What It Costs and How to Get One
A car haul quote tells you the full price to transport your vehicle from one location to another. If you're relocating, buying a car from a distant seller, or moving a classic vehicle, knowing what goes into a quote helps you plan properly and avoid surprises. Giant Van provides clear, itemised car haul quotes with no hidden charges. Call us on 020 3129 6180 or read on to understand every factor that shapes your price.
Car haul quotes and vehicle transport services across the UK. We operate from London and cover routes to all major cities and regions on the mainland, including Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Bristol. Local customers in London can reach us directly on 020 3129 6180. For routes outside London, we confirm availability and pricing based on your specific collection and delivery postcodes. Every quote is fixed and sent in writing, regardless of where in the UK your vehicle needs to go.
What a Car Haul Quote Actually Covers
A car haul quote is a written estimate for transporting a vehicle using a specialist transporter or flatbed vehicle. It is not the same as a standard removal quote. Car haulage is a distinct service that requires purpose-built equipment, trained drivers, and specific insurance.
Your quote will typically cover the collection and delivery of your vehicle, loading and securing costs, fuel surcharges, and any congestion or access fees that apply to your route. Most reputable operators also include basic transit insurance within their quoted price, though the level of cover varies.
What the quote will not usually cover includes storage if you miss your delivery window, cleaning fees if the vehicle is unusually dirty, or additional mileage if the route changes after booking.
When you receive a car haul quote from Giant Van, you get a line-by-line breakdown. You can see what you're paying for and why. There are no vague "service charges" buried in the total. This transparency matters because the car haulage industry is not regulated in the same way that some other transport sectors are, which means pricing practices vary widely between operators.
A quote is only useful if it is accurate. Always confirm whether the price you receive is fixed or subject to fuel fluctuations, and always check what happens if your vehicle is not ready at the agreed collection time.
The Key Factors That Affect Your Car Haul Price
A 50-mile local move costs significantly less than a 400-mile inter-city transport. Most operators price on a pence-per-mile basis, but this rate often reduces at longer distances because fixed setup costs are spread across more miles.
A small hatchback costs less to move than a full-size 4x4 or a commercial van. If your vehicle is oversized, the operator may need specialist permits or a different type of trailer, both of which add cost.
Open transport is standard and suits most vehicles. Enclosed transport protects the vehicle from weather and road debris. It is typically chosen for classic cars, high-value vehicles, or prestige marques. Enclosed transport usually costs 30 to 50 percent more than open transport on comparable routes.
Peak periods, such as end-of-month or school holiday dates, often carry a premium. Flexible collection and delivery dates can reduce your quote meaningfully.
Narrow streets, low bridges, or properties without off-street standing can require a smaller vehicle for the final leg, which adds cost. Always mention any access restrictions when requesting your quote.
Tips for Getting a More Accurate Car Haul Quote
Vague requests produce vague estimates, and vague estimates turn into unexpected charges on the day.
Give the full collection and delivery postcodes, not just town names. Routes in and out of cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham can vary in difficulty depending on the specific streets involved.
A car that cannot be driven onto the transporter requires specialist winching equipment. This is not a small detail. Operators need to bring the right kit, and failing to mention this can result in a failed collection or an extra call-out charge.
These situations add time and sometimes require a smaller vehicle to carry out the collection.
A fixed quote is guaranteed. An estimated quote can change if circumstances differ from what was described. Reputable operators like Giant Van provide fixed quotes wherever the route and vehicle details are clear.
Life changes. Knowing the terms in advance saves stress later.
Need Help With Your Move?
Get a fixed-price quote from Giant Van in under 60 seconds.
“Best removal service I've used”
Sarah, London
Get your quote in 60 seconds
Get a Free Quote →Car Haul Quote Checklist: Information to Have Ready
Before you call or submit an enquiry, gathering the right information makes the process faster and your quote more precise.
Use this checklist to prepare.
Vehicle details: Make, model, year of manufacture, and approximate weight class (small car, estate, 4x4, van, or specialist vehicle).
Whether the vehicle is in running condition.
Whether the vehicle has any modifications that affect its size or transport requirements.
Route details: Full postcode for the collection address.
Full postcode for the delivery address.
Any known access restrictions at either end.
Preferred collection date and if you have flexibility on timing.
Service preferences: Open or enclosed transport.
If you require proof of insurance for the transit period.
We handle the vehicle delivered to a specific bay or space rather than just the general address.
Contact and logistics: Your name and a direct phone number.
Whether someone will be present at collection and delivery, or whether a key handover arrangement is needed.
Your preferred payment method, as some operators do not accept card on the day.
Having this information ready means the operator can give you an accurate car haul quote in a single call rather than needing to come back to you with follow-up questions.
It also reduces the risk of the quote changing once work begins.
How to Book a Car Haul: Step by Step
Booking a car haul with Giant Van follows a straightforward process.
There are no lengthy forms or unexplained delays.
Step one is to contact us.
Call or complete our online enquiry form. Have your checklist information ready (see the section above). We aim to respond to all enquiries within two hours during business hours.
Step two is to receive your written quote.
We will confirm the route, vehicle details, and any access notes, then send you a fixed, itemised quote. You can review each line and ask questions before committing to anything.
Step three is to confirm your booking.
Once you are happy with the quote, you confirm the date and pay a booking deposit. We will send you a confirmation email with your collection window and driver contact details.
Step four is the collection.
Our driver will arrive within the agreed window, complete a vehicle condition report with you, and secure your vehicle for transport. You receive a copy of the condition report.
Car Haulage in the UK: What You Need to Know
The UK car haulage market is large and varied.
You will find everything from one-man operations with a single flatbed to national fleets running dozens of transporters. Price differences between operators can be significant, and they do not always reflect quality.
In the UK, operators carrying vehicles for hire or reward must hold an Operator's Licence issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.
This licence confirms that the operator meets minimum standards for vehicle maintenance and driver conduct. It is worth asking any operator for their licence number before booking. You can check licences through the GOV.UK vehicle operator licensing search.
Transit insurance is not standardised in the UK market.
Some operators include a basic level of transit cover within their quoted price. Others offer it as an optional add-on. A small number operate with no meaningful transit cover at all, leaving you reliant on your own motor insurance. Always ask for written confirmation of what transit insurance is included before signing any booking agreement.
Fuel surcharges are common in the industry, particularly when diesel prices are volatile.
Some operators quote a base rate and then apply a surcharge based on fuel prices at the time of transport. Ask if your quote is fully inclusive or subject to a fuel adjustment.
For vehicles being transported within London, operators may face ULEZ charges and Congestion Charge costs.
These should be included in your quote. If they are not mentioned, ask directly.
Questions about your move?
Why Customers Choose Giant Van for Car Haulage
Giant Van has built its reputation on giving customers accurate information and following through on commitments. We cover routes across the UK, from Scotland to the south coast, and we handle everything from standard family cars to prestige and classic vehicles.
Our car haul quotes are fixed. Once we confirm a price in writing, that is what you pay. We do not add fuel surcharges after the fact or introduce handling fees at the point of collection. If something genuinely changes, we contact you before proceeding, not after.
Every vehicle we transport is covered by our transit insurance, and you receive a written condition report at both collection and delivery. This protects you and gives you a clear record if anything goes wrong.
Our drivers are experienced in handling vehicles on public roads and in residential environments. They carry the necessary equipment for non-running vehicles and know how to manage access challenges in urban settings.
We understand that your vehicle is often your most valuable possession outside your home. We treat it accordingly.
If you want to discuss your specific transport requirements or get a car haul quote right now, call us on . We are available Monday to Saturday, and we aim to have a quote in your inbox within two hours of your call.
We also offer full household removals, man and van services, and office relocations if you are planning a broader move and need a single operator to coordinate multiple services.
£50,000
Transit Insurance
Accredited
Industry Certified
Common Questions About Car Haul Quotes
Open Transport vs Enclosed Transport: Which Do You Need?
Understanding the difference helps you make the right call for your vehicle.
Your vehicle is exposed to the elements during transit. This is the standard method used for the vast majority of UK car haulage jobs. It is safe, widely available, and the most cost-effective option for everyday vehicles. Rain, dust, and road spray may settle on the vehicle during transit, but this causes no damage to a standard car.
Your car is protected from weather, road debris, and visual exposure throughout the journey. This is the right choice for classic cars, prestige marques, show vehicles, or any car with a paint job or finish that cannot risk minor contamination during transit.
If your vehicle has significant monetary or sentimental value and you want the highest level of physical protection during transit, enclosed transport is worth the additional cost.
Call 020 3129 6180 to discuss your requirements.
Car haulage is a practical service for anyone who needs to move a vehicle without driving it.
The quote process is simple when you have the right information ready.
Giant Van makes it straightforward from the first call to the final delivery.
If you are ready to get your car haul quote today, call Giant Van on 020 3129 6180.
Our team will confirm your route, discuss your vehicle, and send you a fixed written quote with no obligation to book.
Most quotes are issued within two hours.
What Our Customers Say
Smooth move from start to finish
VerifiedBooked online in under a minute and the crew turned up right on time. Everything was wrapped carefully and nothing was damaged. Genuinely the easiest move I've had.
Fixed price — no nasty surprises
VerifiedThe quote I got online was exactly what I paid. No hidden fees, no extra charges on the day. The two-man crew were professional, fast, and really friendly.
Same-day booking saved our move
VerifiedOur original movers cancelled last minute. Giant Van had a crew available the same day. They handled a full 2-bed flat and had us settled in by evening.
What It Costs and How to Get One — FAQs
How quickly can I get a car haul quote from Giant Van?
Is a car haul quote the same as a removal quote?
What if my car is not in running condition?
Does the quoted price include insurance?
Can you transport my car the same day I request a quote?
What areas does Giant Van cover for car haulage?
What is a vehicle condition report and do I get one?
What payment methods does Giant Van accept for car haulage?
Reviewed by Giant Van Moving Experts, Moving Specialist Team at Giant Van
Giant Van Ltd. Registered in England & Wales.
Ready to Get Moving?
Fixed-price quotes, insured crews, and same-day availability across the UK.
