How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car in 2025?

The cost to ship a car across the United States typically ranges from $500 to $1,500 for most shipments, with the national average around $1,000. However, your actual cost depends on several factors we'll break down in this guide.

Quick Cost Estimates by Distance

Here are typical price ranges for shipping a standard sedan via open transport:

6 Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs

1. Distance

Distance is the biggest factor in your shipping cost. Interestingly, longer distances have a lower cost per mile. A 500-mile shipment might cost $1.00 per mile, while a 2,500-mile coast-to-coast run might only cost $0.50 per mile.

This is because carriers have fixed costs (loading, unloading, paperwork) regardless of distance. Those costs get spread over more miles on longer runs.

2. Vehicle Size and Weight

Larger vehicles cost more to ship because they take up more space on the carrier and add weight. Here's how vehicle types typically compare:

• Sedans & Coupes: Base pricing
• SUVs & Crossovers: +$50 to $150
• Trucks & Vans: +$100 to $200
• Lifted or Modified Vehicles: +$150 to $300

3. Open vs. Enclosed Transport

Open transport is the standard, most affordable option. Your car rides on an open carrier with 7-10 other vehicles—the same way new cars are delivered to dealerships.

Enclosed transport costs 30-50% more but provides premium protection. Your vehicle travels in a fully enclosed trailer, shielded from weather and road debris. This is recommended for:

• Luxury vehicles ($75,000+)
• Classic and collector cars
• Exotic sports cars
• Show cars and concours entries

4. Vehicle Condition

If your vehicle doesn't run, steer, or brake, it requires special equipment to load. Inoperable vehicles typically cost $100-$200 more than running vehicles.

5. Pickup and Delivery Locations

Major metro areas have more carrier traffic, which means better availability and often lower prices. Rural or remote locations may cost more because:

• Fewer carriers travel those routes
• Carriers may need to go out of their way
• Large trucks may have difficulty accessing some areas

6. Time of Year (Seasonality)

Auto transport pricing fluctuates with demand:

• Peak season (Oct-Mar): Snowbird migration drives up prices on routes to Florida and Arizona. Expect to pay $100-$200 more.
• Summer: Busy with relocations and college moves. Moderate price increases.
• Spring/Fall: Generally the best rates and availability.

How to Get the Best Price

Book in Advance

Last-minute shipments cost more. Booking 1-2 weeks ahead gives you better options and pricing.

Be Flexible with Dates

If you can accept a wider pickup window (3-5 days instead of a specific date), carriers have more flexibility to fit you into their routes efficiently.

Avoid Peak Season if Possible

If your timing is flexible, shipping in spring or fall typically offers better rates than peak snowbird season.

Get Multiple Quotes

Prices vary between companies. However, be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true—some companies lowball quotes and increase the price later.

Red Flags: Pricing to Avoid

• Quotes significantly below market rate: Often a bait-and-switch tactic
• Large upfront deposits: Reputable brokers don't charge until dispatch
• Vague pricing: You should know exactly what you'll pay
• Pressure to book immediately: Legitimate quotes don't expire in hours

Get Your Accurate Quote

Every shipment is unique. The best way to know your exact cost is to request a personalized quote with your specific details: vehicle type, pickup location, delivery location, and preferred dates.