Shipping a car across the country is often more practical and less stressful than driving it yourself. But one of the first questions most people ask is: how much does it actually cost?
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all number. Cross-country car shipping costs can vary widely based on distance, vehicle type, time of year, and the kind of transport you choose. Some folks focus on the car shipping cost per mile, while others just want the total bottom line. Either way, knowing what drives pricing can help you make the right decision.
In this guide, we’ll break down what goes into the price, how to compare quotes, and how to avoid hidden fees. With the right info (and the right platform), shipping your car can be simple, affordable, and stress-free.
Average Cross-Country Car Shipping Costs
For a standard sedan shipped coast to coast on an open carrier, the average cost ranges from $500 to $1,500. This includes routes like Los Angeles to New York, or Miami to Seattle.
If you choose enclosed transport, which offers added protection for classic, luxury, or collector vehicles, the price jumps to $1,400 to $2,400.
While some carriers advertise a cost per mile (averaging $0.60 to $0.80 for longer hauls), it’s more helpful to look at your full quote, including extras and route-specific factors.
Key Factors That Influence Car Shipping Costs
Several elements go into the final price. Here’s what matters most when calculating how much it costs to ship a car cross-country:
Distance:
The longer the trip, the lower the cost per mile, but the total price still goes up with mileage. For example, a 300-mile trip might cost $1.50–$2.00 per mile, while a 2,500-mile route could drop to $0.60 per mile.
Vehicle Type & Condition:
Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs and trucks, take up more trailer space and cost more to ship. If your vehicle doesn’t run, you’ll also need specialized equipment, which increases the price.
Transport Type:
- Open transport is the most budget-friendly and common method.
- Enclosed transport adds protection from weather and debris, ideal for high-value or delicate cars, but costs 30–60% more.
Pickup and Delivery Locations:
If you’re in a metro area with lots of carrier traffic, you’ll typically pay less and get faster service. Remote or hard-to-reach areas may involve added fees.
Season and Demand:
Peak times, like summer or during snowbird migrations, can raise rates due to high demand. Booking in the off-season often gets you a better deal.
Cost Breakdown by Transport Type
Here’s a quick look at what to expect for a standard sedan shipped 2,500–3,000 miles:
| Transport Type | Estimated Cost Range | Cost Per Mile (Avg.) |
|---|---|---|
| Open Transport | $900–$1,500 | $0.60–$0.80 |
| Enclosed Transport | $1,400–$2,400 | $0.90–$1.25 |
Open transport is great for everyday cars. Enclosed is the go-to choice if your vehicle is rare, expensive, or requires extra care.
Additional Fees to Watch Out For
Even after you’ve selected a quote, unexpected fees can pop up. Keep an eye out for:
- Expedited pickup or delivery: Need your car fast? Expect to pay a premium for time-sensitive scheduling.
- Remote delivery locations: Carriers may charge extra for rural drop-offs or hard-to-access addresses.
- Insurance upgrades: Basic carrier liability may not fully cover your vehicle’s value. Consider adding full protection if needed.
- Rescheduling fees: If you miss your window, there may be a fee to adjust pickup or delivery.
Tip: Booking through uShip makes these extras easier to spot up front. Our quotes show exactly what’s included, so there are no surprises later.
How to Get the Most Accurate Shipping Quote
Accurate pricing starts with accurate info. To get the best quote, be clear and complete about:
- Your vehicle’s size, weight, and condition (e.g., does it run?)
- Whether you want open or enclosed transport
- Pickup and delivery zip codes
- Your flexibility on timing
On uShip, you can enter your shipment details once and receive multiple competing quotes from trusted transporters. Each one shows what’s included, like insurance, pickup timing, and service level, so you can compare apples to apples.
Why uShip Is a Smart Choice for Cross-Country Car Shipping
Shipping a car across the country can be simple if you use the right tools. Here’s why uShip stands out:
✅ Competitive Quotes, Fast:
Post your shipment, and carriers come to you. Compare prices and timelines instantly.
✅ Transparent Pricing:
See everything up front—no hidden fees or surprise add-ons.
✅ Real-Time Tracking:
Stay updated every mile of the journey with tracking and messaging built into the platform.
✅ Built-In Protections:
uShip offers optional protection and secure payments to keep your shipment and money safe.
✅ Reviews and Ratings:
Choose transporters with confidence by checking real customer feedback.
Whether you’re shipping a car for a move, a seasonal relocation, or a long-distance sale, uShip makes it easier to ship smart, not stressful.
Final Thoughts
Understanding cross-country car shipping costs isn’t just about the average price, it’s about knowing what factors affect the rate and how to avoid hidden charges.
By comparing quotes, choosing the right transport method, and booking through a trusted platform like uShip, you’ll have full visibility and peace of mind from start to finish.
Ready to get started? List your shipment on uShip today and receive instant quotes from experienced carriers across the country.
FAQs: Cross-Country Car Shipping
1. How much does it cost to ship a car across the country?
Expect $500–$1,500 for open transport, or $1,400–$2,400 for enclosed transport, depending on distance, vehicle type, and timing.
2. What affects car shipping costs the most?
Distance, vehicle size, transport type, delivery location, and time of year are the biggest cost drivers.
3. Is enclosed transport worth the extra cost?
If your car is high-value, rare, or fragile, enclosed transport offers better protection and peace of mind.
4. What’s the average cost per mile?
Coast-to-coast rates average $0.60–$0.80 per mile. Shorter trips may run higher, around $1.50–$2.00 per mile.
5. Do prices go up during certain seasons?
Yes. Summer and snowbird seasons (winter/spring) tend to see higher demand and prices.
6. Are there hidden fees I should watch for?
Extra charges may include expedited shipping, rural delivery, insurance upgrades, or rescheduling fees.
7. How can I save money on shipping?
Use open transport, stay flexible on timing, and book through uShip to compare offers in one place.
8. How long does cross-country car shipping take?
Most shipments take 7–10 days depending on the route, traffic, and weather.
9. Can I ship a non-running car?
Yes, but you’ll pay more since it requires special loading equipment.
10. How does uShip help me ship smarter?
uShip connects you to multiple carriers, lets you compare quotes, track your shipment, and book confidently, from start to finish.
