When you need to ship a car to another state, the first question is usually, “how much is it to ship a car?” Pricing varies, but there are clear patterns. Shipping a vehicle across state lines saves you time, protects your car from wear and tear and can even be cheaper than driving when you account for gas, lodging and time off work. Below is a detailed look at the main factors that influence the cost to ship a car to another state and what you can expect to pay.
Key Factors That Influence Shipping Cost
The price of shipping cars from state to state depends on several variables:
- Distance and route: Longer routes generally cost more overall, but the price per mile usually drops as distance increases. A 300‑mile move might cost $0.90 to $1.20 per mile, while a 1,500‑mile trip may fall to $0.60 to $0.80 per mile.
- Vehicle type: Larger, heavier vehicles such as SUVs and pickup trucks cost more than compact cars or motorcycles. Electric cars and classic cars often require special handling.
- Transport method: Open trailers are the most common and affordable option. Enclosed carriers cost more but protect high‑value or classic vehicles from weather and road debris. Learn more about the pros and cons of open vs enclosed carriers on our vehicle transport options page.
- Pick‑up and delivery locations: Door‑to‑door service costs more than terminal‑to‑terminal shipping, and rural locations may add to the price because trucks have to deviate from major routes.
- Seasonality and demand: Rates fluctuate with supply and demand. Moves during summer and around holidays generally cost more.
Example Pricing By Distance and Vehicle Type
Below are typical ranges for car shipping rates per mile when using open transport. These are examples only; exact quotes vary.
- Short distance (under 500 miles): $300–$600 for a sedan; $400–$750 for an SUV.
- Medium distance (500–1,000 miles): $600–$1,000 for a sedan; $750–$1,200 for an SUV.
- Long distance (1,000–1,500 miles): $800–$1,200 for a sedan; $1,000–$1,500 for an SUV.
- Cross‑country (over 1,500 miles): $1,100–$1,600 for a sedan; $1,300–$1,900 for an SUV.
Enclosed transport can add 30–50 percent to the cost. For premium cars, however, that extra protection is often worthwhile.
Other Fees, Discounts and Saving Tips
In addition to base shipping rates, you may encounter fees for expedited shipping, guaranteed pick‑up dates or oversized vehicles. Fuel surcharges and insurance coverage are typically included in the quote, but always confirm. Multi‑vehicle discounts can lower the price to transport a car to another state if you’re shipping more than one vehicle.
To get the best deal, compare quotes from several state‑to‑state auto transport services, schedule your shipment well in advance and be flexible on pick‑up and delivery dates. Check our comprehensive car shipping cost & pricing guide for more tips on saving money.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to deliver a car from another state?
The cost to deliver a car from another state varies between $600 and $1,500 for most standard cars, depending on distance, vehicle size and service type. Short trips under 500 miles can be as low as $300; long cross‑country moves may exceed $1,500. Get custom quotes from multiple carriers for the most accurate price.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state?
The cheapest way to ship a car to another state is to use open transport on a popular route, choose terminal‑to‑terminal service and book during the off‑peak season. Having flexibility on pick‑up and delivery dates allows carriers to fill trucks efficiently and offer lower rates.
How much to transport a car to another state per mile?
Per‑mile rates typically range from $0.60 to $1.20 depending on distance and demand. Longer shipments have lower per‑mile costs. An example: shipping a 1,200‑mile route might cost around $0.75 per mile ($900 total) for a sedan.
How can I save money shipping my car?
Plan early, compare multiple quotes, avoid peak moving seasons, choose open carriers when possible and consider terminal‑to‑terminal pick‑up and delivery. Removing personal items from the vehicle reduces weight and can also help keep the cost down.
Is enclosed transport more expensive than open transport?
Yes. Enclosed transport provides additional protection from weather and road debris, which increases the cost by approximately 30–50 percent compared with open carriers. Owners of luxury, classic or specialty vehicles often choose enclosed transport for peace of mind.
Other Ways People Ask About Car Shipping Costs
Drivers use many phrases when researching pricing. You might hear questions like how much to ship a car, how much is it to ship a car to another state, how much does it cost to transport a car to another state or how much to transport a car to another state. Others ask about the average cost to ship a car or the cost to ship a car across country. No matter how you phrase it, the fundamentals remain the same: distance, vehicle size, transport method and timing are the main drivers of price.