in high demand, now's the time to... read more

•   Excel Version  –  $129.95 Version 2.2
•   PDF Version  –  $0.00 Version 2.2

Manpower Planning and Analysis Model

The Manpower Analysis Model was designed to equip HR managers and analysts with a tool to control the transition of a workforce from one year to anoth... read more

•   Excel Model  –  $50.00 Version 7
•   Model Manual  –  $0.00 Version 7

Brandy Distillery Business Financial Model

Discover the ultimate Brandy Distillery Business Financial Model, meticulously designed to provide 10-year comprehensive insights and strategies for y... read more

3-Statement Financial Model

3-year financial model that is specially designed for early-stage companies.

•   3-Statement-Excel-Model-with-5-year-Forecast.xlsx  –  $39.00 Version 1

Cider Distillery Financial Model

With its longstanding tradition and swiftly growing global demand, the cider industry offers a lucrative opportunity for investors looking to tap into... read more

•   PDF Version  –  $0.00 Version 5.5

E-Commerce Startup Company (5-year) Financial Forecast Model

By developing a detailed 5-year dynamic financial forecast model for a e-commerce startup, founders, investors, and stakeholders can gain insights int... read more

•   Excel Model  –  $70.00 Version 1
•   PDF Model  –  $0.00 Version 1

Bike Rental Business Financial Model

Elevate your bike rental business with our 10-year Bike Rental Business Financial Model. This invaluable tool is meticulously crafted to offer in-dept... read more

•   Excel Template  –  $129.95 Version 2.4
•   PDF File  –  $0.00 Version 2.4

50,000 Barrels per day Gas to Liquid Economic Model

This model is used to provide a robust economic analysis of a 50,000BBls/ day Gas to liquid(GTL) Processing plant across various product configuration... read more

•   Excel Model  –  $500.00 Version 1
•   PDF Demo Version  –  $0.00 Version 1

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Dave C. ★★★★★ Dave loved the fast delivery My relocation to Chicago was fast, smooth and without any delay thanks to A1 Auto.

Courtney J. ★★★★★ Courtney enjoyed the honest guidance Just what you need when trusting someone with your wheels! Kudos to this company!

Jeff D. ★★★★★ Jeff enjoyed the fair price Moved my ride hassle-free with these folks.Fair pricing, no surprises. Definitely recommend them!

Maria L. ★★★★★ Maria enjoyed the special care and safety Huge thanks to the movers – they were meticulous with my car. Love these guys.

“A1 Auto Transport became synonymous with top-notch service delivery, unfailing punctuality and constantly preoccupied with customer satisfaction. ” See Article — USA Today

How to Start a Car Hauling Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

Published by Joe Webster .

Starting a car hauling business from scratch can be daunting, but it is also an enriching journey.

From the legalities of transporting cars across state lines to the equipment you will need to get the job done, there are a lot of details to address.

In this article, we will walk you through each step of starting a successful car hauling business. You'll get actionable advice on the many aspects of setting up your car transport business.

How Much Does an Auto Hauler Make In a Year?

Typically, an auto transport business with a contract to haul new vehicles for a car producer will likely make $75,000 to $110,000 per year.

Additionally, as long as people drive cars, there will continue to be high demand. Your services will be needed by car dealers, individuals transporting their vehicles across state lines, etc.

That way, you're assured of continuous and repeat business.

Benefits of Owning a Car Hauling Business

There are many benefits that come with starting your own car hauling business.

For one, you'll be your own boss and have the freedom to set your schedule. As an owner-operator, you'll have the opportunity to grow your business as large as you want it to be.

Another benefit is that you can start with very little money. You don't need to have a lot of capital - all you need is a truck, the necessary equipment, and relevant licenses and documentation.

Finally, starting your own business is very rewarding. It's a great feeling to be your own boss and build something from scratch.

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Car Hauling Business?

The cost of starting a car hauling business can vary depending on a few factors, such as the size of your operation and the equipment you already have.

You can get by with just a truck and some essential equipment if you're starting a small operation.

If you're starting a more extensive operation, you may need to purchase additional trucks and trailers. This can cost anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000.

Additionally, you will need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate your business. The cost will vary depending on your location.

Finally, you'll need to purchase insurance for your business. This is a mandatory expense and can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per year, depending on the size of your operation.

That brings the total startup costs to $15,000 - $100,000+

Setting Up Your Car Hauling Business

Here are some key steps to starting a successful car hauling business:

Choose your car hauling business model

There are two main types of auto hauling businesses: contract-based and customer-based.

A contract-based business regularly hauls cars for a specific company or dealership. This type of business is usually more stable and predictable, but it can be harder to get started.

In contrast, a customer-based business works with individual customers who need their cars transported. This type of business is often more flexible, but it can be less predictable.

Define your budget

Like every other business, you need money to start your trucking business.

So, calculate the amount you have on hand. If it's not enough, consider taking out a loan from a bank or from family and friends.

Another option is to get into a partnership or look for an investor. In either case, you must have a business plan first.

Research the industry

Once you have decided on the type of business you will operate, it's time to research the market, other trucking companies, and your ideal clients.

To avoid legal issues down the road, find out what business license, or permit, is required in your state or province.

You will also need to research the regulations for auto transport. This information can be found at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Transportation Department.

In general, you'll need:

• A commercial driver's license (CDL)
• Permits to transport cars across state lines
• Dealer Transport License (if you're transporting cars for dealerships)
• International Registration Plan (IRP) apportioned plates (especially if you're hauling cars across different jurisdictions)

You'll also want to research your competitors to answer three major questions:

What are they doing correctly?

There are already many successful companies within the trucking industry. Find out what they're doing well so your business can do likewise. There's no need to reinvent the wheel.

What are they doing wrong?

One way to make your startup stand out is to discover what the other car transport businesses are doing wrong and make sure your business does better.

You can find this information through customer complaints on review platforms or face-to-face interviews with potential customers.

How can I stand out?

Once you see how your business can do better than other companies, use this information for your key value propositions.

For instance, if your competitors are known for late deliveries, then early delivery is a fundamental value proposition for you to leverage.

Get your operating authority (MC + DOT numbers)

The next step is to get your Motor Carrier (MC) number and Department of Transportation (DOT) number. You will need these numbers to operate legally as an interstate carrier.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) number is a unique identification number assigned to trucking companies. It is used to track a company's compliance with safety regulations.

To get a DOT number, you'll need to fill out an application and submit it to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You'll provide some basic information about your business, such as your company name and address. There is no fee.

To get your MC number, fill out an application with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) on their website. There is no fee to apply for an MC number.

An important note: You must purchase your trucks and insure them within 30 days of getting your DOT number. Otherwise, your new company will be shut down before you even start.

Create a business plan for your car hauling company

The next step is to create a car hauling business plan. It's an important document you'll need to source for funding from investors, track your business's progress, and make improvements as the case may be.

This document will outline your business goals, strategies, and how you plan on achieving them. Your business plan should include:

• An executive summary
• Your business goals and objectives
• A market analysis
• Your marketing strategy
• Your financial projections

Creating a business plan may seem daunting, but many resources are available to help you. The Small Business Administration has a great guide that walks you through each step of creating a business plan.

Register your transportation business

Your business must be registered to operate legally.

You may want to seek the help of a certified business consultant or tax professional to set up your new company.

You'll need to get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service.

Get the right equipment

An important step is to purchase equipment for your business.

If you're starting a customer-based business, you will need a large truck or trailer to transport at least one car.

You will also need some basic tools to secure the car during transport, such as straps and tie-downs.

But for a contract-based business, you will need a fleet of trucks or trailers. You will also need to invest in some storage space, such as a garage or warehouse, to store the cars you are transporting.

Before you buy new equipment, assess the equipment you already have. To cut costs, you may choose to lease your vehicles rather than purchase new ones. Then, as your business develops, you can purchase your own vehicles as needed.

Here's a checklist of the equipment you'll need:

• Electronic logging device
• Vehicles: pickup trucks or semis, car haulers
• Storage space (a warehouse)
• Straps and tie-downs
• Toll transponders
• Business cards

Insure your vehicles, trailers, and client cargo

Another key step is to get the proper insurance for your business.

You will need two types of insurance: liability insurance and cargo insurance.

Liability insurance covers any damage you may cause to other people or property while transporting a car.

Cargo insurance covers any damage that may occur to the car during transport. It is commensurate with the value of the vehicle you're transporting.

You may also want to consider getting uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which will protect you if you're in an accident with a driver who doesn't have insurance.

The amount of coverage you need will vary depending on the size and scope of your business. But in general, it's a good idea to get as much coverage as you can afford. That way, if something does happen, you'll be covered.

You can get insurance quotes from a commercial insurance company specializing in trucking companies. But to get the best deal, shop around and compare rates before you purchase an insurance policy.

Set up your business office

Your company will need a business office to track expenses, invoices, and other vital documents.

Your office will need a computer with internet access, a printer, and a filing system.

You can use accounting software to keep track of your finances and generate invoices. Many great accounting software programs are available, such as QuickBooks, FreshBooks, and Xero.

Finally, you'll need a way to accept payments from your clients, which could be through a merchant account with a bank or credit card processor. Also consider using an online payment system, such as PayPal or Stripe.

Hire employees

If you're planning on growing your business, you will need to hire employees. And to make your business successful, you must hire the right people.

Aside from drivers, you will need to invest in some dispatch systems and office staff to handle customer service and scheduling.

To find suitable employees, start by posting ads on online job boards, such as Indeed or Monster. When reviewing applications, be sure to check references and conduct background checks.

After you've hired your employees, be sure to do regular check-ups on their progress; this helps ensure that they adhere to safety standards and driving regulations. It also builds trust and loyalty between employer and employee.

Vital qualifications to check before you hire a driver

Before you hire a driver, it's crucial to check their:

• Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Anyone driving a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 26,000 lbs. and above must have a CDL in the US.
• Previous driving record or experience. It's vital to do a background check to gauge their adherence to safe driving, their reliability, etc.
• Knowledge of loading and unloading techniques, including tie-down techniques and how to properly distribute weight.

How to Market Your Car Hauling Business

Once you've got everything set up, it's time to market your car hauling business.

The best way to do this is through word-of-mouth marketing. Tell family and friends about your business and ask them to spread the word.

It's also essential to invest in a quality website. A good website will be the easiest way for customers to find your business. There are many companies that can help you design a website that will attract customers.

Start Hauling Cars

Now that you're done with each step, it's time to start hauling cars.

You can join a load board to get clients consistently. Examples of such load boards include:

• Carload board
• Central Dispatch
• Car Hauler's dispatch
• DAT Load Boards
• ready logistics

Another way to get clients is to contact car dealerships and auto transport companies in your area. They are always in need of a car hauler to transport vehicles from one location to another.

Be sure to give them your rates and let them know what services you provide. But before you give them your rates, investigate what other owner-operators charge.

Another way to find customers is to contact auto auctions and ask if they need a car hauler to transport vehicles to and from the auction site.

How to Make Your Car Hauling Business More Profitable

In most cases, maintaining a business is more challenging than starting one. And that's because most owners are unable to generate profits continuously.

To ensure that your new car hauling company lasts for a long time, do these three things:

First, invest in GPS tracking for your vehicles. This will allow you to track their location in real-time and ensure that they are on schedule. It may cost a lot of money, but it's a small price to pay to satisfy your customers.

Second, create a standard operating procedure (SOP) for your business. This will help to streamline your operations and make them more efficient.

Third, invest in some quality marketing materials, such as business cards, flyers, and websites. This will help you attract more customers and grow your business.

Where to Find the Best Car Haulers for Your Business

If you're looking for a reliable and professional car hauler for hire, then you've come to the right place.

At A-1 Auto Transport, we’re reputable and reliable car transporters with years of experience in hauling, transporting, and shipping cars. We are happy to help you with any kind of vehicle shipment or to answer any questions you might have. Contact us today for more information.

Joe Webster always knew the auto transport industry would be a great career option. And with decades of experience, Joe is now an established consultant for A1 Auto Transport.

Joe was born in Santa Cruz, California. During high school, Joe worked as a mechanic; a job continued to work part-time during his bachelor's degree.

Mylene Rutllant It’s my number one pick in auto shipping to this day. ★★★★★ ...my choice in terms of auto transport has to be A1 Auto Transport. It’s in the name, but also in the quality with which they do their jobs. I’ve never had a problem with this company.

Luis Rodriguez You have my full support and recommendation! ★★★★★ A1 Auto Transport... From the get go, they were very different from my past options. Their website was very professional and up to date, full of useful information. I requested a quote using their online form, and I got an email response within an hour. Surprisingly fast!

Cristine Benoit I can safely say this is a legit company that will get the job done. ★★★★★ There are a lot of options for auto transport these days, which surprisingly makes it harder to find a good company. I received more than 10 offers to ship my car, but I couldn’t decide on any of them... Fortunately, I made the right choice with A1 Auto Transport.

David Osallo We give A1 Auto Transport a big 10 out of 10! ★★★★★ We give A1 Auto Transport a big 10 out of 10! We chose them to move our car from California to Vermont, since we needed professionals.

Visit our social, and see what our clients are saying about us:

Our Partners:

A-1 Auto Transport is a disclosed agent for the following shipping companies:

No commitment

Starting a Car Hauling Business – Profitable Business Plan (Dually Truck)

Car hauling is transportation of cars on a trailer or a dually truck from one place to another. The purpose of car hauling can be many and for different reasons. In earlier times, the industry was majorly unrecognised and unorganised but in the last few decades it has become a robust and competitive industry for many reasons.

You can start your own car hauling business with the help of tips given in this article. This article will help you in creating a business plan for multiple car hauling or just 1 car hauling business.

There are various purposes for which a car is hauled. They are:

• Transporting new car from manufacturing site to showrooms.
• Shipping a car to a far location where the customer resides.
• A car user shifting from one place to another which is usually far and difficult to drive all along
• Shipment of used cars for commercial purposes, etc. 

There can be many more reasons for car hauling but major sources of business in this industry come from the above four reasons. 

Car hauling market has also seen a lot of growth in the past few decades. The global market for was recorded at $12 billion in 2019. With a growth rate of 1.2% from 2014-19, the industry employs close to 57000 people in different roles.

Before you get into this business it is important for you to know whether you are made for this business or not. It is important to know the challenges around and whether it is worth your time.

This article will provide you the basics of car hauling and how you can start your own business. This will help you in getting insights of the industry and its working.

Car Hauling Business Requirements

There are certain things that are must in order to start your car hauling business. Here’s the list of requirements.

• Truck along with trailer or a dually truck
• Driver and supporting staff
• Authority or Permit for the business
• Registering your business
• Getting authority through FMCSA
• Obtaining your insurance
• Various permits like IFTA, UCR, ORP
• Getting your Commercial Driver License and other permits 
• Medical Report and Drug Test

Other Necessary Requirements

These essential requirements are not something that is stated formally but is essential when you are starting a hauling business. These are:

• Necessary experience in car hauling industry or trucking industry
• Mentorship and assistance from someone already in the business
• Networking and contacts important to get new work

Some other Important Aspects

• Capital Cost and Expenditure
• Growth and Profit

Now, as we have mentioned all the necessary requirements for car hauling business. Let us discuss them one by one.

Truck along with Trailer or a Dually Truck

Car hauling requires a spacious trailer that can carry at least 7 cars. A dually truck can do the job for you. You need a truck that has the capacity to easily pull 7 cars both big and small in size. The engine therefore should be powerful. Dually truck comes with 2 extra wheels on the rear side that help in more traction control of the vehicle.

The length of the trailer should also be long and should be equipped with utilities necessary to hold and accommodate cars easily. Loading and unloading of the cars should be smooth to ensure they don’t get damaged in the process.

Generally, trailers are made so that you don’t require any external machine to load the cars on the trailer. There’s a ramp that comes down, allows the car to be driven on the ramp, then the car is locked using bolts and chains on the ramp and the ramp using hydraulics contracts and fits into the designated place in the trailer.

Whether you are purchasing a new truck-trailer or leasing it, ensure that it is strong and durable to withhold a high amount of load and flexible to sustain for a long period.

Driver and Supporting Staff

Driving such a long trailer would be difficult for any driver and therefore a trained and skilled driver is needed who can easily maneuver through the roads without getting many jerks that can have the potential of damaging the loaded cars. 

Motor vehicle laws in the United States are different for different states but the general pattern is that you need a special license for driving heavy vehicles like truck trailers. Ensure that your driver has those licenses and also doesn’t have bad credit against his license. Commercial driver’s license is required to operate this business.

Other proper documents might also be required like fitness test report, anti-drug test report, etc. 

Support staff is the one who will be assisting the driver through the whole journey. He will also be supervising the loading and unloading process, will help the driver in driving with proper instructions and sometimes will also be driving when the driver will be taking a break. 

Your staff should be equally skilled and experienced in this field. 

Authority or Permit for the Business

You will get your authority through Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration or FMCSA by filling up the requisite form costing $300. The process is lengthy sometimes and requires various sorts of documentation.

The Unified Registration System is generally used to get your authority through FMCSA. Obtain all the requisite documents and for this your local attorney will be of help since each state has different criteria. 

Authorities are of different kinds which can be interstate, intrastate or sometimes inter country as well. Based on your requirements you are free to obtain by submitting all the needed docs along with fees. 

The administration will scrutinize them all and then will grant you the authority. 

Other Permits like UCR, IFTA and IRP

Many times you will need extra permits like the above mentioned ones for various purposes especially when traveling longer distances. They are explained below.

UCR : Unified Carrier Registration system is a fund paid to the enforcement of laws related to motor safety. They are paid annually and are generally based on the size of your fleet.

IFTA : International Fuel Tax Agreement is for those who travel interstate and are required to pay the requisite tax amount quarterly through their home state. 

IRP : International Registration Plan is an agreement between different states, the capital Washington DC and Canada aimed to ensure smooth travel. The tax is paid usually on the miles covered.

Heavy Vehicle Use Tax: When the cumulative weight of your vehicle crosses 55, 000 pounds or more then you are required to file this tax using form 2290. Some states also charge taxes based on additional weight when the vehicle travels through their states. 

Registering your Hauling Company

If you are the sole proprietor then go for sole proprietorship or if you are in partnership then LLP would be fine. Get it registered by furnishing the required documents. Obtain your Tax identification number.

Obtaining Insurance

One of the most important aspects of your business is obtaining your insurance for the business. It is necessary because it helps you to overcome certain burdens in case of some mishap. It is obvious that no matter how good you render your services, chances are that you may suffer a certain loss.

Your client may demand money for certain damages which may not necessarily be to the car but it may be due to inordinate delay in transportation, etc. An insurance policy covering your cargo, your truck and driver is essential for safe work.

It is also necessary in order to start your business and those who will be associating with you as a broker will also look into your insurance cover. Insurance policies are generally costly and therefore you need to do proper research in choosing the right policy for you.

Necessary Experience in Car Overhauling Industry:

No matter whatever you read from wherever, the essential element in this industry is experience. Experience helps you in mitigating all challenges. 

Work for the industry with someone for sometime to gain experience on how things work. It will help you in understanding the process, the cost factor, the expense, profit aspect and much more. 

You will also know the difficulty and challenges in this field closely. All this will help you in starting your own business. 

Networking in the Industry:

It is the networking that will give you new work in the business. Networking will be built when you are into the business for sometime. Connect with people who matter. Learn from them and build a relationship where both of you gain something.

The Mentorship:

Managing everything all alone won’t be very easy for you. You need a mentor who will guide you in mitigating through challenges. Make good friendships with someone who is trustworthy and helpful in the industry. 

Mentorship will help you in taking the right steps and avoiding mistakes. Especially when you won’t be getting new work, such mentorship will not only help you in getting new work but will also help you in calming down.

Other Aspects of Business

Capital Cost and Expenditure: 

Your feasibility analysis report and business plan will calculate the probable expense. Cost and expenditure depends on the type and scale of business you are opening. Other factors also influence the expenses. 

Truck and trailer will majorly cost you along with the cost of staff management. License permit and other legal formalities would be another source of expenditure. Be vigilant in expenditure and don’t spend where it is not needed.

Growth and Profit: 

This industry takes time to grow and it is also applicable for you. Firstly you need to grow fully using one truck and trailer and when you feel that you are getting enough work on a regular basis then you can go for buying more trucks and hiring more drivers to drive for you. 

Growth factor depends on the service you render. Advertisement is another aspect but it doesn’t work beyond a point. Goodwill and your service is the one that matters in the long run. Never compromise on these two and within few years you will be a successful business on your own.

1 Car Hauling Business

All the above mentioned documents and licenses are required for 1 car hauling. You need to follow the business plan accordingly. Follow the required formalities given in this article and start with 1 car hauling at the beginning. Later on you can grab other multiple car hauling opportunities. You can use your dually truck for one car hauling.

Marketing of 1 Car Hauling Service

As you are hauling only one car, you target audience is going to be very big as compared to multiple car hauling which has limited customers. Person who are moving from one state to other will require your service to for his/her car to be transported to his destination. Many people do not want to drive their own vehicle while migrating to other cities.

You can target those customers with the help of Instagram and FB demographics ads. Your service offering will be visible to your targeted audience in a matter of second.

The first step is to research the industry and develop a business plan. You will need to explore the equipment needed and the necessary permits in your area to haul cars. Once you have a plan in place, you can start researching and purchasing the necessary equipment.

The start-up cost for a car hauling business will depend on the type of equipment and vehicle being used. Generally, the cost will include the purchase of a specialized hauling trailer and other necessary supplies, such as tarps.

Yes, a car hauling business can be a profitable business venture, as long as it’s managed properly and pricing is competitive. It’s important to develop a sound business plan and to have a comprehensive understanding of the market.

You will need to decide if you will haul only passenger vehicles or if you are also open to hauling heavy-duty vehicles such as boats, motorbikes or RVs. Consider the size and weight of the vehicles you plan to transport, as well as the road conditions you may encounter.

Depending on where you plan to operate, you may need to obtain a special permit or license to legally haul cars. Verify your local and state regulations to ensure all of your business activities are in compliance.

There are a variety of ways to promote your car hauling business. Reach out to auto dealerships and private citizens to introduce yourself and your services. Consider placing ads in local newspapers or crafting a website and blog to showcase your business.

Running a car hauling business will require a good understanding of the industry and its regulations. You will also need strong customer service and interpersonal skills to manage client relationships. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential.

Consider the type of vehicle being transported, distance of delivery, and cost of the hauling equipment when pricing your services. Determine the rates that are competitive in your market and make sure you accommodate any discounts to retain loyal customers.

Yes, it’s essential to obtain insurance that meets the legal requirements and covers the vehicles being transported. Depending on your location, you may also need liability insurance to protect your business and the vehicles you transport.

Similar Posts

7 Tips to Start a Pet Transportation Business

Starting a Refrigerated Trucking Company – Business Plan

12 Truck Maintenance Tips For Delivery Businesses

20 Profitable Transportation Business Ideas to Consider in 2021

All You Need to Know About Hot Shot Trucking

Start Your Own Car Shuttle Service – A Growing Business Opportunity For India

We may earn money when you click on our links. Learn more .

Home > Car Shipping

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?

The cost to ship a car is about $1,108—but that’s a ballpark figure. Car shipping companies let truck drivers (called carriers) bid on your transport. Prices can go up or down depending on factors like the size of your vehicle, the distance of the transport, and how busy carriers are. That means the quote you get from a car shipping company is just a best guess of what the final price will be.

Move.org looked at nearly 700 car shipping quotes to find an industry average, but we recommend you collect several quotes of your own before choosing one of the best car shipping companies .

Average car shipping cost

The average car shipping cost is approximately $1,108. Move.org analyzed nearly 700 car shipping quotes to calculate industry averages. We found that costs range from about $510 for shipping vehicles a few hundred miles away on an open carrier to around $1,580 to ship a car across the country in an enclosed truck.

You can also skip straight to our cost info:

Average car shipping cost by transport type

Average car shipping cost by distance, average car shipping cost by vehicle size, auto transport pricing 101, open transport is your cheapest option.

The cheapest way to ship your car is always on an open carrier. Our research found that enclosed auto transport is about $420 more expensive per trip for the same car type and distance traveled. Take a look at our “how much to ship a car” chart:

Average car shipping price by transport type

Data as of publish date. Average cost calculated by comparing costs for 3 vehicle sizes across 11 distances. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Most people don’t even need enclosed transport. This premium shipping option is primarily for customers with custom vehicles:

• Antique cars
• Classic cars
• Custom cars
• Exotic cars
• Luxury cars

Longer trips are more expensive

Nobody likes rising gas prices—including truck drivers. In general, the farther a carrier is shipping vehicles (and the more fuel it takes), the more it costs.

Bigger vehicles cost more to ship

When you go engagement ring shopping, you learn a hard truth: bigger diamonds cost more. It’s the same with shipping vehicles.

Each time you jump up a car size (from a car to an SUV to a truck), it adds about $150 to the price tag.

Why car shipping pricing is different

Have you ever tried to find your boarding gate on the departure board at a busy airport? The times on the board sometimes seem to change as often as you blink, making it difficult to know where to go.

Car shipping prices don’t change quite that fast, but it’s common for them to change daily and create that same confusion.

Two reasons:

• Bookings go through a bidding process. Auto transport brokers connect you with car shipping carriers that bid on your booking request. Brokers then come back to you with the carrier that offered to do the job for the lowest price (usually). Because car shipping is a supply-and-demand business, you’ll get a better deal some days than others.
• There are tons of cost factors. Your price can change based on your car’s size, how far it’s traveling, and even the time of year. Carriers use these factors to figure out how much to charge.

How auto transport bidding works

Your booking starts when you call an auto transport broker. You ask how much it costs, and the broker gives you a quote. Then it asks carriers to bid on your shipment.

But how does it give you an instant quote if the carriers haven’t started bidding?

That’s the rub. Except in rare instances where a company offers a guaranteed ship car price, your quote is a starting point for the bidders—not your final price.

Sherpa Auto Transport’s Price Lock Promise means your quote is guaranteed. If the cost to ship a car rises above your quoted amount, the company will use its own money to pay the difference.

If an auto transport company puts a price of $1 into the computer for a cross-country transport, it technically has a lower price than the competition. But no truck driver in the world is going to accept that job.

However, a carrier might bid on the job for $2,000. Another company might see that and say it can ship your car for $100 less. And so on.

The bidding continues until the auto transport broker picks a car carrier — usually about a week before you have to ship your vehicle.

Experienced companies know what the market is likely to pay for auto transport, so they can usually give you a quote that’s pretty close to what you’ll end up paying.

Less reputable companies just want your business. They’ll give you prices that seem too good to be true. By the time you realize the cost to ship a car will be more, they’ve taken a nonrefundable deposit (sometimes hundreds of dollars).

You’re trapped.

Car shipping can feel a bit like the Wild West, but it’s possible to get a reputable company and a low price. You just have to know where to look.

That’s what we're here for.

Want us to do the work for you?

Learn more about the best car shipping companies .

Price matching means one company will submit another company’s quote for carriers to bid on. It makes customers feel good but has almost nothing to do with your final price.

Auto transport cost factors

Your cell phone bill is pretty predictable. Unless you go over on your monthly data plan, your costs don’t really change from month to month.

It’s different with car shipping cost. Prices can change from one day to the next depending on several factors:

• Carrier bidding process. Carriers bid on how much your shipment costs. Sometimes that’s good, sometimes it’s bad. Mostly, it’s unpredictable.
• More miles means more money.
• Extra services. Extra insurance or expedited shipping costs more.
• Number of vehicles. Two cars cost more than one.
• How much to ship a car from rural areas tends to cost more than big cities.
• Road closures, traffic jams, and direct routes all influence the cost to ship a car.
• Pricing heats up in the summer (which is peak car shipping season).
• Transport type. Open transport is cheaper than enclosed transport.
• Vehicle type and condition. Costs go up as your vehicle gets bigger. It’s also more expensive if your car isn’t in working condition.

The result is that the ship car price you see now may not be the same price you can get next week—or even later today. But if you know what goes into your price, you can also take steps to get a better deal.

Most people use open transport carriers because it’s the cheapest way to ship a car. The average open transport cost is approximately $1,108—or about $385 more affordable than enclosed shipping.

The farther your car travels, the more shipping usually costs. The average cost to ship a car less than 500 miles is approximately $680, while a cross-country trip will set you back about $1,400 on average.

The size of your vehicle affects car shipping prices. Bigger vehicles take up more space on the transport truck, and heavier vehicles are harder on the carrier’s gas mileage. Both impact your final cost.

As a result, smaller cars like a Kia Sportage, Honda CR-V, or Ford Escape cost much less to ship than heavy-duty trucks like a Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150, or Ram 1500.

Average cost to ship a vehicle on open transport

Average cost to ship a car FAQ

It costs about $1,108 to ship a car. Costs range from around $500 to transport your car a few hundred miles on an open carrier to more than $1,600 to ship a vehicle in an enclosed carrier.

The average cost to ship a car per mile is approximately $1.17. However, car shipping prices vary widely depending on factors such as vehicle size, distance, route, and seasonality. Move.org recommends getting several car shipping quotes before picking an auto transport company.

Yes, how much to ship a car depends on the company. Car shippers look at factors such as transport type, vehicle condition, distance, and seasonality when calculating costs.

The average price to ship a car on an open carrier is approximately $1,108. A cross-country shipment costs about $1,500, while a trip of less than 500 miles costs around $500.

How much does it cost to ship a vehicle?

Shipping vehicles costs about $1,080—although costs vary widely. You can often ship a small car like a Toyota Corolla for around $970, while a heavier truck like a Ford F-150 might set you back about $1,200.

What companies have the best car shipping rates?

Ship a Car Direct , AmeriFreight , and Montway Auto Transport have the best car shipping rates. The cost of shipping a car with these companies is about $960—or around $180 cheaper than other companies.

Where can I find a car shipping cost calculator?

You can find a car shipping cost calculator on Move.org’s uShip Review . The car shipping calculator will give a car shipping quote after you provide the year, make, and model of your vehicle, and enter your pickup and delivery locations.

How does a car shipping company determine my price?

A car shipping company determines your price by submitting your transport for truck drivers (called carriers) to bid on. Factors such as vehicle size, total mileage, and time of year affect your car transport cost.

What is the best car transport company?

The best car transport company is Montway , according to Move.org. The car shipping service has guaranteed pickup dates and gets excellent customer reviews.

Do car shipping costs go up if I have a larger vehicle?

Yes, car shipping costs go up if you have a larger vehicle. For example, our analysis of hundreds of quotes suggests that the car shipping rate is approximately $970 for a sedan, $1,080 for an SUV, and $1,210 for a truck.

What does a car hauler need to give me a car shipping quote?

A car hauler needs basic details about your vehicle and route to give you a car shipping quote . Be prepared to provide the transport company with your origin and destination zip codes, as well as the year, make, and model of your vehicle.

Is vehicle transport more expensive in the summer?

Yes, vehicle transport is more expensive in the summer. You can also expect to pay a higher shipping rate in late spring and early fall when car shipment demand is at its peak.

How can I save money on my car shipping quote?

There are several ways to save money on your car shipping quote. For example, you can save approximately $400 by choosing open auto transport (it’s the cheapest way to ship your car). You can also trim your car transport costs by getting quotes from more than one auto car transport company.

How we choose the best moving companies

Move.org calculates industry averages and identifies pricing trends by following a fourfold research approach:

• Compare quotes. We collected nearly 700 quotes from 10 different companies. The car shipping quotes included prices for a motorcycle, car, SUV, and truck across 11 distances with both open and enclosed transport.
• Mystery shopping. We contacted auto transport companies posing as customers to gather pricing data and learn how the brokers formulate their prices.
• Site visits. We invited several industry leaders to visit our headquarters in Salt Lake City, UT, and explain what goes into their pricing. We then compared their answers to information we independently obtained to verify accuracy.
• Annual calendar. We repeat this process every year and save our data to compare trends over time.

Recommended resources

Check out our reviews of some of the lowest-priced car shipping companies:

• Best Car Shipping Companies
• Best Enclosed Auto Transport Companies
• Best Classic Car Shipping Companies
• Best Motorcycle Shipping Companies
• Best Car Shipping Companies for Your Military Move
• Best Moving Companies
• Best Cross-Country Moving Companies

People also asked . . .

• What is the average cost of motorcycle shipping?
• Should I sell my car or ship it?
• Do I really need an enclosed carrier?
• Is my car safe during shipment?
• How does car shipping work?

Moving Resources

Professional Moving

Container Moving

Car Shipping

Self-storage

Local Professional Movers

Truck Rental

Junk removal

Home Services

Connect with Us

Partner with Us

Sign up for our moving guide!

Get emails with discounts, tips, and checklists — to guide you through every step of your move.

By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

All content © 2024 Move.org. All rights reserved. | | Privacy Policy |  Terms of Use |  Disclosure

• Kingman, AZ
• Phoenix, AZ
• West Memphis, AR
• Bakersfield, CA
• Fillmore, CA
• Lakeside, CA
• Live Oak, CA
• Petaluma, CA
• Redlands, CA
• Santa Maria, CA
• Colorado Springs, CO
• Fort Collins, CO
• Grand Junction, CO
• Orlando, FL
• Atlanta, GA
• Lavonia, GA
• Idaho Falls, ID
• Post Falls, ID
• Twin Falls, ID
• Indianapolis, IN
• Des Moines, IA
• Wichita, KS
• Louisville, KY
• Shreveport, LA
• Minneapolis, MN
• Blue Springs, MO
• Saint Louis, MO
• Springfield, MO
• Belgrade, MT
• Billings, MT
• Las Vegas, NV
• Albuquerque, NM
• Linwood, NC
• Cincinnati, OH
• Columbus, OH
• Oklahoma City, OK
• Medford, OR
• Pendleton, OR
• Portland, OR
• Redmond, OR
• Hershey, PA
• South Pittsburgh, PA
• Pittsburgh North, PA
• Bristol, TN
• Chattanooga, TN
• Lebanon, TN
• Beaumont, TX
• College Station, TX
• El Paso, TX
• Ft Worth, TX
• Houston, TX
• Killeen, TX
• San Marcos, TX
• Salt Lake, UT
• Norfolk, VA
• Roanoke, VA
• Warrenton, VA
• Chehalis, WA
• Marysville, WA
• Charleston WV, WV
• Appleton, WI
• Milwaukee, WI

Search 115 Trailers for Sale in Fillmore, CA

Trailersplus fillmore, store hours.

If you’re looking for a trailer dealer that’s truly a one-stop shop, visit TrailersPlus Fillmore. We’re proud to offer dump trailers, equipment trailers, and cargo trailers for sale, plus much more in California.

Our customers love us!

Search 115 Trailers for Sale in Fillmore, California

5' Dump Trailers in Fillmore, California

5' Utility Trailers in Fillmore, California

6' Dump Trailers in Fillmore, California

6' Utility Trailers in Fillmore, California

6' Tandem Utility Trailers in Fillmore, California

7' Dump Trailers in Fillmore, California

7' Utility Trailers in Fillmore, California

7' Tandem Utility Trailers in Fillmore, California

Enclosed Car Hauler Trailers in Fillmore, California

8.5' Equipment Trailers in Fillmore, California

8.5' Cargo Trailers in Fillmore, California

7' Equipment Trailers in Fillmore, California

5' Cargo Trailers in Fillmore, California

6' Cargo Trailers in Fillmore, California

6' Tandem Cargo Trailers in Fillmore, California

7' Cargo Trailers in Fillmore, California

Trailersplus fillmore: your destination for quality trailers and hassle-free financing.

TrailersPlus Fillmore is your premier destination for quality trailers for sale and hassle-free financing solutions in Fillmore and its surrounding areas. At TrailersPlus Fillmore, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of trailers, including enclosed cargo trailers, dump trailers, tilt trailers, utility trailers, equipment trailers, car haulers, and ATV trailers, tailored to meet your unique transportation needs. With our commitment to customer satisfaction, partnered with reputable lenders like Sheffield Financial and Rock Solid Funding, and comprehensive warranty coverage, we strive to make your trailer-buying experience seamless and enjoyable. Visit TrailersPlus Fillmore today and let us help you find the perfect trailer for your needs.

Enclosed Cargo Trailers for Sale near Fillmore: Secure Transportation Solutions

Discover a superior trailer-buying experience with TrailersPlus Fillmore, serving Fillmore and its neighboring communities such as Santa Paula, Piru, and Bardsdale. Our dealership specializes in enclosed cargo trailers for sale , ensuring premium protection for your cargo against the elements and theft. Businesses in downtown Fillmore along Central Avenue and Main Street rely on these trailers for secure transportation of merchandise, while local farms like Elkins Ranch Golf Course and Underwood Family Farms use them to transport agricultural products. Residents moving to or from neighborhoods like Green Street and River Street trust enclosed cargo trailers to safeguard their belongings during relocation, making them essential for various transportation needs in Fillmore and its surroundings.

Dump Trailers for Sale near Fillmore: Efficient Debris Removal

Streamline your debris removal projects with dump trailers from TrailersPlus Fillmore, catering to Fillmore and nearby areas such as Sespe Avenue, El Dorado Street, and more. Our dump trailers for sale feature power-up/power-down hydraulic lifts and versatile gates, making loading, transporting, and unloading materials effortless. Construction sites along Highway 126 rely on these trailers for efficient removal of construction waste, while residential areas benefit from swift cleanup of yard waste and fallen trees. Agricultural properties surrounding Fillmore utilize dump trailers for transporting compost, mulch, and other farm materials, making them indispensable for a range of projects in the area.

Tilt Trailers for Sale near Fillmore: Streamlined Equipment Handling

Transport heavy equipment with ease using tilt trailers from TrailersPlus Fillmore, serving Fillmore and its neighboring communities like Santa Paula, Bardsdale, and more. Our tilt trailers for sale feature low approach angles and sturdy decks, simplifying the transportation of tractors and recreational vehicles. Construction projects along Highway 126 and landscaping tasks in residential areas like Old Telegraph Road and Sespe Avenue benefit greatly from the use of these trailers. Additionally, agricultural properties surrounding Fillmore rely on tilt trailers for transporting farm equipment between fields or to repair shops, highlighting their versatility and practicality in the area.

Utility Trailers for Sale near Fillmore: Versatile Hauling Solutions

Find versatile hauling solutions with utility trailers from TrailersPlus Fillmore, catering to Fillmore and its surrounding areas such as Santa Paula, Piru, and more. Our utility trailers for sale are meticulously designed to adapt to any task, available in various sizes and configurations to suit your needs. Whether hauling landscaping supplies or recreational gear, our trailers ensure safe and efficient transportation. Local businesses in downtown Fillmore and along Main Street utilize utility trailers for transporting supplies, while residential areas benefit from their use during moving or renovation projects. Agricultural properties and farms surrounding Fillmore also rely on utility trailers for various tasks, highlighting their versatility and practicality in the area.

Equipment Trailers for Sale near Fillmore: Reliable Transport for Heavy Loads

Ensure reliable transportation of heavy machinery with equipment trailers from TrailersPlus Fillmore, serving Fillmore and its neighboring communities such as Piru, Bardsdale, and more. Our equipment trailers for sale provide superior durability and handling for various applications, featuring commercial-strength decks, heavy-duty axles, and rugged tires. Construction sites along Highway 126 and residential developments in areas like Sespe Avenue and Old Telegraph Road utilize these trailers for transporting heavy equipment and materials. Additionally, agricultural properties surrounding Fillmore rely on equipment trailers for transporting farm machinery and supplies, highlighting their importance for a range of industries in the area.

Car Haulers for Sale near Fillmore: Secure Transportation for Vehicles

Transport vehicles safely and securely with car haulers from TrailersPlus Fillmore, catering to Fillmore and its neighboring communities such as Santa Paula, Piru, and more. Our car haulers for sale are engineered to provide reliable transportation solutions for car enthusiasts and auctions in the area, featuring sturdy decks, rear ramps, and superior handling. Residents and businesses in Fillmore utilize car haulers for transporting vehicles during relocations or events, ensuring their safety and security throughout the journey. Additionally, automotive businesses and dealerships rely on these trailers for transporting vehicles to and from their locations, highlighting their importance for the automotive industry in the area.

ATV Trailers for Sale near Fillmore: Reliable Transportation for Outdoor Adventures

Embark on outdoor adventures with reliable transportation solutions from TrailersPlus Fillmore, serving Fillmore and its surrounding areas such as Piru, Santa Paula, and more. Our ATV trailers for sale are equipped with features like torsion axles and tie-downs, ensuring safe and secure transport for your gear. Outdoor enthusiasts exploring the rugged terrain of Fillmore utilize these trailers for transporting ATVs, dirt bikes, and other recreational vehicles to off-road trails or recreational areas. Additionally, local businesses offering outdoor recreational activities rely on ATV trailers for transporting equipment and gear, highlighting their importance for the outdoor adventure industry in the area.

Financing Solutions with TrailersPlus Fillmore

When it comes to financing your trailer purchase at TrailersPlus Fillmore, we've partnered with reputable lenders who specialize in trailer financing to ensure you get the best possible terms. Our dealership works closely with lenders like Sheffield Financial and Rock Solid Funding, known for their competitive rates and flexible financing options. Whether you're buying an enclosed cargo trailer for your business or an ATV trailer for your outdoor adventures, our financing partners can help tailor a plan that fits your budget and needs. With our guidance and their expertise, securing financing for your trailer purchase has never been easier.

Comprehensive Warranty Coverage for TrailersPlus Fillmore

At TrailersPlus Fillmore, we stand behind the quality and reliability of our trailers with comprehensive warranty coverage . Alongside the manufacturer's warranty, we offer extended warranty options to further protect your investment. If you encounter any issues or have questions about your trailer, our knowledgeable staff is here to provide prompt and attentive support. With our commitment to customer satisfaction and dependable trailers, you can trust that your purchase from TrailersPlus Fillmore is backed by industry-leading warranty coverage for added peace of mind.

Explore Your Local TrailersPlus Location

Whether you're searching for a new dump trailer to work construction around the city or an ATV trailer to take on your next outdoor adventure, you'll find just what you need at TrailersPlus Fillmore. Our Ventura County trailer dealer is located in the Santa Clara River Valley at the base of the Topatopa Mountains – making us perfectly situated for small business owners and outdoor enthusiasts alike in search of a new equipment trailer for sale or certified trailer service for their current trailer. We also offer enclosed cargo trailers and even custom trailers for those seeking to best optimize their trailering experience. Whatever you’re after, head to our trailer dealership in Fillmore, CA, and let us help you find the right trailer.

Buy Trailers Near Fillmore CA

If you’re looking for a trailer dealer near Los Angeles and you only want the best, visit TrailersPlus Fillmore. See our trailers for sale in Fillmore, CA here before giving us a call at 805-209-4008 to schedule your appointment. We’re proud to serve our community and look forward to setting you and/or your business up with the perfect trailer.

Directions to TrailersPlus Fillmore

From Ventura. Driving south on Highway 101, take Exit 66B and merge onto Highway 126 / Santa Paula Freeway toward Santa Paula. Continue on Highway 126 for 21 miles, passing through Santa Paula and entering Fillmore. As soon as you pass The BBQ Place and Subway in town, TrailersPlus will be on your right side. If you reach Central Ave, you have driven a block too far. From Santa Clarita. Driving north on Interstate 5, take Exit 172 and turn left onto Highway 126. Drive for 19 miles, entering Fillmore. Once crossing Central Ave, TrailersPlus will be on the left side of the road.

TrailersPlus Gives You the Best in Value, Service & Selection.

Call today 805-265-7140.

• 100+ Trailers Available at Every TrailersPlus Store
• Nation Wide Warranties on Every Trailer We Carry
• 2 Free Inspections on Every Trailer Purchase ($198 value)
• Best-Selling Interstate Trailers are Only Available at TrailersPlus

Customer Reviews

The guys are very knowledgeable about their inventory and easy to deal with. I would recommend them to anyone who is in the market for a trailer.

Associate spent the time with us educating us on the trailer, tires, warranty, etc...it was a pleasant purchase!!

Staff was very helpful and easy to work with!

The guys where on the spot. Help with everything to include brakes. GREAT job guys We thank you

Great experience the sales team was great

At TrailersPlus, you'll find huge inventories of high quality trailers at factory direct prices! Making us the largest independent trailer dealership in the USA. TrailersPlus is owned and operated by Interstate, which has been manufacturing enclosed cargo trailers for 25 years and has more than 450,000 satisfied customers. TrailersPlus is your ultimate one-stop destination for trailer sales, parts and repairs.

Your One-Stop Trailer Shop

The Largest Trailer Selection

TrailersPlus has the largest inventory around, we carry at least 100 trailers at every dealership and stock complete lines of enclosed cargo trailers, utility trailers, dump trailers, equipment trailers, car trailers and more. You'll always find the biggest selection and best prices at TrailersPlus!

Nationwide Warranty Follows You

Our best in class warranties are second to none. Every trailer we carry comes with one. Have a problem with your trailer while you're on the road? Our dedicated warranty department can help you with any problem you may have regarding your trailer.

Fast and Friendly Customer Service

TrailersPlus is known for providing incredible customer service. All TrailersPlus team members are professionally trained to help you with what you need. We want to make buying a new trailer fun, fast and easy! Come visit and we'll show you what we mean.

Certified Service & Repair Experts

TrailersPlus stores all have trailer service and repair departments. With factory trained and certified trailer experts, you can rest easy, your trailer repair is in good hands. And all our repair work is backed by an in house 30 day warranty for your complete satisfaction.

Trailer Parts and Accessories

TrailersPlus stores offer a huge selection of hard to find parts and accessories. Whether it's ladder racks, trailer tires, e-track or additional tie-down points inside the trailer, our factory trained parts and service team can personalize your new or existing trailer to match your needs.

Financing is Available

With no money down financing available and interest rates are as low as 7.49%, now is a great time to finance your new trailer. With numerous options, now's your chance to qualify for trailer financing. All rates are on approved credit and are subject to change.

Join The TrailersPlus Community

• RV Sport / Toy Hauler
• Enclosed Cargo
• HD / Equipment
• Owner Manuals