Understanding the price to ship a car starts with clear, simple facts. This guide explains typical ranges so readers can plan and budget with confidence.
On average, it costs about $1,300 to ship a car across country. Shorter hauls run lower: under 500 miles averages $780, while long runs often hit $1,600 or more.
Open carriers generally save money, often $400–$500 less than enclosed service. Examples help: a short open haul can be near $630 versus $930 for enclosed transport.
This buyer’s guide clarifies why quotes vary, what fees to expect, and how factors like route, carrier availability, and vehicle condition affect final pricing. For a tailored estimate, see a detailed guide at how much to ship a car or contact Best Car Shipping Inc. for help.
Key Takeaways
- Average cross-country car shipping is about $1,300; ranges vary by distance and service level.
- Open carriers are typically $400–$500 cheaper than enclosed options.
- Price shifts with route type, pickup location, and seasonal demand.
- Optional services and fuel surcharges raise overall shipping costs.
- Compare quotes and confirm carrier reputation for reliable timelines and protection.
Buyer’s Guide Overview: How Vehicle Shipping Prices Work in the United States
Understanding quotes starts with the factors that drive pricing. Knowing what influences rates helps buyers compare offers and avoid surprises.
Per-mile benchmarks fall as distance climbs: short runs (0–500 miles) are roughly $1.55–$2.50 per mile, while long hauls (2,500+ miles) drop toward $0.50–$0.65 per mile. These ranges explain why total price rises even as per-mile figures fall.
Pricing is dynamic. Lane popularity, pickup and delivery density, and near-term carrier capacity cause similar shipments to show different shipping rates. Fuel swings and seasonal surcharges add variability week to week.
What buyers should check
- Compare apples-to-apples: same dates, trailer type, and pickup window.
- Confirm pickup windows, insurance terms, and any accessorial fees in writing.
- Account for vehicle size, modifications, and operability—these affect trailer space and final price.
Need a clear quote? Reliable companies help customers find best value and explain surcharges. For transparent estimates and planning help, call (307) 288-5972 or email info@bestcarshippinginc.com.
Current Cost Benchmarks: What it Costs to Ship a Car Across Country
Market averages and corridor examples give a clear picture of current shipping rates.
Average cross-country pricing and common lanes
The national average for a car across country run sits near $1,300. Typical lanes show narrow ranges that help buyers judge quotes.
- New York City – Los Angeles: $1,325–$1,625
- San Francisco – New York City: $1,425–$1,875
- Los Angeles – Dallas: $1,025–$1,375
Price-per-mile ranges by distance bracket
Per-mile figures fall as distance rises. Short moves cost more per mile due to fixed handling; long hauls lower the per-mile figure.
| Distance | Per‑Mile Range | Typical Total (example) |
|---|---|---|
| 0–500 miles | $1.55–$2.50 | ~$630–$930 |
| 501–1,500 miles | $0.80–$1.45 | ~$1,050–$1,450 |
| 2,500+ miles | $0.50–$0.65 | ~$1,350–$1,830 |
Open vs. enclosed averages
Open auto transport usually runs about $400–$500 less than enclosed. For most standard cars, open offers the best value.
“Open carriers deliver the most economical option for standard cars; enclosed is worth the premium for high-value or low-clearance models.”
Use these benchmarks to screen quotes and ask carriers about insurance, surcharges, and handling for larger vehicles or non-running units.
Vehicle Transport Cost
How much you pay to ship a car shifts with mileage, season, and the trailer selected.
Distance is the primary driver. Short runs under 500 miles often land near $780. Mid-range moves (500–1,000 miles) hover around $960. Long hauls across the country approach $1,600.
Size and operability matter. Larger models like SUVs and pickups usually add $150–$200. Non-running units add labor and a surcharge for winching or special handling.
- Trailer type: open carriers save roughly $400–$500 versus enclosed service.
- Season: peak months (May–Sept) can add $200–$300; expedited service adds $200–$500.
- Locations: rural pickup or delivery raises price compared with major cities.
Fuel surcharges and carrier availability also affect final totals. Ask for an itemized quote so you can compare shipping costs and transport options fairly.
Need clarity? Best Car Shipping Inc. provides clear, itemized quotes. Call (307) 288-5972 or email info@bestcarshippinginc.com.
Open Auto Transport vs. Enclosed Transport: Price, Protection, and Timing
Choosing open or enclosed trailers shapes schedule, price, and protection for most car moves.
When open car carriers are the best value
Open auto transport handles most shipments—about 90–95%—because it offers broad availability and faster scheduling.
Open car service usually runs $400–$500 lower than enclosed options. This makes it the default for daily drivers and standard models.
Open trailers carry more units, which helps routes fill faster and often shortens pickup windows.
When enclosed auto transport is worth the premium
Enclosed auto adds protection from weather and road debris. It is the smart choice for classics, exotics, and luxury cars.
Expect enclosed quotes to run $400–$500 higher, and in some lanes up to about 50% more due to smaller fleets and longer lead times.
Confirm loading gear for low-clearance cars and request written inspection reports at pickup and delivery.
| Feature | Open Service | Enclosed Service |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price difference | $400–$500 less | $400–$500 more, up to ~50% |
| Capacity per trailer | 7–10 cars | 2–6 cars |
| Best for | Daily drivers, standard models | Classic, exotic, luxury cars |
| Scheduling | Faster pickup; broader availability | Longer lead times; limited fleets |
Practical advice: Insist on itemized insurance terms and documented inspections. If speed matters, open usually secures trucks faster. If protection matters most, choose enclosed and budget accordingly.
“When condition and protection are paramount, enclosed is worth the premium.”
For tailored guidance, Best Car Shipping Inc. will compare options and recommend the right trailer for your shipment. Call (307) 288-5972 or email info@bestcarshippinginc.com.
Vehicle and Shipment Variables that Raise or Lower Transport Costs
What you drive and where you load it often matters more than distance alone. Size, operability, and pickup logistics change quotes quickly. Simple changes can add $150–$200 for larger models like SUVs and pickups. Non-running cars need winching or dollies and usually carry extra fees.
Larger models and vehicle condition
Larger vehicles and heavy aftermarket parts reduce trailer capacity. That pushes your quote higher.
Non-operable units require special handling. Expect labor or equipment charges and a longer pickup window.
Pickup, fuel, and carrier availability
Rural pickups, narrow access, or long drives from interstates raise rates versus metro meet-ups. Fuel surcharges adjust with market prices and should appear as a line item.
Carrier capacity changes seasonally. Peak demand lengthens windows and lifts prices.
Expedited service, insurance, and surcharges
- Expedited pickups typically add $200–$500 to prioritize your assignment.
- Insurance add-ons suit high-value cars; review limits and deductibles.
- Accessorials like winching or difficult access must be confirmed in writing to avoid surprises.
Practical tip: Combine flexible dates with metro meet points to lower fees for larger models or remote pickups. For a clear, itemized quote and guidance, see the complete guide to automobile shipping or contact Best Car Shipping Inc. at (307) 288-5972 or info@bestcarshippinginc.com.
“Request an itemized quote so each factor that shifts the final figure is transparent.”
Seasonality and Route Patterns: How Time of Year Impacts Shipping Rates
Timing a move to match carrier cycles can save money and shorten pickup waits. Seasonal shifts change both price and scheduling for car shipping. Planning around those cycles gives better availability and steadier shipping rates.
Winter, spring, summer, fall: typical pricing and timing trends
Winter brings reduced daylight and weather delays. December bookings should start 3–4 weeks ahead. January often sees a southbound surge while February is a common low-rate window for across country runs.
Spring improves road conditions but late April–May can push prices on northbound lanes. Summer is the busiest season: demand is high, capacity is strong, and popular routes may show firmer pricing.
Fall usually offers milder weather and balanced availability. Watch September for a student-related spike. October–November often provide easier scheduling and lower fees.
- Seasonal cycles affect quotes and pickup windows—plan dates to reduce surprises.
- Allow extra lead time on coastal or mountain lanes in winter.
- Use nearby metro meet-ups to avoid seasonal premiums without sacrificing service.
“Aligning pickup windows with carrier availability reduces the need for expedited surcharges.”
For a seasonally optimized plan, see local guidance or consult Best Car Shipping Inc. to align dates with expected carrier capacity and market moves. Request seasonal guidance.
Smart Ways to Lower Your Car Shipping Cost and Choose a Reputable Carrier
Locking in dates early and insisting on written quotes helps secure better bids. Book as soon as you know moving windows. Early listings attract more carriers and often produce lower offers.
Booking strategies, flexibility, and discount opportunities
Be flexible with pickup windows and willing to meet at a nearby metro point. That simple change can reduce shipping costs and shorten wait times.
- Book early: more time on the market brings competitive bids.
- Ask about discounts: students, military, first responders, and multi-car shipments may qualify for savings.
- Use per-mile benchmarks to judge if a quote is realistic for your lane and time year.
Comparing quotes, avoiding hidden fees, and vetting car shippers
Compare quotes on identical terms: same dates, trailer type, and pickup window. Insist on itemized surcharges and clear insurance limits.
- Beware unusually low offers; they often hide fees or lack carrier acceptance.
- Verify licensing, insurance, and safety records. Read reviews and prefer proven companies with strong networks.
- Confirm cargo coverage, deductibles, and exclusions for high-value units or enclosed service.
Tip: For transparent, itemized quotes and vetted partners, see a guide to stress-free vehicle transport or contact Best Car Shipping Inc. at (307) 288-5972.
Conclusion
Plan for a practical budget around $1,200–$1,300 for a standard sedan on an across country move. Use per‑mile ranges and lane examples to judge whether an offer matches market shipping rates.
Open auto transport usually gives the best balance of availability and savings, while enclosed transport fits luxury cars and classics that need extra protection. Expect SUVs or non‑standard units to raise a quote and seasonal demand to shift timing and price.
Request an itemized estimate that spells out fees, coverage, and pickup windows. For clear guidance and a firm price, contact Best Car Shipping Inc. at (307) 288-5972 or info@bestcarshippinginc.com.