Car shipping costs around $1.96/mile for short distances (1-500 miles) or $588 for a 300-mile trip. Medium distances will run you about $.93/mile (500-1500 miles) or $930 for 1000 miles. Long distances (1500+ miles) are about $.58/mile or $870 for a 1500-mile trip.
Various factors will impact the cost of your auto shipment. In order to get an idea of your final cost, we recommend requesting a quote from a carrier or broker.
Do you need to calculate costs for moving your vehicle? Click here to get an instant quote on your auto shipment. Have questions about your transport?
What is car transport?
Car transport, or vehicle transport, is a service that moves cars from one destination to another. You can ship via open transport (more cost effective) or enclosed transport (more protection). Typically, enclosed auto transport will cost 30-40% more than open transport.
How do I get a car transport quote?
Car transport quotes can be calculated a few different ways. You can get the cost to transport a car online via the transport company’s website or by simply calling them. Make sure to let them know in advance if you need an expedited pick up for your vehicle.
In order to get the most accurate and up-to-date car shipping quote, it’s important to know and have the following information available:
1- Vehicle pick up and delivery destination (zip codes are preferred for increased quoting accuracy)
2- Car transport preference (open or enclosed trailer)
3- Vehicle year, make, and model (ensures availability of required transport trailer size)
4- Operational status (can be driven forward and in reverse, with basic steering for truck loading and unloading)
5- Earliest available car pick-up date
Overview of the auto transport industry
There are three types of companies you might work with to ship your vehicle: carriers, brokers, and lead providers.
Lead providers supply vehicle owners with a list of “leads,” or potential carriers, based on the owner’s search criteria. The owner is responsible from there to further research or contact the carriers on the list to determine the best option for their needs and budget.
Carriers do the actual transportation of your car, picking it up and dropping it off at the designated locations. You can work directly with a carrier from requesting a quote for shipment, to working out details, to the actual transport. Using a broker for your vehicle transport offers a number of advantages over the other two options. First and foremost, you aren’t limited to one carrier option; brokers have a network of thousands of carriers and can find you the best solution based on your needs and unique vehicle.
You don’t need to make multiple calls or visit dozens of carrier websites to settle on an option. They also do the legwork of back-and-forth communication with the carrier you choose so you can rest easy and focus your time and attention elsewhere.