How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
Understand the factors that affect vehicle shipping prices.
Learn what influences the cost of auto transport before requesting a quote.
The cost to ship a vehicle depends on several factors, including distance, vehicle size, vehicle condition, transportation method, pickup and delivery locations, seasonality, and current carrier availability. This guide explains how pricing works so you can make informed decisions and avoid unexpected surprises.
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Nationwide Vehicle Shipping • Open & Enclosed Transport • Door-to-Door Service
What Affects the Cost of Vehicle Shipping?
Every shipment is unique. While no two quotes are exactly the same, understanding the main pricing factors can help you estimate transportation costs and choose the service that best fits your needs.
Distance
Generally, longer shipments cost more overall, but the cost per mile often decreases as the distance increases.
Vehicle Size & Weight
Larger and heavier vehicles occupy more trailer space and reduce the number of vehicles a carrier can transport, which may increase the shipping cost.
Vehicle Condition
Running vehicles are usually less expensive to transport than non-running vehicles because inoperable vehicles require additional loading equipment and more time during pickup and delivery.
Transportation Method
Open transport is generally the most affordable option, while enclosed transport costs more because it provides additional protection and carries fewer vehicles.
Pickup & Delivery Locations
Major cities usually offer more carrier availability than rural or remote areas, which can influence pricing and scheduling.
Time of Year
Vehicle shipping demand changes throughout the year. Seasonal demand, weather conditions, and market capacity can all affect transportation rates.
How to Save Money on Car Shipping
Shipping a vehicle doesn’t always have to be expensive. A few smart decisions can help reduce transportation costs while still providing dependable service.
Book Early
Scheduling your shipment in advance gives you more flexibility and often provides access to better carrier availability.
Be Flexible with Pickup Dates
Allowing a pickup window instead of requiring a specific day can help carriers optimize their routes, which may reduce your shipping cost.
Choose Open Transport
For most standard vehicles, open transport offers the best value and is the most commonly used shipping method across the United States.
Meet Near Major Highways
If possible, choosing a pickup or delivery location near major highways or metropolitan areas may help reduce transportation costs.
Ship a Running Vehicle
Running vehicles are generally less expensive to transport because they can be loaded and unloaded more efficiently.
Compare Value, Not Just Price
The lowest quote isn’t always the best option. Consider communication, reliability, insurance, experience, and overall service—not just the price.
The goal isn’t simply to find the cheapest transportation—it’s to find the best value for your specific shipment.