Auto Transport Regulations in New York

November 15, 2023

Are you considering shipping your vehicle to New York City? You're part of a growing trend. Recent research indicates that the vehicle shipping market, valued at nearly $11 billion in 2022, continues to thrive due to increasing demand for auto transport services.

To ensure a seamless car transport experience, it's crucial to be well-versed in New York State's commercial vehicle laws. Let's delve into the regulations governing auto transport in the state, offering you valuable insights for your planning.

Auto Transport Regulations in New York

Companies engaged in auto transport in New York that operate across state lines must adhere to federal law by registering with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These carriers should possess a six-digit motor carrier docket number for cargo transportation and a seven-digit United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number for in-state operations.

Before entering into a contract with an auto transport service, always request and verify these numbers. Legitimate transporters prominently display their motor carrier docket numbers on their websites, a key indicator of their authenticity.

Additional Commercial Vehicle Regulations

New York's trucking laws mandate that commercial vehicles engaged in auto transport display registrants' names and addresses on each side. Furthermore, carriers operating certain vehicles on public highways are assigned highway use tax numbers by the state's finance and tax department, with the tax rate determined by the vehicle's weight.

When hiring a New York auto transporter, ensure they possess these requisite numbers.

NYS Commercial Vehicle Laws: Size

In compliance with New York's commercial motor vehicle regulations, the gross weight of a commercial vehicle in the city should not exceed 80,000 pounds. The vehicle's trailer must not surpass 48 feet in length, and the overall dimensions should be no more than 13 feet high and eight feet wide.

For vehicles exceeding these specifications, a daily over-dimensional vehicle permit is required for each trip.

Where Traveling Is Allowed

Auto transport vehicles in New York can travel on designated truck routes and interstates within specified weight and size limits. However, parkways are off-limits according to current auto transport rules.

For instance, a New York auto transport driver with a 53-foot trailer can only traverse specific portions of Interstate 495, Interstate 295, and Interstate 95 within New York City. In cases where the load cannot be split, a city permit application is mandatory.

Failure to adhere to federal or New York laws can result in fines for the driver and their employer, potentially causing delays in your car shipment. It's essential to engage an auto transport service with a valid registration and a track record of compliance with New York's auto transport regulations.

Car Shipping Timeline

Some auto transport companies may mislead customers about shipping timelines. Understanding the general duration of car shipments can help you avoid falling for false promises.

Cross-country car shipping, covering at least 2,000 miles, typically takes seven to 12 days. For New York car shipping within a 1,500-mile range, the process might take one to two days.

Car Shipping Cost

The cost of shipping a car from New York to Florida, or vice versa, varies based on several factors:

Your car's model and make
Your vehicle's size
Pickup and drop-off dates
Shipping distance

For instance, the cost of shipping from Florida to New York (over 1,000 miles) might be slightly over $1,100, while a distance under 500 miles could cost around $600. These estimates apply to open car hauling, an economical method where cars are transported on carriers without sides.

Alternatively, enclosed car hauling, which provides better protection from weather and road debris, is pricier.

How Budget Auto Transporter Can Help

At Budget Auto Transporter, we comply with the latest commercial transport regulations to safeguard your interests. Reach out to us to learn more about our services and receive a free shipment quote today!