Cost to Ship a Car
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Automotive
Shipping a car involves multiple factors, from distance to transport method. Here's a detailed overview of the costs, considerations, and tips for saving money:
1. Average Car Shipping Costs
By Distance
| Distance | Cost Per Mile | Estimated Total Cost |
|--------------|------------------------|-----------------------------|
| 500 miles | $1.20 - $1.95 | $600 - $975 |
| 1,000 miles | $0.80 - $1.30 | $800 - $1,300 |
| 2,000 miles | $0.70 - $1.10 | $1,400 - $2,200 |
By Transport Method
| Method | Cost Range |
|-------------------|-------------------------|
| Open Trailer | $600 - $1,195 |
| Enclosed Trailer | $900 - $2,500 |
| Train | $600 - $1,005 |
| Ship | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Airplane | $5,000 - $40,000 |
2. Key Cost Factors
Vehicle Size and Weight
Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship.
| Vehicle Type | Per-Mile Price (1,000 miles) |
|------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Compact Car | $1.05 |
| Mid-Size Car | $1.19 |
| SUV or Mid-Size Truck | $1.30 |
| Full-Size SUV or Truck | $1.65 |
Condition of Vehicle
- Non-operational vehicles incur additional fees due to loading challenges.
Location
- Urban door-to-door services are more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping.
- Remote or less-popular locations may also add to costs.
Insurance
- Included liability insurance is standard, but additional coverage costs $50 - $300, depending on the policy.
Speed of Delivery
- Expedited service increases costs, as shared trailers save money.
Seasonal Demand
- Summer (peak moving season) typically has higher prices than winter.
3. Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
| Feature | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|-------------------------|---------------------|---------------------------|
| Cost | Cheaper ($600 - $1,195) | More Expensive ($900 - $2,500) |
| Protection | Minimal (Exposed to elements) | High (Weather and debris protected) |
4. Tips to Save Money on Car Shipping
- Comparison Shop: Gather multiple quotes and compare services and hidden fees.
- Be Flexible with Dates: Avoid peak times; flexible scheduling may result in discounts.
- Choose Open Carrier: It's more economical than enclosed trailers for standard vehicles.
- Book Early: Advanced bookings reduce last-minute surcharges.
- Check for Discounts: Military, student, and senior discounts are often available.
- Bundle Services: Coordinate car shipping with household moving to save overall costs.
- Off-Season Moves: Consider shipping during fall or winter for lower prices.
5. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
- DIY: Suitable for short distances; factor in costs for gas, hotels, and meals.
- Hiring Pros: Better for long distances; eliminates risks and hidden DIY expenses.
6. The Car Shipping Process
- Research Companies: Look for licensed and insured companies with positive reviews.
- Get Quotes: Compare prices, coverage, and terms.
- Prepare Your Car: Clean it, remove personal items, and document its condition.
- Pick-Up and Delivery: Inspect for damage and sign the bill of lading.
Summing it up
Shipping a car can cost $600 - $2,500 for most transport methods, with variations based on distance, vehicle size, and chosen service. Planning ahead and exploring options will help you find the most cost-effective solution for your move.
