how much is it to ship a car cross country

[Quinn]

The cost to ship a car cross country typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,000, with the national average falling around $1,500. However, the final price is highly variable and depends on several key factors: the distance of the transport, the type of carrier (open vs. enclosed), the size and condition of your vehicle, the season, and the current demand for car haulers. Getting multiple quotes from reputable brokers or carriers is the most reliable way to determine your exact cost.

The most significant cost driver is distance. A coast-to-coast shipment will naturally cost more than a regional move. The type of transport you choose is another major factor. Open transport is the most common and affordable method, where your car is shipped on an open trailer alongside other vehicles. Enclosed transport is more expensive but offers protection from road debris and weather, making it ideal for classic, luxury, or high-value cars.

Other variables that influence the price include:

• Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs take up more space on the trailer and may incur a surcharge.
• Operability: A car that can be driven onto the trailer under its own power is cheaper to ship than a non-running vehicle, which requires special equipment to load.
• Pickup and Delivery Locations: Remote locations that are far from major highways may have limited carrier availability, leading to higher costs.
• Time of Year: Demand peaks during summer and around holidays, which can drive up prices.

To give you a clearer picture, here are some estimated price ranges for common routes:

Shipping Route (City to City)	Approximate Distance	Estimated Cost (Open Transport)
Los Angeles, CA to New York, NY	2,800 miles	$1,400 - $1,900
Houston, TX to Chicago, IL	1,100 miles	$800 - $1,200
Seattle, WA to Miami, FL	3,300 miles	$1,600 - $2,200
Phoenix, AZ to Denver, CO	800 miles	$600 - $950
Boston, MA to Atlanta, GA	1,100 miles	$750 - $1,150

The best strategy is to plan ahead and get at least three quotes from different companies. Be prepared to provide accurate details about your vehicle and desired timeline.

[ElliotLynn]

You're looking at roughly $1,500 on average, but it's like airline tickets—prices change constantly. I just shipped my sedan from Texas to Washington last month. The biggest surprise was the timing; booking a few weeks in advance saved me over $300 compared to a last-minute quote. Don't just go with the cheapest offer. Read the recent reviews. Some companies lowball you and then hit you with hidden fees later. It's worth paying a bit more for a carrier with a solid reputation.

[VonAlex]

Focus on three main things: distance, transport type, and season. A cross-country move is a long-haul, so expect a base price starting around $1,200. The biggest choice is between open and enclosed carriers. Unless you have a show car, open is fine and cuts the cost significantly. Finally, avoid moving in the peak summer season if you can. Prices are highest when everyone else is moving. Get quotes that are all-inclusive so you can compare the final price, not just an estimate.

[McCarmen]

From a logistical standpoint, the cost isn't arbitrary. It's a calculation of fuel, labor, and trailer space. The carrier is factoring in the cost of the driver's time for a multi-day trip and the opportunity cost of that trailer space. Your vehicle's footprint directly impacts this. An SUV costs more than a compact car because it consumes a slot that could otherwise hold two smaller vehicles. The most efficient way to reduce cost is to be flexible with your pickup and delivery dates, giving the carrier more options to consolidate loads and optimize their route.