Edmunds Car Shipping

Q: How much does Edmunds car shipping usually cost?

Edmunds car shipping typically costs $500–$1,300 for domestic transport. Short routes under 500 miles often fall between $400–$700, while cross country shipments average $900–$1,300. Key cost drivers include distance, fuel prices, season, and carrier availability. Open transport is the most common option, while enclosed carriers add about 30–40 percent to the price.

Q: How long does Edmunds car delivery take after purchase?

Edmunds car delivery usually takes 2–5 days for regional routes and 5–10 days for cross country shipments. Timing depends on carrier scheduling, dealer release speed, and route demand. Urban pickup locations move faster than rural areas. Flexible pickup windows can shorten wait times, while expedited options are available for urgent deliveries at higher cost.

by Joe Webster

Last updated Jan, 10 2026

So close yet so far away. You know how it is. The car you want is always just out of reach. But this time…this time you have the cash, and the only thing keeping you from that is distance and time.

It's tricky, though, buying you've never seen. You have to put faith in a stranger. You will have to make a substantial financial investment without being able to see it for yourself. How can you know for sure that you are making a good investment?

Getting comfortable with buying online and moving them will open up a whole new world of possibilities. You can shop from the best of what's available without being restricted to local pricing trends.

Take Advantage of Regional Preferences

The residents' preferences can influence the pricing of certain types of cars in the region. For example, finding a good deal on a pickup truck in a rural area may be challenging, but relatively cheap in the city. The price difference could more than cover the cost of shipping.

Even if the price is right, it can still feel like a leap of faith when you purchase online without seeing it for yourself. Here are some ways to minimize your risk and maximize your chance of getting the right automobile at the right price.

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The More Photos, the Better

Photos are the closest you will get to seeing the vehicle's actual condition, so they are essential. Avoid listings with poor-quality photos. Look for listings with numerous images of both the interior and exterior. Complete sets of photos should give you information about wear to the interior, damage to the bumper, and any rust or damage on the auto's underside.

Please take note of the condition of the tires on it as well. Replacing an entire set of tires on an auto you just purchased is not a good way to start.

If there is anything you can't see in the photos, ask the seller if they can provide more. The willingness of a seller to provide additional details is a good sign that they are above board and acting in good faith.

a digital purchase order visible on a computer screen

Purchase History Report

Get the car's identification number (VIN) from the seller or the ad. There are websites online that will allow you to use the VIN to get a history report. It will tell you if it has ever been totaled or salvaged. Other potential problems that could surface in a report include issues with the title, flood damage, or odometer rollbacks.

If It's Worth Buying, it's Worth a Inspection

You should always have the auto you want to purchase inspected by a reputable professional. You may just happen to have a mechanic friend in the area, but otherwise, you will need to find somebody else to do the inspection. Mobile inspectors such as Alliance Inspection Management can help.

These inspectors don't drive it, but they perform a thorough visual inspection to assess any damage to the body or frame or any visible interior elements. They will generate a report for you within 24 hours. Knowledge is power when you negotiate terms, and it could even prevent you from buying it in the first place.

How to Safely Close the Deal from a Distance

No matter what anyone says or promises to you, the seller does not receive your money until you have taken possession of the ca. This is especially important if you are purchasing remotely. But here's the thing: some sellers may be unwilling to relinquish custody until they have been paid.

You could choose to use an online middleman such as Escrow.com. This website holds money in escrow until the transaction has been completed. Having the escrow money protects both the buyer and the seller.

Door-to-Door Service Makes for a Seamless Transaction

If you want to invest in a first-class experience, you can arrange for door-to-door service. This service picks it up at the seller's location and hauls it to your door. Moving nationwide may involve coordination among multiple movers. With door-to-door service, all the logistics are handled for you. Contact us for a quote on how we can get it to your door without stress.

Due Diligence

You can't overdo your due diligence when purchasing from a distance. Ask questions. Double-check every piece of paper you are asked to read or sign. Protect your money and your investment by not leaving any details to chance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ship a car I bought from an Edmunds dealer to my home?

Yes, cars purchased through Edmunds affiliated dealers can be shipped directly to your home or office. Once the sale is complete, a carrier coordinates pickup from the dealership. Dealer hours, vehicle readiness, and location type affect timing. Most buyers choose door to door auto transport to avoid terminal drop offs and reduce handling during transit.

What is Edmunds car shipping and how does it work?

Edmunds car shipping refers to arranging vehicle transport after purchasing a car through Edmunds listings or dealer partners. Edmunds does not ship cars directly, so buyers typically hire a licensed auto transport company. Pricing is influenced by distance, vehicle size, open vs enclosed transport, and pickup access. Most shipments use door to door delivery from the seller or dealership to your home within 2–7 days for regional routes.

Is car delivery from a dealership safer than driving it yourself?

Shipping a vehicle from a dealership is often safer than driving long distances. Professional carriers are FMCSA registered and insured, reducing wear, mileage, and accident exposure. Transport also avoids weather risks, road debris, and unexpected breakdowns. Many buyers shipping newly purchased or low mileage vehicles prefer used car shipping to preserve condition and resale value.

How much does Edmunds car shipping usually cost?

Edmunds car shipping typically costs $500–$1,300 for domestic transport. Short routes under 500 miles often fall between $400–$700, while cross country shipments average $900–$1,300. Key cost drivers include distance, fuel prices, season, and carrier availability. Open transport is the most common option, while enclosed carriers add about 30–40 percent to the price.

Do Edmunds car shipping reviews mention hidden fees or delays?

Most Edmunds car shipping reviews highlight smooth deliveries when pricing and timing are confirmed upfront. Issues usually arise from last minute schedule changes, limited access locations, or inaccurate vehicle details. Reputable carriers provide transparent quotes that factor in distance and transport type. Reviewing detailed car shipping rates before booking helps avoid surprises and delivery delays.

How long does Edmunds car delivery take after purchase?

Edmunds car delivery usually takes 2–5 days for regional routes and 5–10 days for cross country shipments. Timing depends on carrier scheduling, dealer release speed, and route demand. Urban pickup locations move faster than rural areas. Flexible pickup windows can shorten wait times, while expedited options are available for urgent deliveries at higher cost.