Getting a car to another state is the easy part. The paperwork at both ends is what catches people out: registration deadlines, insurance, a title the bank is holding, inspections and emissions tests. Here’s what to handle, in order. For the shipping itself, see how to ship your car.
Before It Ships
- Keep your registration and insurance active. Don’t cancel either until the car is registered in the new state.
- Call your insurer. Tell them about the move, ask how coverage works in transit, and get a quote for the new address. Rates can change a lot between states.
- If there’s a loan, call the lender. The lender holds the title, and your new state will need it, or a request from the lender, to issue a new one. This step takes the longest, so start it early.
- Gather the papers: your current registration, proof of insurance, and the title if you hold it. Keep them with you, not in the car.
New-State Deadlines Vary a Lot
Every state sets its own deadline for new residents, and the range is wide. A few examples from our state pages:
- Right away: Massachusetts, with an inspection within 7 days, and Michigan
- 10 days: Florida
- 20 days: California
- 30 days: Texas, Georgia and Illinois
- 60 days: North Carolina, Indiana and Maryland
- 90 days: Colorado and Kansas
Rules change, so confirm with the state’s motor vehicle agency before you move.
Inspections and Emissions
- VIN checks. Many states verify the vehicle identification number of a car coming from out of state, including California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada and New Mexico.
- Safety inspections. Some states inspect every registered car, on their own schedule. Massachusetts wants it within 7 days of registering.
- Emissions tests. Usually only in certain metro areas: around Denver, Las Vegas and Reno, and St. Louis, for example. California requires a smog check for most cars.
Don’t Forget the Rest
- Driver’s license. Most states want you to switch within a set time after you move, separate from the car deadline.
- Toll tags. Update the plate on your account, or get the new state’s tag.
- Parking permits and HOA rules at the new address, if the car will park on the street.
Then Ship It
Once the paperwork is lined up, the shipping is straightforward. Get a free quote, or see our week-by-week moving plan.
Questions
Should I register the car before it ships?
Usually not. Most states want the car there for a VIN check or inspection, so you register after it arrives. Keep your current registration and insurance active until then.
Does the car need to be insured while it ships?
Carriers carry liability insurance, and typically cargo insurance too, for damage they cause while the car is in their care. Ask for the certificate. Keep your own policy active as well, and ask your insurer how it applies during transport.
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