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In this post we take a look at the status of auto shipping regulation in the USA.

This is where Nationwide Auto Transportation steps in as your guide to auto shipping. We can eliminate any company that does not comply with auto shipping regulations. With that in mind we look at who regulates auto shipping companies and the industry.

auto shipping regulator

How Car Carriers are Regulated

  1. Congratulations, you have been offered that dream job with the corner office on Wall Street! The problem is that you live in Nevada. Our post Relocating for Work is a must read for you.
  2. You have just received your PCS (permanent change of station orders) and now need to move everything from Harrisburg to Carson City (including your car) This page on Military Auto Transport will get you to attention.
  3. Think of any reason you can that will see your car shipped across state lines.

Both the first two scenarios are common. And as for #3, the reasons for needing an auto transport company are practically endless. There are many dud companies out there, be careful and read this article.

Tip: Be sure to find a company that carries the appropriate auto shipping regulation.


Discover key insights on choosing the right vehicle shipping service with Nationwide Auto Transportation’s informative blog post. Dive into “Vehicle Shipping Company Considerations” for expert advice on seamless and reliable auto transport solutions. Read more here: Nationwide Auto Transportation Blog.


Auto Shipping Regulation | Double Check the Details

As a consumer, having a large pool of vendors to choose from can work to your advantage. You have the opportunity to negotiate a better deal, using cheaper pricing or a more attractive offer from one of the many companies found in your search engine as leverage. Often, there’s always a company offering a seemingly better deal, isn’t there?

However, this is when you should start hearing alarm bells! Amidst these unbelievable deals, it’s easy to get overly excited about saving a few dollars and forget the crucial step of due diligence. Failing to thoroughly check the credentials of your chosen auto transporter can lead to a nasty surprise – you might find yourself among those who have been scammed.

One of the best ways to prevent falling victim to a fraudulent moving company is by learning who regulates auto shipping companies and verifying their credentials. By doing this, you ensure the company you hire is legitimate and safe.

Learn about auto shipping regulation and how auto transport companies are licensed. For your peace of mind Nationwide Auto Transportation is fully insured and registered with the Department of Transport and the FMCSA. 

How Shipping Companies Are Regulated by the State

State and Federal agencies regulate auto shipping companies, overseeing their activities to ensure compliance with local and federal guidelines. These regulations are in place primarily for consumer protection.

Each auto shipping company must be licensed in the state where it operates. For example, in New Hampshire, a car shipping company needs an NHPC number, while in New Jersey, it requires an NJPC number. The specific licensing requirements for auto shippers can vary significantly from one state to another.

auto shipping regulation

Kentucky vehicle shippers must acquire KYU, KIT, and IFTA numbers, while Delaware requires a permit confirming registration.

The Facts on Auto Shipping Regulation

Auto shipping regulation and licensing requirements for auto transport companies vary by state. However most of them require auto transporters to submit background checks and prove sufficient insurance. They must pass a test measuring their knowledge of legal and regulatory requirements. For long distance car transporters, that cross state lines, this may mean being registration in several states.

Check with the state transportation department to make sure that like Nationwide Auto Transportation, the auto shipper you plan on hiring has all the requisite licenses.

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Auto Shipping Regulation: Government Agencies and Policies

The industry is primarily regulated and overseen by two federal agencies. These are 1) the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) and 2) the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

  • North America’s Department of Transportation oversees federal highways and other modes of transportation. It was formed in 1967 to improve our transport systems and improve American quality of life.  The Department of Transportation is a federal cabinet-level department. Leaders are appointed by the President of the United States and approved by the Senate.
  • The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates all interstate auto transport companies under the jurisdiction of the Transportation Department. Their mission is to improve vehicle safety and prevent accidents and fatalities related to motor vehicles. All auto shipping companies have to be registered and comply with the safety regulations to be issued with a USDOT number.

Listed below are the 12 remaining states in which an in-state car shipper does not need a USDOT number:

ArkansasNew HampshireSouth Dakota
DelawareNew MexicoTennessee
HawaiiNorth DakotaVermont
LouisianaRhode IslandVirginia

Always confirm that your car shipping company of choice has current USDOT and MC numbers as proof of registration. If you have any doubt always check the FMCSA website for confirmation.

What is The Better Business Bureau?

The Better Business Bureau is a great way of checking how legit a car shipping company is. And that they carry the appropriate auto shipping regulation. The BBB establishes and maintains strict standards of accreditation for businesses in the United States and Canada. These include movers and auto shipping services. Eight top auto shipping principles:

  1. Establish trust
  2. Honest advertising
  3. Be truthful
  4. Transparency
  5. Keep your promises
  6. Respond quickly
  7. Ensure privacy, and
  8. Personify integrity.
How do you Find a Reliable Auto Transport Service?

Contact Nationwide Auto Transportation and get a free quote. They are fully compliant with all legislation for your peace of mind. Ship your car, boat, motorcycle or RV, safely to its destination.