Document Reference: USIT #001-012026
Transcar Auto Shippers, Inc. (“Transcar”) is a licensed and bonded transportation broker providing domestic vehicle transport services throughout the United States, as well as ocean f reight services to and f rom Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and other U.S. territories. These Terms and Conditions apply t o all transport services arranged by Transcar, whether overland, ocean, or a combination thereof.
Transcar undertakes to use reasonable care in the selection of carriers, transporters, forwarders, ocean carriers, and others to whom it may entrust the goods for transportation, handling, and/or storage. Transcar is authorized to select such persons as required to receive, forward, transport, store, deal with, and deliver the goods, all of whom shall be considered as having been retained by the Vehicle Owner or the Vehicle Owner’s Agent.
Transcar and/or its agents make arrangements for the transportation at the risk of the owner/shipper, subject to the conditions of the Carrier’s Bill of Lading (for domestic transport) or Ocean Bill of Lading (for ocean f reight).
These Terms and Conditions are organized into two parts: PART A: Domestic Vehicle Transport (Continental U.S.)
PART B: Ocean Freight Services (Hawaii, Alaska, Guam)
PART A: DOMESTIC VEHICLE TRANSPORT
Continental United States – Overland/Trucking Services
A1. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR DOMESTIC TRANSPORT
The following documents are required for domestic vehicle transport:
- Completed and signed Transcar Transportation Services Booking Request
- Completed Power of Attorney authorizing Transcar to process the transportation of your vehicle (provided by Transcar)
Documents may be submitted via email to transcarinfo@tgal.us, via fax to 972-602-0072, or by mail to: Transcar Auto Shippers, Inc., 3401 E Randol Mill Rd, Arlington, TX 76011.
A2. VEHICLE PREPARATION – DOMESTIC TRANSPORT
Vehicles must be in operating/running condition for transport with a working emergency brake. Transcar and its representatives reserve the right to reject receipt of cargo if the cargo does not meet the requirements for safe transportation and handling by the Transporter Driver.
Personal Effects: For domestic trucking, the vehicle CANNOT be used to carry personal effects. Please remove all personal belongings. Only factory-issued/installed items are allowed to be shipped with the vehicle.
Windshields and Windows: Vehicles with cracked or damaged windshields or windows should be repaired or safely secured and taped prior to transport.
Alarm Systems: Theft alarm systems must be disengaged prior to shipment. If an alarm is activated during transport, it may cause a drain in your battery. Transcar and the Transporter will not accept liability for a drained battery.
Convertible Tops: Convertible tops that are old, loose, torn, have visible wear, or if air can enter the passenger compartment of the vehicle, must be secured and protected by the owner prior to transportation. Transcar and the Transporter will not accept claims for damage to convertible tops.
Keys: Keys to every lockable compartment, including gas cap if applicable, must be provided.
Fluid Levels: Automobiles shipped should contain proper levels of antifreeze, oil, coolant, transmission f luid, water, and brake f luid. Transcar and the Transporter/Carrier are not responsible for providing this protection nor liable for damage resulting f rom low f luid levels.
Cleanliness: Make sure that the vehicle is clean enough to enable a proper inspection.
Special Equipment: It is your responsibility to inform us of anything unusual about your vehicle that could alter the means of transport. If any special or custom equipment has been added to your vehicle, such as LIFT KITS, GROUND EFFECTS, or LOW SPOILERS, these items are VERY IMPORTANT for us to know about when selecting the right transporter truck.
A3. ELECTRIC AND HYBRID VEHICLES – DOMESTIC TRANSPORT
Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles have specific transport requirements for domestic trucking:
- Battery must be charged between 25% and 75% capacity
- All charging cables must be secured inside the vehicle
- Regenerative braking should be set to standard mode
If you are shipping a vehicle powered by an alternative fuel such as propane, natural gas, hydrogen, or other non- standard fuel, please contact us at 1-800-264-8167 for special shipping instructions.
A4. NON-OPERATIONAL / NON-RUNNING VEHICLES
Non-running vehicles will not be accepted for shipment unless prior approval is obtained and the appropriate charges are paid. Non-running vehicles must roll forward and in reverse, steer and brake properly, and have no f luid leaks. Nothing can be protruding or hanging f rom the vehicle. Non-running vehicles should have tow hooks or a tow bar in place, unless otherwise agreed upon.
For non-running/accident vehicles which do not meet the above criteria, your Transcar Representative will provide further information on what will be required to move the vehicle.
A5. DOMESTIC TRANSPORTATION SERVICES
All transportation services are door-to-door; however, residential pickups and deliveries can only be accomplished if a car carrier can safely load or unload at your place of residence. If you live in an area a car carrier is not allowed to enter or is not considered safe by the driver, you may be required to meet the truck/driver at a nearby area considered safe for loading/unloading of your vehicle.
Terminal Services can be arranged for pickup and/or delivery; however, terminal service fees will apply.
Dry Runs: Dry runs will be charged. It is imperative that you provide us with correct information, such as vehicle availability dates, correct address, and point of contact person and telephone numbers. If a truck is dispatched to your pickup address and the vehicle is found to not be available or not in a running/operative condition upon truck arrival, there will be a minimum Dry Run charge of $250.00.
Wait Time: Drivers are allotted up to one (1) hour for vehicle loading at pickup and one (1) hour for unloading at delivery. Wait time exceeding one hour will result in additional charges billed to the customer at the carrier’s prevailing rate. Wait time charges may be incurred due to: vehicle not being ready, contact person not available, difficulty accessing the pickup or delivery location, or delays in completing required paperwork or payment. These charges will be passed through to the customer and are payable upon invoice.
A transporter is not required to wait to pick up or deliver a vehicle. If you make a special arrangement with the driver to wait beyond the standard one-hour allowance, any additional fees assessed will be between you and the driver and are to be paid directly to the driver at time of pickup or delivery.
A6. VEHICLE PICKUP AND DELIVERY
Trucking pickup/delivery dates are approximate and cannot be guaranteed. Transit information provided is not guaranteed but provides you with a reasonable expectation regarding the movement of your vehicle.
Transcar will not reimburse any claim submitted for a rental vehicle or other expense due to the late pickup or arrival of your vehicle.
Points of Contact: It is the customer’s sole responsibility to assure that we are provided with your contact
information or other points of contact and telephone information for pickup and delivery. It is imperative that you or your appointed points of contact be reachable. Any charges incurred due to you or your point of contact not being available at time of pickup or for f inal delivery will be at your expense and will be made payable at time of delivery.
A7. INSURANCE – DOMESTIC TRANSPORT
Your vehicle is insured during overland transportation. In case of transport damage, your claim will be processed and handled as per the Carrier’s/Trucker’s Liability and Cargo insurance.
An inspection will be performed at time of pickup and at time of delivery. In the unlikely event of transport damage, the damage MUST BE NOTED ON THE BILL OF LADING AT TIME OF DELIVERY and signed by yourself and the driver. Claims made after delivery which have not been noted on the Bill of Lading at time of delivery cannot be accepted.
Please notify Transcar of damages the same day of delivery, or if after normal business hours, no later than the next business day.
Transcar and the Carrier WILL NOT be liable for the following:
- Damages caused by Acts of God, such as hail, tornadoes, hurricanes, storms, earthquakes,
- Mechanical defects of the engine/transmission, dead batteries, exhaust systems, electrical systems, power windows, seats, clutch, brakes, alignment, suspension, tuning of the vehicle,
- Claims for pre-existing damages or for hidden/concealed damages or loss due to normal wear and tear
- Claims for damages to convertible tops
- Claims for windshield pits or If a windshield is broken or shattered while in transit, the insurance will cover such damage if it is determined by the Insurance Underwriter to be a transport damage. Road pits, chips, and spider cracks are not considered transport damage and will not be admitted. Pre-existing chips or cracks will not be accepted as a transport damage since they may spread during transport and in inclement weather.
- Claims for missing accessories such as radios, speakers, face plates, , unless they are listed as present on the Carrier’s Bill of Lading at time of pickup.
Transcar cannot be held liable for the non-usability or non-availability of a vehicle. Transcar will not reimburse any claim for rental cars.
A8. HIGH AND HEAVY / TOWABLE / DRIVEAWAY CARGO
It is imperative that the correct dimensions and weight for high and heavy cargo be provided to us in order to determine the correct transport method. Oversized units may require over-the-road permits as well as escort services. Transporters have weight limitations on the loads they haul, and if they haul loads over those weight limits, an overweight permit must be acquired. Any f ine imposed on the driver due to an overweight load that was not properly declared will be billed to the owner of the cargo.
Towable cargo rates are based on road-ready and safe equipment. Any breakdown repairs will be at the expense of the cargo owner.
Driveaway cargo rates are based on road-ready and mechanically sound vehicles. Any mechanical breakdown repairs will be at the expense of the vehicle owner.
PART B: OCEAN FREIGHT SERVICES
Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and U.S. Territories
B1. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR OCEAN FREIGHT
The following documents are required for ocean f reight shipments to Hawaii, Alaska, or Guam:
- Completed and signed Transcar Transportation Services Booking Request
- Completed Power of Attorney authorizing Transcar to process the transportation of your vehicle
- Copy of vehicle title or current registration
- Copy of valid government-issued photo ID
- For Hawaii: Completed Plant/Agricultural Declaration Form
- For Military PCS: Copy of military orders
- For Guam: Commercial invoice may be required for customs processing
B2. VEHICLE PREPARATION – OCEAN FREIGHT
All vehicle preparation requirements f rom Part A (Domestic Transport) apply to ocean f reight shipments. Additionally, the following requirements apply specifically to ocean f reight:
Personal Effects: For ocean f reight to Hawaii, Alaska, or Guam, limited personal effects may be permitted in the vehicle trunk only (not visible through windows), subject to ocean carrier rules, agricultural inspection requirements, and additional fees. Personal effects are shipped at owner’s risk and are not covered by cargo insurance. Weight limits may apply. Contact Transcar for specific carrier requirements.
Fuel Level: Vehicles must have no more than 1/4 tank of fuel for ocean transport. Vehicles with fuel levels exceeding this limit may be refused for loading or subject to additional charges.
Battery: Vehicle battery must be secured and in good condition. Disconnecting the negative terminal is recommended for extended ocean transit.
Cleanliness: Vehicles must be clean, especially the undercarriage. Vehicles with excessive dirt, mud, or organic debris may be subject to additional cleaning fees or rejection by agricultural inspectors.
B3. HAWAII-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Agricultural Inspection: All vehicles arriving in Hawaii are subject to mandatory agricultural inspection by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture. This is required by state law to protect Hawaii’s ecosystem f rom invasive species.
Vehicle Cleanliness Requirements:
- Vehicles must be f ree of all plants, seeds, soil, insects, and organic debris
- Undercarriage must be clean and f ree of mud and soil
- Wheel wells must be f ree of debris
- No f resh produce, plants, or f lowers may be in the vehicle
- No live animals or pets (separate arrangements required)
Failure to Comply: Vehicles arriving with prohibited items or failing agricultural inspection may be cleaned at owner’s expense ($250-$500 or more) and may cause shipment delays. Owner is solely responsible for ensuring vehicle compliance. Transcar strongly recommends professional cleaning/detailing before shipment.
Transit Time: Typical transit time f rom West Coast ports to Hawaii is 7-14 days. Transit times are estimates only and are not guaranteed.
B4. ALASKA-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Destination Ports: Ocean f reight service to Alaska is available to multiple ports including Anchorage, Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, and others. Transit times and rates vary by destination.
Transit Time: Typical transit time f rom West Coast ports to Alaska is 7-21 days depending on the destination port and vessel schedule. Transit times are estimates only and are not guaranteed.
Seasonal Considerations: Some Alaska ports have limited or seasonal service. Vessel schedules may be
affected by weather conditions, particularly during winter months. Additional delays should be anticipated during winter shipping.
Vehicle Winterization: For winter shipments, ensure your vehicle has appropriate antifreeze levels and winter- grade f luids.
B5. GUAM-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Transit Time: Typical transit time f rom West Coast ports to Guam is 21-35 days. Extended transit times should be expected due to the distance and limited vessel schedules.
Customs and Duties: Vehicles shipped to Guam are subject to Guam Customs and Quarantine regulations. Import duties and fees may apply and are the sole responsibility of the vehicle owner. Transcar can provide estimated duties upon request but cannot guarantee amounts as they are determined by Guam Customs.
Quarantine Requirements: Vehicles may be subject to agricultural/quarantine inspection upon arrival in Guam. Similar cleanliness requirements as Hawaii apply.
Documentation: Additional documentation may be required for Guam customs clearance. Your Transcar Representative will advise of specific requirements.
B6. ELECTRIC AND HYBRID VEHICLES – OCEAN FREIGHT
Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles have specific requirements for ocean f reight due to international maritime safety regulations:
- IMDG Compliance: Vehicles must comply with International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code requirements for lithium batteries
- Battery Charge Level: Battery must be charged between 25% and 50% capacity (lower than domestic requirements)
- Carrier Restrictions: Some ocean carriers have restrictions or surcharges for EV Transcar will advise if your vehicle is subject to carrier-specific restrictions
- Additional Surcharges: EV/hybrid surcharges may apply for ocean shipments and will be disclosed at time of booking
B7. OCEAN TRANSIT AND DELIVERY
Transit Times: All ocean f reight transit times are estimates only. Ocean f reight is subject to vessel schedules, port congestion, weather conditions, and other factors beyond Transcar’s control.
Typical Transit Times (estimates):
Hawaii: 7-14 days f rom West Coast port
Alaska: 7-21 days depending on destination port Guam: 21-35 days f rom West Coast port
Port Storage Fees: Free storage at destination port is typically limited to 3-5 business days after vessel arrival (varies by port). Storage fees will apply if the vehicle is not picked up within the f ree time period. All port storage fees are for the account of the customer.
Transcar is not responsible for delays caused by port congestion, customs holds, agricultural inspections, vessel schedule changes, weather, or other factors beyond Transcar’s control. Transcar will not reimburse any claim for rental vehicles or other expenses due to transit delays.
B8. INSURANCE – OCEAN FREIGHT
IMPORTANT – LIMITED CARRIER LIABILITY: Standard ocean carrier liability is limited to $500 per shipment under the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act (COGSA). This is NOT full replacement value coverage.
Marine Cargo Insurance: Transcar STRONGLY RECOMMENDS purchasing marine cargo insurance for all ocean shipments. Marine cargo insurance provides full replacement value coverage and protects against loss or damage during ocean transit. Transcar can arrange marine cargo insurance up on request for an additional premium. Contact your Transcar Representative for a quote.
Claim Filing: Claims for ocean transport damage must be f iled within 3 days of delivery with photographic documentation. Damage must be noted on the delivery receipt at time of pickup f rom the port or delivery location.
All exclusions listed in Part A, Section A7 (Insurance – Domestic Transport) also apply to ocean f reight shipments.
Personal Effects: Personal effects shipped in the vehicle are NOT covered by any insurance and are shipped entirely at owner’s risk.
GENERAL TERMS – APPLICABLE TO ALL SHIPMENTS
C1. CHARGES AND PAYMENT
All orders booked will require full payment before we can ship your vehicle.
Payment Options:
ACH Payment: Preferred method of payment. Most banks do not charge fees for ACH payments.
Credit Card: A 4% processing fee is applicable. We accept most major credit cards.
Wire Transfer or Direct Deposit: Wire transfer or direct deposit details will appear on our invoice to you. When making a wire transfer, you must assure wire transfer fees are paid and the full invoice amount is deposited into our account.
Please do not send checks. They will not be accepted or processed.
Rate Validity: Rate quotations provided are valid for 30 days. Rates must be reconfirmed for shipments taking place after 30 days. Please note that providing a completed booking request more than 30 days prior to shipment will not eliminate or protect you against any possible price increase.
Ocean Freight Additional Charges: Ocean f reight shipments may require port fees, terminal handling charges, and other destination charges payable at time of pickup. These fees are in addition to the quoted f reight rate and will be itemized on your invoice.
C2. CANCELED BOOKINGS
Domestic Transport Cancellation:
If the shipment of your vehicle is canceled AFTER Transcar has assigned your vehicle to a truck and has received payment, there will be a $150.00 cancellation fee charged.
Ocean Freight Cancellation:
- Cancellation after booking confirmation: $250 cancellation fee
- Cancellation after vehicle delivered to port: All port handling fees incurred plus $500 cancellation fee
- Cancellation after vessel departure: Non-refundable
Credit Card Refunds: If payment was made via credit card, in addition to the applicable cancellation fee, any amount refunded to your card will result in a 10% processing fee being deducted f rom the refund amount.
C3. FORCE MAJEURE
Transcar shall not be liable for any delay or failure to perform resulting f rom causes beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to: acts of God, natural disasters, pandemics, epidemics, war, terrorism, riots, embargoes, port closures, labor strikes or disputes, government actions or regulations, carrier insolvency, vessel mechanical failures, fuel shortages, or severe weather conditions. In the event of force majeure, Transcar will use commercially reasonable efforts to resume services as so on as practicable. Customer shall not be entitled to
refunds or damages for delays caused by force majeure events.
C4. GOVERNING LAW AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Governing Law: These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to conflict of law principles.
Dispute Resolution: Any dispute arising f rom or relating to these Terms and Conditions or the services provided by Transcar shall be resolved through binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association in Tarrant County, Texas. The prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney’s fees and costs.
Limitation of Liability: IN NO EVENT SHALL TRANSCAR’S TOTAL LIABILITY EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF TRANSPORTATION CHARGES PAID BY CUSTOMER FOR THE SHIPMENT AT ISSUE. TRANSCAR SHALL
NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF USE, LOSS OF PROFITS, OR COST OF RENTAL VEHICLES.
C5. PRIVACY NOTICE
Transcar collects and processes personal information necessary to provide transportation services, including name, address, contact information, vehicle information, and payment details. This information may be shared with carriers, port operators, customs authorities, and other parties necessary to complete your shipment. By engaging Transcar’s services, you consent to such collection, processing, and sharing of your personal
information. For more information, see our Privacy Policy at www.transcarauto.com/privacy.
C6. ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS AND SIGNATURES
Customer agrees that electronic signatures, including typed signatures, click -through acceptance, and digital signatures, shall have the same legal effect as original handwritten signatures. By submitting a booking request electronically, Customer agrees to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. Customer consents to receive communications f rom Transcar via email and text message regarding shipment status and other service-related matters.
C7. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
These Terms and Conditions, together with any booking request, invoice, or other documents incorporated by reference, constitute the entire agreement between Customer and Transcar regarding the transportation services described herein. Any modifications to these Terms and Conditions must be in writing and signed by an authorized representative of Transcar.
