Individuals need to move cars. This can arise while relocating, buying an auto from afar, or selling a car to someone in another state. Car transportation expertise can save time, cash, and stress.
This comprehensive guide offers every detail necessary for shipping a car within the United States. It provides information about selecting the appropriate transportation method and ensuring your vehicle is correctly prepared.
Method to Ship a Car
There are various ways to ship a car, each with pros and cons.
Open Transport
This technique is highly regarded and offers excellent value, as it involves shipping cars on open-air trailers that are acceptable for standard vehicles.
Enclosed Transport
Choose enclosed transport to safeguard against exterior hazards and road debris, which is excellent for luxury or classic cars.
What is the Cost of Shipping a Car?
The approximate cost for shipping a car is $1,650 on average. The cost of car shipping varies based on several factors and transportation options, which means your expenses may differ.
The shipping cost differs based on the distance moved. The price can be over $1 per mile for short shipments, while for cross-country shipments, it can be as low as 50 cents per mile or even less.
| Distance | Estimated delivery Days | Open Car Transport Cost Estimation | Enclosed Car Transport Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – 499 Miles | 2 – 4 Days | $563 | $701 |
| 500 – 1499 Miles | 3 – 5 Days | $788 | $989 |
| 1500- 2499 Miles | 5 – 7 Days | $1109 | $1623 |
| 2500 Miles And Above | 7 – 9 Days | $1421 | $1898 |
The average cost of shipping a car from one state to other state according to our research is $1,650. The price is calculated from the past shipment done from different auto transport companies. The shipping of car is calculated mostly according to the distance the vehicle transported. The calculator will give you the rough idea how shipping company calculate the cost of shipping a vehicle using either open Auto transport or enclosed auto transport.
Factors Impacting the Cost of Shipping a Car
Car transportation costs in the US depend on several variables. Understanding these elements helps you to choose wisely and manage your money.
Dista nce
Shipping costs are usually more significant for longer distances because of the additional fuel and labor expenses.
Vehicle Specifications
Several variables, including size, weight, and specific handling requirements, may influence the total shipping cost.
Seasonal Demand
Changes in demand during the year may influence pricing, with peak seasons usually ending in more expensive rates.
Preferred Shipping Method
The best services, like enclosed transport, can be more expensive than standard open transport.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping
Thorough Cleaning
Ensure your car receives an extensive inside and out wash to assist with the pre-shipment inspection and evidence of its condition.
Clear personal items
Remove all personal items from your car to lower the chances of any possible harm or theft during transportation.
Turn off alarms
All car alarms must be turned off to avoid unnecessary transportation disruptions.
Record any pre-existing damage
Gather accurate images of your vehicle, emphasizing any existing damages for another time.
Fuel Levels
Ensure your vehicle has less than a quarter gas tank to satisfy safety requirements.
Choosing a Reliable Transport Company
Selecting a dependable transport company is necessary for a smooth car shipping experience. Here are some proposals to assist you in choosing the right company:
Research and compare
Perform extensive research and evaluate various transport companies. Get customer reviews, ratings, and issues lodged with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer protection agencies.
Confirming Qualifications
Verify the company’s licenses and insurance. The FACSM website allows you to verify their eligibility.
Get Multiple Quotes
Get quotes from multiple companies to contrast prices and services. Be wary of excessively low quotes, which may indicate poor service or hidden charges.
Ask About Insurance
Request information about the company’s insurance coverage and its particulars. Obtaining extensive knowledge of their policy will provide helpful insight into what you may expect if any harm occurs during transportation.
Read the Contract Carefully
Before finalizing any agreement, you must thoroughly review and understand all terms and conditions, including those involving cancellation policies, pickup and delivery windows, and any potential extra costs.
The Process to Ship a Car in the United States
Pickup
The shipping company will arrange a pickup date and time. Upon pickup, a driver will carefully inspect your vehicle and record its current condition. Please remember that you must sign a Bill of Lading, as it serves as both a receipt and a contract.
Transport
Throughout transportation, the staff will check the condition of your car. Distance and route influence transit time, which may take days or weeks.
Delivery
When you obtain the vehicle, the driver will perform an exhaustive check of the vehicle alongside you.
It is essential to thoroughly check the car’s condition by comparing it to the photos taken before transportation to identify any possible new damage.
Once all the necessary checks have been made, please sign the Bill of Lading to complete the delivery.