Sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination.
This saying couldn’t be more true when it comes to transporting your vehicle across the country or even internationally.
Whether you’re relocating for a new job, purchasing a car from a different state, or sending a beloved classic car to an auto show, the process of moving your vehicle safely and efficiently can feel overwhelming.
However, auto transport services have become an essential part of millions of Americans' lives each year.
The U.S. auto transport industry is projected to generate over $10.1 billion in revenue, which shows the growing need for reliable vehicle shipping options.
With millions of vehicles transported annually, vehicle transport companies offer a range of services to make moving a vehicle simple and stress-free.
The rise in online car purchases, the increasing mobility of the workforce, and the growing demand for shipping luxury and classic cars have all contributed to this expansion.
For instance, about 70% of people who move to a new state rely on car shipping services to get their vehicles to their new homes.
This is particularly common in areas like California, Texas, and Florida, where people frequently relocate for work, lifestyle, or retirement.
But what do you need to know before entrusting your car to a transport company?
What factors should you consider to make sure your vehicle arrives safely and on time?
And how do you decide between domestic or international auto transport?
These are just some of the questions that we’ll answer in this blog.
What are Auto Transport Services?
Auto transport services involve moving a vehicle from one location to another.
It's commonly used for:
Relocation: Moving to a new city or state and bringing your vehicle with you.
Car Purchases: Purchasing a vehicle from a distant location and shipping it to your home.
Selling a Vehicle: If you're selling a car to someone in another state, vehicle transport companies can help.
Classic Car Shipping: Classic and luxury car owners often use specialized transport services to ensure their valuable vehicles arrive in perfect condition.
These services are available across the U.S. and globally, and they are available for a wide range of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and trucks.
However, choosing the right method and company is the key to ensuring a smooth, cost-effective shipping experience.
Different Types of Auto Transport Services
When it comes to auto transport services, there are various options to choose from.
Here are the primary methods of vehicle transport:
Open Auto Transport
This is the most common and economical form of vehicle transport.
In open auto transport, vehicles are transported on an open-air carrier.
While it’s a budget-friendly option, the vehicle will be exposed to the elements like rain, snow, and dirt.
This is suitable for standard vehicles or those that aren’t particularly high-value or delicate.
Enclosed Auto Transport
For vehicles that require extra protection, such as luxury cars, vintage models, or motorcycles, enclosed auto transport is the best option.
This method involves shipping the vehicle in a fully enclosed carrier, which offers protection from weather conditions and road debris.
International Auto Transport
Sometimes, your vehicle might need to be shipped overseas. International auto transport involves complex logistics and compliance with regulations to ensure that your vehicle arrives safely in another country.
Motorcycle Transport Services
Transporting a motorcycle requires special attention. Many companies offer motorcycle transport services to make sure the vehicle is securely fastened and properly handled throughout the journey.
How Auto Transport Works
The process of transporting a vehicle typically involves several key steps:
Get a Quote: Before anything else, you'll need to get a quote from a few auto transport companies. Quotes are generally based on factors like distance, vehicle type, and transport method.
Book the Transport: Once you've chosen a company, you’ll schedule a pickup date. Depending on the company, you might have flexibility in terms of the pickup and delivery locations.
Vehicle Pickup: On the day of pickup, the carrier arrives at the agreed location, inspects your vehicle, and takes it onto the transport truck.
Transport Journey: The vehicle is transported from origin to destination using an open or enclosed carrier.
Delivery: Once your vehicle reaches its destination, it will be unloaded and inspected. Make sure to check your vehicle for any potential damage.
How to Choose the Right Auto Transport Company
Choosing the right company is critical to ensuring a safe and efficient experience.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Reviews and Reputation: Research the company's reputation by reading customer reviews on trusted websites. Look for companies with high ratings and a good history of reliability.
Licensing and Insurance: Make sure that the company is licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and offers adequate insurance coverage.
Experience: A company with years of experience in auto transport services is more likely to be reliable. Look for companies that specialize in shipping vehicles and have a good track record.
Customer Support: Choose a company that provides excellent customer support and is willing to answer any questions you have throughout the process.
Benefits of Using Auto Transport Services
Convenience: Rather than driving your vehicle long distances, auto transport services save you time and effort. You can focus on your move or other tasks while the transport company handles your vehicle.
Safety: If you're concerned about the wear and tear of long-distance driving, using professional services guarantees your vehicle is transported safely without the risk of accidents.
Insurance: Many auto transport companies offer insurance options that protect your vehicle in the event of damage during the shipping process.
Time-Saving: By going for a transport service, you avoid spending days on the road, especially when moving across state lines.
Key Considerations Before Shipping Your Vehicle
Inspect Your Vehicle: Before shipping, take photos of your vehicle from all angles. This will help if you need to file an insurance claim for damage that occurred during transit.
Remove Personal Items: Most companies don’t allow personal items to be shipped in the vehicle due to safety and insurance regulations.
Prepare for Pickup: Be sure to have your vehicle ready for pickup by ensuring it's in good working condition (no leaks, low gas, etc.) and accessible for the carrier.
How Much Does Auto Transport Services Cost?
So, you're probably wondering—how much does it actually cost to ship a car?
Well, the short answer is: it depends.
Many factors can influence the cost of auto transport services, and it’s important to know what they are before you make a decision.
Distance
The first and most obvious factor is the distance your vehicle needs to be transported.
Simply put, the farther the distance, the higher the cost.
For example, shipping a car from California to New York will obviously cost more than shipping it from California to Nevada.
To give you a general idea, here’s a rough breakdown:
| Distance | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 100-300 miles | $200 - $400 |
| 300-600 miles | $400 - $700 |
| 600-1,000 miles | $700 - $1,000 |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | $1,000 - $1,400 |
| 1,500+ miles | $1,400 - $2,000+ |
These are just estimates and can depend on other factors, but they give you an idea of how distance affects the cost of car shipping services.
Vehicle Size and Weight
Another significant factor that affects the cost is the size and weight of your vehicle.
Larger vehicles, like trucks, SUVs, or oversized cars, will usually cost more to transport because they take up more space on the carrier and are heavier, which means they require more fuel.
| Vehicle Type | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Compact Car (Sedan) | $500 - $1,000 |
| Mid-Size Car | $600 - $1,200 |
| Full-size SUV or Truck | $800 - $1,500 |
| Luxury or Exotic Cars | $1,200 - $2,000+ |
For example, if you have a full-size SUV or a luxury vehicle, expect to pay a little more, especially if you opt for enclosed auto transport.
Transport Type
The type of transport you choose also plays a significant role in determining the cost.
As mentioned, you have two primary options:
Open Auto Transport: This is the most common and affordable method. Your vehicle will be transported on an open-air carrier, meaning it's exposed to the elements, but it's still safe and reliable.
Enclosed Auto Transport: For added protection, especially for luxury, classic, or exotic cars, enclosed auto transport is the way to go. This method costs more because your vehicle is protected from weather, road debris, and other potential damages.
| Transport Type | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Open Auto Transport | $500 - $2,000+ |
| Enclosed Auto Transport | $1,000 - $3,000+ |
As you can see, the price can significantly depend on whether you choose open auto transport or enclosed auto transport.
Seasonality
Believe it or not, the time of year can affect the cost of auto transport services.
Demand is higher during peak seasons—typically summer and holidays—so prices tend to go up.
On the other hand, during the off-season (usually winter), when fewer people are transporting their vehicles, prices may be lower.
| Season | Estimated Cost Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Summer (High Demand) | +$100 - $300 |
| Winter (Off-Peak) | -$100 - $200 |
If you’re looking to save a little, it may be worth scheduling your transport during the off-season.
Pickup and Delivery Locations
The location from which your car is picked up and delivered can also affect the cost.
If you’re in a rural or remote area, the transport company may charge more for pickup because it’s harder to access these areas.
Similarly, if the delivery location is hard to reach, you may be charged extra for the driver to navigate challenging routes or terrain.
| Location Type | Estimated Cost Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Urban Areas | Standard Price |
| Rural Areas | +$100 - $300 |
| Hard-to-Reach Locations | +$200 - $400 |
If you’re in a big city like New York or Los Angeles, expect standard pricing.
However, due to additional logistics, the price could go up if you live in a small town or remote area.
Insurance
Most reputable vehicle transport companies provide some level of insurance for your car during transit.
Typically, this insurance covers damage from accidents or other unforeseen incidents during transport.
| Insurance Type | Estimated Cost Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Basic Coverage (Included) | Standard Pricing |
| Additional Coverage | +$50 - $150 |
While most companies offer basic coverage, it’s important to ask about it when getting a quote.
If you’re shipping a high-value vehicle, consider purchasing additional insurance for peace of mind.
Time Frame for Delivery
If you need your vehicle delivered urgently, expedited shipping can be arranged, but this will come with an added cost.
On average, expedited delivery can cost an extra $200 to $500, depending on how quickly you need the vehicle to arrive.
| Delivery Time | Estimated Cost Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Standard (1-2 weeks) | Standard Pricing |
| Expedited (2-5 Days) | +$200 - $500 |
Additional Fees
There are a few additional fees that might pop up depending on the transport company and the specifics of your shipment:
Broker Fees: If you go through a broker, expect to pay a fee in addition to the transport cost.
Terminal-to-Terminal Fees: If your vehicle needs to be picked up or delivered at a terminal instead of your home, you might be charged an additional fee.
Fuel Surcharge: Some companies might apply a surcharge for fuel, especially when gas prices rise.
Example Cost Breakdown
Let’s say you’re shipping a mid-size sedan (like a Honda Accord) from California to New York using open auto transport.
Here’s a quick estimate:
| Factor | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Distance (2,500 miles) | $1,000 |
| Vehicle Type (Sedan) | $600 |
| Transport Type (Open) | $1,000 |
| Pickup and Delivery (Urban Areas) | No Additional Charge |
| Seasonal Adjustment (Summer) | +$200 |
| Basic Insurance | Included |
| Total Estimated Cost | $2,800 |
If you choose enclosed transport, the price could increase by $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the carrier.
