Choosing a shipping partner is a high-stakes decision for any car owner. Diesel Auto Express operates as a family-owned carrier and broker based in Vancouver, Washington, serving all fifty states. While many companies promise low rates, this provider often charges 15% more than the industry average to maintain its own fleet of seventy trucks. Reliability matters more than a bargain when your vehicle is on the line.
You need a mover that values your time and your car. At Transportvibe, we help you find the best fit by comparing top-rated providers. If you want a clear price without the guesswork, get a quote for our car transport services today to see how we can simplify your next move.
Overview of Diesel Auto Express - Background, Operating Model, and Service Scope
Diesel Auto Express started its journey in 2008 as a family-owned venture by Paul & Vlad Volovik in Vancouver, Washington. Over nearly two decades, they have logged over 100 million miles across the United States.
You should know that they function as a hybrid broker-carrier. This means they operate a physical fleet of about 80 power units while maintaining a network to broker loads when their trucks are full.
Their service scope is broad. Whether you are moving a daily driver or need luxury and exotic car shipping, they cover all 50 states including Alaska and Hawaii.
You can rely on them for diverse vehicle types:
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Standard sedans and SUVs
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Heavy-duty diesel trucks
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Motorcycles and ATVs
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Military and government vehicles
By combining their own assets with a brokerage arm, they aim to provide a single point of contact for your move. You can verify their legal standing using these official identifiers from FMCSA Company Data portal.
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USDOT Number: 1885300
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MC Number: 679452
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Safety Rating: Satisfactory
If you are planning a move, it helps to understand how car shipping works before booking. Comparing their hybrid model against others is a smart way to ensure your vehicle is in the right hands.
Pricing Structure and Cost Drivers of Diesel Auto Express
Diesel Auto Express uses a dynamic pricing model that shifts based on the logistical complexity of your move. When you use their online tool, the number you receive is generally an estimate rather than a final binding price.
You will find that rates fluctuate depending on the current demand for space on their trucks. Their pricing strategy is often more transparent than that of pure brokers because they prioritize their own fleet of 70 car carriers to fulfill orders.
Common cost drivers for Diesel Auto Express include:
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Distance and Fuel: Longer hauls cost more total but less per mile, while diesel price spikes directly impact the carrier's bottom line.
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Location: Shipping between major hubs like Los Angeles and New York is cheaper than hauling to remote rural areas.
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Seasonality: Rates often rise during the summer and "snowbird" seasons due to high demand.
Compared to market averages, their quotes might appear slightly higher. However, you are paying for the reliability of an asset-based company. To see how these prices stack up, check our car shipping cost guide for a full breakdown.
Open Vs Enclosed Transport: Diesel-Specific Pricing Differences
You can choose between open and enclosed shipping depending on your protection needs and budget. Open transport is the most common and affordable method, utilizing trailers that carry multiple cars at once.
If you are moving a high-value asset, enclosed vehicle shipping is the standard recommendation. This service typically costs 40% to 60% more because it shields your car from road debris and weather.
Shipping larger vehicles, especially heavy-duty diesel trucks like an F-350 or RAM 3500, changes the cost equation significantly. These vehicles take up the space of two small sedans and add substantial weight to the trailer.
You should expect a weight surcharge of $200 to $300 for oversized trucks. Always verify your vehicle’s height if it has a lift kit, as this can limit which trailers can physically accommodate your truck.
Deposits, Payment Timing, And Cancellation Terms
Diesel Auto Express generally requires a deposit once a driver is assigned to your load. You should expect to pay this initial fee, often around $200, via a credit card to secure your spot on the manifest.
The remaining balance is usually due at the time of delivery. You must have a cashier's check or cash ready for the driver, as most carriers do not accept personal checks or credit cards upon arrival.
If you need to cancel, do so before a driver is dispatched. Cancellation fees apply once the logistics are set, and many customer complaints stem from misunderstandings about these non-refundable deposits during delays.
For those moving classic vehicle shipping or inoperable cars, additional labor fees apply. If your car doesn't roll or steer, the driver must use a winch, which adds to the final bill.
Are you worried about hidden fees or service delays? At Transportvibe, we help you find the best car shipping companies in the USA by providing honest data so you can book your next move with total peace of mind.
Reliability, Compliance, And Risk Management Of Diesel Auto Express
Diesel Auto Express maintains active authority with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as both a carrier and a broker. You can verify their USDOT number (1885300) and MC number (679452) through the Company Snapshot tool to confirm their legal standing.
As an expert who has seen many companies fail to deliver, I value their "Satisfactory" safety rating. However, their vehicle out-of-service rate is roughly 29%, which sits higher than the 22% national average. This is a metric you must watch when booking.
They handle scheduling with a five-day pickup window starting from your first available date. You should know that they do not guarantee specific delivery times. Their terms and conditions state they are not responsible for losses caused by unavoidable delays or mechanical breakdowns.
If a delay occurs, they define responsibility narrowly. You won't get a rental car reimbursement for a late arrival. For a smoother experience, read our tips for hassle-free car shipping to manage your expectations and timeline.
Insurance Coverage, Claims Handling, And Damage Resolution
Your vehicle is covered by liability and cargo insurance from the moment of pickup until delivery. Diesel Auto Express provides insurance through their primary carrier status, which is a major benefit over smaller brokers who might leave you chasing a third-party driver.
Most standard car hauls include cargo coverage up to $100,000, but you should verify if this cap suffices for high-value car shipping needs. They exclude damage from road debris, acts of God, or leaking fluids like battery acid on open trailers.
The claims process starts with the Bill of Lading (BOL). You must note every scratch or dent at delivery. If you sign a clean BOL and find damage later, your chances of a successful claim are nearly zero. Customer reviews TrustPilot, Yelp show positive but on the Better Business Bureau suggest that resolution can be slow if the carrier denies responsibility.
Are you moving a specialized vehicle or a daily driver? At Transportvibe, we help you understand car shipping insurance in the USA so you know exactly what is covered and how to protect your investment during transit.
Public Opinion, Customer Feedback Patterns, And Reputation Signals
You will find a sharp divide in how users view Diesel Auto Express. On Trustpilot and Google, they maintain strong ratings, often between 4.1 and 4.7 stars.
Many customers praise their professional drivers and the peace of mind that comes from using a carrier that owns its fleet. You can see these trends in many auto transport reviews online.
Common praise includes:
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Timely pickups for luxury and exotic car shipping
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Direct communication with dispatchers
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Professional handling of classic vehicles
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However, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) highlights recurring issues. While they hold an A rating, recent complaints focus on damage claims and communication gaps during mechanical breakdowns.
You might notice patterns where customers feel "ghosted" after a damage report is filed. Some users report that getting auto transport insurance details from the company is difficult once an issue arises.
As an expert, I suggest looking at the FMCSA Company Data to see if their safety record aligns with the reviews you read. High out-of-service rates often explain the delays mentioned in negative feedback.
Are you unsure which review platform to trust? At Transportvibe, we compare user experiences across BBB and Trustpilot to give you the full picture of a company’s reputation.
Who Diesel Auto Express Is Best Suited For
Diesel Auto Express is a strong fit if you prioritize asset-based reliability over the lowest possible price. Because they operate their own fleet, they are ideal for shippers who want a single point of contact rather than a middleman who disappears after taking a deposit.
You will find them particularly effective for:
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Heavy-Duty Owners: Their experience with large diesel trucks and oversized commercial vehicles makes them a go-to for dealer vehicle transport solutions.
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Luxury Car Owners: Their focus on high-end care is perfect for those needing enclosed vehicle shipping for vintage or exotic models.
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Corporate Relocations: Businesses moving multiple units across state lines benefit from their multimodal truck-rail resources.
However, if you are on a strict budget and hunting for the cheapest rate on the market, this company may not be your best fit. They typically charge a 15% to 20% premium to maintain their drivers and equipment.
Expert shippers weigh the risk of a broker failing to find a driver against the higher cost of a direct carrier. If your timeline is tight, the extra investment in an asset-based company like Diesel Auto Express usually pays off in saved stress.
Expert Insights on Shipping with Diesel Auto Express
Below are the most common queries from professional shippers regarding the specific logistical capabilities and policies of this carrier.
How much does it cost to ship a car in 2025 with an asset-based carrier?
In 2025, national averages hover around $1,245. Since they utilize their own fleet, expect rates in 2026 is approximately 15% higher to cover the reliability of direct equipment and auto transport insurance protections.
Can you ship car with belongings when using Diesel Auto Express?
Their strict policy prohibits personal items. Any non-disclosed contents found in the vehicle are subject to a $1.00 per pound charge, and the company assumes zero liability for loss or damage to these items.
How to track car during shipping when the carrier is in transit?
They provide live tracking and minute-to-minute notification updates. You will receive a unique identifier after booking, allowing you to monitor the truck's GPS location via their proprietary digital portal throughout the entire journey.
Does Diesel Auto Express offer military car shipping discounts for PCS moves?
Yes, they offer active members a 25% discount off the deposit fee. This typically starts at $50 and increases based on the number of vehicles, helping offset costs during military vehicle relocation assignments.
What U.S. car buyers need to know about import tariffs and transport?
New 2025 tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China have increased vehicle weights and values. Professional shippers must ensure their insurance coverage caps match these higher sticker prices to avoid significant financial gaps.
Should You Give Diesel Auto Express A Try?
Diesel Auto Express is a premium choice for those who value the control of a direct carrier. While their rates sit above the industry median, the 100 million miles of experience and active fleet provide a level of security that pure brokers cannot always match. Always verify their current standing via the FMCSA Company Data portal before booking.
If you are ready to move your vehicle with a trusted partner, we can help. Get a transparent, no-obligation car shipping quote from the industry's top-rated providers today and ensure your car arrives safely and on time.
