On average, you can expect to pay $1,150 to ship a car, with prices ranging from $540 for short-distance moves to over $3,000 for cross-country moves.
Key Takeaways
- Open vs. enclosed transport: Open carriers are the most affordable, while enclosed trailers offer added protection at a higher cost
- Distance and vehicle size: Longer routes and larger or heavier vehicles increase total shipping costs
- Pricing factors: Final costs depend on mileage, transport type, pickup location and seasonal demand
- Best way to save: Compare multiple quotes early and look for discounts for military, students and multi-vehicle moves
Why You Can Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint
Our mission at FreightWaves Checkpoint is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased car shipping information and company reviews.
Using our proprietary rating system, we evaluated more than 2,400 auto transport companies nationwide based on cost, service quality, and customer satisfaction. We also review verified customer feedback to identify real strengths and potential pain points.
Our in-house editorial team fact-checks every article to keep our content accurate, up-to-date, and relevant to your shipping needs.
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Cost To Ship a Car
Several things go into your car shipping costs, mainly what kind of vehicle you have, how far you need to ship it, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. On average, most people pay between $700 and $1,150, but your price will shift based on the route and shipping setup you pick.
In general, car shipping runs about $0.61-$2.00 per mile. Longer routes cost more overall, but you’ll usually pay less per mile compared to short trips.
Here’s a quick look at how open and enclosed transport compare:
| Distance | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|
| <500 miles | $600–$700 | $900–$1,100 |
| 500–1,500 miles | $800–$1,400 | $1,500–$1,800 |
| 1,500–2,500 miles | $1,100–$1,600 | $1,600–$2,400 |
Car Shipping Costs by Vehicle Type
| Car Size/Type | <500 miles | 500–1,500 miles | 1,500+ miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Sedan | $400–$600 | $600–$1,150 | $900–$2,500 |
| SUV | $400–$1,100 | $825–$1,400 | $1,100–$2,500 |
| Truck | $400–$1,100 | $925–$1,400 | $1,100–$2,300 |
Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs
- Open vs. enclosed transport: Enclosed shipping offers better protection but can cost up to 50% more than open transport./li>
- Vehicle size and type: Heavier or oversized vehicles raise rates since they take up more carrier space and fuel
- Delivery type: Door-to-door service adds convenience but usually costs more than terminal-to-terminal delivery
- Pickup and delivery locations: Remote or high-demand metro areas can raise rates due to routing or congestion
- Time of year: Rates increase in spring and summer, when demand spikes. Fall and winter are generally cheaper
- Vehicle condition: Inoperable cars cost more to move due to special loading and handling needs
- Extra services: Add-ons like expedited shipping or guaranteed pickup increase your total cost
How To Save on Car Shipping Costs
If you’re looking for the lowest price possible, the most budget-friendly combo is open transport with terminal-to-terminal delivery. Open carriers are less expensive because they move multiple vehicles at once, and dropping off or picking up at a shipping terminal saves the carrier extra mileage — and you extra money.
Beyond that, there are several simple ways to keep your car shipping costs under control:
- Book early. Scheduling your shipment at least two to four weeks ahead usually gets you better rates and more carrier options. Last-minute bookings often cost more.
- Compare multiple quotes. Get at least three quotes from reputable providers before booking. Comparing offers from the best car shipping companies helps you spot inflated pricing and find the best deal.
- Ask about discounts. Many carriers offer price breaks for military members, students, seniors, or multiple vehicles. Some even run seasonal promos, so it never hurts to ask.
- Be flexible with timing. Avoid peak seasons like summer or holidays when demand spikes. Flexible pickup or delivery dates can help you grab a lower rate.
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons. Skip extras like guaranteed pickup or expedited shipping unless you absolutely need them. Those premium services can add hundreds to your total.
Choosing the Right Car Shipper
- Compare multiple quotes. Get estimates from at least three top-rated companies to find the best mix of price, reliability, and service quality.
- Check licensing and insurance. Make sure your carrier is registered with the FMCSA and provides valid USDOT and MC numbers for verification.
- Read customer reviews. Look for consistent feedback on punctuality, communication, and care of vehicles rather than one-off complaints.
- Confirm delivery options. Ask whether they offer door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal service so you know exactly what’s included in your quote.
- Understand payment terms. Reputable carriers don’t demand full payment upfront. Look for transparent deposits and clear cancellation policies.
- Ask about tracking and updates. Many top car shippers offer GPS or email updates, both good signs of transparency and reliability.
- Watch for red flags. Avoid companies with vague pricing, no physical address, or pushy sales tactics promising “guaranteed” low rates. These could be signs of car shipping scams.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Montway Auto Transport
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FAQ
Is car shipping worth it compared to driving myself?
For cross-country moves or long distances, shipping can actually save money once you factor in gas, hotels, meals, and time off work. It’s also easier on your vehicle.
If you’re moving locally or on a tight budget, driving may make more sense, but for 500 miles or more, shipping is often the smarter and less stressful option.
How can I get an accurate car shipping quote?
Be detailed when filling out online quote forms. Include your vehicle type, condition, and exact pickup and delivery ZIP codes. Incomplete info can lead to inaccurate pricing or delays.
For an easy start, try our car shipping calculator to see what typical ranges look like before comparing individual carrier quotes.
Can I ship a car that doesn’t run?
Yes, but make sure to let the carrier know upfront. Inoperable vehicles require a winch or forklift to load, which adds about $150–$350 to your cost.
The car must still have working brakes and steering so it can be safely positioned on the trailer once loaded.
Can I ship a motorcycle or other vehicle?
Yes, most car shipping companies also transport motorcycles, RVs, and boats. The process is similar but may require different equipment or enclosed trailers for protection.
Always confirm the carrier’s experience with your specific vehicle type before booking to avoid compatibility issues.
Do I need insurance for car shipping?
All licensed auto transporters carry liability insurance that protects your vehicle during transit. However, coverage limits vary by company, so it’s smart to ask for a copy of the carrier’s policy before booking.
For high-value or classic cars, consider purchasing supplemental coverage to protect against rare but possible damage during loading or transit.
What happens if my car gets damaged during transport?
If your car arrives with visible damage, note it on the Bill of Lading before signing. Take photos and file a claim with the carrier’s insurance immediately.
Reputable shippers will walk you through the claims process and provide documentation. Keeping a copy of your pre-shipment inspection report helps speed up resolution.
Can I track my car while it’s being shipped?
Many top-rated auto transport companies offer GPS tracking or status updates via phone, text, or email. This lets you see where your car is and when to expect delivery.
For carriers that don’t have live tracking, dispatchers can usually provide estimated updates by request.
