Ship Truck Across Country

How to Ship a Truck Across the Country?

If you need to ship your truck across the country, there are some factors you need to consider. You’ll need to find an auto transport company that is not only reputable and reliable as a car transport company but also familiar with truck shipping procedures and requirements. If you have a standard-size pickup, you will have plenty of options available, but if you have a more specialized truck, such as a dual or extended bed, you may need to do a little more research to find the right fit for a stress-free shipping process.

While most cross-country moving companies will assure their customers they can handle your particular truck style, it is in your best interest to find one with the expertise, experience, and equipment required. Otherwise, you may find that the rates and prices go up drastically. A simple internet search will yield hundreds, if not thousands, of options, but it is up to you to use the following tips and steps to narrow down the potential truck transport companies and make your moves with peace of mind.

Make a list of requirements

List out everything you want to achieve with your truck shipping. This is a good step in understanding precisely what you want from a vehicle shipping company. Most truck and car shipping companies will need to know your truck's year, make, and model, and if it has any particular customizations, such as lift, dually, or aftermarket additions. They will also want to know the pickup and delivery or destination address and the date you would like to schedule your move. If you need a closed container versus the more common and much more affordable open carrier, you will also want to be upfront about that. Begin reaching out to several promising companies in advance to obtain quotes and make a list of all the potential shipping options you find. You can also have flexible moving dates or to get reduced car shipping costs. Open carrier is less expensive and a perfect choice for your shipment if the distance or mileage is not too far. Still, if you don’t want your asset to be exposed to the elements, bad weather conditions, and road debris, you can choose an enclosed trailer.

Do not go with the first company you contact

Even if they seem like a great fit, it is in your absolute best interest to consider various other things and get multiple quotes and estimates before deciding. Also, do not assume that more expensive companies will provide the best service. There are often brokers and other middlemen, for example, who are involved in vehicle transport, so your money is not likely to go straight to the transport driver. For this reason, shippers that ask for higher payment may actually be utilizing the same drivers as companies that charge much less.

Cross-check references to ensure a good reputation

Once you believe you’ve found a reliable and affordable truck transport company, verifying their reputation before making a final decision is crucial. You want to partner with a company with substantial experience, particularly in shipping trucks nationwide. Whether it’s from the East Coast to the West Coast or vice versa, the company should have earned a positive reputation for delivering quality service. A good place to start is the Better Business Bureau, where you can find details about the company's track record. Consumer reviews on websites like Yelp are another valuable resource for gathering feedback. Remember that not every review will be glowing, and one or two negative comments may not be a red flag. However, it’s worth reconsidering your choice if you notice consistent complaints.

Make a final decision and prepare your truck

After conducting thorough research, it’s time to make a final decision and prepare your truck for its cross-country journey. Many transport companies will provide specific instructions, but in general, you need to drain your gas tank to less than ¼ full, empty any fluids, and remove aftermarket items that could get damaged during transport. It’s also essential to clear out all valuables and personal items from the cab and bed of the truck. Finally, don’t overlook insurance coverage. This is crucial to protect your vehicle against any damage or loss that may occur during shipping.

Relevant Statistics

• Approximately 2 million trucks are transported across the country each year.
• The average cost of shipping a truck across the country ranges from $800 to $2,000, depending on distance, truck type, and additional services requested.
• The cost per mile for truck shipping varies:
  • Short distances (1–500 miles): Around $1.85 per mile.
  • Medium distances (500–1,500 miles): About $0.91 per mile.
  • Long distances (1,500+ miles): Around $0.59 per mile.
• More than 90% of truck shipments arrive at their destination on time.
• Over 85% of trucking companies prefer to use door-to-door delivery services.
• It is estimated that 1 in every 10 households in the country has used truck shipping services at least once.
• The freight transportation services index (TSI) was recorded at 137.9 in February 2025, indicating a 2.0% decrease from its all-time high of 140.7.
• The American Trucking Associations projects a 1.6% increase in truck freight volumes for 2025.
• The truck driver shortage continues to be a significant issue, especially in the long-haul market.

General Facts

• Shipping a truck across the country involves transporting a vehicle from one end of the country to another.
• There are specialized shipping companies that offer services specifically for transporting trucks.
• Trucks can be shipped using various methods, including open transport or enclosed transport.
• Before shipping, it is essential to prepare the truck by removing personal belongings and ensuring it is in proper working condition.
• The cost of shipping a truck across the country can vary depending on factors such as distance, type of transport, and any additional services requested.

Related Information & FAQ.

• Shipping a Straight Truck