The Car Ship Guide

Honest car shipping quotes and transport know-how.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?

Shipping a car within the US usually costs $500–$1,700, depending on distance, vehicle size, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. Use the free estimator below for a realistic price band on your route — no email, no signup, no sales calls.

Car Shipping Cost Estimator

Answer four quick questions to see a realistic price range for your route — free, instant, no email or signup.

Tip: measure your exact route in Google Maps.

Estimated cost band

$800 – $1,200

Transit time: 3–6 days on the road, plus a 1–5 day pickup window.

Top 3 cost drivers for this shipment:

  1. Distance: 1,200 miles — the single biggest factor in any quote.
  2. Vehicle size: Sedan — larger vehicles take more deck space.
  3. Transport type: Open — enclosed trailers typically cost 30–60% more.

5 questions to ask any quoter:

  1. Is this quote binding, or can the price change before pickup?
  2. What is included in the price — insurance, fuel surcharge, tolls — and what costs extra?
  3. How much cargo insurance does the carrier provide, and what is the deductible?
  4. What is the pickup window, and is the delivery date guaranteed?
  5. What is the cancellation policy, and are there any hidden fees?

Assumptions:

  • Base band assumes an operable sedan on open transport in normal season.
  • Excludes taxes, storage fees, and expedited service surcharges.
  • Reflects typical market ranges; actual quotes vary by route demand and season.

Nothing leaves your browser — this estimate is calculated on your device.

How Car Shipping Works

1. Get quotes

Collect quotes from several licensed carriers or brokers and compare what is actually included in each price.

2. Book pickup

Choose a carrier, sign the contract, and schedule a pickup window — usually 1 to 5 days out.

3. Delivery and inspection

Inspect your vehicle at delivery, note any damage on the bill of lading, and only then sign off.

Browse Guides by Topic

Cost Guides

What drives the price up or down, with real market ranges.

Transport Options

Open vs. enclosed trailers, door-to-door vs. terminal pickup.

Quotes and Booking

How to compare quotes and book with confidence.

Prep and Delivery

Get your car ready and handle delivery day the right way.

Scams and Protection

Red flags, insurance basics, and how to stay safe.

Latest Guides

No lead forms. No sponsored rankings. Just explainers.

General information, not a quote — actual prices vary by route and season.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to the questions every car shipper asks.

How much does it cost to ship a car?
Most US routes cost $500–$1,700. Distance is the biggest factor, followed by vehicle size and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. Use the estimator above for a realistic price band on your route.
How long does car shipping take?
Plan on a 1–5 day pickup window, then roughly 1–2 days of transit per 500 miles. A cross-country move typically takes 1–2 weeks door to door.
Is my car insured during transport?
Licensed carriers must carry cargo insurance, but coverage limits and deductibles vary. Ask for the carrier’s insurance certificate and confirm what is covered — and what is excluded — before you book.
Should I choose open or enclosed transport?
Open transport is the standard choice and costs 30–60% less. Choose enclosed for classic, luxury, or low-clearance vehicles that need extra protection from weather and road debris.
Do I have to pay a deposit upfront?
No — reputable shippers charge $0 before a carrier is assigned. A small deposit ($100–$250) after assignment is normal, with the balance usually due to the driver at delivery.