The cost to ship a car varies depending on several factors. On average, it can cost around $1,100 to ship a car. However, the cost can be as low as $500 or as high as $2,400 depending on the type of vehicle you have, the distance that needs to be traveled, and the mode of transportation you choose.
Estimating the cost to ship your car can be a complex task as there are several factors that could impact the final price. To help you understand how much it might cost to ship your car, this guide outlines the biggest price factors you should consider.
Average Cost of Car Shipping
Lowest Cost $500 to $600
Highest Cost $2400 to $2500
Average Cost $1100 to $1200
Car Shipping Rates Per Mile
Lowest Cost $0.50 to $0.60
Highest Cost $0.70 to $0.80
Car Shipping Rates May Vary According to Its Vehicle Size
It’s important to remember that the size of your car affects the cost of shipping it. Typically, the larger the vehicle, the higher the shipping cost. Shipping companies often charge an additional fee of $100 to $200 for every increase in vehicle size. If you’re looking to ship your car a distance of 1,000 miles, here’s an estimate of shipping costs based on your vehicle size.
Vehicle Shipping Average
Type Cost Price
Sadan $500 to $1600 $1050
Compact SUV $600 to $1800 $1200
SUV $800 to $2000 $1400
Truck $1000 to $2400 $1700
Note: Prices may vary, depending upon your vehicle size and distance including the type of shipping services.
The Next Question: How To Ship a Car?
To ship a car, you can follow these steps:
- Choose a car shipping company: Research and choose a reliable car shipping company that meets your requirements.
- Get a quote: Contact the car shipping company and provide the necessary details like the make, model, and year of your vehicle, as well as the pickup and drop-off locations. After that, the company will give you an estimated cost for the shipment.
- Prepare your car for shipment: Make sure your car is clean, and remove all personal belongings from it. Also, take pictures of your car from different angles to document its condition before shipping.
- Choose the type of transportation: You can choose between open and enclosed transportation. Open transportation is cheaper but exposes your car to the elements, while enclosed transportation is more expensive but provides better protection.
- Schedule the shipment: Once you choose the type of transportation, schedule the shipment with the car shipping company. They will give you an estimated date for pickup and delivery.
- Inspect the car upon delivery: When your car arrives, inspect it thoroughly to make sure it’s in the same condition as when it was picked up. If there are any damages, report them immediately to the shipping company and your insurance company.
What Type of Transportation Is Used for Cars?
There are several types of transportation that are used for shipping cars, including open transport, enclosed transport, flatbed trucks, and air transport. The most common ones are open transport and enclosed transport, with open transport being the more cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides more protection from weather elements. The flatbed truck is generally used for short-distance shipping, and air transport is the fastest but also the most expensive option.
Open Transport Vs Enclosed Transport
Open transport and enclosed transport are two types of car shipping methods available to transport vehicles from one place to another. Open transport is the most common and affordable method, where the vehicle is transported on an open trailer, exposed to the elements. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, involves transporting the vehicle in an enclosed trailer, offering additional protection from weather and road debris. While enclosed transport is more expensive than open transport, it is preferred for expensive or vintage vehicles that require extra care during transport.
Is It Safe to Ship Your Car by Driving It Yourself?
While it’s possible to transport your car by driving it yourself, it’s not always the safest option. Driving long distances can put wear and tear on your vehicle, and there’s always a risk of accidents or breakdowns on the road. Additionally, shipping your car through a professional service can offer added protection and insurance in case any damage occurs during transit. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to opt for a professional car shipping service to ensure the safety of your vehicle during transport.
Benefits of Hiring Professional Car Transport Services
Hiring a professional car transport service can offer a lot of benefits. Firstly, it saves you time and energy by eliminating the need for you to drive your car long distances. Moreover, it can prevent wear and tear on your vehicle, which can save you money in the long run. Additionally, professional car transport services are often insured, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your car is protected. Finally, many car transport companies offer tracking services, so you can monitor the progress of your car during transport.
In conclusion, the cost of shipping a car can vary widely depending on several factors. The distance of the transport, the type of vehicle being shipped, and the type of transport service selected are all factors that can affect the cost. It’s important to research different car transport companies and obtain quotes from multiple providers to ensure you are getting a fair price. While cost is an important consideration, it’s also important to choose a reputable and reliable car transport service to ensure the safe and timely delivery of your vehicle.
