In the United States, shipping a standard sedan via open transport typically costs between $600 and $2,000 on average. The final price is primarily determined by the distance of the route and your choice between open or enclosed carriers. For precise budgeting, industry data from major brokers and carriers indicates average costs align closely with transport distance.
The most significant cost driver is mileage. For a short trip under 500 miles, like from Los Angeles to San Francisco, you might pay around $630 for open transport. A mid-range haul of 1,500 miles, such as Chicago to Phoenix, averages about $1,135. Cross-country moves exceeding 2,500 miles, like New York to Los Angeles, see average costs of $1,350 or more.
Your choice between an open or enclosed carrier creates a consistent price difference. Enclosed transport provides superior protection from weather and road debris but costs 35-50% more on average. For the same long-distance move, where an open carrier averages $1,350, an enclosed trailer would cost approximately $1,830.
Beyond distance and carrier type, several other factors directly impact your quote. Transporting an inoperable vehicle adds $150-$400 for loading equipment. Larger vehicles like SUVs or pickup trucks incur higher fees than compact cars. High-demand seasonal routes (e.g., Florida outbound in spring, northern states outbound in fall) and desirable, heavily trafficked lanes (like between major coastal cities) often yield more competitive rates than remote or less popular routes.
| Route Distance | Average Open Carrier Cost | Average Enclosed Carrier Cost |
|---|
| Less than 500 miles | $630 | $930 |
| Between 500-2500 miles | $1,135 | $1,550 |
| Over 2500 miles | $1,350 | $1,830 |
Data reflects prevailing market averages for operable, standard-size sedan transport in the continental U.S.
A practical example: shipping a running Toyota Camry from Tampa, FL to Columbus, OH (approximately 950 miles) in October. You receive quotes from three brokers. The lowest, at $875, comes from a carrier with an available trailer needing a vehicle to fill that specific route. The highest quote is $1,250. The final accepted price of $925 fell neatly within the expected $1,135 average for that distance, influenced by favorable Florida-to-Midwest fall logistics.
To ensure a fair rate, always obtain 3-5 detailed quotes from licensed and insured brokers or carriers. Be wary of quotes dramatically below market average, which can signal scams or hidden fees. A reputable company will provide a binding contract that clearly outlines all costs, pickup/delivery windows, and insurance coverage before requiring any deposit.
