Documents Needed To Transport A Car Across State Lines
People transport cars across stateliness for different reasons. Some are hauling for sale and repair, while most people seek services to relocate to a new state. When preparing to ship, finding a good company is a huge concern. However, do not forget that documents are needed to haul across state lines. Read on to find out the files you need.
Documents needed by the Firm
Companies require the following papers before moving out of state;
- Vehicle registration – before they can take your car, the company must prove that it is yours and that you have the right to ship it. The vehicle registration and title are the documents required to prove ownership. Without these, a professional firm with a reputation for protecting will not move.
- Photo identification – to fully ascertain that you own the vehicle, the firm will request to see a photo identification. A photo ID can be your unexpired passport or driver’s license.
- Certificate of insurance – the company also needs proof that the automobile is insured. Present a copy of the insurance certificate.
- Bill of lading – this is not a paper they need; instead, it is a record they prepare, but it requires your presence when preparing it. Before loading it for moving, the agency inspects its state. They note the findings of the inspection in the bill of lading. You should be present to sign this document so that you can ascertain it is accurate. You should also make sure the truck driver or any other authorized agency representative signs it, too. This is evidence in case you need to claim compensation should the mover damage it.
Papers needed to Haul across State Lines
Are you moving to relocate to a new state? You need to transfer to the latest state when you move. Failure to do this in time could attract penalties. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is responsible for transferring. Three different situations are affecting the procedure;
Transferring with lease agreements or liens
If your title has a lien, you transfer by filing a release form and sending it to the lien holder. The lien holder will then send it to a local DMV office near your new residence. The DMV office will assist you in completing the final steps of the transfer.
In the case of lease agreements, you are supposed to obtain a power of attorney from the leasing agent for the transfer to be completed by the DMV.
Transferring from states that issue titles
If you are moving from a state that issues tags, you must transfer the label to your current state of residence. The procedure of transferring a label out of state resembles that of an in-state change of residence. The procedure has several additional steps, but they vary from state to state. Generally, the process involves;
- Testing emissions standards of the car (some states do not require this test)
- Filling out the transfer request form
- Submitting the existing vehicle registration and title
- Submitting insurance certificate
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification
- Paying the applicable transfer fees
Note that there are states that have tax exemptions for new residents. Visit the DMV website to learn more about the transfer and the potential cost involved.
Transferring to states that do not issue titles
If you are moving from a state that does not issue tags to one that does, you do not have a title to transfer. In this case, you apply for a new label in the DMV office in your new residence. The DMV office will need proof of ownership and the vehicle sale invoice or bill. The bill should have the contact info and signatures of both you and the seller. It should also have relevant vehicle information, including the price, year of manufacture, date of sale, and VIN.
Indeed, there are documents needed to haul across state lines, and to retain it there. To avoid any inconveniences or unavoidable penalties prepare all the necessary papers and funds in advance. If you are just hauling for purposes other than a change of residence, you only need to prepare the records the mover requires. For a change of residence, you need to consider the DMV requirements outlined above.
Call us for more information on the documents needed to move with A1-AT. Our friendly customer care team will be eager to help.
Related Information & FAQ
- State-to-state moving company
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are needed to transport a car across state lines?
You typically need a valid driver’s license or government ID, current vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Carriers may also request your VIN and delivery contact details. These documents confirm ownership and help carriers meet FMCSA oversight requirements. Requirements can vary slightly by state, especially in states with active emissions or title-verification programs. If your vehicle is being picked up from a residence, presenting documents during the inspection speeds up the process. See our interstate transport overview for broader regulatory context.
Do you need the vehicle title when shipping a car to another state?
A title is not always required for domestic interstate transport, but carriers may ask for a copy to confirm ownership if paperwork is unclear or the vehicle is recently purchased. You should carry the original yourself, never place it in the car. A clear title is especially helpful for inoperable vehicles or cars coming from auctions. If your paperwork is complex, requesting guidance during the booking prevents delays. For pricing or planning, check our car shipping rates guide.
Are power of attorney forms required to transport a car across state lines?
Most standard transports do not require power of attorney. It becomes necessary only when someone else is signing documents, releasing the vehicle, or handling title-related tasks on your behalf. Carriers use limited-scope POA forms to document permission, which helps protect the owner and satisfies FMCSA compliance checks. If a dealer, family member, or property manager releases the car, ask the carrier in advance so forms are ready.
What paperwork should I prepare if the car is financed or leased?
Finance or lease vehicles may require written authorization from the lender, especially if the contract restricts transport out of state. Most lenders provide a simple form confirming permission to move the vehicle. You will still need registration, insurance, and identification. Some lenders also require you to maintain full-coverage insurance while the vehicle is in transit. If you’re comparing shipping methods, our car transportation services page covers all available carrier types.
Do I need emissions or inspection documents when moving a car to another state?
You don’t need emissions or inspection proof for the transport itself, but you may need them once the car arrives for state registration. States like California, New York, and Colorado frequently require smog or safety certifications when re-titling vehicles. Carriers may ask for basic access instructions only; they do not evaluate emissions. Preparing any pending inspections before moving can reduce delays at the new DMV.
What documents does the carrier provide at pickup and delivery?
The carrier provides a Bill of Lading at pickup, which includes the vehicle’s condition report, transport terms, and legal chain-of-custody details. At delivery, you sign the final inspection confirming the car’s condition and receipt. These documents are essential if you ever file a claim. Keeping photos of the vehicle at pickup alongside the Bill of Lading strengthens documentation and protects both shipper and customer.
Can I ship a car across state lines if the registration is expired?
Yes, but you must notify the carrier in advance because some states enforce stricter roadside compliance checks. While carriers can legally move unregistered vehicles, you must show proof of ownership typically a title copy, bill of sale, or previous registration. Transporting an expired-registration vehicle is common for project cars, stored vehicles, or recently purchased units. Carriers cannot operate the vehicle on public roads, so ensure it is accessible for loading.
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