Running a successful car dealership means more than just selling vehicles — it means getting them where they need to be, fast, safely, and without complications. At A-1 Auto Transport, we specialize in auto transport services for car dealerships across the U.S., helping you move your inventory with precision and reliability.
Whether you need to ship a few cars a month or manage regular large-scale deliveries across multiple states, our dealership transport solutions are designed to keep your operations running smoothly. We handle the logistics so you can focus on what matters most: your customers and your sales.
Moving Different Vehicles Interstate
Interstate hauling is a complex process that requires extensive coordination and planning. The type of cars being delivered, the distance of the shipment, and the state of origin and destination are all crucial factors that must be considered. Dealers need to find a firm with experience moving across state lines and can provide the necessary information and guidance throughout the process.
From single-lot dealerships to multi-location franchise operations, car dealers trust A-1 Auto Transport to ship their vehicles locally, regionally, and nationwide. We understand the fast pace of the automotive industry — and we work hard to deliver solutions that meet tight timelines, variable inventory needs, and changing market demands.
Common scenarios we support include:
- Dealer-to-dealer vehicle transfers
- Transporting vehicles from auctions or wholesale suppliers
- Manufacturer-to-dealer deliveries
- Out-of-state customer purchases
- Fleet vehicle moves for leasing and rental companies
- Online and e-commerce vehicle sales fulfillment
- Relocation or seasonal inventory realignment
No matter the volume or distance, our dedicated team ensures every vehicle arrives clean, damage-free, and on schedule.
Vehicle Auctions
Dealerships are now using internet-based auctions to pick up inventory from far-off locations. However, hauling across long distances can be daunting, especially if it has bought a large quantity. To overcome this challenge, they can hire a door-to-door delivery service. This ensures that the purchased vehicle(s) are picked up from the auction location and delivered directly to the dealership.
Dealer Trades Made Simple: Fast & Secure Vehicle Transfers
When dealerships need to move vehicles, having a reliable dealer auto transport service makes all the difference. Whether you're transferring cars between locations, fulfilling customer orders, or bringing in new inventory, the right transport company takes care of the pickup, delivery, and logistics so you don’t have to.
How to Choose the Right Dealer Transport Service
Not all car dealership shipping services are created equal. To avoid delays and unexpected costs, consider these key factors:
Reputation & Reliability – Look at customer reviews and ratings to see how well the company delivers. A trusted dealer transportation service will have a proven track record.
Real-Time Tracking – The best services provide live updates so you know exactly where your vehicles are.
Insurance & Protection – Accidents and road debris happen. Choosing an insured car dealership transport provider ensures your vehicles are covered in transit.
Need to Ship Across the U.S. or Canada?
If you’re moving vehicles between U.S. and Canadian dealerships, working with a transport company licensed and insured in both countries is essential. This ensures your shipment is compliant with cross-border regulations and avoids unnecessary delays.
Transport Solutions for All Types of Dealership Inventory
We don’t just ship standard sedans. A-1 Auto Transport is equipped to handle a wide range of dealership inventory:
- New and used cars
- Pickup trucks and vans
- Luxury and exotic vehicles
- Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids
- Motorcycles and scooters
- Commercial vehicles and work trucks
- Specialty or modified vehicles
- Fleet and lease return vehicles
Our modern fleet of carriers and professional drivers are trained to load, secure, and transport your inventory according to the specific requirements of each vehicle type — whether you're moving a compact car or a heavy-duty diesel truck.
Open vs. Enclosed Carriers
When it comes to dealer auto transport, choosing between open and enclosed carriers is a key decision. Open car carriers are the most commonly used and cost-effective method. It’s ideal for most vehicles but does expose your car to road debris and weather. On the other hand, enclosed or closed car containers offers extra protection, making it a preferred choice for high-end or vintage car shipping that requires a more secure, weather-resistant option.
How to Choose the Right Car Transport Method
Your choice between open and enclosed carriers depends on factors like your car's model, condition, and environmental factors. Enclosed transporters ensure your car stays safe from the elements if you're moving luxury cars for dealerships or any high-value vehicle.
When you choose a transport service, a professional driver will be assigned to your vehicle, inspecting its condition before loading it onto the trailer. Whether shipping from one dealership to another or moving a car from a factory to a dealership, a reliable car shipping service has drivers ready to move vehicles across the nation.
Built for Dealership Efficiency
At A-1 Auto Transport, we recognize how important time and reliability are in the dealership world. Our services are built to support high-volume, business-class transport, offering:
- Dedicated Account Management: You’ll work with a transport coordinator who understands your inventory flow and timeline requirements.
- Nationwide Coverage: From small towns to metro hubs, we ship to and from every corner of the U.S.
- Flexible Scheduling: We work around your business hours, sales cycles, and seasonal peaks.
- Secure Transport: All vehicles are fully insured, and each shipment is professionally inspected.
- Online Tracking & Status Updates: Keep tabs on your shipment 24/7 with real-time progress reports.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees — just upfront, competitive quotes tailored to your business model.
We serve independent dealerships, franchise groups, online car sellers, wholesalers, and leasing companies — providing the same attention to detail and professionalism regardless of fleet size.
Why Dealerships Trust A-1 Auto Transport
Here’s why thousands of car dealers across the U.S. choose A-1 Auto Transport as their trusted logistics partner:
- Over 30 years of vehicle shipping experience
- Licensed, bonded, and fully insured carriers
- Access to one of the largest auto transport networks in the country
- Customized shipping plans for repeat and volume clients
- Fast response times and personalized support
- Nationwide and international capabilities
Our track record speaks for itself. Whether it’s a local delivery or cross-country transfer, you can rely on us to protect your vehicles and your reputation.
Partner With a Transport Company That Understands Dealerships
The auto industry is evolving fast — and dealerships are doing more remote sales, more inter-state transactions, and more digital fulfillment than ever before. That means your shipping partner needs to be agile, efficient, and dependable.
With A-1 Auto Transport, you get more than a vendor — you get a partner that understands your day-to-day challenges and delivers smart, scalable solutions to keep your inventory moving.
Let us handle the transport logistics so you can stay focused on customer satisfaction and growing your business.
Get a Free Quote for Dealership Auto Transport Today
Ready to streamline your vehicle shipping process? Contact A-1 Auto Transport today to speak with our commercial transport team. We’ll evaluate your needs, recommend the right services, and provide a free, no-obligation quote — fast.
Call now at 1-888-230-9116 to get started. Whether you move five cars a month or five hundred, we’re here to keep your business moving forward.
Relevant Statistics
- Over 95% of dealerships in the United States rely on services to deliver.
- An estimated 2,500 dealer-to-dealer auto transfers occur daily through hauling.
- On average, dealers save businesses approximately 30% on costs compared to other methods.
- More than 80% of shipments are completed within a week.
- Dealers contribute to reducing carbon emissions by as much as 40% compared to individual deliveries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do car dealerships offer vehicle shipping and delivery services?
Yes. Most dealerships rely on car dealership shipping and delivery services to move vehicles between lots or deliver sold cars directly to buyers. This includes dealer-to-dealer transfers, auction purchases, and customer deliveries. Transport is handled by licensed carriers using open or enclosed trailers based on vehicle value, volume, and timing. Many dealers use professional car transportation services to maintain inventory flow and meet sales deadlines.
What is dealer-to-dealer auto transport and when is it used?
Dealer-to-dealer auto transport involves moving vehicles between franchise locations, independent dealerships, auctions, and storage facilities. It is commonly used for inventory balancing, customer special orders, aging stock transfers, and high-demand sourcing. Dealers often ship multiple vehicles at once to reduce per-unit costs while keeping turnaround times predictable across regional and national routes.
Can dealerships ship cars across state lines?
Yes. Interstate dealer transport services are routine and federally regulated. Licensed carriers manage insurance, compliance, and routing for cross-state vehicle moves. Dealerships frequently ship cars across state lines to fulfill online sales, locate rare trims, or reposition inventory seasonally. Long-distance moves are often scheduled alongside other routes to improve efficiency, including shipping cars across the country.
What is the best transport method for dealership inventory moves?
Open carrier transport is the most common and cost-effective option for moving multiple dealership vehicles at once. Enclosed transport is preferred for luxury, exotic, or collector models that require added protection. Some dealerships also use enclosed auto transport for manufacturer demos, showroom vehicles, or high-value customer orders.
How are new vehicles transported from manufacturers to dealerships?
New vehicles are typically moved on multi-level open carriers designed for factory-to-dealer distribution. High-value or limited-production models may use enclosed trailers for added protection from road debris and weather exposure. These same transport methods are also used when dealerships redistribute new inventory between locations or regions during peak sales periods.
How long does dealer car transport usually take?
Dealer transport timelines typically range from 1 to 3 days for regional moves and 5 to 10 days for long-distance shipments. Transit time depends on distance, load size, carrier availability, and delivery sequencing. Many dealerships reduce delays by scheduling recurring routes or using door-to-door auto transport to minimize handling.
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