The cost to ship a car typically ranges from $500 to $2,500, with a national average around $1,150. The final price is highly variable and depends primarily on the distance of the shipment and the type of transport you select. Other key factors include the vehicle's size, the season, and current fuel prices.
For a quick estimate, the cost is often calculated on a per-mile basis. Short-distance moves (under 500 miles) might cost a flat fee or a higher rate per mile, while long-distance shipments (over 1,000 miles) see a lower per-mile cost. The most significant choice you'll make is between open and enclosed transport. Open transport, where your car is shipped on a standard multi-car carrier trailer, is the most common and affordable option. Enclosed transport provides protection from weather and road debris and is recommended for classic, luxury, or high-value vehicles, but it costs about 30-60% more.
| Distance (Miles) | Average Cost (Open Transport) | Key Influencing Factors |
|---|
| 0 - 250 | $500 - $700 | Often a flat rate; highly dependent on local carrier availability. |
| 251 - 500 | $700 - $1,000 | Per-mile rate starts to drop; competition between carriers can affect price. |
| 501 - 1,000 | $1,000 - $1,400 | The most common range for cross-state shipments. |
| 1,001 - 1,500 | $1,400 - $1,700 | Per-mile rate becomes more efficient. |
| 1,500+ | $1,700 - $2,500+ | Fuel surcharges and seasonality have a major impact. |
To get the most accurate price, it's essential to get quotes from multiple reputable auto transport companies. They will ask for the exact make and model, the pickup and delivery zip codes, and your desired timeline. Be wary of quotes that seem significantly lower than others, as they can sometimes include hidden fees.
