How to transport a vehicle in France — Complete guide

In France, vehicle transport works mainly in two ways:

Direct transport (express): A carrier picks up your vehicle and delivers it directly to the destination. Faster but more expensive.

Shared transport (groupage): Your vehicle travels alongside others on a multi-car carrier. More affordable but takes longer, as the carrier combines multiple deliveries on the same route.

With Priority Help Car you can post your request and receive quotes for both types. Each carrier will specify whether it's direct or shared, the price and estimated time.

Open carrier: The most common and affordable method. Your vehicle travels uncovered on a car transporter. Suitable for most vehicles.

Enclosed carrier: The vehicle travels inside a closed trailer, protected from weather. Recommended for high-value, classic or sports cars.

Individual flatbed: A platform that transports a single vehicle. Ideal for short distances or emergencies.

4x4 / off-road recovery: Specialised vehicles for collecting cars from difficult-access areas (countryside, mountains, unpaved zones).

To transport a vehicle within France you need:

• •Vehicle registration certificate
• •MOT/technical inspection (valid)
• •Vehicle insurance in force
• •ID or passport of the owner
• •Purchase contract if the vehicle was recently acquired

The carrier may request copies of these documents before collection. Make sure to have them ready.

Prices vary depending on distance, vehicle type and urgency. As a general reference:

• •Local tow (within the city): €80–200
• •Regional transport (up to 300 km): €200–500
• •National transport (300–1000 km): €400–900
• •International transport: €600–1,500 (depending on distance and route)

These prices are indicative and may vary by season, vehicle type (motorcycle, car, van) and availability. Post your request on Priority Help Car to receive real quotes from professionals.

Priority Help Car offers you two ways to find a carrier:

Direct contact (from the app):
- See available professionals on the map in real time
- Contact the one you prefer directly
- Ideal for emergencies or when you need an immediate response
- Download the free app to use this feature

Post a request (from the web or app):
- Describe your need: vehicle type, origin, destination, date
- Receive quotes from several professionals in the country
- Compare prices and conditions before choosing
- Ideal for scheduled, non-urgent transport
- You can post from the web without downloading anything