Do You Need My Keys To Ship My Vehicle?
Feeling uneasy about giving your car keys to someone else is normal. It’s not something we’re used to doing, and cars are expensive, but it’s a standard and necessary part of the job for auto movers. Here are the main reasons that your keys are required as part of having your car shipped:
- The driver has to move cars on and off of the transport carrier and occasionally may need to reorganize the positions of the vehicles. This is done so that they are in the correct order for drop off at their respective destinations, and so other cars can be picked up if necessary. Any driving of your vehicle is strictly limited to what’s needed to complete the job, and drivers can face serious consequences for not adhering to industry guidelines.
- The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires a complete set of keys, including trunk, ignition, and glove box, to have a vehicle moved by a conveyance professional. Without the keys, the vehicle is considered inoperable and requires considerably more labor, additional equipment, and a special permit to ship, all of which cause the cost to increase dramatically, not to mention the chances of something going wrong.
Trusting An Auto Shipper With Your Car (And Keys)
Before handing your keys over, ensure you’ve received a bill of lading. This document should include the full details of the delivered cargo, more or less the invoice for your automobile delivery. The bill of lading should have the name of the party shipping the vehicle, the pickup location, the destination, and a description of the freight, including the car's current mileage. In other words, you’ll have an official document indicating how much, if any, your car was moved during shipping.
Several laws and regulations have been put in place recently that are working to increase safety, accountability, and oversight of the carrier industry. Starting with the Moving Ahead For Progress in the 21st Century Act in 2012 (also known as MAP-21), there is now more transparency and consumer protection available among motorcar conveyance companies than ever before.
A qualified professional will freely share their carrier information, such as their USDOT number and Motor Carrier License number, which are used to track and regulate freight carriers in the United States. This information can be used to look up company performance history and how long a company has been in business.
It’s important to remember that transport carrier drivers are trained professionals with the qualifications and federal licensing required to operate as a motor vehicle carrier. If you ask questions and do some basic research, finding a professional auto-hauling company that you feel good about trusting with your keys is relatively simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need my keys to ship my vehicle?
Most carriers require one working key because the driver must steer, brake, and load the vehicle safely. Keys are needed for loading onto ramps, adjusting position during transport, and clearing inspection points. If your vehicle is inoperable, carriers still need ignition access unless it has been fully disconnected for winch loading. When preparing your vehicle, confirm whether you’re using open or enclosed service; requirements may differ. For general preparation steps, see our car transportation services.
What if I only have a key fob or push-start key?
Carriers accept a single fob or smart key, but it must start the vehicle and allow gear selection. Push-start systems must have enough battery charge to run the electronics during loading. If your fob battery is weak, replace it before pickup to avoid delays or additional labor fees. Many modern vehicles automatically lock when the fob leaves range, so provide it directly to the driver at pickup.
Can I ship my vehicle without providing a key at all?
It is rarely allowed. A no-key shipment is only possible when the vehicle is completely inoperable and can be winched without steering input. This often triggers higher labor charges and limits your carrier options. Carriers regulated under the FMCSA must document vehicle condition, which is harder when the car cannot be accessed. When in doubt, review alternatives through our car transportation services.
Can I mail my keys to the pickup or delivery location?
Yes, but it is risky because delays with USPS or courier services can hold up your shipment. If keys arrive late, the carrier may charge a dry-run fee or reschedule pickup. Most shippers hand the key directly to the driver to avoid timing issues. If mailing is necessary, use tracked delivery and notify the delivery party in advance so the carrier is not left waiting.
What happens if I lose my keys before shipping?
You must replace or reprogram the key before the carrier arrives. Modern fobs often cost between $100–$400 and may take a day or two for cutting and programming. If the car cannot be started or shifted, carriers may require specialized loading equipment, increasing your total cost. Always confirm readiness during booking so the driver arrives with the correct equipment.
Do I need to give the carrier all my keys or just one?
Only one working key is needed. Keep your backup keys at home. Carriers prefer a single key for chain-of-custody clarity and to prevent disputes over missing personal items. At delivery, the driver will return the same key after completing the inspection and final paperwork.
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