How to Ship a Car from Copart or IAA After Purchase

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How to Ship a Car from Copart or IAA

Buying a car from auction sites like Copart or IAA is a common way to get deals on used, salvage, or specialty vehicles. After winning a bid, the next step is arranging how to transport the vehicle to your location.

This steps will explain how to ship a car from Copart or IAA, how auction car shipping service works, and what to expect during the transport process.


Why You Need a Reliable Auction Car Shipping Service

Vehicles sold through Copart and IAA are often located far from where the buyer lives. Most of these auctions do not offer in-house delivery, which means you must arrange your own auto transport. Many buyers underestimate this step, only to face delays, extra storage fees, or confusion about pickup procedures.

A trusted auction car shipping service handles everything from coordinating with the auction yard to ensuring proper insurance coverage for your vehicle during transit. It also helps avoid issues like driver rejection, which can happen if proper documents or loading equipment are missing.


Step by Step: How to Ship a Car from Copart or IAA

1. Complete the Auction Purchase

Before arranging shipping, make sure your payment to Copart or IAA is finalized and the title paperwork is ready. Once the auction confirms the purchase, the vehicle becomes available for pickup.

2. Gather Required Details

To arrange shipping, you will need:

  • Lot number and buyer number

  • Auction location address

  • Gate pass or release form

  • Vehicle condition (running, non-running, or salvage)

Some yards charge storage fees if a vehicle isn’t picked up within a few days, so timing matters.

3. Get a Shipping Quote Online

Use a reliable transport company that understands auction protocols. Get a quick quote here and provide your pickup and delivery locations, along with the auction details.

Carriers will determine the price based on distance, vehicle size, and whether the car needs a winch or forklift to load.

4. Dispatch and Pickup Coordination

Once booked, the shipping company will dispatch a driver who is authorized to pick up from the auction. The driver will coordinate with the yard, check in at the gate, and handle the release paperwork.

Shipping from Copart or IAA require customer’s buyer number and gate pass, so be sure to provide that to your transporter ahead of time.

5. Track and Receive Your Vehicle

After pickup, delivery may take 1 to 10 days depending on the distance. Reputable companies like Titanic Auto Transport will give you updates or direct contact with the driver. On delivery, inspect the vehicle and note its condition before signing off.


What Makes Auction Car Shipping Different

Shipping a car from Copart or IAA is not the same as shipping a regular vehicle from someone’s driveway or dealership. These cars may be damaged, missing keys, or sitting in large industrial yards with limited loading help.

That’s why it’s important to use a transporter who has:

  • Access to Copart and IAA yards

  • Experience with non-running or salvage vehicles

  • Insurance coverage during auction transport

  • Flatbed or winch-equipped trailers if needed


Common Mistakes to Avoid After Buying a Car from Auction

  • Waiting too long to schedule shipping: Storage fees can add up quickly after 3–5 days.

  • Using a transporter without auction experience: Some drivers don’t know how to handle salvage yard pickups.

  • Failing to provide gate pass or buyer number: The driver won’t be able to load your car without them.

Avoid these issues by booking a transporter that handles auction vehicles regularly.


What to Remember

Buying a car from auction can be rewarding, but only if you plan the transport properly. Now that you know how to ship a car from Copart or IAA, the next step is choosing a professional shipping partner who understands how these auctions work.

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