How remote commissions work, what to expect during a 6 to 12 month build, and the logistical steps that turn a signed contract into a hand-built, show-ready vehicle delivered to your driveway.

Build Slots Begin by Reserving a Place in the Rover Dome

When collectors and adventure enthusiasts commission a one-of-one restomod from across state lines, the first reality is availability. High-quality restomods are not mass-produced. They are hand-built, often at scale measured in thousands of hours.

At ECD Automotive Design, for example, builds are completed in a 100,000-square-foot facility known as The Rover Dome by an expert team of 100+ ASE-certified craftsmen. We measure build times in 2,200 hours per vehicle. That level of craft means build slots are finite and booked well in advance.

Prospective buyers should treat a slot like a reservation for a bespoke residence. A meaningful deposit secures sequencing, but earlier commitments always yield more options for customization and scheduling. For out-of-state buyers, flexibility on start dates and finish windows increases the chance to secure a preferred slot. We find this to be particularly true for popular models such as conversions for a Defender 90, Defender 110, Range Rover Classic, Jaguar E-Type, or Toyota FJ40.

This Range Rover Classic is restored to its original luxury and elegance.

Timelines and What 6 to 12 Months Really Covers

The commonly quoted 6-to-12 month window for a restomod reflects a project lifecycle rather than a calendar guarantee.

1. Early months focus on design decisions, approvals from owners, sourcing specialty parts, and sub-assembly.
2. The middle period concentrates on major mechanical work, custom fabrication (if needed), chassis and body reconditioning, and drivetrain integration that include modern V8 or EV conversions.
3. The final phase is paint, interior trimming, calibration, testing, and quality assurance.

Remote buyers should expect regular milestones along the way. There’s the design approval, mid-build photo and video reviews, a pre-paint sign-off, and final acceptance testing. Our 2,200-hour build cadence means progress is deliberate. Every client receives curated updates and the option of live video walkthroughs to maintain confidence while we complete the vehicle out of state.

Shipping Includes Premium Methods for Priceless Vehicles

Shipping a high-value restomod is not a commodity move.

Out-of-state customers rely on premium, white-glove logistics. We deliver with enclosed carriers, licensed and insured door-to-door transport, and professional crating for longer hauls. For coast-to-coast deliveries, because owners span from Los Angeles to New York, drivers experienced with classics and modernized builds ensure handling, secure tie-downs, temperature considerations, and careful loading and unloading to preserve finishes and mechanical setups. For particularly rare or time-sensitive deliveries, expedited options such as dedicated transport or air freight may be available, though these come at premium rates.

Regardless of the shipping and deliver method, expect a coordinated handoff. Buyers will find carrier insurance documents, condition reports, and a scheduled delivery window so the owner or their agent can perform a final inspection upon arrival.

Titling and Registration: navigating state rules for a rebuilt vehicle

Titling is where state rules really matter. Each DMV has its own procedures for rebuilt, restored, or extensively modified vehicles. In many states, a restomod will be titled as a restored, rebuilt, or classic vehicle. These may require one or more of the following:

• A signed (and clean) title from the seller
• A notarized bill of sale
• Acompleted odometer statement
• VIN verification
• A safety or emissions inspection (sometimes)

Buyers from outside of Florida must plan proactively by taking a few steps before delivery. We’ll contact the buyer’s local DMV early to confirm requirements and timelines. If a vehicle has a reassigned or reconstructed VIN, additional paperwork and inspections are common.

Financed purchases may require a lienholder’s paperwork because timely release of the lien is critical before title transfer. For cross-state deliveries, we may need temporary trip permits or transit plates to get the vehicle legally from the carrier to the registering state. Temporary documents should be arranged in advance so the buyer can drive the vehicle home immediately after delivery, if desired.

Out-of-State Process Covers Communication, Approvals, and Acceptance

A smooth out-of-state purchase depends on clear checkpoints along key steps of the 2,200-hour build. Remote buyers should expect:

• An initial design approval
• Routine photo and video progress reports
• Scheduled virtual walkthroughs for key milestones
• Pre-delivery inspection report
• Final acceptance process
• Coordinated shipping schedule

Transparency is essential. High-end customization shops like ECD will provide detailed build logs, documentation of major parts, and test results for brakes, electronics, and powertrains, among other documentation for the build.

ECD’s clientele benefits from a structured handover that includes final QA and a documented mechanical baseline at delivery. We’ll also orient each owner on new systems, whether a modern V8 or an EV conversion, as well as other upgrades. This reduces first-mile surprises and helps preserve resale and investment value.

After Delivery for Warranty, Service, and Long-Term Ownership

One of the chief concerns for out-of-state buyers is ongoing service. Buyers should confirm warranty terms, recommended service intervals, and support options before signing. Many shops offer concierge service for scheduling maintenance, and a network of recommended specialists for local work. For collectors, documented provenance such as build invoices, photos, and service history, is essential to long-term value.

Make Sure to Plan, Partner, and Personalize

Buying a restomod from out of state is entirely feasible. It’s often the only route to commission a true, museum-quality one-off build. The keys to a successful project are realistic expectations, early booking to obtain limited build slots, clear communication of timelines and milestones, and thoughtful logistics planning for shipping and titling.

With a trusted partner experienced in remote builds and premium delivery, an owner in New York or Los Angeles can reliably CREATE IT, BUILD IT, and LIVE IT with a vehicle that blends classic soul and modern performance.

Ready to discuss a remote commission? Let’s Talk About Your Perfect Dream Build.

Contact our team to review available build slots, timeline options, and white‑glove delivery plans tailored to your preferences and your state’s titling requirements.