August 25, 2025

Car Transport 101 for Toronto Drivers

If you’ve never hired the services of a car hauler in the past, the process can seem overwhelming. Maybe you bought the car online, are moving from another province, or just don’t feel like driving a long distance. Regardless of the reason, using the services of a car hauler in Toronto makes the whole process much easier and more convenient. But how does shipping a car work? Knowing what to anticipate, steer clear of, and how to prepare your car for transport can put you totally at ease and eliminate any surprises. So here it goes!

What Is Car Transport?

Simply put, car transport gets your car from point A to point B in a large truck or trailer, so you don’t have to drive. It is either point-to-point, like from the east side of Toronto to the west side of the city, or long-haul, like from Toronto to British Columbia. A car hauler company will have two options available for transport. One is open transport, where the cars ride on an open trailer. The second is enclosed transport in a covered trailer with the car riding inside. Open transport is generally the more affordable option and is ideal for most daily-use cars. Enclosed carriers are typically chosen by people transporting collector cars or high-end vehicles.

Identifying a Reliable Business

Not all car transport companies operate under the same code of business ethics or provide the same level of customer service. It’s essential to select a reliable car hauler that offers excellent communication and is properly insured. Check online reviews and ensure the car hauler consistently ships cars in and out of Toronto to avoid any potential delays. You’ll also want to pay attention to delivery and pickup locations. Some companies offer door-to-door service, while others drop the car off at a designated terminal. Knowing this information in advance can help you understand the process.

Preparing The Vehicle

Prepare your vehicle before loading onto the trailer. Clean the vehicle inside and out, and inspect it for any damage before shipping. Photograph the vehicle on all sides for record purposes. You will also need to remove all your belongings from the vehicle. These items are generally not covered by the carrier’s insurance
and pose a liability risk.

Most companies will also ask that your fuel tank be just about a quarter full. This is just enough to ensure the vehicle is ready to drive, but it also reduces the weight and cost of car transport for the hauler (and ultimately, for you as well!). Make sure the car is free from any leaks and that the tires are inflated.

What Does Pick Up and Delivery Look Like?

When a car transport company picks up your car, there will be an inspection, and you will receive a copy documenting any pre-existing damage. Your car will then be loaded onto the carrier and begin its journey. If there are no delays, your car will arrive at its final location on its scheduled delivery date. If there are unavoidable setbacks due to weather or road conditions, the shipper will notify you and keep you updated on the status of your vehicle. Once the car is delivered, there will be a final inspection witnessed by the driver and you. If everything appears to be in order, you will be free to sign off and take your car home.

The Simplicity of Car Transport

Most Toronto drivers are impressed with how efficient car shipping is, as it saves time, prevents wear and tear on your car, and eliminates the hassles of long-distance driving. Whether you are moving, buying a car from a distant location, or seeking a less stressful way to transport your car, a reliable car hauler service in Toronto can easily take care of your ride. At Able Auto Transport, we help Canadian motorists move their vehicles securely and efficiently. When you need car shipping at a reasonable rate with reliability and transparency, we’re here for you.