Need To Ship A Car? What Are The Documents Required For Submission?
When you need to ship a car either interstate or internationally there is more to the process than just finding the best auto carrier and booking a date for transportation. Any legitimate carrier would require certain proof of documentation which is required to safeguard your vehicle as well as their company. This is a complete list of all the documents required for submission during interstate or international car transportation.
Auto Carriers.
For interstate shipments using an auto transport company, you must provide the company with documents that prove the car belongs to you. Within the United States, all car owners are required to provide auto carrier with
- Original registration and title, if the car is leased or financed in other words if there is a lien on the vehicle then you will be required to provide proof in the form of a notarized letter from the bank acknowledging the shipment.
- you must provide a copy of your car insurance, this will however not be accepted if the insurance is expired.
- Photo identification will be required in the form of an unexpired driver's license or unexpired passport from your country of origin.
- If for some reason you are acting on the behalf of someone else, that is to say, the car is not registered in your name then you must provide a notarized letter written by them stating their name and VIN number of the automobile.
Overseas Shipping.
For overseas shipping of vehicles, some of the documentation required is the same as that of interstate shipments such as
- The original registration and original title.
- It is usually difficult to transport cars that are leased or financed overseas but not impossible. It will require the bank's notarized consent along with three copies of the 'Certificate of Title' which have been certified by the bank.
- Like with interstate shipments you will need to submit the unexpired car insurance and unexpired driver's license or passport as proof of identity.
- You will also need to submit the Bill of Sale or a copy which has been notarized.
- Documents that prove that you had paid the state sales tax on the vehicle when you purchased it.
- You will also need to pay the import duty or the tax that is levied on both the country the car is coming from and going to.
- If the vehicle is being imported or exported by you on behalf of someone else then you are required to submit an original document stating Power of Attorney.
Summary.
These documents are vitally important when you need to ship a car both for your own protection and for that of the auto carrier. It proves that the car you are providing and they are transporting is not stolen. Without these documents being in order, it is not possible to ship a car in or out of the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required for vehicle shipping submission?
Most carriers ask for a government ID, vehicle title or lease approval, and a signed transport agreement. These verify lawful ownership and authorize shipment. If someone else is releasing or receiving the car, a short authorization letter helps avoid delays. Carriers may also request VIN confirmation photos. Requirements vary slightly by state regulations. Reviewing the car shipping cost guide helps you confirm typical documentation early.
Do I need the original vehicle title to ship my car?
For domestic U.S. transport, the original title is not always required, but ownership verification is. Copies of the title, registration, or lease paperwork generally work. If the car is financed, lenders usually accept shipping with a simple authorization. Auction or salvage vehicles may need extra proof depending on state rules. You can compare how carriers handle paperwork through our car transportation services.
What documents are needed when using door-to-door pickup?
Door-to-door carriers typically request a photo ID, access instructions, and your signed bill of lading at pickup. Drivers verify ownership, VIN, and condition before loading. Local road access matters because narrow streets or steep driveways can affect carrier positioning. Learn how drivers coordinate access through our door-to-door transport service.
Are additional documents required for inoperable or modified vehicles?
Yes. Inoperable vehicles require a signed acknowledgment that the car cannot roll, steer, or brake. Modified vehicles may need mechanic notes explaining height changes, oversized tires, or aftermarket lifts. These details affect loading procedures and carrier selection. Requirements are outlined in FMCSA cargo safety guidelines and reflected in the transport agreement and bill of lading.
Do I need to provide insurance documents before shipment?
You usually do not need to provide your personal auto insurance to book transport. Instead, you must review and sign the carrier’s liability terms, listed in the transport agreement and bill of lading. Carriers must carry federal liability and cargo coverage under FMCSA authority. High-value owners often add supplemental protection, which can be coordinated during booking.
What paperwork is provided back to me at delivery?
At delivery, you receive a completed bill of lading showing pickup condition, transit notes, and the final inspection. Signing it finalizes delivery and preserves eligibility for any claim. Keeping a digital copy ensures clean documentation for insurance or resale. It also serves as proof of mileage and condition at the end of transport.
How do I submit documents if I booked last-minute shipping?
Same-day or urgent shipments use the same documents but must be submitted digitally before dispatch. Carriers require quick uploads of your ID and ownership proof to avoid assignment delays. Urgent transport pages, like our same-day auto transport, show how fast-track verification works and why VIN photos are often required immediately.
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Twitter
Google 
Instagram 
Dave C. 
Courtney J. 
Jeff D. 
Maria L. 
