How Much Will It Cost to Ship Your Car for a Move?

“How much does it cost to ship a car?” is often the first question people ask when they are considering auto transport, and understandably so. Shipping your vehicle from one state to another can be costly, but it can also be a safer and more convenient way to move your vehicle long-distance. There are many factors that determine the exact cost of shipping your vehicle, so here are a few things to consider.

What type of vehicle are you shipping?
Bigger vehicles like trucks, vans, and SUVs are more expensive to transport than sedans or compact cars. That’s because carriers can only transport a certain amount of weight and obviously, the bigger the car the heavier it will be. Other factors that can increase costs are modifications for oversized tires or the need to lower or lift your car for some reason.

How far is the vehicle being shipped?
Distance plays a major role in the cost of your vehicle shipment. The farther the distance you are transporting the car, the more it will cost you. Car shippers usually charge a base price per mile.

Is the auto-transport door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal?
Many auto shipping companies will give you the option of having your car shipped directly to your door or to a terminal. Door-to door service is typically more expensive than terminal shipping, although it is more convenient. The exact location of your vehicle’s destination can also play a factor in the price. If the drop-off and pick-up destination is in a hard to reach location or far from a heavily traveled highway, this can increase the cost.

Are you using an open or enclosed carrier?
You have the option to ship your vehicle in an open-air carrier or an enclosed carrier. Open-air carriers are less expensive, though your vehicle will be exposed to outdoor elements. Most people who are shipping antique or luxury vehicles choose enclosed carriers, as they are a safer option.

What is the price of fuel?
Fuel prices are constantly changing and this is possibly the biggest variable expense associated with auto transport.

While there is no exact cost for every vehicle, these factors will help give you a better idea of how to calculate the cost of shipping your vehicle.