If you’re arranging interstate car transport for the first time, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about the process. Handing over your vehicle—whether it’s a daily driver, a new purchase, or a cherished classic—can raise plenty of questions. At Unicorn Car Transport Australia, we speak with first-time customers every day, and most concerns are surprisingly similar.
1. How does this actually work?
It’s a lot less “Mission Impossible” than you might think. Once you’ve booked, your car is scheduled for a pickup. We either come to your door or meet you at a nearby depot. From there, your vehicle is loaded onto a professional carrier and begins its journey.
We handle the heavy lifting (literally) and the logistics. Our job is to make sure you aren’t left guessing where your car is or when it’s arriving.
2. Open or Enclosed Transport: Which one do I need?
This is the big one. Here is the “rule of thumb” we tell our clients:
- Open Transport: This is the standard. It’s the double-decker trailers you see on the highway. It’s cost-effective, reliable, and perfect for SUVs, utes, and standard cars.
- Enclosed Transport: Think of this as the “first-class” cabin. Your car is inside a sealed trailer, protected from rain, dust, and road pebbles. If you’re moving a luxury vehicle, a classic, or something with a high-end paint job, this is the way to go.
3. Is my car actually insured?
Short answer: Yes. We wouldn’t be in business if we didn’t take care of our cargo. At Unicorn, every vehicle is covered while it’s in transit. That said, we always tell our customers to take a few “before” photos and clear out any personal items. It’s just good practice and ensures everyone is on the same page during the hand-off.
4. How long will I be without my car?
Australia is a massive place, so “it depends” is the honest answer. Generally, most moves take between a few days and a week.
While we’d love to guarantee a specific hour, things like weather and road conditions can play a role. We focus on giving you realistic timelines rather than “best-case scenarios” that fall apart the moment it rains.
5. Can I pack my car full of my belongings?
It’s tempting to use your car as a giant suitcase, but we generally advise against it. Loose items can bounce around and cause damage to your interior, and they usually aren’t covered by transit insurance.
Keep it simple: leave the spare tyre and the factory accessories but take your gym gear and your golf clubs with you.
6. Will someone be “joyriding” my car?
Absolutely not. Your car is only driven to get it onto the trailer and off again. The whole point of professional transport is to avoid unnecessary mileage and wear and tear. Your odometer shouldn’t move more than a few hundred meters.
7. What’s the damage (to my wallet)?
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” price. We look at:
- How far it’s going.
- The size and weight of the vehicle (a Jimny is a lot different than a Land Cruiser).
- Whether you want it open or enclosed.
We pride ourselves on being transparent. No hidden “convenience fees” or surprise surcharges—just a fair price for a professional job.
8. How should I prep the car?
You don’t need to do much, but these five steps make a huge difference:
- Give it a quick wash: It’s easier to see the car’s condition.
- Empty it out: Personal items out, please!
- Check the fuel: Aim for about a quarter tank (enough to move it, but not heavy).
- Turn off the alarm: No one wants a siren going off in the middle of the Null arbor.
- Check for leaks: Let us know if your car has any mechanical quirks before we load it.
Why go with Unicorn?
We get that you have choices. But we believe moving your car should be the easiest part of your relocation or purchase. With experienced drivers and a team that actually answers the phone, we’re here to make sure your car arrives exactly as it left.
