Bought a Car Online? How to Get It Shipped to You (2025 Guide)

Online car buying has exploded — eBay Motors, CarGurus, Autotrader, Facebook Marketplace, and Copart all facilitate out-of-state purchases. The problem: the car is in Ohio and you're in Arizona. Here's exactly how to get it shipped to you.

Step 1: Confirm the Car's Pickup Location

Get the exact address where the vehicle currently is — not the seller's home if it's stored elsewhere. For auctions (Copart, IAAI, Manheim), this is the auction location address, not the lot number. You'll need this for an accurate shipping quote.

Step 2: Get a Shipping Quote Before You Finalize the Purchase

Factor in shipping cost before you commit to buying. Get a quote from Uwon Carriers with the vehicle's current location and your delivery zip code. For a car in Ohio delivering to Arizona, you're looking at $700–$1,000 for open transport — know this number before your offer.

Step 3: Complete the Purchase and Secure the Title

For auction vehicles, title transfer must be completed before pickup (in most states). For private seller purchases, you can arrange pickup before title transfer in some states — but confirm this with your state's DMV rules. When in doubt, complete the title transfer first.

Step 4: Arrange the Pickup Authorization

If you won't be present at pickup (which is common when buying online), you need to authorize the release. Two options:

1. Seller release: The seller simply releases the vehicle to the carrier. Best for private party sales where you trust the seller.
2. Written authorization letter: You provide a signed letter authorizing the carrier to pick up on your behalf. We can provide a template.

For auctions, the auction house releases the vehicle once pickup is scheduled — they're used to this process.

Step 5: Document the Condition at Pickup

This is where buyers get protected (or don't). At pickup, the carrier completes a Bill of Lading — a condition report that documents all pre-existing damage. The seller or auction staff signs this. This is your proof of condition before transport began.

If damage appears at delivery that wasn't on the Bill of Lading, you have a documented claim against the carrier's insurance. Always review your delivery Bill of Lading carefully before signing.

Which Platforms Work with Car Transport?

• eBay Motors: Very common. eBay even has integrated shipping quotes. We pick up from seller addresses nationwide.
• CarGurus / Autotrader / Cars.com: Private seller and dealer purchases — we coordinate directly with whoever has the car.
• Facebook Marketplace: Growing rapidly. Same process — seller releases to our carrier.
• Copart / IAAI: Salvage and auction platforms. Must have completed title transfer. We're familiar with both platforms' release processes.
• Bring a Trailer: Classic and enthusiast vehicles. Enclosed transport recommended — we handle BaT pickups regularly.

What It Costs to Ship a Car Bought Online

Same rates as standard transport — online purchase doesn't change the price. The cost depends entirely on distance:

• Under 500 miles: $299–$549
• 500–1,500 miles: $549–$849
• 1,500–2,500 miles: $749–$1,100
• Coast-to-coast: $900–$1,400