Car delivery

For UK homeowners, these services offer more than just convenience; they provide specialist insurance cover and expertise in handling logistics like London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and various toll routes. Using a dedicated transporter also prevents unnecessary mileage and wear and tear on your vehicle.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Pre-collection inspection: A thorough walk-around to document the vehicle’s condition with photos and a written report.
• Document verification: Checking the V5C logbook, service history, and ensuring keys are present and functional.
• Secure loading: Using ramps, winches, and professional-grade straps to secure the car onto a trailer or recovery truck.
• Route planning: Navigating around low bridges, narrow lanes, and restricted zones while managing toll payments.
• Safe delivery: Unloading the vehicle at the destination and performing a final condition check with the recipient.
• Handover: Finalising mileage records, fuel levels, and transferring keys and paperwork.

Typical Costs

Prices for car delivery vary significantly based on the distance, the type of transport (driven vs. trailered), and the size of the vehicle. Premium services, such as enclosed trailers for luxury or classic cars, will command a higher price point due to increased insurance and equipment costs.

How Long Does It Take?

• Local deliveries (under 50 miles): Typically completed within 2 to 4 hours, including loading and unloading.
• Regional deliveries (50–150 miles): Usually takes a half-day (4 to 6 hours) depending on motorway traffic.
• National deliveries (150+ miles): Often requires a full working day; very long hauls (e.g., London to Scotland) may take 2 days.
• Multi-car transporters: May take 3 to 5 days as the driver has multiple stops to coordinate.

DIY or Professional?

While you could hire a trailer and tow a car yourself, it is rarely recommended for the average homeowner. Towing requires a specific category on your driving licence (B+E) depending on the weight, and standard car insurance rarely covers "Hire and Reward" or "Goods in Transit" for the vehicle being towed.

Professional transporters carry specialist insurance that protects the full value of your vehicle during transit—something a standard DIY tow cannot offer.

Professionals also use "Trade Plates," which allow them to move untaxed or recently purchased vehicles legally on the road. Attempting this yourself without the correct paperwork can lead to vehicle seizure and heavy fines.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Check Insurance: Ensure they have "Goods in Transit" insurance specifically for vehicle movements, not just standard van insurance.
• Verify Equipment: Ask if they use a professional beaver-tail truck or a multi-car trailer, and ensure they have winch capabilities if the car is a non-runner.
• Look for Reviews: Check independent platforms for feedback on their punctuality and how they handle damage claims.

Questions to ask:

• Are you fully insured for "Hire and Reward," and what is the maximum value covered?
• Will you provide a signed condition report and photos at both ends of the journey?
• How do you handle tolls, ULEZ charges, and fuel costs?
• What is your procedure if the vehicle breaks down or won't start during transit?

UK Regulations

• Trade Plates: Drivers using trade plates must adhere to strict DVLA regulations regarding the types of trips allowed.
• Tachographs: For most commercial towing over 3.5 tonnes (combined weight), drivers must use a tachograph to monitor driving hours.
• VOSA/DVSA Compliance: Professional trailers must be regularly inspected and meet specific safety standards for straps and winch ratings.
• Paperwork: You should receive a Proof of Delivery (POD) and a copy of the vehicle inspection report.

Common Problems

• Damage Disputes: Avoid this by ensuring a detailed photo inspection is done in daylight before the car is loaded.
• Low Clearance Issues: Customised cars with low splitters can be damaged on standard ramps; always notify the driver if your car is lowered.
• Flat Batteries: If a car has been sitting, it may not start for unloading; ensure the transporter has a jump pack or winch.
• Hidden Fees: Clarify if waiting time (e.g., waiting for a seller to show up) is charged hourly.
• Access Restrictions: Large transporters may struggle with narrow residential cul-de-sacs; agree on a nearby meeting point if access is tight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the car need to be taxed and insured for delivery?

If the car is being transported on a trailer, it does not need tax or insurance. If it is being driven by a professional using Trade Plates, the driver's insurance and the plates cover the vehicle legally for that journey.

Can I leave personal belongings in the car?

Most transporters advise against this as their insurance usually only covers the vehicle itself, not the contents. Heavy items can also shift and damage the interior or affect the trailer's weight balance.

What happens if my car is damaged during transit?

A professional service will have Goods in Transit insurance. You must note any damage on the delivery report immediately before signing it and take photos to support your claim.

Can you deliver a car that doesn't start?

Yes, but you must inform the provider in advance. They will need to bring a vehicle equipped with a winch to pull the car onto the trailer, and there is usually a small additional fee for this.

How much notice do I need to give for a booking?

For local moves, 24–48 hours is often enough. For long-distance or specific date requirements, it is best to book at least a week in advance to secure a slot.

Do I need to be present at both ends?

Not necessarily, but someone must be there to hand over/accept the keys and sign the condition report. You can nominate a neighbour or a garage, provided the driver has their contact details.