How Do Car Dealerships Deliver Cars?

Buying a new car used to mean spending your entire Saturday at the dealership test driving, haggling over price, signing piles of paperwork, and finally driving off the lot. Fast forward to 2025, and a new question is changing the game: do dealerships deliver cars? The answer is yes, they do—and it’s more common than ever.

In fact, new-vehicle buyers recently reported a record 75% satisfaction rate with the overall shopping experience—the highest ever recorded, according to J.D. Power. A smarter, smoother blend of digital tools, pricing transparency, and dealership delivery services are driving the demand that lets you complete most of the process from your couch if you choose.

As more buyers shift their car shopping online, dealerships have stepped up to meet those expectations with flexible home delivery options. Whether you’re buying from another state or just across town, you can now get a car delivered from dealers directly to your doorstep, no showroom visit required.

Let’s explore how car dealers deliver and how to make it a smooth part of your next purchase.

Key Takeaways

• Most dealerships now offer car delivery options, either directly or through third-party transport companies.
• How far will a dealership deliver a car? It depends on the dealer—some offer local delivery, others ship nationwide.
• You can choose between open or enclosed transport depending on your car’s value and your preferences.
• Car delivery services are convenient, but it’s important to understand costs, tracking options, and timelines.

In This Guide:

• What is the Car Delivery Process?
• Dealership Delivery Methods
• Vehicle Shipment Options
• Tips for Getting Your New Car Delivered
• Bottom Line
• Dealership Delivery Options FAQ’s

What is the Car Delivery Process?

Once you’ve sealed the deal, whether online, over the phone, or in person—the next step is figuring out how the vehicle gets from the dealership to your driveway. That’s where car delivery services come in. Many dealerships have streamlined the process to make it faster and more convenient than ever.

The car delivery process begins behind the scenes. Your dealership will typically handle all the necessary paperwork, including title transfer, registration, and any remaining financing or payment documents. Most dealerships also conduct a final inspection and a professional cleaning so your vehicle arrives in showroom condition.

After everything is processed, the dealership will schedule the delivery. Depending on your location, car dealers delivery services may include a dealership representative driving the car over, hiring a third-party driver, or partnering with a licensed transport company like Sherpa Auto Transport.

Once your vehicle is en route, you’ll receive updates about its estimated arrival time. 

Dealership Delivery Methods

How far a dealership will deliver a car  usually depends on the dealership’s policies, your distance, and the value of the vehicle. Here are the most common delivery options:

Direct Dealership Delivery

If you’re within a certain radius, usually 25 to 100 miles, many dealerships offer direct home delivery. A dealership staff member will drive the vehicle to your location and hand off the keys personally. This method is quick, personal, and convenient, especially if you’re buying locally. However, it’s generally limited to shorter distances.

Transport Carriers

For buyers outside the dealership’s delivery zone or purchasing from out of state, the dealership will typically arrange transportation through a professional carrier. This is where Sherpa Auto Transport steps in.

Using a third-party car delivery partner ensures your vehicle arrives safely and on time, no matter the distance. For added convenience, many buyers opt for door-to-door transport, which brings your vehicle right to your home, office, or other chosen location.

This method is ideal if you’re moving, buying a car in another state, or purchasing a specialty vehicle that needs extra care during transit.

Self Pickup Options

Some buyers choose to pick up their vehicle directly from the dealership. This option can be fun especially if you’re planning a road trip back home but it also comes with travel costs, time off work, and some logistical planning. If you’re buying across state lines, weigh whether it’s more efficient to drive or arrange for shipment.

Vehicle Shipment Options

Whether your dealership handles delivery or you opt to hire a carrier independently, you’ll typically choose between two transport methods:

Open Trailer Auto Transport

This is the most commonly used method—and the most affordable. Your vehicle is transported on an open-air trailer, often along with several other cars heading in the same direction. This option is widely available and safe for most everyday vehicles, but your car will be exposed to weather and road debris along the way.

If you’re price-conscious and want to get a car delivered from a dealer efficiently, this is likely your best bet. Curious about costs? Explore Sherpa’s car shipping cost guide for detailed estimates based on mileage, vehicle type, and service level.

Enclosed Trailer Auto Transport

Need extra protection for a high-end or classic car? Enclosed trailer transport offers your vehicle a private, covered space that shields it from the elements. This is the preferred option for exotic cars, collector vehicles, or brand-new luxury models. While it’s more expensive, enclosed transport ensures a pristine arrival.

If you’re spending a premium on the car itself, it may be worth investing in this extra layer of protection. When a professional auto transporter is involved, it’s important to verify they’re licensed and insured and have a USDOT Number.

Tips for Getting Your New Car Delivered

Getting your vehicle delivered smoothly takes a bit of preparation. Whether you’re buying from a local lot or shopping online from across the country, here are some tips to help make your car delivery process as stress-free as possible.

1. Confirm the Delivery Method and Distance

Not every dealership delivers cars the same way, and how far a dealership will deliver a car often depends on their in-house policy. Some offer free delivery within a limited radius, while others may partner with third-party transport companies for long-distance shipments.

Ask early on about your options—local, interstate, or nationwide—and find out whether there are any additional fees.

Pro Tip: If your dealer can’t deliver beyond a certain range, you can still get a car delivered from dealers using a trusted transport partner like Sherpa Auto Transport.

2. Choose the Right Type of Transport

Dealerships often offer both open trailer and enclosed trailer delivery, or they may allow you to choose your preferred shipping method. Open trailers are great for affordability and standard cars, while enclosed transport is better for high-value or specialty vehicles. Check out Sherpa’s guide on open vs. enclosed auto transport to help you weigh your options.

3. Check Insurance Coverage

Ask the dealership or transport provider what kind of insurance coverage is included in the delivery. Reputable companies like Sherpa Auto Transport ensure all shipments are covered, but it’s worth checking if your personal auto insurance policy also extends to transit.

You’ll want peace of mind in case something happens during the journey—like damage from road debris or severe weather.

4. Prepare for Delivery Day

Once your vehicle is scheduled for delivery, you’ll want to prepare your receiving location. Make sure there’s enough space for a trailer or delivery vehicle to safely unload. If your neighborhood has restrictions, such as narrow streets or gated access, communicate that in advance so the driver can adjust. 

5. Track Your Vehicle in Transit

One of the most common concerns customers have is: Where’s my car right now? Luckily, today’s transport companies offer tracking features so you can follow your vehicle’s journey. If you’re using a third-party carrier like Sherpa Auto Transport, you can learn how to track vehicles in transit in real time.

Knowing your car’s location and estimated arrival time helps you plan ahead and reduces delivery-day stress.

6. Do a Thorough Inspection Upon Arrival

Before you sign off on delivery, inspect the vehicle carefully. Check for any damage that may have occurred during transport, and ensure that everything matches the purchase agreement. Look over the exterior, interior, tires, and under the hood if needed.

If something doesn’t look right, note it on the Bill of Lading and contact the dealership immediately. Take photos during the inspection, just in case you need them later.

7. Understand the Timeline

Delivery times vary based on distance, carrier availability, and even weather. Short distances may take a few days, while coast-to-coast transport can take up to 10 days or more. Sherpa’s car shipping time guide explains what factors influence timelines and how to plan accordingly.

Bottom Line

So, finally the answer to the question: do dealerships deliver cars? Yes, and it’s more common than ever. Whether you live in a different city or just don’t want the hassle of a dealership visit, car delivery is now a standard part of the buying experience. But the ease and reliability of your delivery often depend on the method and partner your dealer uses.

That’s where Sherpa Auto Transport steps in. If your dealer doesn’t offer delivery—or if you’re buying out of state—Sherpa can provide a smooth, trusted experience, specializing in long-distance car transport. 

Dealership Delivery Options FAQ’s