How Much Does Car Shipping Cost? A Breakdown of Auto Transport Pricing
If you’re planning to ship your car, one of the first questions you’ll have is: How much does auto transport cost? The price of shipping a vehicle depends on several factors, including distance, vehicle type, and the type of transport service you choose. In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors that influence car shipping costs and what you can expect to pay.
Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs
1. Distance and Route
- The farther your vehicle needs to travel, the more it will cost.
- Popular routes tend to be more affordable, while remote locations may increase costs.
- Example: Shipping a car from New York to Florida may cost $900-$1,400, whereas a coast-to-coast shipment from California to Florida may range from $1,600-$2,500.
2. Vehicle Type and Size
- Larger and heavier vehicles take up more space on the carrier and may cost more to transport.
- Compact cars are cheaper to ship than SUVs, trucks, or luxury vehicles.
- Example: A sedan may cost $800-$1,300, while a pickup truck may cost $1,200-$1,900.
3. Open vs. Enclosed Transport
- Open transport (the most common option) is more affordable but exposes your car to weather and road debris.
- Enclosed transport offers added protection for high-value, classic, or luxury cars but costs 50-75% more than open transport.
- Example: Open transport may cost $1,000, while enclosed transport for the same route could be $1,800 or more.
4. Seasonality
- Car shipping prices fluctuate throughout the year.
- Summer and winter (snowbird season) typically see higher demand, which raises prices.
- Spring and fall may offer lower rates due to reduced demand.
5. Vehicle Condition
- If your car is running and operable, it will be cheaper to ship.
- If your car is inoperable, it requires special equipment to load and unload, increasing costs by $200-$400.
6. Pickup and Delivery Locations
- Door-to-door service is more convenient but costs more than terminal-to-terminal transport.
- Shipping to or from a major city is usually cheaper than rural areas due to better carrier availability.
Estimated Car Shipping Costs by Distance
| Distance | Estimated Cost (Open Transport) | Estimated Cost (Enclosed Transport) |
|---|---|---|
| 0-500 miles | $500 - $1,200 | $1,000 - $1,800 |
| 500-1,000 miles | $900 - $1,800 | $1,500 - $2,500 |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | $1,300 - $2,200 | $2,000 - $3,500 |
| 1,500+ miles | $1,800 - $3,200 | $3,000+ |
How to Get the Best Price for Car Shipping
✔ Book Early – Last-minute bookings may come with higher rates.
✔ Be Flexible with Pickup & Delivery Dates – Carriers may offer lower rates for flexible scheduling.
✔ Choose Open Transport If Possible – Unless you have a luxury or classic car, open transport is the most cost-effective.
✔ Ship to a Major City – Avoid rural areas to reduce costs.
Get a Free Car Shipping Quote Today!
At Corja Auto Hauling, we offer reliable, insured, and affordable auto transport services nationwide. Request a free quote today and get the best rate for your vehicle shipping needs!
???? Call us or visit our website to book your car shipment now!
