We just finished a transport that went exactly as it was supposed to. It was a 1986 Chevrolet Corvette from Concord, North Carolina to Canton, Ohio. From the time the transport was booked until the time the car was delivered: three days. Believe , this kind of turnaround time makes all of us, as well as the customer, happy.
The Timeline
The customer was booked on the 4th of January. We had them on the schedule for a pickup from the 5th of January. That was their first available time. The same day, they were assigned to a carrier. The driver arrived on the 6th for the pickup, and the Corvette was delivered on the 7th.
That is quick. Not all transport moves that quickly, but if you have a route like from North Carolina to Ohio and you have a driver who is already headed that way, it all comes together.
Concord to Canton
Concord is right outside Charlotte, so we’re talking easy access right off the bat. Canton is 466 miles north of us. That’d be up through the Appalachian Mountains on I-77 and into Ohio. Piece of cake. No running through country roads to get there.
See also: Florida to Ohio Car Shipping: Snowbird’s Guide & Costs
The vehicle operator that we hired had an open trailer setup to transport three cars. A pretty usual scenario when it comes to deliveries involving multiple vehicles that travel in the same direction. Open trailer configurations represent the industry norm, especially used effectively during long-distance relocations that don’t involve harsh weather conditions.
Loading a Classic Corvette the Right Way
Here’s something most people overlook: an ’86 Corvette sits really low to the ground. Very low. If you don’t know how to use ramps properly, you’ll end up scratching the front bumper or undercarriage before the car is even on the trailer.
Our driver came prepared. He used low-angle ramps made for sports cars and took his time getting everything lined up. No rushing, no scraping. Once the Corvette was on the trailer, he strapped it down at all four corners with the right tie-downs, making sure nothing stressed the suspension or body.
Too many people rush this step; you simply cannot. A classic like this deserves the extra five minutes to do it right.
The Part That Made This One Stand Out
That kind of professionalism matters. Especially when you’re trusting someone with a car that means something to you.
Why This One Went So Smoothly
A couple of things came together in this instance that I’d like to point out.
First, the client scheduled us when we already had drivers lined up to make this run, so it was easy to simply assign a carrier. And it wasn’t summer, so it was no problem to book.
Second, it was a direct shot, no weird turns and no additional pickups to pick up along the way. This was just a straight shot.
Third, and what is really important, is that we were able to assign a carrier to this client who has experience hauling classic cars. Not every carrier does. There are carriers who are accustomed to hauling newer autos and pickup trucks every day, but a low-slung sports car from the ’80s calls for something a little different.
What you should know if you are shipping a classic car
Communication is key. From the time you reserve until the time the driver is assigned, the time they expect to pick up from you, and the estimated time of delivery. If this isn’t being communicated to you, something isn’t right.
The driver should be equipped: Proper ramps and straps to ensure your car is loaded safely. In case they are unable to offer that, don’t let them rush. A good transport company must be flexible. But flexibility is only as important as professionalism. Things happen in life. Banks have to be spaced. There is traffic delay. A good transport company accommodates without forgetting that you exist.
Transport Summary
Vehicle: 1986 Chevrolet Corvette
Route: Concord, NC to Canton, OH
Distance: 466 miles (Southeast to Midwest corridor)
Primary Routes: I-77 N through Appalachian Mountains into Ohio
Service: Open-air multi-car carrier (3-car trailer)
Cost: $433.00 ($0.93 per mile)
Transit Time: 3 days (January 4 booking – January 7 delivery)
Season: Winter
