How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car State-To-State? Here's What to Expect
State-To-State Car Shipping: Cost
The cost of shipping a car from one state to another depends on several factors. Distance is one of the most important: it will cost more to move a ride from California to New York than it will to haul a ride from Texas to Colorado.
The type of service you require has an effect, as does the type of vehicle you’re shipping.
- Distance - The range for dispatching a vehicle is relatively large. It might be anywhere from 100 miles to over 2,500 miles. Generally, the price per mile increases to more than $1 for shorter deliveries and approaches $.50 for longer ones. The prices listed here are for the delivery of a typical motor via commercial airline; the expenditures for specialty services and non-typical vehicles are higher (see below).
- Service—The fundamental way to shift an auto between states is to use an open-air carrier that hauls multiple vehicles and delivers them to a dispatching terminal near the destination. Other services, such as door-to-door moving, are available but come with an added cost. The same is true of enclosed transport, which is generally done on a smaller truck and covers the auto on all sides during load.
- Vehicle Type - If there is anything nonstandard about the size or dimensions of your ride, it may require special handling. This mainly applies to oversized vehicles and modified or custom cars, but it can also come into play for some sports vehicles. Along the same lines, if you have a rare, vintage, or otherwise high-value vehicle, it’s a good idea to choose the enclosed transit service mentioned above.
Shifting Price Estimates From One Area To Another
We've compiled some recent shifting rates to offer a more definitive idea of how much it costs to change a ride from state to state. Remember that these also represent standard cargo on an open carrier so that the price will be slightly higher for enclosed transport, door-to-door, or other specialty services.
Regional Car Hauling Expenses
- Portland, OR to Denver, CO - $834
- San Jose, CA to Dallas, TX - $877
- Charlotte, NC to Detroit, MI - $544
- Boston, MA to Chicago, IL - $702
- New York, NY to St. Louis, MO - $697
- Pittsburgh, PA to Omaha, NE - $685
- Minneapolis, MN to Phoenix, AZ - $910
- Las Vegas, NV to Atlanta, GA - $942
- Salt Lake City, UT to Miami, FL - $1,176
Related Information & FAQ
- State-to-state moving services
Shipping a car from one state to another involves several cost factors that can influence the final price. Understanding these elements can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions.
Distance and Route
The distance between the pickup and delivery locations is a primary determinant of shipping costs. Generally, the longer the distance, the lower the cost per mile. For instance, shipping a car 1,000 miles might cost around $0.80 per mile, totaling approximately $800. However, shorter distances, such as 100-200 miles, could cost about $1.75 per mile.
Transport Type: Open vs. Enclosed
The choice between open and enclosed transport significantly affects pricing. Open transport is more common and cost-effective, suitable for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport offers added protection for luxury or classic cars but comes at a higher price, often 40-60% more than open carriers.
Vehicle Size and Condition
Larger or heavier vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship due to the additional space and weight they occupy on the carrier. Additionally, non-operational vehicles may incur extra fees since they require special equipment for loading and unloading.
Timing and Seasonality
Shipping costs can fluctuate based on the time of year. Peak seasons, like summer and early fall, often see higher demand, leading to increased prices. Conversely, shipping during off-peak times may offer cost savings. Flexibility with pickup and delivery dates can also influence pricing.
By considering these factors, distance, transport type, vehicle specifics, and timing, you can better estimate the cost of shipping your car state-to-state and choose the options that best fit your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average car shipping cost per mile for state-to-state transport?
Car shipping cost per mile typically falls between $0.60 and $1.10 for interstate transport. Routes over 1,000 miles often drop closer to $0.60–$0.75 per mile, while short hauls can exceed $1 per mile. Fuel prices, carrier availability, and route demand heavily influence per-mile pricing. For national averages, see current car shipping rates.
How much does it cost to ship a car to another state?
The cost to ship a car from one state to another usually ranges from $500 to $1,800 for standard vehicles. Short routes under 500 miles often cost $500 to $900, while cross-country moves average $1,200 to $1,800. Final vehicle shipping prices are driven by distance, vehicle size, transport method, and seasonality. Longer routes lower per-mile rates but raise the total price.
Is open or enclosed transport cheaper for shipping a car to another state?
Open transport is the most affordable option for state-to-state car shipping and is used for most vehicles. Enclosed transport costs about 40–60% more but provides added protection from weather and road debris. Enclosed shipping is typically chosen for luxury, classic, or high-value cars. Detailed pricing differences are outlined on the enclosed auto transport cost page.
How can I calculate the cost to ship a car from one state to another?
You can calculate state-to-state shipping costs by using a pricing tool that factors in distance, vehicle type, transport method, and timing. Accurate estimates reflect live carrier market data rather than flat averages. A good starting point is the cost distance estimate tool, which adjusts pricing based on mileage and route demand.
What factors affect vehicle shipping prices the most?
Vehicle shipping prices are primarily influenced by distance, vehicle weight, operability, carrier type, and season. Larger SUVs and trucks cost more due to trailer space limits. Peak summer and snowbird seasons often increase prices by 10–25%. Routes near major highways and metro areas usually cost less than remote rural pickups.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state?
The cheapest way to ship a car to another state is choosing open transport, booking 2–3 weeks ahead, and staying flexible with pickup dates. Avoid peak summer months when possible and select easily accessible pickup locations. Standard scheduling is far cheaper than expedited service. Comparing base pricing with an auto transport calculator helps identify the lowest-cost window.
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