How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?

Key Factors That Influence Car Shipping Costs

Distance and Location

The distance between the pickup and delivery locations is one of the most significant factors influencing the cost of shipping a vehicle. Longer distances typically result in higher costs due to fuel expenses, wear and tear on the carrier, and the driver's time.

Shipping between major cities or along popular routes will usually be cheaper because these locations are well-served by carriers. In contrast, shipping to or from remote or rural areas often incurs additional charges because fewer carriers serve these regions, requiring detours and extra miles.

Vehicle Size and Weight

The size and weight of your car also directly affect the shipping cost. Larger and heavier vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, and vans, require more space on the carrier and consume more fuel, leading to higher shipping prices. On the other hand, smaller and lighter cars, such as sedans or compact cars, are generally less expensive to ship.

Vehicle Type	Average Shipping Cost
Compact Car	$600 - $900
Sedan	$700 - $1,000
SUV	$800 - $1,200
Pickup Truck	$900 - $1,500

Shipping Method: Open vs. Enclosed Transport

We offer two main types of transport: open and enclosed.

• Open Transport: The most common and cost-effective method. Your vehicle is transported on an open trailer exposed to the external elements. It is a safe and widely used option for most vehicles, but it does leave your car vulnerable to weather, debris, or road conditions.

• Enclosed Transpor: Enclosed carriers protect your vehicle from external elements, making it ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value cars. However, enclosed shipping is more expensive due to limited availability and the additional protection it offers.

Transport Type	Cost Range
Open Transport	$600 - $1,100
Enclosed Transport	$1,000 - $2,000

Shipping Time Frame and Season

Your flexibility with shipping dates can significantly influence costs. If you opt for expedited shipping, the price will be higher due to the urgency and limited carrier availability.

The time of year also plays a crucial role. Shipping during peak seasons, such as summer or during snowbird migration periods, will often be more expensive due to higher demand. In contrast, shipping during the winter months or off-peak times can help lower the cost.

Vehicle Condition: Running vs. Non-Running

Shipping a vehicle that is in working condition is less expensive than shipping one that is non-operational. Non-running vehicles require specialized equipment, such as a winch or lift gate, to load and unload, which increases the overall cost

Vehicle Condition	Cost Increase
Running Vehicle	Standard Cost
Non-Running Vehicle	+ $150 - $400

Car Shipping Cost by Distance

Shipping costs increase as the distance between your pickup and drop-off locations increases. Below is a general estimate of shipping costs based on mileage:

Distance (Miles)	Cost Range
0 - 500	$500 - $800
500 - 1,000	$700 - $800
1,000 - 1,500	$900 - $1,300
1,500 - 2,000	$1,100 - $1,500
2,000 - 2,500	$1,200 - $1,700
2500+	$1,400 - $2,000