Buying a car at a U.S. auction and shipping it overseas are two separate jobs. The purchase tells you where the vehicle is and what you paid for it. The shipping plan has to account for when it can leave the yard, how it will be loaded and where you want to receive it. Use the following checklist to collect those details before you request a quote.

Build a pickup record

Write down the auction name, lot number, actual yard address and ZIP code. The city in a listing can refer to a regional sale rather than the exact location of the vehicle. Ask the auction when it will release the car, what the pickup driver must bring and whether collection requires an appointment. Record the first available date and the last date you can collect the car before the yard starts charging storage. If the auction is still processing payment or paperwork, tell the logistics team that the pickup date is provisional.

Describe the car as it is today

Give the year, make and model along with what you know about whether the engine starts, whether the wheels roll and whether the vehicle can steer. These are separate questions. A car can roll freely even when it cannot start, while a car with a locked wheel may need different loading equipment. Flag missing keys, low clearance, fluid leaks, missing wheels or body damage that could interfere with loading. Share current photos if you have them, especially close-ups of any damage around the wheels or underside.

Choose a specific delivery point

Provide the destination country and city, plus a port if you already know which one you want. If you need delivery to an address, say so in your first inquiry. A quote that ends at a terminal covers a different journey from a quote that includes local delivery. Ask who is responsible for collecting the car at each handoff and whether the receiver needs to book any transport independently.

Compare the full route

Put competing quotes side by side and check the starting point, endpoint and vehicle condition on each. Then compare pickup, loading and handling, the overseas leg and any destination services. Ask which charges are included, which are payable separately and what happens if the car cannot be loaded as described. Check when the transit estimate begins. The time after loading can be different from the time from auction release to arrival.

See the guide to comparing shipping quotes and the guide to full and shared containers for more questions to ask.

Prepare for pickup and handoff

Confirm the auction has released the vehicle before arranging collection. Keep the lot number, purchase record, pickup instructions and shipment reference together. Ask which vehicle and shipping documents are needed for the route, who provides them and when they are due. Before handoff, confirm the expected condition of the car and how to report a change. After pickup, keep any condition record or handoff paperwork you receive.

Frequently asked questions

Can I ask for a quote before bidding?

Yes. Use the listing location, vehicle details and intended destination to ask for an estimate. Update the inquiry after purchase with the actual pickup address, release date and verified condition.

What if the vehicle does not start?

Say whether it still rolls and steers, and describe any damage or missing keys. Those details help determine whether the pickup and loading arrangements are suitable.

Can I pack spare parts in the car?

Ask about the parts separately before putting anything inside. List the items and flag batteries, fluids or other contents that may affect acceptance. See how to prepare auto parts for shipping.

What should I ask about cargo insurance?

Ask whether coverage is available for the vehicle and its condition. Review the terms, including limits and exclusions, before booking. Keep proof of value and condition photos. See the cargo insurance checklist.

How do I request an update after pickup?

Use the shipment reference and tell support which event you want to confirm, such as pickup or the next handoff. You can email [email protected].

Ready to compare options? Send Post Express your lot number, pickup details and destination.