Part of our mission at Move.org is to pull back the curtain to give our readers a transparent look at the moving industry. To that end, we're going straight to the source—talking to both moving industry insiders and real people who rely on these insiders (and their companies) to handle their moves.
Our series kicks off with an interview with Martin Petkov from SGT Auto Transport. He gives us his take on moving industry trends, the impact of new technologies, and what SGT Transport is doing to win the trust of its customers.
Edwards: Has the rise of AI and automation changed the way auto transportation companies operate?
Petkov: The majority of car shipping companies that have adopted AI are still not operating at full efficiency. Most adopters so far are large brokerage firms, while carriers primarily use AI-driven software for automating Bill of Lading (BOL) processing and providing real-time pickup and delivery updates. However, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in AI adoption across the industry, and we expect this trend to continue growing.
Edwards: Is AI helping with logistics, scheduling, or customer service in the car shipping industry?
Petkov: Yes, AI is playing a significant role in improving logistics, scheduling, and customer service in the car shipping industry. At SGT Auto Transport, we've already adopted AI-driven technology, particularly through Sprel.tech, which specializes in AI-powered solutions. Their software optimizes pricing through our AI car shipping rate engine, reducing operational costs while enhancing efficiency.
Additionally, AI helps streamline processes that improve the customer experience, such as faster, more accurate quotes, optimized carrier selection, and automated scheduling. This not only increases efficiency but also drastically improves customer service by ensuring smoother operations and better communication.
Edwards: What do you think will be the most impactful innovations in the car shipping industry in the next three years?
Petkov: Over the next three years, car shipping will see major innovations:
- AI-powered pricing and logistics – Smarter rate engines (like Sprel.tech) will optimize pricing and predict demand shifts.
- Automated load matching – AI-driven dispatching will reduce manual work and maximize carrier efficiency.
- Blockchain for transparency – Smart contracts and secure BOL records will streamline payments and reduce fraud.
- EV and sustainability adaptations – More EV-friendly transport solutions and carbon-neutral shipping options.
- Enhanced customer experience – AI chatbots, real-time tracking, and automated updates will improve communication.
Edwards: How do you see sustainability and eco-friendly practices evolving in the car shipping industry?
Petkov: Companies will optimize routes to reduce emissions, invest in fuel-efficient or electric transporters, and adopt carbon-offset programs. Expect greener shipping initiatives and more pressure for sustainability compliance from regulators and customers.
Edwards: What are the biggest trends you see in the car shipping industry in 2025?
Petkov: It's still early in the year, but some clear trends are emerging. Customers continue to prioritize service quality, expecting more precise pickup windows and faster turnaround times. Their patience for traditional pickup windows is decreasing.
On the carrier side, the industry is shifting towards greater digitalization and software-driven solutions. Additionally, global forecasts predict a 5% increase in the car market, which we believe will drive more demand for auto transport services.
Edwards: What statistic in the car shipping industry do you think would surprise most people?
Petkov: One statistic that might surprise most people is that over 90% of car shipments are handled by independent owner-operator carriers, not large trucking companies. Many assume that big corporate fleets dominate the industry, but in reality, car transport relies heavily on small businesses and individual drivers who own and operate their own trucks.
Another surprising fact: the average pickup window for standard car shipments is one to five days, depending on route demand and seasonality. Many customers expect next-day service like with traditional package shipping, but the logistics of vehicle transport require more flexibility.
Edwards: How do you expect the housing supply to impact car shipping in 2025?
Petkov:
- If housing supply increases – More inventory and potentially lower home prices could lead to increased relocations. When people move, they often need to ship their vehicles, especially for long-distance moves. This could boost demand for car shipping services, particularly in states with strong inbound migration.
- If housing supply remains tight – High mortgage rates and limited inventory could slow relocation trends, reducing the number of people moving long distances. This could lead to a softer demand for car shipping, especially in regions where affordability remains a challenge.
- Migration patterns continue to shift – States with lower taxes, job growth, and affordability (like Texas, Florida, and Tennessee) may continue attracting residents, fueling demand for auto transport in those lanes. Conversely, states with high living costs may see more outbound moves, sustaining demand for one-way shipping routes.
- Seasonal trends could be amplified – A slow housing market might mean fewer moves in the off-season, making peak seasons (spring/summer) even more critical for car shippers.
Edwards: How are economic conditions, like inflation and housing market fluctuations, impacting car shipping demand?
Petkov: Economic uncertainty and high mortgage rates have slowed relocation trends, impacting demand. However, increased new and used car sales and seasonal moves continue to drive the market. Inflation also affects carrier rates, pushing companies to optimize pricing strategies to stay competitive.
Edwards: What new challenges are car shipping companies facing this year, and how are they adapting?
Petkov: Challenges include rising carrier costs, fluctuating demand, and driver shortages. Companies are adapting by leveraging AI for smarter pricing, automating operations, and diversifying service offerings (such as expedited shipping or EV transport) to remain competitive.
Edwards: How have customer expectations changed when it comes to car shipping?
Petkov: Customers now expect tighter pickup windows, instant pricing, and real-time tracking. They are also less patient with delays and demand better communication and service transparency throughout the process.
Edwards: What is the biggest myth people have about car shipping?
Petkov: Haha! One of the biggest myths about car shipping is that it’s as simple as ordering a pizza—just book it, and the car magically shows up at your doorstep in a few hours. In reality, auto transport involves complex logistics, coordination with independent carriers, fluctuating market rates, and factors like weather, traffic, and route demand. Unlike a local delivery, shipping a car across the country requires careful planning, flexible scheduling, and a network of reliable transporters.
Edwards: What’s the biggest mistake people make when hiring a car shipping company?
Petkov: The biggest mistake is choosing based solely on price without checking for hidden fees, carrier reliability, or company reputation. Many fall for low-ball quotes and end up dealing with delays, poor service, or unexpected charges.
Edwards: How is your company keeping itself a leader in the car shipping industry?
Petkov: SGT Auto Transport began as a family-owned business, and from day one, we have treated our customers like family. That commitment remains at the core of everything we do. We firmly believe that exceptional customer service is the best form of marketing, and we invest heavily in ensuring every customer has a seamless and stress-free experience.
While many aspects of a business can be replicated, genuine customer care and the way we make our customers feel cannot be copied. Our personal approach, deep passion for cars, and dedication to service set us apart in the industry.
We take pride in being recognized as a 4.7-star rated company with over 10,000 reviews on Google, a testament to the trust and satisfaction of our customers.
At SGT Auto Transport, we don’t just ship cars—we build relationships and deliver peace of mind. (edited)
Edwards: What makes SGT Auto Transport different from competitors in the car shipping industry?
Petkov: The difference is simple—we’re not just here to build a business; we’re here to build relationships, trust, and lasting connections. We believe that the heart of this industry isn’t just about moving cars—it’s about moving dreams, memories, and milestones.
At SGT Auto Transport, we don’t see our customers as transactions; we see them as advocates and partners. Our mission goes beyond delivering a service—it’s about delivering peace of mind, excitement, and the confidence that their vehicle is in the best hands.
For us, success isn’t measured in numbers alone—it’s measured in the smiles we create, the trust we earn, and the stories we become a part of. That’s what makes us different. That’s what makes us SGT Auto Transport.
Edwards: What is the top thing your customers say they like about your company?
Petkov: Customers consistently praise our transparency, competitive pricing, and seamless booking process. They also appreciate our customer support and real-time updates, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
6 min read
