Shipping a car to another state might sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and trusted experts, understanding car shipping costs and finding a reliable option that fits your needs and budget becomes simple.
At uShip, we connect you with affordable rates from trusted carriers, all in one place. Whether you’re moving cross-country or just a few states over, it pays to understand what drives the cost.
Need help shipping your car across the country? Call uShip Auto Support at (512) 265-6161. We’re here to help you move forward.
Market Insights:
- The U.S. auto shipping market could surpass $10.1 billion in 2025, signaling strong demand.
- A shortage of 100,000+ truck drivers may cause delays or higher rates, especially during peak seasons.
Shipping to remote areas usually costs more than shipping to metro locations. Larger vehicles like trucks or SUVs cost more to move than smaller sedans. The more you know, the easier it is to plan with confidence. Check out our cost to ship page for the latest pricing info.
Understanding the Cost of Shipping a Car Across States
Average Cost Estimates Based on Distance
Car shipping prices scale with mileage. Cross-country shipping (e.g., East to West Coast) costs roughly $1,325 with open transport. Shorter trips, like Chicago to Atlanta, are typically less.
| Cost Factor | What It Means | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | Longer trips cost more overall | ~$1,325 coast-to-coast |
| Extra Services | Faster delivery or added protection increases cost | Varies |
| Open Carrier Transport | Most affordable, but car is exposed | Lower |
| Enclosed Carrier Transport | Higher cost, but offers full protection | Higher |
| Door-to-Door Shipping | Convenient but more expensive than terminals | Moderate to high |
Pricing Changes by Vehicle Type and Transport Method
Size matters. Bigger cars take up more space and require more fuel.
Estimated costs for a 1,000-mile trip:
| Vehicle Type | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Compact SUV | $600 – $800 | $850 – $1,500 |
| Full-size SUV | $700 – $900 | $850 – $1,500 |
| Truck | $800 – $1,000 | $900 – $1,200 |
| Oversized Vehicle | $900 – $1,200 | $1,200 – $1,500 |
Cost Differences: Short vs. Long Distance
- Long-distance: Higher total cost, but cheaper per mile
- Short-distance: Might be better to drive, depending on costs
- Seasonality, weight, and timing also impact pricing
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car Across States?
By Distance
- 500 miles: $500 – $700
- 1,000 miles: $800 – $1,000
- 2,500 miles: $1,200 – $1,800
Prices are for open transport. Add-ons like expedited delivery can increase the total.
By Vehicle Type
- Sedan: Less expensive due to size
- SUVs & Trucks: Mid- to high-tier due to weight
- Luxury cars: Often require enclosed transport, adding 30–50% in cost
Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs
Distance + Routes
Distance is the most obvious cost factor in car shipping, but where you’re shipping to and from matters just as much.
Shipping a car 2,000 miles will naturally cost more overall than a 500-mile trip. However, the price per mile actually decreases as distance increases. That’s because carriers can optimize long-haul trips more efficiently, spreading fixed costs (like fuel and labor) across more miles.
But here’s the key: Not all routes are priced equally. Here are some popular route examples:
| Route | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| NYC to Miami | $1,100 – $1,400 |
| LA to Dallas | $1,025 – $1,375 |
| Chicago to Phoenix | $1,050 – $1,225 |
Seasonality
Just like airfare and hotel rates, car shipping prices shift with the seasons. When more people are moving or relocating, especially during summer, carrier demand surges and so do prices. In slower months, rates drop due to lighter shipping volume and greater carrier availability. If you’re flexible with timing, planning around peak seasons can lead to serious savings.
- Peak months (costlier): June, July, August
- Off-peak (cheaper): December, January, February
Transport Type
The kind of trailer your car travels on directly impacts cost and protection level. Open transport is the industry standard—it’s budget-friendly and widely available, making it ideal for most everyday vehicles. Enclosed transport offers added protection from weather, debris, and road conditions. It’s the go-to for luxury, classic, or high-value cars that need extra care.
- Open: Budget-friendly, common
- Enclosed: Premium, best for classic or luxury cars
Pickup + Drop-Off
How your vehicle is picked up and delivered affects both convenience and cost. Door-to-door service offers maximum ease—your car is picked up from your location and delivered to your chosen destination. Terminal-to-terminal shipping is typically cheaper, but you’ll need to drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated locations, which may not be nearby.
- Door-to-door: Most convenient, higher cost
- Terminal-to-terminal: Budget-friendly, less flexible
Fuel Prices + Carrier Availability
Shipping costs don’t exist in a vacuum. Fluctuations in diesel prices and nationwide carrier availability play a big role in setting rates. When fuel prices spike or available carriers drop, prices tend to rise, especially on longer or rural routes. uShip’s marketplace lets you compare real-time quotes from carriers competing for your job, helping you book the best deal in any market condition.
Pro Tip: Booking early and being flexible helps offset rising fuel or labor costs
Car Shipping Methods and Their Costs
Open Transport
Open transport is the most common way to ship vehicles—and the most affordable. Your car is loaded onto an open-air trailer alongside several others, making it cost-effective and widely available across most regions. While your vehicle will be exposed to the elements, it’s the best option for standard, everyday cars that don’t require extra protection.
| Why It’s Cheaper | When It’s Used |
|---|---|
| Multiple cars per trailer | Long-distance car moves |
| Shared fuel costs | Auction purchases |
| Standard equipment + more availability | Personal and dealership shipments |
Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transport offers the highest level of protection during transit. Your vehicle is placed in a fully enclosed trailer that shields it from rain, snow, road debris, and sun exposure. It’s the preferred method for luxury, exotic, vintage, or collector vehicles, and also a smart choice if your car has a low ground clearance or unique paintwork.
While it can cost 30–50% more than open transport, the peace of mind and protection are often worth it when you’re moving a valuable investment.
Expedited Shipping
Expedited shipping prioritizes your vehicle above others on a carrier’s route. That means quicker pickup and faster delivery, often within tight timelines. It’s ideal for urgent moves, last-minute purchases, or job relocations when time is critical.
Because this service requires dedicated planning and faster routing, it comes at a premium. However, it’s often the most stress-free option when time isn’t on your side.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal
Door-to-door shipping is the most convenient option. Your vehicle is picked up and delivered as close to your specified addresses as possible, reducing your effort. It’s a great choice if you have limited time or can’t get to a terminal.
Terminal-to-terminal shipping, on the other hand, is more budget-friendly. You drop your vehicle off at a regional hub, and the carrier delivers it to another terminal near your destination. It requires more coordination, but if you’re willing to make the trip, the savings can be significant, especially in major metro areas where terminals are more accessible.
How to Get the Best Car Shipping Rates
- Compare Multiple Quotes
Look for clear pricing, service reviews, and coverage options. - Book in Advance
Booking 2+ weeks out often results in lower rates. - Stay Flexible with Dates
Flexible timing can save you up to 20 percent. - Avoid Unnecessary Add-ons
Skip expedited delivery unless it’s essential. Stick to open transport for standard vehicles.
People Also Ask
What’s the cheapest way to ship a car?
Open transport + terminal-to-terminal = lowest cost. Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true (hidden fees often apply).
How long does it take to ship a car?
- 500 miles: 2–3 days (from pickup to delivery)
- 2,500 miles: Up to 10 days (weather and traffic can delay delivery).
Is car shipping cheaper than driving?
For long distances, yes. Avoid hotel, fuel, and wear-and-tear costs. Example: Shipping 1,000 miles could cost $800, less than a DIY drive.
Can I pack personal items in the car?
No. Extra items aren’t insured and may not be allowed by carriers.
What documents do I need to ship my car across the country?
To ship your car across the country, you’ll typically need a Bill of Lading (BOL), which should be initiated and provided by your transporter. You should also have proof of ownership (such as your vehicle title, registration, or lease agreement), a valid photo ID, and insurance documentation. While uShip doesn’t require these documents upfront, your selected carrier may request them at pickup, so it’s best to confirm directly after booking.
Final Takeaway
Shipping your car across states doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With uShip, you get access to affordable, upfront rates from trusted car shipping companies, all in one platform. Compare options, protect your vehicle, and book with confidence.
TL;DR: What to Know About Car Shipping Costs in 2025
Shipping a car across states in 2025 depends on distance, vehicle type, and transport method. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,800, with open transport being the most budget-friendly option.
Want the best deal? Use uShip to compare quotes from trusted carriers, customize services, and ship with confidence, all in one place.
Quick Takeaways:
- Cost Range: $500–$1,800+ depending on mileage and vehicle
- Cheapest Option: Open transport, terminal-to-terminal
- Luxury or rare car? Choose enclosed transport for extra protection
- Timing Matters: Book early and stay flexible to save up to 20%
- Avoid surprise fees: Request full quote breakdowns
📞 Need support? Call uShip Auto at (512) 265-6161
