Shipping Cars Across The Country

If you’re considering relocating across the nation, creating a proper budget is essential. It is helpful to understand how much it costs to ship a car cross-country and what to anticipate when working with a car shipping business when choosing the best mode of transportation for your needs.

Whether you’re a snowbird heading to a warmer climate during the winter or you’re moving from the East Coast to the West, our guide will help you figure out the cost of transporting your car across the nation and how much you should budget.

What is cross country vehicle shipping?

If you want to transfer a vehicle a great distance—typically 1,000 miles or more—auto transport organizations provide a service called cross-country car delivery.

After being put onto a trailer, your car will be driven to the destination of your choice. If you’re moving across the nation, shipping your car instead of driving it can save you money and time.

How does shipping a car to another state work?

Shipping a car to another state typically involves the following steps:

Choose a Shipping Method:

This is the first stage where you decide between open transport (more common and cheaper) and enclosed transport (provides more protection but is more expensive).

Research and Select a Shipping Company:

Look for reputable auto transport companies, read reviews, and compare quotes.

Get a Quote and Book the Service:

Provide details about your car, the pickup and delivery locations to get a quote. Once satisfied, book the car transport service.

Prepare Your Car for Shipping:

Clean the car, remove personal items, and ensure it’s in good working condition. Take pictures of the car to document its condition before shipping.

Pickup and Transport:

The shipping company will arrange a pickup date. The car is loaded onto a transport truck and begins its journey to the destination state.

Track the Shipment:

Many companies offer tracking services, allowing you to monitor the progress of your car during transit.

Delivery and Inspection:

Once the car reaches its destination, inspect it thoroughly to ensure it arrived in the same condition as it was when picked up.

Payment and Finalize Paperwork:

Complete the payment as agreed and handle any remaining paperwork.

Choosing the best state to state auto shipping company

Choosing the best state-to-state auto shipping company involves several key considerations:

By considering these factors, you can select a reliable and reputable state-to-state auto shipping company that will ensure your vehicle is transported safely and efficiently.

Quote to ship a car to another state

To give you the most accurate estimate for the cost of shipping a car, make sure you have some key information on hand. We will need the following:

  • Origin and destination cities, states, and zip codes
  • The car’s make, model, year, and vehicle type
  • Running condition
  • Open or enclosed car carrier transport

After getting the information above, you can reach out to us via email or phone call.

Cross Country Frequently Asked Questions

1. How should a car be sent across the nation?

Choose the Right Shipping Method

  • Open Transport: The most common and cost-effective method where cars are transported on an open trailer.
  • Enclosed Transport: Offers more protection as cars are transported in an enclosed trailer, ideal for high-value or classic cars

2. Do you need country shipping deals?

Yes, getting shipping deals can be beneficial when planning to ship a car across the country. Here are some tips on how to find and secure the best deals:

Tips for Finding Country Shipping Deals

A. Compare Quotes from Multiple Companies:

  • Request quotes from several reputable car shipping companies.
  • Use online comparison tools to compare prices quickly and services.

B. Look for Discounts and Promotions:

  • Many companies offer discounts for military personnel, students, and senior citizens.
  • Seasonal promotions and holiday discounts can also provide significant savings.

C. Book in Advance:

  • You can get a better deal on your car transport if you schedule it well in advance.
  • Last-minute bookings are often more expensive.

3. How do I pay for my cross-country car shipping?

Paying for cross-country car shipping typically involves a straightforward process. You can make payment through any of the following: Credit/Debit Card, Bank Transfer, PayPal, and/or Cash Payment.

4. How much does it cost to ship a car across the country?

The cost to ship a car across the country varies depending on factors such as the distance, type of vehicle, shipping method (open or enclosed transport), and current fuel prices. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,500 for a standard vehicle. It’s best to get quotes from multiple shipping companies to find the most competitive rate.

5. How long is required to send a car across the entire country?

The time it takes to ship a car across the country typically ranges from 7 to 10 days. This can vary based on factors such as weather, route taken, and the specific schedules of the transport company. Some expedited services are available for an additional fee if you need faster delivery.

6. Is my car insured during transport?

Yes, reputable car shipping companies provide insurance coverage for your vehicle during transport. The level of coverage may vary, so it’s important to ask for details about their insurance policy and what it covers. You may also want to consider purchasing additional insurance if the standard coverage does not meet your needs.

7. Can I pack personal items in my car during shipping?

Most car shipping companies advise against packing personal items in your car due to safety and insurance reasons. Personal items are typically not covered by the shipping company’s insurance and can add weight to the vehicle, potentially increasing the shipping cost. Always check the company’s policy before deciding to leave any belongings in the car.

Factors to consider when shipping a car across the country

Cross-country shipping of cars can be a challenging undertaking. To ensure a smooth process, consider these important factors:

Choosing a Shipping Company

  • Reputation and Experience: Look for companies with a proven track record and positive customer reviews.
  • Licenses and Insurance: Verify that the company is licensed and insured to handle car transportation.
  • Quotes and Pricing: Compare quotes from multiple companies and understand the inclusions and exclusions.
  • Services Offered: Check if the company offers door-to-door service, open or enclosed transport, and additional services like car preparation.

Type of Transport

  • Open Transport: Less expensive, but your vehicle is left outside in the weather.
  • Enclosed Transport: Provides maximum protection for your vehicle, but is more expensive.

Timing and Scheduling

  • Pickup and Delivery Dates: Determine the ideal dates for your car’s shipment.
  • Flexibility: Be prepared for potential delays due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.

Vehicle Preparation

  • Cleaning: Wash your car to document its condition before shipping.
  • Personal Belongings: Remove all valuable items from the car.
  • Vehicle Condition: Check the car’s overall condition and document any existing damage.

Insurance Coverage

  • Company Insurance: Understand the extent of coverage provided by the shipping company.
  • Personal Insurance: Check if your car insurance covers transportation.
  • Extra Protection: To ensure peace of mind, consider getting additional security.

Documentation

  • Bill of Lading: Carefully review and sign the bill of lading to document the car’s condition.
  • Title and Registration: Have necessary documents ready for the shipping process.

Cost Considerations

  • Shipping Fees: Get quotes from multiple companies to compare prices.
  • Additional Charges: Be aware of potential fees for extra services or changes to the shipping plan.

How much does it cost to Ship a car from one state to another in the US?

The cost of shipping a car from one state to another in the USA can vary significantly based on several factors.The typical cost falls within the $500–$1,500 range. Below are some of the primary factors that impact the cost:

To get an accurate quote, you can contact us and provide us with detailed information about your shipping needs. This will allow us to provide you with the best advice on your next steps.