How to Ship a Car Across the Country
Shipping a car across the United States doesn't have to be stressful. At Mission Auto Transport, we've been helping individuals and businesses transport vehicles nationwide for over 22 years. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport
The first decision you'll make is whether to ship your vehicle on an open carrier or an enclosed carrier.
Open Transport
Open carriers are the large multi-car trailers you see on the highway. They're the most popular and cost-effective option. Most vehicles ship just fine on open carriers.
Pros:
- Most affordable option
- More carrier availability
- Faster scheduling
Enclosed Transport
Enclosed carriers use fully covered trailers that protect your vehicle from weather, road debris, and prying eyes.
Choose enclosed if:
- You're shipping a luxury, classic, or exotic vehicle
- The vehicle is low-clearance or modified
- You want maximum protection
How Much Does It Cost?
Cross-country car shipping (e.g., coast to coast) typically ranges from $900 to $1,800 for a standard sedan on an open carrier. Enclosed transport costs 40-60% more.
Factors that affect price:
- Distance — longer routes cost more but have a lower per-mile rate
- Vehicle size — SUVs and trucks cost more than sedans
- Condition — inoperable vehicles add $100-$200
- Season — summer and snowbird season have higher demand
- Transport type — enclosed costs more than open
How Long Does It Take?
Cross-country transport typically takes 7-14 days from pickup to delivery. Shorter routes take less time:
- Under 500 miles: 1-3 days
- 500-1,500 miles: 4-7 days
- 1,500+ miles: 7-14 days
Preparing Your Vehicle
Before pickup day:
- Clean your car — inspect and photograph any existing damage
- Remove personal items — carriers aren't insured for belongings inside the vehicle
- Check fluids and battery — ensure the car is operable (or let us know if it isn't)
- Reduce fuel to 1/4 tank — less weight, safer transport
- Remove toll tags and parking passes — avoid charges during transit
Why Choose Mission Auto Transport?
- Fully licensed, bonded & insured (USDOT# 2783026 | MC# 924412)
- No upfront deposits — you pay when your shipment is scheduled
- Door-to-door service nationwide
- 22+ years of experience
- Real-time updates throughout your shipment
Ready to Ship?
Get your free, no-obligation quote in 30 seconds. No upfront cost, no pressure. Just fill out our quote form or call us at 754-222-1546.
