You might worry about where your car is during transport when you are looking to ship your car. People often ask, “Is vehicle tracking a must-have when you ship your car?Although the industry is witnessing a rise in vehicle tracking usage, it is not compulsory but certainly advantageous.
We’ll take a closer look at vehicle tracking in this guide including how it works, why it matters, and other options if tracking isn’t available. Plus, you’ll find out how 1st Car Shipping can help achieve peace of mind and communication while shipping your car the right way.
Is Vehicle Tracking Required in Car Shipping?
Car shipping companies do not need vehicle tracking, put simply. Using GPS tracking systems has not been mandated by law for transporters of any industry. Many current carriers provide tracking technology while others rely on ongoing communication and updates from drivers.
- Cost of GPS-equipped fleets: Not all carriers have invested in real-time tracking systems.
- Driver privacy concerns: Some carriers prefer limited tracking.
- Industry flexibility: Car shipping involves thousands of independent truckers, making uniform tracking regulations difficult to enforce.
Despite its lack of requirement, tracking has additionally become a valuable feature, and many reputable companies that offer tracking.
How Vehicle Tracking Works in Car Shipping
Tracking has become very popular even though it is not required. Car shipping companies have different tracking methods according to their fleet size and resources.
Real-Time GPS Tracking
Some companies have trucks fitted with GPS that allow their customers to see where their car is on a digital map.
Online Tracking Portals
Businesses would provide a tracking page where you enter the reference number to track the status.
SMS or Email Updates
Not tracking in real time but updates sent to customers.
- Pickup confirmation
- Mid-route progress
- Delivery ETA
4. Driver Direct Contact
Usually the most certain method. The customer receives notification once driver gets assigned.
- Driver’s name
- Phone number
- Truck details
When you communicate directly, you can track without a GPS.
At 1st Car Shipping we use a combination of these methods to ensure customers are updated every step of the way.
Benefits of Vehicle Tracking During Car Shipping
Even if vehicle tracking is not compulsory, it sure has an advantage useful for bettering the experience.
Peace of Mind
Knowing where your vehicle is during transit helps reduces stress. Whether your vehicle is going across a single state or the whole country, tracking gives you confidence in the process.
Better Planning
Estimate your vehicle delivery time based on vehicle type.
- Plan your schedule
- Arrange for someone to be home
- Avoid last-minute surprises
Improved Transparency
Tracking instills accountability in individuals. The knowledge of the carrier’s route and schedule creates trust between you and the transport company.
Faster Issue Resolution
If your delivery is delayed due to weather, traffic or mechanical issues, you can use the tracking to ascertain the delay’s cause and plan accordingly.
What If Tracking Is Not Available?
Some car shipping companies do not provide it (especially small carriers) because it is optional. Just because nothing changes doesn’t mean that your experience would lose its reliability. You can have a seamless shipping experience by following a few simple steps.
Step 1: Request Driver Details
Ask the company to provide:
- Driver’s name
- Phone number
- Carrier information
Reputable companies, such as 1st Car Shipping, will provide the pickup details once the driver is assigned.
Step 2: Ask for Scheduled Check-Ins
If tracking is not available, I can update you at intervals.
- During pickup
- Halfway through transport
- When approaching delivery
Step 3: Understand Your Delivery Window
A clear window, for example, 3–5 days, help set expectations even in instances where a tracking link is not available.
Step 4: Choose a Reliable Transport Company
Tracking means less for a company that has a reputation for good communitcation. Steady customer support can replace online tracking.
How to Choose a Car Shipping Company with the Best Tracking Options
Even though tracking is not mandatory, a service provider that provides some sort of tracking or updates frequently will only improve your experience.
✔ Transparent Communication
A company that provides consistent updates is just as important as a one with GPS.
✔ Driver Information Provided
It is important to track without technology.
✔ Clear Pickup and Delivery Windows
The professional companies provide a realistic delivery time.
✔ Options to Upgrade Tracking or Service
Some organizations permit paying for advanced monitoring and prompt shipment.
✔ Positive Customer Reviews
Look for comments regarding quality of communication.
Customers always know what’s happening with their vehicle thanks to the reliable communication from 1st Car Shipping.
Expert Tips for Tracking Your Car During Transport
Even without tracking, you can still keep an eye on your package.
- Save the driver’s contact info immediately.
- Ask for an ETA when the driver starts the route.
- Request text updates instead of calls if more convenient.
- Keep your phone available on the delivery day.
- Stay flexible with timing—traffic and weather can shift ETAs.
Communication is key for a smooth experience while shipping.
Tracking Isn’t Mandatory—But It’s Useful
Is it obligatory to track a car that is shipped in a vehicle?While it’s not a must, it certainly does ease the process. When you follow an order, you can rest assured that you will know exactly what stage of the trip it’s on. In addition, it allows you to schedule when your items will arrive. You’ll be able to relax on the trip because you don’t have to constantly check in and hope for the best. With a trusted transport company like 1st Car Shipping you can count on a smooth and reliable transport experience even with no tracking and with frequent updates and amazing customer service along with your vehicle status notifications. No matter your flavor of tracking or texting the driver, the most important thing is to work with a transport company whose main aim is safety.
