It’s perfectly normal to want that extra peace of mind when you’re shipping your car toward wherever its new home may be. Especially upon it being the first time handing over the car to a transport company. It raises the question: Can I get some pictures of my car?
The good news is yes, you can request photos be taken of your vehicle in many cases while it is being transported. It is a good idea to understand when, how and why photos are taken and how to communicate with your carrier to have this done.
We’ll give you tips about asking for pictures, what to look for, and how reputable carriers like Carson Shipping can increase transparency in the transport of your vehicle.
Understand When Photos Can Be Taken During Transport
Along with knowing what you want photos of, you need to know when the driver will be able to take them safely. Auto transport is not a live feed. The driver has a schedule and safety rules.
Commonly, photographs can occur in the following forms.
- During pickup: Drivers take detailed photos for the Bill of Lading inspection.
- At rest stops: When the truck is safely parked, drivers may take additional pictures upon request.
- During delivery: Final-condition photos are often taken before unloading.
There are photographs that cannot be taken.
- While the truck is in motion
- During hazardous weather
- In restricted areas such as some terminals or ports
- When access to the carrier is physically limited
Understanding these limitations may help one set more realistic expectations for communications within this group.
Know Why Requesting Photos Can Be Helpful
In addition to peace of mind, requesting photos of your car in transit can serve other practical purposes.
Benefits of mid-transit photos:
- Proof of proper handling during the journey
- Visual confirmation that the car is secure on the carrier
- Added documentation in case of unexpected damage or disputes
- Reassurance that your vehicle is safe and progressing normally
For customers shipping classic cars, luxury cars, or cars of great sentimental value, photographs can be very important.
A real-world example
The customer who shipped a rebuilt 1969 Chevrolet Camaro from one side of the country to the other asked Carson Shipping for photos when the trip was half over. The driver was only able to send a few during a legally required rest stop for proof of the car’s safety. This is a great example about how a simple update can improve the overall experience.
How to Request Photos of Your Car in Transit (Step-by-Step)
Asking for photos can be as easy as pie for you, if you know how. Here are some suggestions.
Step 1: Ask before the shipment begins
When booking transportation, tell your company that images should be taken in transit so they can make arrangements and inform the driver.
Step 2: Get the driver’s preferred communication method
Most drivers prefer texting as they can send photos when a stop occurs. They avoid repeated calling since drivers cannot answer the phone during the truck’s motion.
Step 3: Be specific about what you want
Ask them to:
- A mid-route photo when the truck is parked
- A picture showing how the vehicle is strapped down
- Estimated update times based on the driver’s route
Clarity helps get the photo expected.
Step 4: Be patient and realistic
Drivers cannot stop solely to take photographs; they generally send these during the following:
- Fuel stops
- Meal breaks
- Overnight rest periods
Good carriers, such as Carson Shipping, train drivers to meet customer requests while ensuring safety is still a priority.
Understand What Kind of Photos You Will Receive
Knowing what type of photos to expect helps avoid surprises.
You may receive:
- Wide-angle shots of your vehicle secured on the carrier
- Side or front views showing its placement
- Condition photos if anything notable occurs
- Environmental shots at rest areas (weather, surroundings, etc.)
You should not expect:
- Continuous updates throughout the day
- Real-time tracking via video
- Photos taken at night or in unsafe locations
These boundaries help ensure safe, responsible carrier operations.
Tip for better clarity
If you need higher resolution photos for documentation (that you’ll send to insurance companies or the dealership, for example), let the drivers know in advance, and they can accommodate you during their break.
Work With a Transport Company That Values Transparency
Not all auto transport carriers operate the same; some might be more willing to provide photos than others. That is why you need a reputable company.
Why Carson Shipping is a strong choice:
- Drivers trained for customer communication
- High-quality pre- and post-inspection photos
- Responsive customer support that relays updates promptly
- Clear expectations set from the start
- Tracking options to help you monitor progress
This level of transparency goes a long way toward giving you peace of mind throughout the entire shipping process.
Customer-focused service
Here at Carson Shipping, we understand the importance of client comfort regarding vehicles they are shipping. The vehicles might be a family car, luxury vehicle or a collectible classic.
Yes, You Can Request Photos — Just Follow the Right Process
So, can you request photos of your car in transit? Absolutely. Most reputable carriers including Carson Shipping will be more than happy to take pictures where safe and permitted. If you are going to ask a carrier to take pictures, ask them politely and clear prior to the transport and have a reasonable timeframe of when they may be able to do so. Using a transparent auto transport company like Carson Shipping makes it much easier to get those peace of mind photo updates and stay informed throughout your vehicle’s journey. Contact Carson Shipping today to schedule your auto transport or to learn more about making photo requests during transport.
