How to Ship a Car You Bought on Facebook Marketplace

Buying a car on Facebook Marketplace from a seller in another state is increasingly common. Shipping that car to your door costs $400–$1,550 depending on distance. Key differences from other scenarios: you're coordinating with a private seller, payment and title transfer must happen before pickup, and the vehicle may not be professionally inspected beforehand.

Step-by-step

1. Complete the purchase. Handle payment and title transfer before booking. The seller needs to release the vehicle and keys to the carrier.
2. Get a shipping quote. Seller's address as pickup, yours as delivery.
3. Coordinate with the seller. Share the carrier's 24–48 hour arrival window. They need to be present for inspection and key handoff.
4. Digital photo inspection at pickup. Especially important for private purchases — timestamped photos document the vehicle's condition.
5. Track delivery. GPS the entire way. Final inspection at delivery confirms condition.

Protecting yourself on Marketplace purchases

Use the digital pickup photos as your proof. Buying sight-unseen, the timestamped pickup photos are your first real look. If the car doesn't match the listing, you have documented evidence.

Never wire shipping payment to the seller. Book through ShipCargo directly. Sellers who offer to "arrange shipping" for you are a common scam.

FAQ

Is it safe? Yes, with precautions. Use secure payment, book licensed transport, and rely on the digital photo inspection.

How do I coordinate with a private seller? Share the carrier's arrival window. They need the vehicle accessible, keys ready, and themselves present for BOL signing.

Get a Marketplace shipping quote — $200K insured, GPS tracked, pay at pickup.