Car Transport

Car Transport UK

Get free instant quotes from verified UK car transport providers. Safe, insured delivery for any car, anywhere in the UK and Europe.

Professional Car Transport Services Across the UK

MotorMoves connects car owners with verified transport providers across the UK, enabling live competitive bidding that ensures fair pricing without markups. Whether moving a single family car or arranging regular trade movements, our marketplace simplifies finding reliable, professional car transport & vehicle delivery services tailored to your specific requirements.

Getting quotes is easy - 1) Post your listing, 2) Receive competitive quotes & 3) Review and accept your chosen provider. Our streamlined process eliminates the hassle of chasing quotes through endless phone calls and emails. Everything happens within our secure platform where you can compare providers, read reviews, ask questions and make informed decisions at your own pace. No sales pressure, no cold calls, and no inbox flooding - just transparent quotes from verified professionals competing for your business.

Car transport represents the largest segment of the UK vehicle delivery market, encompassing everything from economical hatchbacks to prestigious luxury saloons. Whether you're purchasing a car from a distant dealer, relocating across the country, or moving a cherished classic to a new home, professional car transport services ensure your vehicle arrives safely without adding unnecessary mileage.

The UK car transport industry serves diverse customer needs. Private buyers increasingly purchase vehicles online from dealerships and private sellers hundreds of miles away, requiring reliable car delivery services. Motor traders move stock between branches, have customer car deliveries and auctions collections regularly, while collectors seek enclosed transport for valuable classic cars and modern supercars. Non runner car transport is also very common and vehicle recovery takes up a large percentage of car transport in the UK on a daily basis. Each scenario demands different approaches, equipment, and expertise.

Open car transport using multi-vehicle transporters offers the most economical solution for standard vehicles. These transporters can carry multiple cars simultaneously, reducing costs through shared capacity. For vehicles requiring additional protection—whether high-value prestige cars, concours classics, or show vehicles—enclosed transport provides complete weather protection and enhanced security during transit.

Professional car transporters understand the importance of proper loading techniques, secure strapping, and careful handling throughout the journey. Fully insured operators provide peace of mind, covering vehicles against any transit damage. Many providers offer real-time tracking, allowing customers to monitor their vehicle's progress from collection to delivery.

Door to door car transport delivery - happy customer receiving keys

What Types of Car Transport Are Available?

Understanding the different transport methods available helps you choose the right service for your vehicle. Here are the main types of car transport services offered across the UK.

Supercar transport with enclosed trailers
Enclosed Car Transport

Enclosed car transport is the gold standard for vehicle logistics, offering the highest level of security and environmental protection. This method utilizes fully covered trailers to shield vehicles from road debris, adverse weather, and prying eyes.

Best for: High-value, rare, or sentimental vehicles. Frequently used for dealership transfers of new luxury cars and private sales.

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Open Car Transport

Open car transport is the most common and cost-effective method of moving vehicles across the UK. Single-car flatbeds and multi-car carriers offer flexibility for different needs.

Best for: Everyday cars, auction collections, and fleet logistics. The go-to solution for standard vehicle relocation with significant savings.

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Car Transport via Trailer

Car transport via trailer offers high flexibility and specialized care for individual moves. Ideal for bespoke deliveries where a large HGV would be impractical.

Best for: Classic car restoration trips, track cars, and vehicles bought via online marketplaces. Can reach remote locations inaccessible to larger transporters.

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Driven / Trade Plate Transport

Driven car transport uses a professional driver to physically operate your car to its destination. This offers true door-to-door service, navigating tight streets inaccessible to large transporters.

Best for: Dealership stock transfers, fleet reallocations, and private buyers needing fast collection with comprehensive insurance.

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Classic Car Transport

Classic car transport requires deep understanding of automotive history and mechanical delicacy. Expert handling prioritizes preservation of fragile paint finishes and aging components.

Best for: Concours d'Elegance events, specialized restoration shops, and classic auctions with detailed condition reports.

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Supercar Transport

Supercar transport is highly specialized for the world's most expensive machinery. Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren require cutting-edge equipment for their extreme dimensions.

Best for: Factory servicing, seasonal residence moves, and delivering limited-edition models. Protects expensive carbon fiber components.

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Race Car Transport

Race car transport is about logistics and timing. Whether it's a weekend track toy or professional GT3 machine, race cars require specialist handling for their stiff suspensions and aerodynamic bodywork.

Best for: Amateur racers attending track days and professional teams competing in national championships. Punctuality to paddock load-in times is critical.

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Non Runner Car Recovery

Non runner recovery specialises in moving vehicles that cannot be driven. From breakdown recoveries to salvage auction collections, specialist equipment handles cars with mechanical failures, accident damage, or flat batteries.

Best for: BCA and Manheim auction collections, Copart salvage purchases, roadside breakdowns, and cars with suspension or accident damage requiring winch loading.

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How Much Does Car Transport Cost?

UK car transport costs vary by distance, vehicle size, and urgency. Prices generally start from £50-£150 for short trips, moving to £100-£300 for medium distances, and £200-£600+ for long hauls. Per-mile rates decrease as distance increases.

Cost by Distance
Under 50 miles£50 - £150
100 miles£100 - £200
250 miles£180 - £350+
400 miles£250 - £500+
500 miles£280 - £550+
Per-Mile Rates

Short Distance

£1.50 - £3.00/mile

Easy routes, small to large cars

Long Distance

£0.95 - £1.30/mile

Average routes, most vehicles

Electric Vehicles

£2.00 - £4.00/mile

Specialist EV handling

Price Factors

Vehicle Size

SUVs, 4x4s, vans cost more

Vehicle Type

EVs need specialist handling

Route Difficulty

Remote areas increase costs

Transport Method

Enclosed adds 30-50%

Urgency

Express/last-minute costs more

Example Route Prices

Below are approximate costs for popular UK car transport routes. Actual prices vary based on vehicle type, provider availability, and service level.

RouteMilesEst. Cost
London to Manchester200£180 - £280
Liverpool to Glasgow220£195 - £310
Birmingham to Newcastle205£185 - £290
Exeter to Sheffield250£220 - £350
Leeds to Swansea230£200 - £320
Bristol to Edinburgh380£320 - £480
London to Edinburgh400£340 - £520
Southampton to Aberdeen530£420 - £600
Plymouth to Inverness620£480 - £680
London to Plymouth215£190 - £300

Prices shown are estimates for standard car transport. Enclosed transport, EVs, large vehicles, or express delivery will be higher. Get free quotes to compare actual prices.

What Insurance Coverage Will My Vehicle Have?

In the UK, car transport insurance involves a combination of legal mandates and industry-standard commercial cover to protect all parties involved. Legally, any carrier operating on public roads must hold Motor Trade Road Risk insurance, which includes "Hire and Reward" cover specifically for transporting third-party goods for payment. While Goods in Transit (GIT) insurance is not a statutory legal requirement like road insurance, it is a practical necessity for professional haulers to cover damage, theft, or loss of the vehicle being moved; many carriers operate under RHA (Road Haulage Association) Conditions of Carriage, which may limit liability to approximately £1,300 per tonne, making it vital for owners of high-value vehicles to verify if "all risks" or full-value cover is in place. Furthermore, if the transport company has employees, they are legally required to carry Employers' Liability insurance (minimum £5 million), while Public Liability insurance is standard to cover third-party injury or property damage during loading and unloading. For international transport to Europe, CMR insurance is required under the Geneva Convention, and Marine Transit insurance is used if the vehicle is shipped via sea to ensure full-value protection against maritime risks.

Types of Transport Insurance
TypeStatusWhat it Covers
Motor TradeMandatoryBasic road legality and third-party protection
Employers' LiabilityMandatoryRequired by law if company has staff
Goods in TransitOptional*Vehicle being moved (often required)
Public LiabilityOptional*Damage to property or people during move
CMR InsuranceMandatoryRequired for European border transport

*While not legally mandatory, these insurances are industry standard and often required by contracts. Always verify your transport provider's insurance coverage before booking.

Why Choose MotorMoves for Car Transport?

Dealership car delivery with professional transporter

Verified & Insured

All car transport providers are verified with valid insurance, operator licenses, and positive customer reviews.

Competitive Prices

Multiple providers bid on your job, ensuring you get the best car transport rates available.

Quick & Easy

Post your car transport job in minutes and receive quotes within hours. No phone calls needed.

Car Transport Services We Offer

Auction car collection - classic car being loaded onto transporter

Family Cars & Sedans

Transport for all standard cars, hatchbacks, and saloons

Sports & Luxury Cars

Specialist transport for high-value vehicles with enclosed options

Classic & Vintage Cars

Careful handling for cherished classic vehicles

Electric Vehicles

EV transport with understanding of vehicle specifics

Auction Purchases

Collection from UK car auctions and delivery to your door

Dealer Transfers

Trade-to-trade and dealer collection services

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does car transport cost in the UK?

Car transport costs in the UK typically range from £1.00 to £2.00 per mile, depending on vehicle type, distance, and transport method. Short journeys under 100 miles average £100-£200, while cross-country transport (300+ miles) ranges from £300-£600. Get free quotes to compare exact prices.

Is my car insured during transport?

Yes, all verified transport providers on MotorMoves carry goods in transit insurance. Coverage typically ranges from £50,000 to £250,000. Always check the provider's insurance details before booking and request a copy of their certificate if needed.

How long does car delivery take in the UK?

Standard UK car transport typically takes 2-7 days depending on distance and provider availability. Express same-day or next-day delivery is available at premium rates. Flexible date options can reduce costs by allowing providers to consolidate loads.

Can you transport non-running or damaged cars?

Absolutely. Many of our providers have recovery trucks with winches and specialist equipment to safely load and transport non-running, accident-damaged, or salvage vehicles. Just indicate the vehicle condition when creating your listing.

What's the difference between open and enclosed car transport?

Open transport uses standard car transporters - it's cost-effective and suitable for most vehicles. Enclosed transport uses covered trailers protecting vehicles from weather and road debris - ideal for classic cars, luxury vehicles, or vehicles with low ground clearance.

How do I prepare my vehicle for transport?

Remove all personal belongings and valuables from the vehicle. Ensure the fuel tank is around 1/4 full - enough for loading/unloading but not adding unnecessary weight. Disable any alarms, note any existing damage, and ensure the vehicle is accessible for collection. Remove or secure loose accessories like aerials, spoilers, or roof racks.

What documentation will I need for car transport?

You'll typically need proof of ownership or authorization to transport the vehicle (V5C logbook or purchase invoice), valid photo ID, and the vehicle keys. For trade movements, a trade invoice or dealer authorization may be required. International transport requires additional customs documentation. It is best to discuss these finer details with your chosen transport provider to confirm what they require from you.

Can I leave items in my vehicle during transport?

Most transport providers don't mind if you leave personal items in the vehicle however some advise against leaving items in the vehicle during transport. Items left inside are typically not covered by the transporter's insurance and add additional weight to the vehicle. If you must leave items, they should be secured, non-valuable, and declared to the provider beforehand.

Can I travel with my vehicle while it is being transported?

Most transport providers do not allow passengers to travel inside their vehicles during transport for insurance and safety reasons. Typically you'll need to arrange separate travel to meet your vehicle at the destination but it is always worth asking the provider if required.

Do I need to take evidence of my car's condition?

Yes, it's highly recommended to document your vehicle's condition before transport. Take dated photos and videos of all angles, noting any existing scratches, dents, or damage. This protects both you and the transport provider and ensures any transit damage can be clearly identified.

Do I need to be present at collection and delivery?

Either you or an authorized representative must be present at both collection and delivery to hand over/receive keys, sign condition reports, and confirm the vehicle's state. If you can't attend, you can nominate someone else with written authorization to act on your behalf.

Recent Car Transport Jobs

2014 Toyota Yaris Excel 1.5 Hybrid - Automatic - vehicle transport from Purley to Derby

2014 Toyota Yaris Excel 1.5 Hybrid - Automatic

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1972 RELIANT SCIMITAR GTE - vehicle transport from Ashbourne to Taunton

1972 RELIANT SCIMITAR GTE

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2012 Honda Civic - Manual - vehicle transport from Wakefield to Oxford

2012 Honda Civic - Manual

Wakefield
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Oxford
2009 Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost ST-Line - Manual - vehicle transport from Bourne to Ashford

2009 Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost ST-Line - Manual

Bourne
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Ashford
1990 Mazda MX-5 - Automatic - vehicle transport from Newcastle upon Tyne to Solihull

1990 Mazda MX-5 - Automatic

Newcastle upon Tyne
to
Solihull
2005 Porsche Boxter - Manual - vehicle transport from Brighton to Norwich

2005 Porsche Boxter - Manual

Brighton
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Norwich

Document Your Vehicle Condition

Don't rely on the driver's memory. Download our free inspection sheet to mark down every scratch before your car leaves.

For more tips, visit our Safety Tips page.

Ready to Transport Your Car?

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