About the question if you’re wondering, do car shippers notify before arrival? Yes, they do! Carson Shipping and other reliable car transporters often call or text customers before vehicle shipment. The aim is to tell people when the vehicle will arrive at either a pickup spot or a delivery spot.
This guide explains the notification process, the importance to you, the types of updates for you, and what actions you need to prepare for the car arrival, so the entire process will be smooth, orderly, and effortless.

How Notification Works in Car Shipping
Most reputable auto transport companies will contact you to let you know about when your car has arrived, so that you can schedule a time to meet the driver and accept delivery.
Typical notifications you receive include:
- A pickup confirmation call
- A mid-route update (if applicable)
- A 24-hour delivery notice
- A 1–2 hour pre-arrival call or text
This will also ensure that you never feel left in the dark about your shipment’s status, as companies like Carson Shipping tend to be very transparent about the next step.
Why Drivers Notify Before Arrival
You’re probably wondering why this is so important and how you, and the transport company, will benefit from notifications.
Key reasons drivers notify you:
✔ To confirm availability
You or an authorized representative must be present for inspection, and for signing the Bill of Lading.
✔ To accommodate road or area restrictions
Please note that some apartments or neighborhoods are not accessible by large carrier trucks. We can arrange for a nearby delivery meeting point with notice.
✔ To prevent delays
The driver might reschedule or wait if you are unavailable, which wastes time.
✔ To ensure smooth communication
This means that you and the other person both know the expected time and place.
This courtesy is also a large part of keeping transport operations efficient and predictable.
What Kind of Notifications Should You Expect?
Every transport company may have their own variation of this theme, but this is what the process looks like if you are working with a reputable carrier.
Step 1: A notification on the pickup day
Drivers typically call you shortly before arriving at the pickup site, 2-4 hours ahead of time.
Step 2: Transit updates (if requested)
Some companies send regular updates while others only if something changes, but you can always ask for another update from your Carson Shipping agent while booking.
Step 3: A 24-hour delivery notice
It is important for planning ahead, clearing your schedule and making sure of presence when it arrives.
Step 4: A final call right before arrival
Normally the drivers have to call or text 1-2 hours ahead of reaching the destination to avoid confusion.
These notifications provide updates throughout the pickup and delivery.
How to Prepare After Receiving the Arrival Notification
Here is how to make the delivery process quick and smooth for you because you know your car is coming.
✔ Be ready with your ID (or representative’s ID)
The vehicle’s release is contingent upon verification.
✔ Plan a suitable delivery location
You can use a nearby parking lot in the event your street is too narrow.
✔ Have your payment method ready
Some carriers currently require payment upon delivery, according to the type of quote.
✔ Examine your vehicle upon arrival
Walk around the vehicle with the driver and compare it to the pickup report.
✔ Take photos for documentation
A quick set of pictures can protect both parties and help resolve disputes.
If you prepare properly, you will be much better off when the driver arrives.
How Carson Shipping Ensures Seamless Communication
One of the best things about booking with Carson Shipping is their communication system. Their drivers are always courteous and on time, and get in touch with the customer regularly.
You can expect:
- Friendly driver calls
- GPS-assisted timing estimates
- Clear delivery windows
- Real-time updates if schedules shift
It’s good to have a team that keeps you informed for local shipping or for shipping nationwide. At Carson Shipping, we understand that peace of mind is priceless for you during this process, especially when trusting someone with your own car.
Yes, You Will Always Be Notified Before Arrival
Do car shippers call before arrival? Absolutely. Notification is part of the auto transport process. You can expect a few notifications before your vehicle arrives toward its destination, including a notification that the driver arrives. This lets you know about when to be ready, avoids holding up the driver, saves you and the driver time, and allows for a safe, efficient drop-off throughout. Carson Shipping is a company you can trust for a service that prioritizes communication and customer care if you’re looking.

