Cost to Ship a Car Cross Country & Across USA

Last updated Aug, 19 2025
Cost to Ship a Car Cross Country & Across USA

Smooth Transitions: Transporting Your Car to Another State with Confidence

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Move Car State to State: Auto Shipping to Another State - State To State Auto TP

Cars always get moved from one state to another by auto transport companies. Depending on the vehicle hauling company, you might have your vehicle shipped in a mode of enclosed conveyance, open carrier, state-to-state, or terminal-to-terminal car shipping. If you want to ship a car to another state and are curious about the specifics, read more about our vehicle carriage company.

What is the Average Car Transport Cost to Another State?

The short answer to car logistics rate is that it depends on the distance between the pickup and delivery sites and the states you're shipping to and from when moving a vehicle out of state. To give you a sense of the average cost to ship a car and the cheapest way to transport a vehicle, we've included some sample prices for auto-shipments between specific states based on a moving cost to ship a car calculator further down this page. Yet, when determining how much it will cost to ship a vehicle with the vehicle-carrying cost calculator, inexpensive car shipping companies use the same variables that determine how much it will cost to send a historic car or bike rack.

truck in different frames

Open Car Transport or Enclosed Car Shipping Costs

Two main types of shipping carriers or trucks are used for car shipping services. The first and cheapest way to ship cars is open auto transport, sometimes called a multi-car carrier. These motor delivery service trucks usually haul anywhere between 6 and 12 cars at once, and you've likely seen some carriers piling multiple vehicles on decks, one on top of the other.

The other option for moving cars is the enclosed services, which typically move fewer classic cars at once, usually between 2 and 4. The main difference between these shipping services is that the vehicle is wholly enclosed throughout the logistic process instead of being open and exposed as it would be on a standard motor carrier.

As you might have guessed, the average cost toship a car across the country out of state in an enclosed transport carrier, though it does offer some added privacy, protection, and peace of mind.

a black motorbike

Average Car Shipping/ Transport Cost Via Door-to-Door Auto Movement Option

Like it sounds, transporting cars using door-to-door hauling entails picking up your car from its current location and shipping it directly to the address you specify. Simply put is, ship a car to another ST. Door-to-door Carriage is a premium auto transport company that has an additional average cost of shipping a car. Still, it also offers the most convenient and hassle-free way to have a motor delivered.

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The alternative to door-to-door haulage service is to deliver and pick up your car at a carrying terminal or transport depot. These are generally located in major metro areas and larger cities, making it relatively convenient, even if there is an added step of retrieving your car. Although it's not the cheapest way for auto shipping, it can be a good way to save money if you have the time.

a long enclosed truck

Crunching The Numbers: Interstate Car Transport Prices

Now it's time to get down to some actual car transport cost figures and services offered by car shipping companies. It's important to remember that these are still general numbers since they depend on the specific part of each state you're carrying to and from, significantly larger states. Suppose you'd like an average car carriage rate estimate for a specific pick-up date and delivery location. In that case, we encourage readers to contact us, and we'll use our car shipping cost calculator to get a free quote for shipping modified vehicles.

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Preparing Your Auto to Ship a Car to Another State

Prepare yourself to ship a car to another state. Depending on your vehicle's condition, the preliminary step is performing a comprehensive vehicle condition report and washing it after removing all personal items.

Ideally, when shipping a car to another state, keep your gas tank a quarter or an eighth full, note any dents or scratches, and take photos of the entire vehicle before the American cross-country vehicle shipping company sends a professional driver to haul it to its final destination.

How Timing, Route, and Vehicle size Change your Car Shipping Rates and Transit Time

Shipping costs and transit time are not fixed numbers — they move with the time of year, peak season demand, and the route you choose across state lines. During summer months and other peak season windows (for example, snowbirds moving a Florida Car back North or vacation relocations out of Los Angeles), carrier availability tightens, and fuel costs rise, which pushes up car shipping rates; conversely, off-peak months can yield lower per-mile prices and more flexible delivery dates. The specific pickup and delivery locations matter: a downtown East Coast-to-West Coast corridor will generally deliver faster and cheaper than a route that begins or ends in a rural area where drivers must detour or deal with limited routing.

Road conditions and weather conditions — from hurricane season delays to winter snow on routes through North Dakota or South Dakota — affect both transit time and the risk of damage from road debris, so plan your timeframe with that in mind if you need guaranteed delivery dates. The transport type you pick is also decisive: open trailer loads are more available and economical for standard sedans and pickup trucks, while larger vehicles and specialty vehicles often require enclosed auto transport or an enclosed trailer and therefore command higher rates. If you need a fast estimate to compare options, request an instant quote or several car shipping quotes so you can weigh transit time, fuel costs, and additional cost line items before you commit.

Average Car Shipping Prices To Ship A Luxury Vehicle

The price quotes of auto transport companies vary from state to state; below are the average prices for shipping a car you can get for an interstate vehicle transport service in the US.

  • Shipping a car from California to New York - $1,285
  • Shipping a car from Seattle to Texas - $1,007
  • Shipping a car from Minnesota to Arizona - $944
  • Shipping a car from Massachusetts to Florida - $864
  • Shipping a car from Illinois to North Carolina - $595
  • Shipping a car from Ohio to Oregon - $1,323
  • Shipping a car from Pennsylvania to Colorado - $952

Therefore, if you are asked about how much it costs to ship a vehicle on average, the above is the answer.

a long flatbed truck

Choosing the Right Transport Type and Protecting Your Vehicle in Transit

When you evaluate car transport services, match the type of transport to the value and configuration of your vehicle: enclosed carrier or enclosed auto transport is the right choice for vintage collectors, luxury cars, and modified vehicles because it minimizes exposure to the elements and road debris, while an open trailer is the sensible, lower-cost option for ordinary daily drivers and pickups. Consider vehicle size and type of vehicle carefully — pickup trucks and larger vehicles can require special handling or additional spacing on multi-car carriers, which sometimes creates an additional cost. Before pickup, Prepare Your Car by documenting existing damage with photos, removing all personal belongings, and leaving the gas tank only partially filled — these steps streamline the vehicle condition report and reduce disputes on delivery.

A proper bill of lading is your contract and condition record at pickup; it should list existing damage, confirm the insurance policy limits carried by the auto transporters, and set the agreed pickup and delivery addresses, whether you selected door-to-door service, terminal-to-terminal, or a hybrid door service. Confirming these details with customer service and keeping copies of the bill of lading and insurance policy reduces the risk of damage claims and makes filing easier if something unexpected happens. Our auto transport services deliver your vehicle safely and on time.

How to Get Trustworthy Quotes, Choose a Car Transport Company, and Book with Confidence

Smart shoppers treat car shipping like any other long-distance move: compare car shipping quotes from multiple auto shipping companies and Moving Companies, validate online reviews and Transport Review listings, and prioritize firms that display years of experience, clear car shipping rates, and responsive customer service. A reputable car transport company and network of auto transporters will explain how car shipment pricing is built — distance, transport type, vehicle size, pickup and delivery locations, fuel costs, and any additional cost for specific needs like enclosed trailer service or expedited timeframe — and will let you pay securely with a credit card or by other accepted methods while giving you options to reserve by phone (include the phone number for a final confirmation if you prefer human support).

For long-distance moves across the United States — whether you’re shipping from New Jersey to South Carolina, moving a car from New Mexico to New Hampshire, delivering a Florida Car for the snowbird season, or arranging transport from Los Angeles to an inland state — check that pickup and delivery windows are clearly stated, ask about transit time estimates to avoid surprises, and read social proof from customers who shipped similar type of vehicle and route. If you have specific needs — a pick-up truck, pickup a fleet move, luxury cars, or vehicles with existing damage that require special handling — tell the carrier up front so your instant quote includes everything and you won’t face unexpected charges on delivery. When you’ve compared quotes, looked at online reviews, verified insurance and bill of lading procedures, and confirmed delivery dates and timeframe with customer service, you’ll be ready to book confidently and move ahead with minimal risk.

Our Services At The A-1 Auto Transport Vehicle Shipping Company When You Need Help Moving To Another State

We are one of the best car shipping companies in America, offering affordable car shipping services. We have over 30 years of shipping experience and great transport costs when it comes time to haul a vehicle. Based on testimonials from past customers whose cars arrived safely, we have deduced that moving a motor safely to multiple delivery locations has never been this easy with brokers.

Although we do not guarantee the cheapest carshipping cost, we are driven by our core values of expertise, authority, and transparency to move your vehicle. At the same time, our assortment of featured elements includes the following:

  • Professional drivers, all with a driver's license
  • Auto transport carriers
  • A transparent car shipping process
  • Seamless customer care service
  • Insurance coverage
  • Open car transport
  • Enclosed car carrier
  • Online car shipping
a powerful enclosed truck

How Much Does It Cost On Average to Ship a Car?

Ship A Car to Another State with Ease—Never Has Vehicle Shipping to Another State Been Easy. Shipping a Car to Another State is Affordable; use Our Average Price Calculator to Know How Much it Costs to Transport A Car to Another State.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car Across the Country?

Car transport cost varies based on distance, vehicle type, and shipping method. On average, the cost to ship a car cross country ranges between $600 and $1,500. Open transport is more affordable, while enclosed shipping offers added protection at a higher price. Consider factors like fuel prices, carrier availability, and seasonal demand to get an accurate quote. If you're wondering how much is it to ship a car to another state, request multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies.

What Is the Average Car Shipping Cost per Mile?

The average car shipping cost per mile varies depending on distance, vehicle type, and transport method. Typically, for short distances (under 500 miles), the rate is around $1.00 to $2.00 per mile, while for longer routes (over 1,000 miles), it drops to $0.50 to $1.00 per mile. Enclosed transport costs more than open carriers, and expedited shipping further increases the price. Fuel prices, seasonal demand, and pickup/drop-off locations also impact auto transport rates. To get the best deal, compare quotes from top car shipping companies and choose a service that balances affordability and reliability.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does It Charge To haul a Vehicle To Another Region?

The cost of shipping a car to another state varies depending on several factors, including:

  • The distance between the pickup and delivery locations
  • The size and type of car being shipped
  • The type of shipping service selected (open carrier, enclosed carrier, door-to-door delivery, etc.)
  • The time of year

In general, you can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 to ship a car to another state. For example, shipping a car from California to Washington, DC, would cost between $1,085 and $1,700, while shipping a car from Florida to Chicago would cost between $1,014 and $1,587.

How much would shipping a car from Los Angeles, California, to Texas cost?

The cost of shipping a car from Los Angeles, California, to Texas varies depending on several factors, including:

  • The type of vehicle being shipped
  • The distance between the pickup and delivery locations
  • The time of year
  • The shipping method selected (open or enclosed carrier)

You can expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 to ship a car from Los Angeles to Texas.

How do I find the best auto transport company to ship my car?

Finding the best auto transport company to ship your vehicle involves a few key steps:

1. Research and compare companies: Research and compare different auto transport companies. Look for companies with positive customer reviews, a good reputation, and experience in shipping cars to your desired destination.

2. Get multiple quotes: Request quotes from multiple companies to compare prices and services. Be sure to provide accurate information about your motor, pickup, and delivery locations, and desired shipping dates.

3. Check for licensing and insurance: Verify that the auto transport company is licensed and insured. This ensures that your car will be protected during transit and that the company meets industry standards.

4. Read the contract carefully: Before booking with a company, carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of the contract. Pay attention to pickup and delivery dates, cancellation policies, and insurance coverage.

5. Ask about tracking and communication: Inquire about the company's tracking system and communication methods. A reliable auto transport company should provide updates on the status of your vehicle and be reachable throughout the shipping process.

6. Consider customer service: Evaluate the company's level of customer service. A reputable auto transport company should have knowledgeable and responsive customer service representatives who can address any concerns or questions you may have.

By following these steps and doing thorough research, you can find the best auto transport company to ship your car confidently.

How long does shipping a car from Ohio to California take?

The shipping time for a car from Ohio to California typically takes 4-6 days. This is based on the average distance of 2,400 miles and a car carrier's average daily mileage of 500 miles. However, there are a few factors that can affect the shipping time, such as:

  • The type of car being shipped: Larger or heavier cars may take longer to ship, as they may require special equipment.
  • The shipping company you choose: Different companies have different shipping times and routes.
  • The time of year: Shipping times may be longer during peak shipping seasons, such as the summer and holidays.
  • Weather conditions: Severe weather conditions, such as snowstorms or hurricanes, can delay shipping times.

If you need your car shipped quickly, you can opt for expedited shipping. This will typically cost more, but your car will be shipped sooner.

Should I use an enclosed car carrier to ship a car to another state?

Using an enclosed car carrier to ship a car to another state is a personal preference and depends on the value and condition of your car. Enclosed carriers provide extra protection from the elements and potential damage during transit. They are ideal for classic cars, luxury vehicles, and cars with special modifications. However, enclosed carriers are generally more expensive than open carriers. If your car is standard and you are not concerned about potential damage from weather or road debris, an open carrier may be more cost-effective. It's important to weigh the pros and cons and choose the option that best suits your needs and budget.

Will my car be insured during auto transport?

Yes, your car will be insured during auto transport. Reputable auto transport companies must carry insurance to protect your vehicle during transit. It's important to verify that the company you choose has proper insurance coverage and to understand their policy details. This will ensure that you are adequately protected in case of any damage or loss to your car during shipping.

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A-1 Auto Transport is a disclosed agent for the following shipping companies:

CSI Logistics
435 Division Street
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
FMC 22206
Intl Cargo
45 Campus Drive
Edison, NJ 08837
NO. 17858N
Trans Global Auto Logistics, Inc.
3401 E Randol Mill Rd,
Arlington, TX 76011
NO. 018191NF
CFR Rinkens
15501 Texaco Avenue
Paramount, CA 90723
NO. 013055NF
ABC Worldwide LLC
2840 NW 2nd Ave #105
Boca Raton, FL 33431
NO. 025472F
ShipYourCarNow LLC
1160 South Rogers Circle Suite 1
Boca Raton, FL 33487
NO. 025646
Merco Air & Ocean Cargo, Inc.
6 Fir Way
Cooper City, FL 33026
NO. 021869F
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