Shipping a car can seem daunting, especially when you’re trying to budget and understand all the associated costs. If you’re wondering, “How Much Does It Cost To Get A Car Shipped?”, you’re in the right place. Understanding the intricacies of car shipping costs is crucial for making informed decisions and avoiding unexpected expenses. This guide breaks down all the factors that influence the price of shipping your vehicle, ensuring you have a clear picture before you commit.
Understanding the Average Car Shipping Cost
The average cost to ship a car within the contiguous United States typically ranges around $1,000. However, this is just an average, and prices can fluctuate considerably. You might find rates as low as $700-$750 on the lower end, while on the higher end, averages can reach $1,200-$1,300. A useful benchmark to keep in mind is the per-mile average: for distances exceeding 1,000 miles, you can generally expect to pay around $0.60 per mile. Shorter distances, however, tend to have a higher per-mile cost, often closer to $1 per mile.
While some companies might advertise a flat fee for car shipping, it’s essential to scrutinize the fine print. Often, these flat rates come with hidden charges or extra fees that can quickly escalate the total shipping cost. It’s more beneficial to understand the factors that contribute to the overall price to get a more accurate estimate and avoid surprises.
Key Factors Influencing Car Shipping Costs
Several elements play a significant role in determining the final cost of shipping your car. Let’s delve into each of these factors to understand how they impact pricing:
Distance: Shipping Origin and Destination
The distance your car needs to travel is arguably the most influential factor in determining shipping costs. Generally, the farther the distance, the higher the total cost will be. Most car shipping companies utilize a per-mile pricing model, though the per-mile rate itself can decrease as the shipping distance increases. Shorter routes, while less expensive overall, often have a higher cost per mile compared to long-distance shipments. For example, shipping a car across the country will cost more in total than shipping it within the same state, but the price per mile will likely be lower for the cross-country trip.
Vehicle Type: Size and Dimensions
The type of vehicle you are shipping is another critical factor. Larger vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, and vans, typically cost more to ship than smaller cars. This is primarily because larger vehicles occupy more space on the transport carrier and sometimes weigh more, impacting fuel consumption. Carriers need to allocate space based on vehicle dimensions, so providing accurate details about your vehicle’s make, model, and any modifications is essential for an accurate quote. If your vehicle is larger than average or has been modified, be sure to provide specific dimensions to the shipping company.
Vehicle Condition: Operable vs. Non-Operable
The condition of your vehicle, specifically whether it is operable or not, significantly affects shipping costs. Vehicles that are inoperable, meaning they cannot be driven onto the transport truck, require special handling. If a car doesn’t start but can still roll, brake, and steer, it can usually be loaded using a winch. However, not all carriers are equipped with winches, and those that are often charge an additional fee for their use due to the extra time and effort involved in loading and unloading.
It’s crucial to be upfront and honest about your vehicle’s condition when booking your shipment. Failure to disclose that a vehicle is non-operable can lead to complications, including the dispatch of an unsuitable truck, potentially resulting in “dry run fees” if the carrier cannot load the vehicle. Accurate representation of your vehicle’s condition ensures a smoother and more accurate shipping process.
Transport Method: Open vs. Enclosed
The method of transport you choose is a significant cost determinant. The two primary options are open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is the most common and cost-effective method, where vehicles are shipped on open trailers, similar to how new cars are delivered to dealerships. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, involves shipping vehicles in fully enclosed trailers, providing greater protection from weather and road debris.
Enclosed Car Shipping Services
Enclosed transport is considerably more expensive than open transport, often adding $400-$500 or more to the shipping cost for the same route and vehicle. It is typically preferred for high-value vehicles like classic cars, luxury cars, exotic cars, or vehicles that have undergone custom modifications, where maximum protection is desired. For everyday vehicles, open transport is generally a safe and economical choice.
Shipping Location: Major City vs. Rural Area
The location of your shipping origin and destination also impacts the price. Shipping to or from major metropolitan areas is usually more affordable than shipping to or from rural or remote locations. Major cities tend to have higher concentrations of car carriers and more frequent routes, leading to greater efficiency and lower costs. Carriers are more likely to already be traveling to or through major cities, reducing the need for detours or specialized routes.
Rural areas, especially those far from major highways, can result in higher shipping costs. Carriers may need to travel out of their way to reach these locations, increasing fuel consumption and time. If you are shipping from or to a rural area, proximity to a major highway can help reduce costs. However, extremely remote locations will generally incur higher shipping fees due to logistical challenges.
Time of Year: Seasonality
Seasonality plays a surprising role in car shipping costs. The time of year can influence both demand and operating conditions, affecting prices. Summer and winter are typically considered more volatile seasons for car shipping costs compared to spring and fall, which tend to be more stable.
Summer often sees a surge in demand for car shipping services due to increased relocation and travel, leading to higher prices, especially on popular routes. During winter, demand may decrease, potentially leading to lower prices. However, winter weather conditions, such as snow and ice, can cause delays and increase operational challenges, sometimes offsetting potential price reductions. Fall and spring generally offer a balance of moderate demand and favorable weather, often resulting in more stable and predictable shipping costs.
Additional Factors
Beyond the major factors, several other elements can contribute to the total cost of shipping your car:
- Vehicle Operability (Again): As mentioned earlier, inoperable vehicles incur additional charges.
- Expedited Shipping: If you require expedited or guaranteed delivery dates, you will likely pay a premium for this faster service.
- Additional Insurance: While basic insurance is usually included, opting for additional insurance coverage can increase your shipping costs but provide greater peace of mind.
- Route Complexity: Direct routes are generally cheaper. Routes involving detours, traffic congestion, or road closures can increase costs.
- Shipping Multiple Vehicles: While shipping multiple cars simultaneously will increase the overall cost, you might be able to negotiate a discount for shipping multiple vehicles with the same company.
- Failed Delivery Attempts: If you are unavailable to receive your vehicle during the agreed-upon delivery window, resulting in a failed delivery, you may incur hefty surcharges to cover redelivery attempts and potential storage fees.
Car Shipping Costs by Transport Type: Open vs. Enclosed
As previously discussed, the choice between open and enclosed transport significantly impacts cost. Here’s a clearer breakdown:
- Open Transport: This is the most affordable option. It is suitable for most standard vehicles and is the method used for the majority of car shipments.
- Enclosed Transport: This premium option costs considerably more, typically $400-$500+ extra compared to open transport for the same vehicle and route. It is recommended for high-end, classic, or custom vehicles requiring maximum protection.
- Flatbed Transport: This is a specialized service for vehicles that are too large or heavy for standard open or enclosed trailers, such as oversized equipment or heavily modified vehicles. Costs for flatbed transport vary widely depending on the specifics of the shipment and are generally quoted on a case-by-case basis.
For everyday vehicles, open transport is generally sufficient and significantly more budget-friendly. Enclosed transport is a niche service for those prioritizing ultimate protection over cost.
Car Shipping Costs by Distance: Sample Estimates
Keep in mind that these are average estimates and can change based on the factors discussed earlier and market conditions. For a precise quote, it’s always best to use a car shipping calculator or contact a shipping provider directly.
| Average Cost | Open Transport |
|---|---|
| 150 Miles | $470 |
| 550 Miles | $750 |
| 1,000 Miles | $1,150 |
| 1,050 Miles | $985 |
| 2,750 Miles | $1,300 |
| Average Cost | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|
| 150 Miles | $590 |
| 550 Miles | $950 |
| 1,000 Miles | $1,400 |
| 1,050 Miles | $1,250 |
| 2,750 Miles | $1,550 |
Note: These costs are approximate and for illustrative purposes only. Actual costs may vary.
Car Shipping Costs by Vehicle Size: Sample Estimates
Larger and heavier vehicles generally cost more to ship due to space and fuel consumption considerations. Here are some estimated costs based on vehicle type for open transport over a distance of approximately 1,000 miles:
| Vehicle Type | Average Weight (pounds) | Estimated Cost per 1,000 miles (Open Transport) |
|---|---|---|
| Minivan | 4500 | $960 |
| Midsize SUV | 4300 | $860 |
| Mid-sized Pickup Truck | 4300 | $860 |
| Mid-sized Car | 3500 | $750 |
| Compact Car | 3000 | $590 |
The following tables provide more detailed average cost ranges for shipping different vehicle types via both open and enclosed transport over varying distances:
Average Open Transport Costs by Vehicle Type and Distance:
| Distance (miles) | Truck | SUV | Car |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 miles | $400 | $380 | $350 |
| 550 miles | $650 | $580 | $540 |
| 1,000 miles | $1,070 | $920 | $850 |
| 1,100 miles | $900 | $770 | $750 |
| 2,750 miles | $1,200 | $1,100 | $1,050 |
Average Enclosed Transport Costs by Vehicle Type and Distance:
| Distance (miles) | SUV | Truck |
|---|---|---|
| 150 miles | $490 | $600 |
| 550 miles | $780 | $940 |
| 1,000 miles | $1,250 | $1,490 |
| 1,050 miles | $990 | $1,280 |
| 2,750 miles | $1,370 | $1,620 |
Disclaimer: These tables provide estimated averages. Actual shipping costs can vary.
Alternative Car Shipping Methods and Costs
While truck transport is the most common method, alternative options exist, though they are often less practical or significantly more expensive for domestic car shipping:
- Air Freight: Shipping a car by air is extremely expensive, potentially costing tens of thousands of dollars, especially for international destinations. While very fast, it is rarely used for standard car shipping within the US, except possibly to remote locations like Hawaii or Alaska where other options are limited.
- Train Shipping: Shipping a car by train can be more economical than truck transport in some cases, potentially costing around $1,000 or less depending on the route and railway company. However, train routes are limited, and this method is not always available or convenient for all locations.
- Ship/Ocean Freight: For international car shipping, ocean freight is a common option. Costs vary greatly depending on the destination, distance, and shipping method (container vs. roll-on/roll-off), ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. Ocean freight is significantly slower than air freight.
For most domestic car shipping needs within the contiguous US, truck transport remains the most practical and widely used method.
Get an Accurate Car Shipping Quote Today
Understanding the factors that influence car shipping costs is the first step in budgeting for your vehicle transport. To get the most accurate estimate for your specific needs, it’s crucial to get a personalized quote. Factors like distance, vehicle type, transport method, and seasonality all combine to determine your final price.
Don’t rely solely on average costs. Use an online car shipping calculator or contact reputable car shipping companies directly to receive tailored quotes based on your unique requirements. By comparing quotes and understanding the breakdown of costs, you can make an informed decision and choose the best car shipping option for your budget and needs.
