Whether you're moving to a new city, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a loved one,
car shipping
can make the process much easier. Instead of driving hundreds or thousands of miles yourself, a professional car shipping company can safely and efficiently transport your vehicle for you.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about car shipping—how it works, how much it costs, and how to choose the best provider.
What Is Car Shipping?
Car shipping is a service that transports vehicles from one location to another using a specialized copyright. It’s also known as auto transport or vehicle transport. People use car shipping services for various reasons, including:
Long-distance relocations
Online car purchases
Military moves
College students moving out of state
Shipping a car for a vacation home
Instead of taking time off to drive your car across the country, you can have a transport company do it for you—saving you time, gas, and wear-and-tear on your vehicle.
Types of Car Shipping Services
There are several car shipping options available, depending on your needs and budget:
1. Open copyright Shipping
The most common and cost-effective option
Vehicles are shipped on open trailers
Ideal for standard cars, SUVs, and trucks
2. Enclosed copyright Shipping
Cars are transported in a fully enclosed trailer
Offers protection from weather and road debris
Best for luxury, classic, or exotic vehicles
3. Door-to-Door Shipping
Your car is picked up and delivered as close as possible to your home or specified address
Most convenient option
4. Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
You drop off and pick up your car at designated terminals
May be less expensive, but not as convenient
How Much Does Car Shipping Cost?
Car shipping costs vary based on several factors:
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Distance | Longer distances usually cost more overall |
| Vehicle type | Larger or heavier vehicles may cost more to ship |
| Shipping method | Enclosed transport is more expensive than open |
| Pickup/delivery locations | Rural or hard-to-reach areas may increase costs |
| Season and demand | Summer and holidays can drive up prices |
Example Price Range (Open Transport):
0–500 miles: $500–$700
500–1,000 miles: $700–$1,000
1,000–2,000 miles: $1,000–$1,500
Cross-country: $1,200–$1,800+
Note: Enclosed shipping can cost 30%–50% more.
How the Car Shipping Process Works
Request a Quote – Provide your car details, locations, and dates.
Choose a copyright – Compare services, pricing, and reviews.
Schedule Pickup – Confirm a pickup date that fits your schedule.
Prepare Your Car – Remove personal items, check for leaks, and take photos.
Transport – Your car is loaded and transported to the destination.
Inspect on Delivery – Check for damage before signing off.
Tips for Choosing a Car Shipping Company
✅ Research the company’s reviews and ratings
✅ Ensure they are licensed and insured
✅ Compare multiple quotes
✅ Ask about tracking and communication during transport
✅ Beware of prices that seem too good to be true
Final Thoughts
Car shipping is a convenient and reliable way to move your vehicle, especially when driving it yourself isn’t practical. Whether you're shipping one car or an entire fleet, the right auto transport company can make the process smooth and stress-free.
Before booking, take the time to compare quotes, understand the different service types, and choose a reputable provider. With the right planning, your car will arrive safely and on time—without adding miles to the odometer.