How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
Shipping a car costs $500-$2,500+ in 2026 depending on distance, transport type, and vehicle size. Cross-country (coast to coast) averages $1,000-$1,500 for open transport. Enter your details for an estimate.
Car Shipping Value Calculator
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Why Knowing Your Car Shipping Value Matters
Whether you're moving, buying a car online, or relocating for work, car shipping costs are significant and often confusing. Quotes vary 30-50% between carriers. Understanding the pricing factors helps you evaluate quotes and choose between open vs enclosed transport, terminal vs door-to-door pickup, and seasonal pricing fluctuations.
Key Factors That Affect Car Shipping Value
Understanding what drives the price of car shipping helps you get the most accurate valuation.
Distance
Under 500 miles: $400-$800 ($0.75-$1.50/mile). 500-1,000 miles: $600-$1,100 ($0.60-$1.10/mile). 1,000-2,000 miles: $800-$1,500 ($0.50-$0.80/mile). Cross-country (2,500+ miles): $1,000-$2,000 ($0.40-$0.70/mile). Per-mile rate decreases with longer distances.
Transport Type
Open carrier (most common, exposed to elements): base price. Enclosed carrier (protected, used for luxury/classic cars): add 40-60%. Open is fine for standard vehicles. Enclosed recommended for vehicles worth $50,000+.
Vehicle Size & Type
Sedan/compact: base price. SUV/crossover: add $100-$200. Truck: add $100-$300. Oversized/lifted vehicles: add $200-$500. Non-running vehicles: add $100-$300 (requires winch loading). Motorcycles: $300-$800.
Pickup & Delivery
Terminal to terminal: cheapest option, you drop off and pick up at carrier locations. Door-to-door: add $100-$300 for the convenience of home pickup/delivery. Some residential streets can't accommodate transport trucks.
Season & Timing
Summer and January (snowbird season): highest prices (+20-30%). Fall and early spring: most affordable. Flexible dates save money — carriers offer discounts to fill remaining truck spots. Rush/guaranteed dates cost more.
Tips for Valuing Car Shipping
Get the most accurate estimate by following these tips when evaluating your car shipping.
Get quotes from 3-5 companies and compare total price (including insurance)
Book 2-4 weeks in advance for best rates — last-minute shipping costs 20-30% more
Verify insurance coverage — reputable carriers carry $100,000+ in cargo insurance
Read reviews on transport company before booking — quality varies enormously
Car Shipping Market Insights
The auto transport industry has become more transparent with online quote tools and customer reviews. Brokers connect shippers with carriers but add a layer of cost and potential communication issues. Direct carrier booking is growing. Peak seasons (summer, January) see significant price increases.
Get Unlimited Car Shipping Valuations
Value items on the go with our mobile app. Available on iOS and Android.
Car Shipping Valuation FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car across the country?
Coast-to-coast car shipping costs $1,000-$1,500 for open transport and $1,500-$2,500 for enclosed. The exact price depends on the route, vehicle size, and time of year. Popular routes (California to Florida) may be cheaper due to carrier availability.
Is open or enclosed car transport better?
Open transport is fine for 90%+ of vehicles — it's cheaper and more readily available. Enclosed transport is worth the 40-60% premium for luxury cars ($50,000+), classic cars, and exotics where paint/finish protection is critical.
How long does car shipping take?
Short distance (under 500 miles): 2-4 days. Medium (500-1,500 miles): 4-7 days. Cross-country (2,500+ miles): 7-14 days. Expedited service is available for an additional fee. Weather and route affect timing.
Is my car insured during shipping?
Yes — reputable carriers carry cargo insurance ($100,000-$250,000). Verify coverage before booking. Document your car's condition (photos) before pickup. File damage claims immediately upon delivery.
Should I use a broker or direct carrier?
Brokers offer convenience (one call, multiple quotes) but add $100-$200 to the cost. Direct carriers may offer lower prices but require more research. For standard shipments, brokers are fine. For high-value vehicles, consider booking directly with a trusted enclosed carrier.