What payment options do car shipping companies accept?
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A straight answer from the ShipMyCar US auto transport team, plus the details that matter before you book.
Quick Answer
Short answer: Most car shipping companies split payment into two parts: a small booking deposit by card, bank transfer or a digital wallet, and the balance paid to the driver at pickup or delivery in cash, cashier's check, money order or an app like Zelle. With ShipMyCar US, the balance is never due before your car is picked up.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
Booking Deposit Payment Methods
- Credit or debit card: The most common way to pay a booking deposit.
- Bank transfer (ACH or wire): Common for dealers, businesses and larger orders.
- PayPal: Accepted by some companies, especially for international customers.
- Digital wallets: Some brokers accept Zelle, Cash App or Venmo for the deposit.
Balance Payment Methods
Drivers usually can't run a card at the curb, so the balance is typically paid by:
- Cash
- Cashier's check or money order
- Digital payments such as Zelle, Cash App or Venmo, when the carrier accepts them
Confirm the accepted method when your carrier is assigned so you have it ready.
Payment Red Flags
Be careful with any company that asks for the full price before a carrier is assigned, insists on wire transfers only, or won't put the payment terms in writing. A fair quote states the total price, how much is due at booking and how much at pickup or delivery. See how to avoid auto shipping scams.
How Booking and Payment Fit Together
Payment for car shipping happens in two parts, and knowing when each part is due helps you plan:
- At booking: You confirm your details and the price. ShipMyCar US takes only a small booking deposit, not the full cost.
- At carrier assignment: We match your car with a licensed, insured carrier and send you the driver's details.
- At pickup: The balance is due to the carrier, using the payment method agreed in your booking confirmation.
The price you confirm stays the same as long as your vehicle and address details don't change. If your car doesn't run or has modifications, tell us at booking so it's priced in from the start.
Which Payment Method Should You Use?
The most convenient choice for the booking deposit, and cards give you dispute rights if something goes wrong.
Often used for the balance paid to the driver. Have it ready before pickup day so there's no delay.
Dealers and companies shipping several vehicles can ask about invoicing.
Whatever you choose, keep every receipt and your signed Bill of Lading together. You may need them for reimbursement, taxes or a claim.
Questions to Ask Before You Pay Anyone
- Is the deposit refundable if no carrier is assigned?
- Is the balance due at pickup or delivery, and in what form?
- Are there card processing fees?
- Does the price include fuel and carrier insurance?
For more, read our guide to hidden fees in car shipping and the auto transport deposit FAQ.
Quick Answers
Payment timing is set in your booking confirmation. With ShipMyCar US, the balance is normally due at pickup. If you need a different arrangement, ask before you book.
Ask about card fees before booking so there are no surprises. Your confirmation lists the accepted methods for the deposit and the balance.
If your vehicle and address details stay the same, the confirmed price stays the same. Changes like a non-running car or a new address can change the price, and we explain why before anything is confirmed.
Related Questions
Source: every broker and carrier's operating authority, safety rating, and insurance status is public record — verify any company for free at the FMCSA SAFER System.
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