Life has events and a car shipment may require rescheduling because of travel delays, an emergency, or a last-minute change of plans. This raises the question, “Can I delay the car pickup without incurring a fee at all then?”Car Pickup Without Fees
It is good news that you can delay your car pickup without fees, but that depends on these things: the car shipping company, how soon the pickup date is, and how far along you are in the booking process. Knowing how your schedule works can avoid you a fee.
In this article we will answer the question, how does 1st Car Shipping handle pickup delays? We will address pickup delay fees including how to avoid these fees for a flexible, customer friendly experience.
provides clear scheduling options and simple, honest communication, making it easy for you to adjust.
Can You Delay the Car Pickup Without Fees?
The short answer: Yes, but the carrier must not have already been dispatched or be on the way to your pickup point.
Most car shipping companies will work with your scheduling needs (especially when given advance notice) but may charge a fee if a driver has already been dispatched or is en route should a date change occur.
When Delaying Pickup Is Usually Free:
- You notify the company before a driver is assigned
- You reserved your pickup several days in advance.
- Your shipment window is flexible
- You booked with a company that lets you change schedules for free
Companies such as 1st Car Shipping are known to be flexible about rescheduling with a sufficient period of notice.
When Delaying the Pickup May Result in Fees
While most shippers will reschedule, sometimes a delay in taking a pickup incurs a charge if the carrier committed to or performed logistics functions associated with moving that shipment.
You may be charged a fee if:
The driver is already assigned
Once a driver has been selected and added to the pickup schedule, that driver’s slot is reserved and the carrier will need to change their route.
The truck is already en route
Delays for the driver already en route to your pickup location can include:
- Fuel cost losses
- Schedule disruptions
- Route changes
In such cases the transporter may charge a dry run fee or rescheduling fee.
You delay pickup at the last minute
Most companies charge fees for late changes to the reservation, usually made less than 24 to 48 hours prior to scheduled pickup.
You booked an expedited or guaranteed pickup
Premium services tend to have tight schedules, and if an outstanding arrangement is made to prioritize your vehicle, that will be at your cost.
How to Delay Car Pickup Without Paying Fees
You can delay pickup at no additional cost, using one of the following methods:
Step 1: Communicate Early
Call now. Carriers usually assign drivers 1-3 days before pickup, so with earlier notice, the better.
To avoid a fee, inform the company 48-72 hours before pickup.
Step 2: Understand Your Pickup Window
Most quotes for car shipping will have a pickup window (1-5 days) and if your delay falls within this window, you are typically not charged a surcharge.
Step 3: Ask About Flexible Scheduling
Some companies offer:
- Free rescheduling
- Open pickup windows
- No-fee adjustments for non-urgent shipments
Many clients choose 1st Car Shipping due to their flexibility, and for their focus on customer convenience over strict scheduling.
Step 4: Choose Standard Shipping Instead of Expedited
Expedited shipping is more sensitive to delays. If you anticipate schedule uncertainty, choose standard shipping.
Step 5: Keep an Open Line with the Dispatcher
Dispatchers can modify routes before a driver is assigned. Staying in communication ensures your pickup is adjusted smoothly.
What Happens if You Delay After the Driver Arrives?
Sometimes delays happen on the same day of pickup. For example:
- You’re stuck in traffic
- You’re running late from work
- You have difficulty accessing the pickup area
If the delivery schedule is not critical, use standard shipping because expedited shipping is more sensitive to delay.
If the delay is longer:
- The driver may need to move to the next customer
- A dry run fee (commonly $75–$150) may apply
- You might need to reschedule for another day
Before dispatch, routes change, and communicatiing with dispatchers eases a smooth pickup process.
How to Avoid Last-Minute Pickup Issues
Most drivers will provide a grace period of 30 to 60 minutes around these cases.
✔ Prepare the car the day before
Wash the car, remove personal belongings, and take photos for inspection.
✔ Be flexible with time
Car shipping does not provide exact appointments, only time windows.
✔ Provide an alternative contact
Alternatively, a friend or even a family member can release the car.
✔ Choose a company known for good communication
Companies who keep you informed are less likely to surprise you.
1st Car Shipping will keep you updated prior to your pickup, so you’re ready.
You Can Delay Pickup—If You Plan Ahead
You can delay car pickup without any costs if you give your car shipping service provider advance notice of your preferred pickup date if your shipment has not been assigned to a driver. Plan ahead. Know your pickup window. Be flexible. This avoids last minute issues. This is one reason for which you want to work with a reputable, customer-oriented shipper, like 1st Car Shipping. When you plan and communicate ahead of time, 1st Car Shipping can re-arrange your pickup at no added charge, and keep your shipment on track, even if you have to change the schedule suddenly.
