How Much Does It Cost to Transport a Vehicle Across the Country?

If you’re relocating from California to the East Coast or from Texas to the Pacific Northwest, you’re likely inquiring about the typical expense of transporting a car across the nation. Based on our investigations, the estimated cost for shipping a vehicle across the United States falls within the range of $1,400 to $1,900.

For those preparing for a long-distance relocation, it’s crucial to identify the most reputable car shipping companies. One of the most convenient methods to achieve this is by getting complimentary price estimates from various well-established service providers and then evaluating the array of car shipping services they present.

Cross-Country Car Shipping Cost

We contacted us to get pricing estimates for long-distance car shipments. The table below showcases rate approximations for transporting operable SUV and Sedan across the country using open car transport services.

It’s worth noting that selecting additional shipping options like enclosed transport, expedited shipping, or single-car transport could potentially raise the overall auto transport expenses. Although these premium choices might be appealing to some first-time car shippers, opting for open trailer transport and non-expedited shipping often proves sufficient.

Factors Influencing the Price of Cross-Country Car Shipping

The distance of your car shipping route stands as a significant determinant in establishing the average expense of transporting a car across the country. If you’re undergoing a cross-country relocation, the cost per mile is likely to be lower than for shorter journeys, albeit resulting in a higher overall charge.

Several additional factors come into play when car shipping companies establish their pricing:

Transportation Method: Opting for enclosed carrier transport is pricier than open transport. While open carriers offer more economical options, enclosed trailers are well-suited for luxury or classic car shipments. For standard vehicle models, open shipping is often the preferred choice.

Seasonal Considerations: Vehicle shipping rates tend to rise in January due to the migration of snowbirds to warmer states like Florida. Similarly, higher rates between May and September can be attributed to the influx of moves during the summer months.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations: The locations where your car is collected and delivered significantly impact costs. While door-to-door service offers convenience, it comes with a higher price tag compared to using centrally-located shipping terminals. Opting for terminal-to-terminal transport can lead to cost savings.

Fuel Costs: The prevailing gas prices play a substantial role in calculating your cross-country car shipping expenses, considering the multiple refueling stops required during the transportation process.

Vehicle Type: The specific make and condition of your vehicle play a role in determining the shipping cost. Larger vehicles like SUVs and pickup trucks generally incur higher shipping expenses compared to smaller sedans.

Operability: If your car is not in working condition, anticipate higher costs due to the additional effort required for loading and unloading.

You can contact us at (302) 205-2271 or get a quote on our website today.

Ways to Reduce Car Shipping Expenses

Initiating cost-effective car shipping across the country starts by securing your booking well in advance. Allocating ample time allows a wider range of auto shippers to bid on your transportation request, enabling you to uncover competitive pricing within your desired delivery window.

Choosing an open auto transport carrier, unless specific weather or road risks necessitate additional protection, can also contribute to cost savings. Opting for terminal-to-terminal shipping is an additional budget-conscious approach, although its availability varies among providers.

Lastly, ensure you take advantage of online platforms to compare multiple car shipping quotes. This practice empowers you to meticulously assess the expenses and services offered by different vehicle transport companies, aiding you in making an informed and economically sound decision.

FAQs

1. How much does it typically cost to ship a car across the country?

The cost can vary based on factors such as distance, vehicle type, shipping method, and time of year. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,900 for a cross-country car shipment.

2. What factors influence the cost of car shipping?

Key factors include the distance of the journey, type of transport (open vs. enclosed), time of year, pickup and delivery locations, fuel costs, vehicle type, and whether the car is operable.

3. How do I choose the right car shipping company?

Research reputable companies, read customer reviews, and request quotes from multiple providers. Compare services offered, pricing, insurance coverage, and delivery timeframes to make an informed decision.

5. Should I choose open or enclosed transport?

Open transport is more common and budget-friendly, suitable for most standard vehicles. Enclosed transport provides added protection for high-value or classic cars, but it’s generally more expensive.

6. How long does it take to ship a car cross country?

The time frame depends on factors like distance, route, and scheduling. Typically, a cross-country shipment can take around 7-10 days.

7. What is terminal-to-terminal vs. door-to-door shipping?

Terminal-to-terminal shipping involves dropping off and picking up your vehicle at designated terminals. Door-to-door shipping delivers your vehicle directly to your specified locations, but it might be more expensive.

10. How far in advance should I book car shipping services?

Booking 1 to 2 weeks ahead of your desired shipping date is recommended to secure a spot and potentially get better rates.