Shipping a car can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to estimating the cost. The price of transporting a vehicle varies depending on several factors, making it challenging to pinpoint an exact figure. Car shipping companies typically provide quotes based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, the distance of the transport, and the current market demand. The industry averages $2.00 per mile for journeys under 200 miles, while long-distance moves exceeding 1,500 miles can cost around $0.58 per mile. While the sector offers an average estimate, individuals must gather multiple quotes to ensure they make an informed decision when selecting a shipping company.
In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of car transport costs and discuss the factors that influence them. By understanding these elements, prospective car owners can navigate the process more confidently and select the best car shipping service to meet their needs.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
When it comes to shipping a car, several factors come into play that can influence the overall cost. It’s essential to consider these factors to better understand what you can expect to pay. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
Distance: Short vs. Long Distance Shipments
The distance plays a significant role in determining the cost of car shipping. Shipping a car over a shorter distance is generally more affordable than long-distance shipments. This is because long-distance shipments involve:
- Higher fuel costs.
- Increased wear and tear on the carrier’s equipment.
- Potentially more time is required for transportation.
Type of Vehicle: Compact Cars vs. SUVs
The type of vehicle being shipped is another crucial factor in determining the overall cost. Smaller and lighter vehicles, such as compact cars, are less expensive to transport than larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks. The size and weight of the vehicle influence the space it occupies on the carrier, affecting the overall shipping cost.
Transportation Method: Open vs. Enclosed Carriers
The transportation method you choose will also impact the cost. There are two primary options: open carriers and enclosed carriers. Open carriers are more common and cost-effective, as they can transport multiple vehicles simultaneously. On the other hand, enclosed carriers provide enhanced protection and are often preferred for high-end or classic cars but come at a higher price due to their limited capacity.
Seasonal Demand: Peak vs. Off-Peak Seasons
Car shipping costs can vary based on seasonal demand. During peak seasons, such as summer, when many people are relocating, prices tend to be higher due to increased demand for transportation services. Conversely, off-peak seasons, like winter, might offer more competitive rates as the demand decreases.
Additional Services: Expedited Delivery, Insurance, and Door-to-Door
If you require additional services, such as expedited delivery, insurance coverage, or door-to-door transportation, these can add to the overall cost. Expedited delivery ensures faster shipping times but usually comes at a premium price. Insurance coverage provides peace of mind, protecting your vehicle against potential damages during transit. Door-to-door service eliminates the need to drop off or pick up your car at a terminal, providing added convenience.
Auto transport pricing
When it comes to shipping your car, opting for open transport is the most economical choice available. Extensive research conducted by our team has revealed that transporting vehicles on an open carrier is consistently cheaper than enclosed auto transport. On average, enclosed transport costs approximately $420 more per trip for the same type of car and distance traveled.
The average cost of shipping a car based on different transport types is as follows:
- Open Transport: The average price for shipping a car through open transport is $1,108.
- Enclosed Transport: For enclosed transport, the average cost amounts to $1,490.
It is important to note that enclosed transport is primarily recommended for customers with special vehicles such as antique, classic, custom, exotic, or luxury cars. These unique and valuable vehicles often require additional protection and security during transportation, thus justifying the higher price associated with enclosed transport.
Longer trips are more expensive
Gas price increases are universally disliked, and truck drivers are no exception. Regarding car shipping, there is a general trend that the farther a carrier transports your vehicle, the higher the associated costs, primarily due to the increased fuel consumption required for longer distances.
The following table provides a detailed breakdown of average car shipping costs based on distance:
| Distance | Open Transport Cost | Enclosed Transport Cost | Average Cost |
| <500 miles | $560 | $790 | $680 |
| 500-1,000 miles | $790 | $1,090 | $940 |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | $1,000 | $1,320 | $1,160 |
| 1,500-2,000 miles | $1,160 | $1,560 | $1,360 |
| 2,000-2,500 miles | $1,370 | $1,800 | $1,590 |
| >2,500 miles | $1,270 | $1,680 | $1,480 |
It is important to recognize that escalating gas prices directly impact transportation costs. As the distance of the shipment increases, more fuel is consumed, resulting in higher expenses. This holds for both open transport and enclosed transport options.
Bigger vehicles cost more to ship
When embarking on the engagement ring shopping journey, one is soon confronted with an undeniable truth: larger diamonds come with a heftier price tag. This same principle holds when it comes to the transportation of vehicles.
In the realm of car shipping, the cost is directly influenced by the vehicle’s size. With each step up in size, whether from a regular car to an SUV or SUV to a truck, an additional amount of approximately $150 is added to the overall price.
To provide a clear understanding of the average costs associated with car shipping based on vehicle size, the following table presents the relevant information:
| Vehicle Type | Average Cost | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
| Car | $1,190 | $970 | $1,390 |
| SUV | $1,340 | $1,130 | $1,530 |
| Truck | $1,440 | $1,200 | $1,650 |
It is worth noting that the costs outlined in the table indicate the average expenses incurred for car shipping. These figures vary depending on the specific transportation service chosen and the distance to be covered.
The Average Cost to Ship a Car
Forbes Advisor thoroughly investigated the average cost of transporting a sedan from Los Angeles to New York City, spanning approximately 2,790 miles. These quotes were gathered to establish the average expense associated with car shipping.
- Average Car Shipping Cost: The average cost for shipping a car stands at $1,650, which is based on the national average rate.
- Highest Car Shipping Cost: The highest cost for individuals seeking an enclosed carrier with expedited service was $2,100.
- Lowest Car Shipping Cost: On the other hand, the lowest cost observed was $1,200, and this was for utilizing an open carrier without any urgency or rush.
How Much To Transport Car Across The Country?
On average, shipping a standard sedan across the country using open-car shipping services costs approximately $1,589. However, it’s important to note that expedited service or enclosed shipping options tend to be more expensive. Additionally, larger vehicles also incur higher shipping costs.
Our research team conducted a thorough comparison of rates for three popular routes using three leading providers: Montway Auto Transport, Easy Auto Ship, and uShip. The following figures represent the average costs for shipping a 2020 Honda Accord using open carrier transport:
- Seattle to Washington, D.C. (2,750 miles): The average cost is $1,566.
- Los Angeles to New York (2,790 miles): The average cost is $1,680.
- Miami to San Francisco (3,050 miles): The average cost is $1,520.
Car Shipping Costs by Vehicle Size
Car shipping costs vary based on the size of the vehicle being transported. Car transporters typically accommodate around eight to 10 vehicles on a trailer. Due to limited space, larger vehicles incur higher shipping charges. Full-size SUVs and pickup trucks tend to have the highest shipping costs.
To illustrate this, let’s compare the shipping costs of a Honda Accord and a Chevy Suburban on the same route. When shipping a Honda Accord from Los Angeles to New York, the average cost is $1,680. On the other hand, transporting a Chevy Suburban across the same route comes with a higher price tag of $2,167, making it nearly $500 more expensive than shipping the Honda Accord.
Open vs. Enclosed Car Shipping Rates
When transporting your vehicle, whether a high-end luxury car or a cherished classic, you may opt for enclosed shipping to ensure maximum protection from external elements. However, it’s important to note that this added security comes at a price. Based on our data, the average cost of transporting a car across the country is approximately $900 higher when using enclosed shipping than open shipping.
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Why car shipping pricing is different
Have you ever experienced the challenge of locating your boarding gate on a bustling departure board at a busy airport? The ever-changing times on the display seem to shift as frequently as a blink, leaving you uncertain where to proceed.
Although car shipping prices don’t fluctuate rapidly, they undergo daily changes, often causing similar confusion.
Why does this happen?
There are two primary reasons:
- Bidding Process: When you book car shipping services, the process involves a bidding system. Auto transport brokers connect you with various car shipping carriers who compete by submitting their bids for your booking request. The broker then returns to you with the carrier offering the lowest price (generally). Since car shipping operates on the principles of supply and demand, the rates can vary daily, allowing for better deals on certain days.
- Multiple Cost Factors: Numerous factors contribute to determining car shipping prices. The size of your vehicle, the distance it needs to travel, and even the time of the year can all influence the final cost. Carriers consider these variables to calculate the appropriate charges, resulting in fluctuations in pricing.
How auto transport bidding works
When you contact an auto transport broker to book your shipment, auto transport bidding is initiated. Initially, you inquire about the cost, and the broker provides an instant quote. However, it’s important to note that this quote is a starting point rather than the final price unless the company offers a guaranteed rate.
When the broker requests bids from carriers, they haven’t started bidding yet, which raises the question of how an instant quote is possible. The reality is that the quote you receive is not based on the bids of carriers but rather acts as an initial estimate.
For instance, if an auto transport company enters a price of $1 into its system for cross-country transport, technically, it appears to have a lower price than its competitors. However, no truck driver would accept such a job for that amount.
During bidding, carriers may submit bids, such as one company bidding for $2,000. Another company might see this bid and offer a slightly lower price of $1,900. The bidding continues until the auto transport broker selects a car carrier, usually around a week before your scheduled vehicle shipment. Reputable companies with experience in the market can typically provide you with a quote that closely aligns with the final price you’ll pay.
On the other hand, less reputable companies prioritize gaining your business by offering prices that seem too good to be true. Once you realize the actual cost will be higher, it might be too late as they may have already obtained a nonrefundable deposit, sometimes amounting to hundreds of dollars. This leaves you in a difficult situation.
Finding a reputable auto transport company at a competitive price can be challenging, but with the right approach, it is achievable. Researching and identifying trustworthy companies ensures a successful and cost-effective car shipping experience. Move.org is a valuable resource that can assist you in this endeavor.
Auto transport cost factors
When it comes to car shipping, the cost is subject to various factors, unlike predictable monthly bills such as your cell phone expenses. These factors can cause prices to fluctuate daily. The following are the key elements influencing auto transport costs:
- Carrier Bidding Process: The cost of your shipment is determined through a bidding process among carriers. The outcome of this process can be favorable or unfavorable, making it unpredictable.
- Distance: The greater the distance your vehicle needs to be transported, the higher the cost will be. Shipping across more miles incurs additional expenses.
- Extra Services: If you opt for supplementary services such as extra insurance coverage or expedited shipping, expect to pay higher costs for these additional conveniences.
- Number of Vehicles: Shipping multiple vehicles simultaneously will incur higher costs than shipping a single vehicle.
- Region: Transporting vehicles to and from rural areas tends to be more expensive than shipping to or from major cities. This is due to factors like limited carrier availability and longer distances involved.
- Route: Factors like road closures, traffic congestion, and the availability of direct routes can impact the overall price of shipping your vehicle.
- Seasonality: Car shipping prices tend to surge during the summer months, which constitute the peak season for the industry. Higher demand during this period leads to increased costs.
- Transport Type: There are two main transport options: open and enclosed. Open transport, where vehicles are exposed to the elements, is generally more cost-effective than enclosed transport, offering added protection but at a higher price point.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Larger vehicles generally incur higher shipping costs due to their size and weight. Additionally, extra arrangements may be required if your vehicle is not in working condition, resulting in increased expenses.
As a result, the price you see for auto transport today may not be the same price you receive next week or even later in the day. However, you can take proactive steps to negotiate a better deal by understanding the factors influencing the cost.
Average car shipping cost by transport type
Due to their cost-effectiveness, most individuals choose open transport carriers as their preferred option for shipping a car. Open transport is widely recognized as the most affordable method available. On average, utilizing an open transport carrier costs approximately $1,108, making it significantly more economical than enclosed shipping services.
Open transport is approximately $385 cheaper than its enclosed counterpart, making it a financially attractive choice for car owners. By selecting open transport, individuals can enjoy substantial savings while ensuring their vehicle reaches its destination safely and securely.
Average car shipping price by transport type
The average prices for car shipping vary depending on the chosen transport type. When opting for open transport, the average cost amounts to $1,108. Open transport refers to vehicles being transported on open trailers, exposed to the elements. On the other hand, enclosed transport, which provides additional protection by using enclosed carriers, comes at an average cost of $1,490. These prices reflect the average expenses incurred when transporting cars via these methods.
Average car shipping cost by distance
The cost of shipping a car typically increases as the distance it travels increases. On average, shipping a car less than 500 miles would cost around $680. The average cost for longer trips across the country is approximately $1,400.
Here is a breakdown of the average car shipping costs based on different distances:
- For distances less than 500 miles, the average cost is about $680 for open transport, ranging from $560 to $790. If you opt for enclosed transport, the average cost is approximately $790.
- For distances between 500 and 1,000 miles, the average cost increases to around $950. Open transport for this range is priced at approximately $790 to $1,110, while enclosed transport costs about $1,110.
- If the distance falls between 1,000 and 1,500 miles, the average cost rises to about $1,160. For open transport, the cost ranges from $990 to $1,330, while enclosed transport is priced at around $1,330.
- For distances spanning 1,500 to 2,000 miles, the average cost reaches approximately $1,360. Open transport within this range costs about $1,160 to $1,570, while enclosed transport costs around $1,570.
- When the distance falls between 2,000 and 2,500 miles, the average cost is approximately $1,600. Open transport in this range would cost around $1,370 to $1,810, while enclosed transport costs about $1,810.
- For distances exceeding 2,500 miles, the average cost is approximately $1,490. Open transport for these longer trips ranges from $1,280 to $1,690, while enclosed transport costs about $1,690.
It’s important to note that these figures are approximate averages and may vary depending on various factors, such as the specific transport company, the type of vehicle, the time of year, and additional services requested.
Average car shipping cost by vehicle size
The size of your vehicle plays a significant role in determining the cost of car shipping. Larger vehicles occupy more space on the transport truck, and their weight can affect the carrier’s fuel consumption. These factors directly impact the final price you pay.
Consequently, when it comes to shipping, smaller cars such as the Kia Sportage, Honda CR-V, or Ford Escape tend to have lower transportation costs compared to heavy-duty trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150, or Ram 1500.
Here is an overview of the average shipping costs for vehicles based on size using open transport:
- For distances less than 500 miles, the average cost to ship a car is around $510, SUVs cost approximately $560, and trucks require an average payment of about $620.
- For distances ranging from 500 to 1,000 miles, the average cost for car shipping is approximately $740, SUVs would cost around $820, and trucks would require an average payment of about $890.
- For distances between 1,000 and 1,500 miles, the average cost for shipping a car is around $960, SUVs cost approximately $1,060, and trucks would require an average payment of about $1,140.
- If the distance is between 1,500 and 2,000 miles, the average cost for shipping a car is around $1,120, SUVs cost approximately $1,240, and trucks require an average payment of about $1,350.
- For distances ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 miles, the average cost for shipping a car is approximately $1,300, SUVs cost around $1,480, and trucks would require an average payment of about $1,600.
- For distances exceeding 2,500 miles, the average cost for shipping a car is around $1,200, SUVs cost approximately $1,400, and trucks would require an average payment of about $1,470.
These figures demonstrate that the size and weight of a vehicle play a significant role in determining the shipping cost. Smaller cars generally incur lower shipping expenses compared to larger and heavier trucks and SUVs.
Conclusion
Shipping a car involves various factors that contribute to the overall cost. Distance, vehicle type, transportation method, seasonal demand, and additional services all play a role in determining how much it will cost to ship your car. By understanding these factors and considering your specific needs, you can make an informed decision when choosing a car shipping service. Remember to research different companies, read customer reviews, and ensure your vehicle is adequately prepared for transport. Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of the cost factors and the car shipping process, you can confidently navigate the world of car transportation.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I ship personal belongings inside the car?
No, shipping personal belongings inside the car is generally not recommended. Car transport companies are licensed to transport vehicles only and are not responsible for any personal items left inside. Removing all personal belongings is best to avoid any potential damage or loss.
How long does it take to ship a car?
The transit time depends on various factors, including the distance, the carrier’s schedule, and the chosen transportation method. Typically, your car can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to reach its destination.
Are all car shipping companies the same?
Car shipping companies vary in experience, service quality, and pricing. Conduct thorough research, read customer reviews, and choose a reputable and reliable company that suits your requirements.
Is my vehicle insured during transportation?
Most car shipping companies provide basic insurance coverage as part of their service. However, it’s recommended to verify the coverage details with the company and consider additional insurance options for added protection.
Can I track the progress of my car shipment?
Yes, many car shipping companies offer tracking services that allow you to monitor the progress of your vehicle’s transportation. You can typically access this information by contacting the company directly.
How should I prepare my car for shipping?
Before shipping your car, cleaning it thoroughly, removing any personal belongings, and ensuring it is in good working condition is advisable. You should also document any existing damages and take photos for reference for insurance purposes and to have a record of the vehicle’s condition before transport.
