Sometimes you can’t wait a week or more for a transporter to pick up and deliver your vehicle. In these situations, express car shipping—also called expedited auto transport—can get your car on the road and delivered much faster than standard service. But how does it work, and is it worth the extra cost?
What is express car shipping?
With expedited shipping, carriers prioritize your vehicle by scheduling it on the next available truck and sometimes using a team of drivers to minimize stops. This service often cuts pickup windows down to 24–48 hours and trims transit times by a day or two. Read about other transport types in our methods guide.
How much faster—and how much more expensive?
The exact time savings depend on your route and time of year. Expect your car to arrive two to three days sooner than with standard service. The cost premium is typically 30–50 % higher. If you need your vehicle urgently, compare expedited quotes with the cost of renting a car or delaying your plans.
Tips for booking
Book as early as possible, even for expedited service. Provide flexible pickup and delivery dates within your timeline. Work with a broker or carrier experienced in expedited shipments. For more cost‑conscious travelers, our budget transport guide provides lower‑cost options if time isn’t critical.
Search variations
People also call this service rush car transport, expedited auto transport and rapid car shipping. All describe a quicker alternative to standard shipping.
FAQ
Is my car insured during expedited shipping?
Yes. Reputable carriers carry insurance regardless of the service level. Confirm coverage details and ask about liability limits.
Does expedited shipping mean enclosed transport?
No. Express service refers to scheduling priority, not the type of trailer. You can choose open or enclosed expedited shipping.
Can I expedite a cross‑country shipment?
Yes, but long distances still take time. Expedited coast‑to‑coast transport may still require five to seven days, though it is faster than standard scheduling.
When shipping a car across states, there are numerous factors to consider beyond simply booking a carrier. In addition to the route and service type, you should research the reputation of various auto transport companies, compare quotes carefully and read customer reviews. Seasonality can influence prices, with higher demand during summer and snowbird migrations. Always confirm the carrier’s insurance coverage and ask about communication during transit. A reputable broker or carrier will answer your questions, provide clear documentation and help you prepare your vehicle properly.
Preparing your vehicle involves cleaning it inside and out, removing personal belongings, disabling toll transponders and checking for leaks. Document the car’s condition with photos and ensure the gas tank is around a quarter full to keep weight low. On the day of pick‑up, inspect the vehicle with the driver and sign the bill of lading, which serves as your receipt and inspection report. Upon delivery, re‑inspect your car, note any changes on the bill of lading and make final payment. To learn more about the car shipping process, visit How to Ship a Car to Another State.