How auto transport works

1. Request a route-specific estimate

Provide pickup and delivery ZIP codes, vehicle year, make and model, operating condition, trailer preference and the earliest pickup date. Those facts determine which carriers can handle the shipment and what the current route is likely to cost.

An estimate is not a carrier assignment. Hermes explains the carrier payment, brokerage fee and any conditions that can change the price before you authorize us to proceed.

2. Hermes locates and checks the carrier

After authorization, Hermes offers the shipment to carriers serving the route. The proposed carrier must accept the vehicle, timing, equipment needs, price and payment terms.

Before dispatch, Hermes checks the carrier identity, active authority and available insurance information. You receive the carrier’s business and driver information before pickup.

3. Inspect and release the vehicle

The carrier confirms a pickup window and safe meeting location. At pickup, you and the driver inspect the vehicle and record existing condition on the bill of lading. Take your own dated photographs and retain the signed document.

4. Inspect, sign and pay the carrier

The driver contacts the receiving party before arrival. Inspect the vehicle before signing the delivery bill of lading. Note suspected new damage on the document and photograph it immediately.

Pay only the carrier and amount identified in the dispatch confirmation, using the stated payment method. Contact Hermes if the identity, amount or instructions do not match.