The cost to ship a car can change based on distance, route, vehicle size, transport type, pickup timing, and carrier availability. A short regional shipment may cost less overall, while a long-distance shipment usually costs more in total but often has a lower cost per mile.
Average Car Shipping Cost by Distance
Distance is one of the biggest factors in car shipping cost. However, mileage is not the only thing that matters. A popular route with strong carrier availability may be easier to price than a shorter route in a remote area.
| Distance | Estimated Open Transport Cost | Common Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| 0-500 miles | $400 | 1-3 days |
| 500-1,000 miles | $600 | 2-4 days |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | $750 | 3-5 days |
| 1,500-2,500 miles | $950 | 5-8 days |
| 2,500+ miles | $1,150 | 7-10 days |
What Affects Car Shipping Cost?
Car shipping cost is based on the full shipment details, not just the distance. The more accurate your pickup, delivery, vehicle, and timing information is, the easier it is to understand the estimate.
Distance and Route
Longer routes usually cost more overall, but the cost per mile often gets lower as the shipment distance increases. Major routes with regular carrier traffic may also be easier to schedule than remote pickup or delivery areas.
Vehicle Type and Size
Larger vehicles can cost more because they take up more carrier space. A sedan is usually easier to move than a full-size pickup, SUV, RV, boat, or oversized vehicle.
Open or Enclosed Transport
Open transport is usually the lower-cost option. Enclosed transport usually costs more because it gives the vehicle added protection from weather, road debris, dust, and outside exposure. FreightWaves notes that enclosed shipping can cost up to 50% more than open transport for the same distance.
Pickup and Delivery Access
Large carriers need safe space to load and unload. Narrow streets, gated areas, low-clearance roads, restricted communities, or rural locations may require extra planning.
Vehicle Condition
Running vehicles are usually easier to load. Non-running vehicles may need special equipment, which can increase the cost.
Pickup Window
Flexible pickup dates can help with scheduling. Urgent pickup, exact-date pickup, or a narrow timing window may affect carrier availability and price.
Season and Route Demand
Car shipping prices can change when certain routes become busier. Summer moves, snowbird season, college moves, holidays, and weather can all affect demand.
Why Car Shipping Quotes Can Change
Car shipping quotes can change because auto transport is based on route demand and carrier availability. A route that is easy to cover one week may cost more the next week if fewer carriers are available or more customers are shipping on the same lane.
This is also why very low quotes can be risky. If a quote is far below the market, it may be difficult to find a carrier willing to accept the shipment at that price. A clear quote should be based on your actual route, vehicle details, timing, and transport needs.
How to Lower Your Car Shipping Cost
You may not control every part of the price, but a few simple choices can help keep your car shipping cost more affordable.
Is Shipping a Car Cheaper Than Driving?
Shipping a car can sometimes make more sense than driving it yourself, especially for long-distance moves. Driving may include fuel, hotel stays, food, time off work, added mileage, and wear on the vehicle.
Shipping may cost more upfront, but it can save time and reduce stress on longer routes. The better choice depends on your distance, schedule, vehicle condition, and how much time you want to spend on the road.
When Is Enclosed Transport Worth the Extra Cost?
Enclosed transport can be worth it when protection matters more than choosing the lowest price. It is commonly used for vehicles that are rare, expensive, restored, or difficult to replace.
Consider enclosed transport for: