When you ask for a vehicle transport quote in the UK and get very different prices, it is often because each company is working with different information. The more precise you are, the more accurate and comparable your quotes will be.

Here is the key information you should prepare before you contact a car transport company.

Basic vehicle details

Every quote should start with clear vehicle information:

• Make and model (for example BMW 3 Series, Ford Transit, VW Golf)
• Fuel type (petrol, diesel, hybrid, electric)
• Year or registration plate
• Body type (saloon, hatchback, estate, van, SUV, bike)

This helps the company understand the size and weight of the vehicle and choose the right truck.

Runner or non runner status

One of the most important questions in vehicle transport is whether the vehicle is a runner or non runner.

• Runner: starts, drives, steers and brakes
• Non runner: does not start, or cannot be driven safely

If the car is somewhere in between, describe it honestly. For example: “starts and drives, but no MOT”, or “starts but no brakes”.

Exact collection and delivery postcodes

Rough locations are not enough for a precise quote. Always provide:

• Full collection postcode
• Full delivery postcode

This allows the vehicle transport company to calculate exact distance, time and any potential zone charges.

Access and parking at both addresses

Access can change the equipment and time needed for a job. When asking for a quote, mention:

• If the street is very narrow or used for parking both sides
• If there are sharp bends, low bridges or tight gates
• If your driveway is very steep or has a big kerb
• If there is a nearby larger road or car park for the truck

Good access information helps prevent problems on the day of transport.

Preferred time frame

Time is another important factor in pricing. When you request a car transport quote, say:

• Ideal collection date or date range
• If weekends or evenings are required or acceptable
• Any deadlines, for example yard storage fees or moving dates

More flexibility usually gives more options and sometimes better prices.

Photos of the vehicle

Photos are very helpful, especially if the vehicle is damaged, modified or very low. Try to send:

• Front, rear and both sides of the vehicle
• A low angle from the front to show ground clearance
• Close ups of damage or missing wheels if relevant

With good photos, a vehicle transporter can decide which ramps and straps to bring.

Special notes and extra items

Include any extra details that might affect the job, such as:

• Very low suspension or body kits
• Roof boxes or bike racks
• Loose parts inside the vehicle
• Spare wheels or extra tyres that also need moving

Transport companies do not like surprises. Clear notes help them quote correctly.

Contact details for both sides

For jobs where you are not at the collection address, provide:

• Your contact details as the person booking the service
• The seller or contact person’s name and phone number at collection
• The receiver’s contact details for delivery, if different from you

This allows the driver to coordinate directly with everyone involved.

Getting clear and comparable quotes

If you give each company the same detailed information, your vehicle transport quotes will be much more accurate and easier to compare.

You will also reduce the risk of price changes later, because the transporter will know exactly what to expect before they arrive.