Pricing guide
Car Shipping Cost Guide
Understanding what drives auto transport pricing helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises. Here is a transparent breakdown of what car shipping actually costs.
What affects your price
Six factors that determine
your shipping cost.
Distance
The single largest factor. Longer routes cost more in total but less per mile. A 300-mile move may run $2-3 per mile, while a 2,000-mile move often drops below $1 per mile.
Vehicle type and size
Larger, heavier, or taller vehicles take up more space on a carrier and cost more to ship. A compact sedan costs less than a full-size SUV or lifted truck.
Transport method
Open transport is the standard and most affordable option. Enclosed transport provides full protection and typically costs 30-50% more due to smaller carrier capacity.
Time of year
Demand peaks in summer and during the January snowbird season. Shipping in spring or fall often means lower prices and faster pickup times.
Pickup and delivery location
Major metro areas and routes along interstates are more affordable. Rural or remote locations may require additional fees due to limited carrier access.
Vehicle condition
Non-running or inoperable vehicles require a winch or special equipment for loading and unloading, which adds to the total cost.
Price estimates
Approximate cost ranges
by distance.
Based on a standard sedan. Larger vehicles, inoperable vehicles, and expedited timelines may fall outside these ranges.
| DISTANCE | OPEN TRANSPORT | ENCLOSED TRANSPORT |
|---|---|---|
| Under 500 miles | $400 - $700 | $600 - $1,100 |
| 500 - 1,000 miles | $600 - $1,000 | $900 - $1,500 |
| 1,000 - 1,500 miles | $800 - $1,200 | $1,200 - $1,900 |
| 1,500 - 2,000 miles | $900 - $1,400 | $1,400 - $2,200 |
| 2,000+ miles | $1,000 - $1,600 | $1,600 - $2,600 |
Seasonal pricing
When you ship matters
as much as where.
Carrier supply and demand shift throughout the year. Understanding these patterns can help you time your shipment for the best possible rate.
Snowbird season drives demand on north-to-south routes.
Balanced demand. Often the best window for competitive pricing.
Peak moving season. Book early to secure favorable rates.
Lowest overall demand. Best prices and fastest pickups.
Save on shipping
How to get
the best rate.
- Book 2-4 weeks in advance when possible to secure better carrier availability and pricing
- Be flexible with your pickup window by a few days to allow more carrier options
- Ship during off-peak months like September through November for the best rates
- Choose terminal-to-terminal if available in your area to reduce cost versus door-to-door
- Avoid expedited shipping unless truly necessary, as standard timelines are usually sufficient
- Get multiple quotes, but be cautious of prices that seem too low to be realistic
Pricing questions
Cost FAQ
A coast-to-coast open transport shipment typically costs between $1,000 and $1,600 for a standard sedan. Enclosed transport runs $1,600 to $2,600. The exact price depends on vehicle size, route, and time of year.
Unrealistically low quotes are a common industry tactic. The broker collects your deposit, then cannot find a carrier willing to move your vehicle at that price. You end up paying more or waiting indefinitely. We quote what carriers will actually accept.
Yes, a small deposit is collected at booking to reserve your carrier slot. The remaining balance is paid directly to the driver at delivery. We never charge the full amount upfront.
No. The price we quote includes carrier transport, insurance, fuel surcharges, and standard door-to-door service. The only additions would be if you request changes after booking, such as switching to enclosed transport.
Yes. Non-running or inoperable vehicles require special equipment for loading and typically add $100 to $300 to the total cost. Let us know the vehicle's condition when requesting a quote so we can price accurately.
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