How to Ship a Car Across Country: Complete Guide for 2023

Estimated reading time: 15 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Professional auto transport services protect your vehicle from wear and tear while saving you time and energy.
• Shipping a car across country typically costs between $1,200-$2,500 for standard vehicles, with prices varying by distance, vehicle type, and transport method.
• Open transport is more economical (30-40% less expensive), while enclosed shipping offers premium protection for high-value vehicles.
• Door-to-door service provides maximum convenience but costs $100-200 more than terminal-to-terminal options.
• Verify credentials, insurance coverage, and customer reviews when selecting a car shipping company to ensure reliability.
• Book 2-4 weeks in advance and consider off-peak seasons for the best rates and scheduling options.

Introduction

Moving across the country brings numerous logistical challenges, with transporting your vehicle being one of the most significant. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, moving to be closer to family, or simply changing scenery, understanding how to ship a car across country can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Car shipping services have evolved considerably in recent years, offering vehicle owners reliable, secure options for transporting their automobiles over long distances without adding thousands of miles to the odometer or enduring the fatigue of cross-country driving.

Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle shipping, involves hiring a professional carrier to move your vehicle from one location to another. This service encompasses everything from standard sedans to luxury vehicles, classic cars, SUVs, trucks, and even motorcycles. Unlike driving yourself or hiring someone to drive your car, auto transport services typically load vehicles onto specialized carriers designed specifically for moving multiple automobiles simultaneously, providing efficiency, security, and peace of mind throughout the transportation process.

Throughout this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cross country car shipping, including auto transport costs, enclosed transport options, open car carriers, door-to-door shipping, and how to find reliable car shipping companies. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions when arranging long distance vehicle transportation, using data and insights from industry experts to help you navigate the process confidently.

Understanding How to Ship a Car Across Country

What Is Cross Country Car Shipping?

Cross country car shipping is a specialized transportation service that moves vehicles from one state to another, typically covering distances of 1,000 miles or more. Unlike local auto transport, shipping a car across country requires extensive planning, proper carrier selection, and understanding of interstate transportation regulations. This service utilizes various vehicle shipping methods including open car transport (the most common and economical option) and enclosed car shipping (providing additional protection for high-value vehicles). Cross country auto shipping has become increasingly popular as Americans relocate more frequently for work, retirement, or lifestyle changes.

The process typically begins with obtaining car shipping quotes from various auto transport companies. These quotes consider multiple factors including distance, vehicle type, transport method, season, and specific route popularity. Once you’ve selected a carrier, the company will schedule pickup and delivery dates, though it’s important to understand that exact timing for cross country vehicle shipping can vary based on route, weather conditions, and carrier availability. Most reputable companies provide real-time tracking so customers can monitor their vehicle’s journey across state lines.

Understanding cross country car shipping also means recognizing the difference between broker services and direct carriers. Many auto transport companies act as brokers, connecting customers with actual carriers through a nationwide network. While brokers provide valuable services through their industry knowledge and carrier relationships, it’s always important to research both the broker and the actual carrier that will be transporting your vehicle. This comprehensive approach ensures you’re fully informed about who will be handling your automobile throughout the entire shipping process. ConsumerAffairs provides detailed information about auto transport companies, helping consumers make educated decisions when selecting a service provider.

Importance of Professional Auto Transport Services

Professional auto transport services offer numerous advantages over alternative methods like driving yourself or hiring someone to drive your vehicle across country. The most immediate benefit is the prevention of unnecessary wear and tear on your car. A cross-country journey can add thousands of miles to your odometer, accelerate depreciation, increase maintenance needs, and potentially lead to unexpected breakdowns in unfamiliar locations. Auto transportation services eliminate these concerns by loading your vehicle onto specialized carriers designed specifically for moving automobiles safely and securely.

Safety is another paramount concern when considering how to ship a car across country. Professional car shipping companies employ experienced drivers specifically trained in vehicle loading, securing, and transport techniques. Additionally, reputable auto transport carriers maintain comprehensive insurance coverage that protects your vehicle throughout the shipping journey. This insurance provides critical protection against potential damage from road debris, weather conditions, or other unpredictable factors that might occur during cross-country transportation.

Finally, professional vehicle shipping services offer invaluable convenience. Rather than spending days driving across country, facing hotel costs, meal expenses, and potential time away from work, you can fly to your destination while your car is transported separately. This approach is particularly beneficial for families with multiple vehicles or individuals relocating for work who need their vehicles to arrive without the inconvenience of a long-distance drive. For many customers, the time saved and reduced personal strain make professional auto transport services the most practical and cost-effective solution for cross-country moves. Angi provides a detailed breakdown of car shipping costs that shows how professional services can be economically advantageous when considering all expenses involved in driving cross-country.

Car Shipping Methods and Options

Open Car Transport vs. Enclosed Car Shipping

When exploring how to ship a car across country, one of the most fundamental decisions you’ll face is choosing between open and enclosed car transport. Open car transport involves shipping your vehicle on an open-air carrier exposed to the elements, similar to the large, double-decker trailers frequently seen on highways transporting new cars to dealerships. This method is the most common and economical option, typically costing 30-40% less than enclosed shipping. Open carriers can transport up to ten vehicles simultaneously, allowing auto transport companies to distribute costs across multiple shipments. While your vehicle will be exposed to weather conditions and road debris, statistics show that damage rates remain remarkably low, with less than 5% of vehicles experiencing any issues, and most of those being minor cosmetic concerns.

Enclosed car shipping provides premium protection by transporting your vehicle in a fully enclosed trailer, shielding it from all external elements including weather, dirt, and road debris. This service is particularly recommended for high-value vehicles such as luxury cars, classic automobiles, exotic sports cars, or any vehicle with low ground clearance. The enclosed environment offers superior protection not just from physical hazards but also from visual exposure, providing an added layer of security and privacy. Enclosed carriers typically transport fewer vehicles (usually 2-6) compared to open carriers, which means more personalized attention but also higher car shipping costs – generally 40-60% more than open transport.

When deciding between these options, consider your vehicle’s value, your personal risk tolerance, and your budget. While standard vehicles in good condition are typically well-suited for open transport, vehicles valued over $50,000, with custom modifications, or with sentimental value might warrant the additional investment in enclosed shipping. Weather conditions along the route and seasonal considerations should also factor into your decision, as winter shipping through harsh climates might present additional risks for open transport. Ultimately, both methods are designed to safely transport your vehicle, and your choice should align with your specific needs and concerns. Moving.com offers a comprehensive comparison of open versus enclosed auto transport that can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Door-to-Door Car Shipping and Terminal-to-Terminal Options

Door-to-door car shipping represents the most convenient auto transport option, where carriers pick up your vehicle at your specified location (home, office, or another accessible address) and deliver it directly to your destination address. This premium service eliminates the need to drop off or pick up your vehicle at a designated terminal, saving you time and additional logistics planning. The auto transport driver will arrive as close to your location as legally possible and safely accessible with their equipment. Narrow streets, low-hanging branches, or restrictive neighborhood regulations might occasionally necessitate meeting at a nearby location like a shopping center or wider street, but the overall convenience remains significantly higher than terminal options.

Terminal-to-terminal shipping offers a more economical alternative where you drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated storage facilities or terminals operated by or affiliated with the auto transport company. These terminals are typically located near major cities or transportation hubs. While this option usually costs less than door-to-door service, it comes with several considerations: you’ll need transportation to and from these terminals, your vehicle might sit at the terminal for days waiting for transport (potentially exposed to elements if stored outdoors), and terminals often have limited operating hours that may not align with your schedule. Additionally, some terminals charge daily storage fees if your car remains past a specific timeframe.

When determining which option best suits your needs, consider your schedule flexibility, budget constraints, and personal convenience preferences. Door-to-door shipping generally adds $100-200 to the total cost but eliminates the need for additional transportation arrangements and potential terminal fees. Terminal-to-terminal might be worthwhile if you have flexible timing, are shipping to or from locations near established terminals, or are working with strict budget limitations. Most car shipping customers ultimately choose door-to-door service for its convenience, particularly for long-distance or cross-country moves where coordinating transportation to terminals in unfamiliar cities presents additional challenges. Move.org provides detailed information about the differences between door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal shipping, helping you evaluate which option aligns best with your specific circumstances.

Best Practices for Shipping a Car Across Country

Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport

Properly preparing your vehicle for cross country auto transport helps ensure a smooth shipping process and minimizes potential complications. Start with a thorough cleaning of both the exterior and interior of your car. A clean exterior allows for more accurate documentation of your vehicle’s pre-transport condition, while a clean interior prevents loose items from causing damage during transit. Take detailed photographs from multiple angles, documenting any existing scratches, dents, or other imperfections. These images provide critical documentation should any disputes arise regarding the condition of your vehicle upon delivery.

Mechanical preparation is equally important when shipping a car across country. Check all fluid levels (oil, transmission, brake, coolant) and ensure they’re at appropriate levels but not overfilled, as fluids can expand during shipping. Examine your battery to confirm it’s securely mounted and adequately charged. Disable any alarm systems that might activate during transport, which could drain your battery or create disruptions. Reduce your fuel level to approximately one-quarter tank—enough to drive on and off the carrier but not so much that it adds unnecessary weight. Address any leaking fluids or mechanical issues before shipping, as transporters may refuse vehicles with active leaks due to safety concerns.

Finally, remove or secure all personal belongings and aftermarket accessories. Auto transport insurance typically doesn’t cover personal items, and loose objects can become projectiles during transit. Remove toll transponders, parking passes, and valuable items from the vehicle. Fold in side mirrors, retract antennas when possible, and remove or secure any removable parts like spoilers or bike racks. Provide your transport driver with any special instructions regarding your vehicle, such as starting procedures or operational quirks. These comprehensive preparation steps help ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination in the same condition it left, making the entire shipping process more efficient and less stressful for all parties involved. Consumer Reports offers additional guidance on safely preparing your vehicle for shipping, providing expert recommendations to protect your automobile during transport.

Selecting a Reliable Car Shipping Company

Finding a reputable car shipping company is perhaps the most critical decision in the process of shipping a car across country. Begin your search by verifying basic credentials: any legitimate auto transport company must be registered with the Department of Transportation and possess a valid MC (Motor Carrier) number. This information should be prominently displayed on their website and can be verified through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database. Legitimate car shipping companies must also maintain appropriate insurance coverage, so request proof of insurance and understand exactly what protections are provided for your vehicle during transport.

Customer reviews and industry ratings provide valuable insights into a company’s reliability and service quality. Check multiple review platforms including Google, Transport Reviews, Better Business Bureau, and Trustpilot to get a comprehensive picture. Look specifically for reviews mentioning cross country car shipping, as long-distance transport presents different challenges than short-distance moves. Pay particular attention to how companies respond to negative reviews, as this indicates their commitment to customer satisfaction. Industry associations like the Auto Transport Association can also provide lists of members who adhere to established ethical standards and best practices.

When requesting car shipping quotes, be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they typically are. Unusually low quotes may indicate a company that employs bait-and-switch tactics or lacks proper insurance coverage. Reputable vehicle shipping companies provide detailed, transparent quotes explaining all potential fees and conditions. During your evaluation process, assess the company’s communication practices and customer service responsiveness. Professional auto transporters should readily answer questions about their process, timing, insurance coverage, and potential contingencies. Finally, review the contract thoroughly before signing, understanding cancellation policies, pickup and delivery procedures, insurance coverage limitations, and any potential additional fees. Taking these diligent steps helps ensure you select a trustworthy partner for your vehicle’s journey across the country. The Better Business Bureau provides additional guidance on choosing an auto transport company, offering valuable tips to help you identify reputable service providers.

Car Shipping Costs and Pricing Factors

Understanding Auto Transport Pricing Structures

Auto transport pricing is influenced by numerous variables that collectively determine your final cost when shipping a car across country. Distance remains the most significant factor, with cross country car shipping typically ranging from $1,200 to $2,500 for standard vehicles traveling between coasts. However, this baseline estimate adjusts based on several critical considerations. Vehicle size and weight directly impact pricing, as larger vehicles occupy more space on carriers and contribute to increased fuel consumption. For instance, shipping an SUV or truck can cost 20-25% more than shipping a standard sedan along the same route due to the space requirements and weight factors.

Transport type creates another substantial price differential, with enclosed transport typically costing 40-60% more than open carrier shipping. This premium reflects the enhanced protection and reduced capacity of enclosed carriers. Seasonal fluctuations significantly impact auto transport costs, with summer months (peak moving season) and January (snowbird season) commanding premium prices due to increased demand. Conversely, shipping during off-peak times like late fall or early spring can yield savings of 10-15%. Route popularity also affects pricing; shipments between major metropolitan areas often cost less per mile than routes to or from rural locations due to carrier availability and the potential for consolidated shipments.

Market conditions, including fuel prices and driver availability, create fluctuating variables in auto transport pricing. Expedited shipping, which prioritizes your vehicle for faster pickup and delivery, typically adds 20-30% to standard rates. Additional services like top-loading (positioning your vehicle on the upper deck of a carrier to avoid potential leaks from other vehicles), guaranteed pickup dates, or enclosed transport for oversized vehicles further impact the final cost. Understanding these pricing factors helps you budget appropriately and recognize why quotes may vary significantly between different routes, seasons, and service levels when researching how to ship a car across country. JD Supra provides a detailed analysis of factors affecting auto transport costs, offering insights into the complex pricing structures within the industry.

Money-Saving Tips for Car Shipping

Strategic planning can significantly reduce your costs when shipping a car across country without compromising service quality or vehicle safety. Booking well in advance—ideally 2-4 weeks before your desired shipping date—not only secures better rates but also provides more carrier options and flexible scheduling. This advance planning gives auto transport companies time to optimize their routes and potentially offer you more competitive pricing. Being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates can yield substantial savings, as carriers may offer discounted rates to fill remaining spots on already-scheduled routes. Many transporters offer discounts of 5-15% for flexible timing that allows them to optimize their logistics.

Comparing quotes from multiple car shipping companies is essential, but ensure you’re evaluating comparable services. Request detailed breakdowns of what each quote includes, watching for potential hidden fees like fuel surcharges, insurance deductibles, or rural delivery fees. Seasonal shipping awareness can lead to significant savings; avoiding peak summer moving season (May-September) and January’s snowbird migration can reduce costs by 10-20%. If your schedule permits, consider shipping during February-April or October-November when demand is typically lower and carriers offer more competitive rates to fill their capacity.

Terminal-to-terminal shipping, though less convenient, typically saves $100-200 compared to door-to-door service. For those with flexible schedules, this option merits consideration, particularly if terminals are conveniently located near your origin and destination. Many auto transport companies offer specialized discounts for military personnel, students, seniors, first responders, or repeat customers, so always inquire about available discount programs. Finally, consider consolidation options if you’re shipping multiple vehicles, as many carriers offer multi-car discounts ranging from 10-15% of the total cost. By implementing these strategic approaches and maintaining flexibility where possible, you can significantly reduce your vehicle shipping costs while still ensuring professional, reliable service for your automobile’s journey across the country. MoveBuddha offers additional insights on car shipping costs and strategies to help you maximize value while minimizing expenses.

Future Trends in Cross Country Car Shipping

Technology Innovations in Auto Transport

The auto transport industry is undergoing significant technological transformation, enhancing how companies ship cars across country through digital innovation and automation. Advanced tracking systems now provide real-time location updates, estimated arrival times, and route information directly to customers’ smartphones or computers. These sophisticated GPS and telematics systems offer unprecedented transparency, allowing vehicle owners to monitor their automobile’s journey across state lines with precise location data and regular status updates. This technology significantly reduces customer anxiety and eliminates the frustration of wondering where your vehicle is during transit.

Sophisticated logistics algorithms are revolutionizing route optimization and carrier matching. These AI-powered systems analyze thousands of variables including distance, traffic patterns, weather conditions, carrier availability, and vehicle specifications to determine the most efficient shipping routes and appropriate carriers. This technology results in faster transit times, reduced fuel consumption, and ultimately more competitive pricing for consumers. Digital inspection technology has similarly transformed the condition reporting process, with many auto transport companies now utilizing high-resolution photography, video documentation, and digital signature capabilities to create comprehensive, indisputable records of vehicle condition before and after transport.

Online booking platforms have greatly simplified the process of arranging vehicle shipping services. Modern interfaces allow customers to input vehicle details, specify pickup and delivery locations, select service levels, and receive instant quotes without phone calls or in-person visits. These platforms often incorporate review systems, carrier credentials verification, and transparent pricing models to help consumers make informed decisions. Looking ahead, the industry is poised for further innovation through autonomous loading systems, electric transport vehicles, and blockchain technology for securing shipping contracts and vehicle documentation. These technological advances continue to make shipping a car across country more efficient, reliable, and customer-friendly than ever before.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to ship a car across country?

Cross country car shipping typically takes 5-14 days, depending on the specific route, distance, weather conditions, and carrier availability. Coast-to-coast shipments usually require 7-10 days, while shorter cross-country routes might be completed in 5-7 days. Expedited shipping options can reduce these timeframes but at a higher cost. It’s advisable to plan for potential delays by allowing additional time beyond the estimated delivery window, especially during peak seasons or when shipping to remote locations.

What impacts the cost of shipping a car across country?

Multiple factors influence cross country auto transport pricing, including distance, vehicle size and weight, transport type (open vs. enclosed), season, route popularity, fuel prices, and additional services. Larger vehicles cost more to ship due to space requirements and weight. Enclosed transport adds a 40-60% premium over open carriers. Summer months and January typically command higher prices because of increased demand. Rural origins or destinations may increase costs due to limited carrier availability. Expedited service or guaranteed pickup dates also add to the base price.

Is my vehicle insured during transport?

Reputable auto transport companies provide insurance coverage throughout the shipping process. This coverage protects against damage that might occur while your vehicle is in transit. Before shipping, request documentation of the carrier’s insurance policy and understand exactly what is covered, any applicable deductibles, and the claims process. Most policies cover external damage caused during transport but may exclude mechanical issues, acts of nature, or pre-existing damage. Personal items left in the vehicle are typically not covered, which is why you should remove all belongings before shipping.

Can I pack personal items in my car when shipping?

Most auto transport companies strongly discourage or explicitly prohibit packing personal items in your vehicle during shipping. There are several reasons for this policy: 1) The Department of Transportation regulates carriers as vehicle transporters, not household goods movers; 2) Additional weight affects fuel efficiency and may exceed weight limits; 3) Loose items can become projectiles during transit, potentially damaging your vehicle or others; 4) Insurance typically doesn’t cover personal belongings during auto transport. Some companies may allow a small amount of personal items (under 100 pounds) secured in the trunk, but this should be discussed and approved before shipping.

What’s the difference between a broker and a carrier in auto transport?

Auto transport brokers act as intermediaries between customers and actual carriers, facilitating the shipping process by finding appropriate carriers for specific routes and vehicle types. Brokers typically have extensive networks of carriers and industry knowledge but don’t own transport equipment themselves. Carriers are the companies that physically transport vehicles using their own trucks and drivers. When working with brokers, your contract is with the brokerage, who then contracts with carriers on your behalf. Both entities must be registered with the Department of Transportation and have valid MC numbers. Many customers prefer brokers for their ability to find competitive rates and available carriers, especially for less common routes, while others prefer working directly with carriers to eliminate the middleman.

How do I prepare my vehicle for cross country shipping?

To prepare your vehicle for cross country shipping: 1) Thoroughly clean the exterior and interior; 2) Document the current condition with detailed photos from multiple angles; 3) Remove personal items and valuables; 4) Secure or remove loose parts and accessories; 5) Check for and address any fluid leaks; 6) Ensure the battery is charged and securely mounted; 7) Reduce the fuel level to approximately one-quarter tank; 8) Disable alarm systems; 9) Provide keys for doors, trunks, and gas caps; 10) Inform the carrier about any operational quirks or special starting procedures. These preparations help ensure a smooth shipping process and assist in accurately documenting your vehicle’s pre-transport condition.

What documents do I need when shipping a car across country?

When shipping a car across country, you’ll need several important documents: 1) A copy of your vehicle registration; 2) Proof of insurance; 3) Photo identification (driver’s license or passport); 4) The bill of lading, which serves as a receipt and inspection report documenting your vehicle’s condition; 5) Payment authorization or receipt; 6) Lien authorization if your vehicle is financed (some lienholders require permission to transport across state lines); 7) Special permits for modified vehicles (if applicable). Both you and the driver will sign the bill of lading at pickup and delivery, so be present for both or designate an authorized representative who can inspect and sign on your behalf.

Can I ship a non-running vehicle?

Yes, most auto transport companies can accommodate non-running vehicles, but you must disclose this information when requesting quotes as it affects pricing and logistics. Shipping non-operational vehicles typically incurs an additional fee of $100-$300 depending on the specific issues and equipment needed. Cars that don’t start require specialized equipment like winches or forklifts for loading and unloading. When shipping a non-running vehicle, provide detailed information about its condition—whether it rolls, steers, and brakes—as these factors determine the equipment needed. Some carriers may not accept severely damaged vehicles or those without wheels, so be transparent about your vehicle’s condition when arranging transport to avoid complications or cancellations.