Relocating to a new city is already stressful, and shifting your car can feel even more challenging. Driving your vehicle across long distances may sound simple, but it increases fuel expenses, toll charges, wear tear, and risk of breakdown. That’s why many people today prefer professional car shifting services to transport their vehicle safely and conveniently.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything about car shifting in India, including charges, process, documents, transport methods, and important tips to choose the right service provider.
What is Car Shifting?
Car shifting means transporting your car from one location to another using professional vehicle transport services. This can be done for:
Job transfer to another city
Family relocation
Home shifting
Buying/selling a car in another city
Moving luxury cars safely
Car shifting services are offered through:
✅ Car carrier trucks (most common)
✅ Railway car transport (limited routes)
✅ Door-to-door car transport services
Types of Car Shifting Services in India
1) Open Car Carrier Transport
This is the most common and affordable method where multiple cars are transported together on an open truck.
Best for: Regular cars and budget shifting
Cost: Lower compared to closed carrier
2) Closed Car Carrier Transport
In this method, the car is transported inside a covered container, protecting it from dust, rain, and road debris.
Best for: Luxury cars, premium vehicles, and long-distance shifting
Cost: Higher but safer
3) Door-to-Door Car Shifting
The company picks up the car from your home and delivers it to the destination address.
Best for: Maximum convenience
Cost: Slightly higher due to pickup delivery
4) Terminal-to-Terminal Car Transport
You drop your car at the transport hub and collect it from the destination hub.
Best for: Budget shifting
Cost: Cheaper than door-to-door
Car Shifting Charges in India (Estimated)
Car shifting charges depend on several factors such as distance, car model, transport type, and insurance. Below is an estimated cost range:
? Car Shifting Charges Table (Approx)
| Distance | Estimated Charges (₹) |
|---|---|
| 100 – 300 km | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| 300 – 700 km | 8,000 – 15,000 |
| 700 – 1200 km | 12,000 – 22,000 |
| 1200+ km | 18,000 – 35,000+ |
? Note: Closed carrier charges may be 20%–40% higher than open carrier.
Factors That Affect Car Shifting Cost
Here are the key factors that decide your final car shifting price:
1) Distance Between Cities
Longer distance means higher transportation cost.
2) Car Type and Size
Hatchback shifting cost is lower
Sedan cost is moderate
SUV shifting cost is higher
3) Open vs Closed Carrier
Closed carrier offers extra safety, but costs more.
4) Pickup and Delivery Location
If your pickup/delivery location is far from the transport route, the price may increase.
5) Insurance Coverage
Insurance protects your vehicle against unexpected damage during transit.
6) Seasonal Demand
Car shifting charges may increase during peak moving seasons like weekends, month-end, and festivals.
Documents Required for Car Shifting
Before handing over your car for shifting, keep these documents ready:
RC (Registration Certificate) copy
Car insurance copy
Valid ID proof (Aadhaar / PAN / Driving License)
Pickup and delivery address details
? Some companies may also ask for:
Pollution certificate (PUC)
Car key (spare key not recommended)
Step-by-Step Process of Car Shifting
Here’s how professional car shifting works:
Step 1: Get a Quotation
Share your details like:
Pickup city and destination city
Car model
Preferred shifting date
Open/closed carrier requirement
Step 2: Vehicle Inspection
The company checks the car condition and notes any existing scratches/dents.
Step 3: Booking Confirmation
After confirmation, the car is scheduled for pickup.
Step 4: Car Pickup
The transporter collects the vehicle from your location.
Step 5: Loading on Car Carrier
The car is loaded safely using ramps and safety locks.
Step 6: Transit and Tracking
During transportation, some companies provide tracking updates.
Step 7: Delivery at Destination
The car is delivered to your location or destination hub.
Step 8: Final Inspection
You should inspect the car and match it with the pre-inspection report.
Tips for Safe Car Shifting in India
To ensure smooth and damage-free car shifting, follow these tips:
✅ Remove all personal items from the car
✅ Keep fuel at minimum level (recommended)
✅ Take photos of the car before pickup
✅ Check transporter reviews and experience
✅ Always ask for insurance option
✅ Confirm delivery time and route
✅ Verify the receipt and payment invoice
Car Shifting Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes:
❌ Choosing the cheapest option without checking service quality
❌ Not taking insurance for long-distance shifting
❌ Keeping valuables inside the car
❌ Not checking the car condition during delivery
❌ Not confirming carrier type (open/closed)
Why Choose Professional Car Shifting Services?
Professional car shifting services offer:
✔ Safe loading and unloading
✔ Reduced risk of damage
✔ Door-to-door convenience
✔ Insurance and documentation support
✔ Time-saving compared to driving long distance
Why Choose CarBikeMovers?
Transport your bike safely and hassle-free with CarBikeMovers. Here’s why we’re the trusted choice:
Safe Secure: Professional handling, quality packing, and secure carriers ensure your bike travels without damage.
Insurance Coverage: Optional insurance protects your bike against unforeseen transit damages.
Door-to-Door Service: We pick up and deliver your bike right at your doorstep for ultimate convenience.
Transparent Pricing: Upfront, honest quotes with no hidden charges.
Timely Delivery: Fast and reliable service with real-time updates.
Experienced Team: Trained professionals handle every step efficiently.
Customer Support: Assistance before, during, and after transport.
CarBikeMovers — Safe, Reliable, and Hassle-Free Bike Transport!
Conclusion
Car shifting is the best solution when you want to move your car safely from one city to another without stress. Whether you choose open carrier for budget shifting or closed carrier for premium protection, always select a trusted transporter, verify documents, and take insurance for added safety.
With the right planning, car shifting becomes smooth, affordable, and hassle-free.
FAQs – Car Shifting Services
1. How much does car shifting cost in India?
Car shifting charges usually start from ₹5,000 and can go up to ₹35,000+ depending on distance, car type, and carrier method.
2. Which is better: open or closed car carrier?
Open carrier is cheaper, while closed carrier offers more safety and protection.
3. How long does car shifting take?
Car shifting usually takes 2 to 7 days, depending on distance and route.
4. Is insurance necessary for car shifting?
Insurance is optional but recommended, especially for long-distance and premium cars.
5. Can I keep luggage inside the car during shifting?
Most transporters do not recommend keeping luggage inside the car for safety reasons.
