Top Interstate Auto Transport & Hauling Company

Last updated Nov, 01 2025
Top Interstate Auto Transport & Hauling Company

We specialize in interstate car transport, providing reliable and efficient solutions for individuals, businesses, and dealerships. Whether you’re moving a car interstate, managing a commercial fleet, or purchasing a vehicle from another state, our team ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience. A1 Auto Transport offers open-air and enclosed transport to suit different vehicle types, from passenger cars and SUVs to luxury and classic automobiles. Our experts handle every process step, from pickup to interstate vehicle transport, ensuring your car arrives safely and on time.

We provide tailored solutions for businesses in interstate auto transport, helping them move their fleets efficiently. If you've recently bought a car from an out-of-state seller, we coordinate every detail, including the necessary paperwork, to ensure smooth delivery. With over 30 years of experience, A-1 Auto Transport is a trusted name in the industry. We are fully licensed and committed to safety, compliance, and superior customer service. Let us handle the complexities of shipping a car interstate so you can focus on what matters most.

Choosing the right transport type is essential for safe and reliable interstate auto shipping. For standard vehicles, open transport or open trailer options are cost-effective and widely used by auto carriers and car transporters across the United States. While open auto transport exposes your vehicle to weather conditions, it is suitable for most types of vehicles, including pickup trucks and SUVs. Clients shipping from New Jersey to South Carolina or Los Angeles can benefit from competitive pricing while maintaining a reliable timeframe for delivery. Regardless of the time of year, our team ensures that your vehicle's condition is safeguarded, and cargo insurance coverage provides peace of mind.

What is Interstate Car Transport?

Interstate Car Shipping involves shipping vehicles across state lines using specialized trucks, rail, or air transport. We handle all the logistics and risks, often proving more cost-effective than direct driving.

container truck going through an empty highway
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What Are the Cross-State Vehicle Shipping
Service Options?

Interstate car Hauling includes several service options, each tailored to different requirements and budgets:

Moving by Truck

  • Open-air carriers: Our cost-effective open-air carriers transport multiple vehicles, distributing the costs. While exposed to elements, our experienced team ensures proper securement and protection, making this a suitable choice for standard models.
  • Enclosed carriers: For luxury, antique, or high-value vehicles, our specialized enclosed trailers provide maximum protection from weather and debris, giving clients peace of mind. While more expensive, the enhanced security is worth the investment for many.
  • Door-to-door delivery: Our team picks up your vehicle and delivers it directly to your desired destination for ultimate convenience. While this option is the most expensive, many clients find the personalized service invaluable.
vehicle on the train container

Shipping by Rail

At A-1AT, we offer rail transport as an efficient and cost-effective interstate shipping option. Our experienced team expertly manages the logistics, weighing the benefits of reduced costs and emissions against any added complexity to recommend the best solution for your unique requirements. By leveraging our expertise in interstate car moving, we provide a seamless rail Shipping experience to safely and efficiently deliver your vehicles across state lines.

a vehicle ready for moving

Freight by Air

Air is the fastest, most secure interstate shipping option, recommended for high-value or urgent vehicle shipments. Though significantly more expensive than other methods, A-1 Auto Transport's air moving services provide the ultimate protection and expedited delivery when required. We leverage our expertise to advise clients on whether the added cost is justified based on their unique needs and priorities.

a beautiful vehicle parked outside of the house

Who Uses State-to-State Car Shipping Services?

  • Individuals: Whether relocating or buying a car out of state, our interstate car shipping ensures safe, hassle-free delivery without extra mileage.
  • Auto Dealers: We help dealerships transport inventory quickly and efficiently, ensuring cars reach buyers in top condition.
  • Auctions: Auction houses rely on us to ship vehicles to winning bidders across states, expanding their market reach.
  • Manufacturers: We transport new vehicles from production to dealerships, ensuring timely and damage-free delivery.
  • Corporations: Rental agencies and corporate fleets use our cost-effective car transport to move vehicles between locations seamlessly.
  • A-1 Auto Transport delivers reliable, tailored solutions for every need. Get your vehicle shipped safely today!

For high-value or luxury cars, enclosed auto transport or enclosed car shipping is the preferred choice, offering extra protection against road debris and environmental factors. This method is ideal for vehicles with a larger vehicle size or limited operability. During the car shipping process, our team prepares a Bill of Lading and detailed insurance policy to document the vehicle and personal belongings securely. Whether shipping to Rhode Island, New Hampshire, or West Virginia, our auto shipping service accommodates specific needs while providing door-to-door transport and real-time tracking for a seamless experience. Customers can request an instant quote online and select the best way to ship their car based on distance and urgency.

How Much Does It Cost To Ship My Car To Another State?

Car shipping costs vary widely from a few hundred to several thousand, averaging $0.50-$2.00 per mile—state-specific factors like distance, location, fuel, seasonality, and vehicle condition impact pricing. To estimate, use Cost = Avg. rate/mile x Miles. Port-to-port routes may increase costs over point-to-point. Below is the average cost estimation based on distance and estimated time in transit:

Shipping To/FromCostDistanceEstimated Time In Transit
Waco to Elizabeth$28591634 miles5 - 7 days
Kent to Miramar$23661352 miles4 - 6 days
Sterling Heights to Norman$18591068 miles4 - 6 days
Minneapolis to Allentown$19901137 miles4 - 6 days
Bridgeport to Ann Arbor$994568 miles3 - 5 days
Fayetteville to Palm Bay$1384791 miles3 - 5 days
Birmingham to Westminster$455260 miles3 - 5 days
Overland Park to Gresham$443253 miles3 - 5 days
dedicated delivery truck

To get an accurate cost for shipping your vehicle to the desired state, use our Car Shipping Cost Calculator; by using details like vehicle type, pickup location, and delivery location provided by you, we will email you the exact cost to ship your vehicle. You can choose from multiple quotes from several of our partners as per your feasibility.

dedicated delivery truck

What Factors Affect the Cost of Long-Distance Car Shipping

Several key factors determine the cost of shipping a car interstate. Below, we detail two of the primary cost determinants:

Distance

Distance is the primary factor affecting car shipping costs, as longer hauls require more fuel, time, and logistical complexity. Transporters typically charge per mile, decreasing the rate as distance increases due to economies of scale.

carrier for delivering vehicles

Type of carrier

The choice between an open-air carrier and an enclosed carrier also impacts the cost:

  • Open-air carriers are usually less expensive and are suitable for most standard vehicles. They ship cars that are exposed to the elements but are considered safe and are the most common method for vehicle moving.
  • Enclosed carriers provide additional protection from the weather, road debris, and potential theft. This option is preferred for high-value, luxury, or classic cars. It is more costly than open-air transport but offers superior protection, making it a worthwhile investment for transporting expensive vehicles.
moving a mini truck

Size and Operability of the Vehicle

The size of the vehicle significantly impacts shipping costs, as larger SUVs and trucks occupy more carrier space, limiting simultaneous transport. This results in higher pricing compared to smaller vehicles. Inoperable vehicles also incur additional equipment and labor costs.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The accessibility of the pickup and drop-off locations can also impact the cost. Shipping to and from rural or less accessible areas generally costs more due to the extra time and fuel needed to reach these locations. Conversely, transport between major metropolitan areas is often less expensive due to better accessibility and the higher volume of shipments that create economies of scale.

long container truck

Seasonal Demand

Seasonal fluctuations significantly influence the pricing of car shipping services. For instance, costs typically increase during the summer months and January due to higher demand from snowbirds moving south for the winter or families relocating in the summer. Prices can also spike during the end-of-year holidays when demand peaks. Planning your car shipment during the off-peak seasons can often result in lower prices.

Permits and Regulations

State-specific permits and regulations may affect the cost of interstate car transport. Some states have stringent emissions standards and other rules that can influence the routing and method of shipping, potentially increasing costs. Compliance with these regulations might require additional paperwork and fees, impacting the overall cost of transportation.

delivery truck for moving

Strategies to Save Money on State-to-State Vehicle Shipping

Book in Advance

Scheduling your interstate auto transport early can help you save money. Many interstate car transport companies offer lower rates for advance bookings, allowing them to optimize their routes and carrier availability. Early reservations also give you better control over pickup and delivery dates.

Maintain Date Flexibility

If your schedule is flexible, you may find cheaper car transport interstate options. Many interstate car movers provide discounts for last-minute slots when they need to fill a carrier. Avoiding peak seasons, such as summer and holidays, can also help secure more affordable rates.

a guy standing in front of his truck and a guy with some money in hand

Consider Price vs. Reputation

Opting for the cheapest car transport interstate isn't always the best choice. Some companies may compromise on service, leading to delays or damages. Research interstate auto transport providers by checking Google, BBB, and Trustpilot reviews, along with their insurance coverage and track record, to ensure a balance between cost and quality.

Opt for open-air transport.

Open-air transport is the most cost-effective interstate vehicle transport method. These carriers move multiple cars at once, reducing expenses compared to enclosed shipping. While your vehicle will be exposed to weather, open carriers remain a safe and popular choice for standard vehicles.

Check For Discount

Many interstate vehicle shipping companies offer discounts for military members, multi-car shipments, and repeat customers. Always ask about available deals when requesting a quote or check the company's website for seasonal promotions.

box truck driving on the road

Why Choose A-1 Auto Transport?

Regarding interstate car transport, A-1 Auto Transport stands out for its trust, reliability, and customer-first approach. Here’s why we’re the top choice for hassle-free vehicle shipping:

  • Fully Insured Transport – Your car is covered with up to $1 million in insurance, ensuring complete protection from pickup to delivery.
  • Licensed & Registered – We’re FMCSA-authorized, meeting the highest safety and compliance standards for interstate vehicle transport.
  • Over 30 Years of Trust – Since 1988, we've built a reputation for damage-free, on-time deliveries, making us an industry leader.
new vehicle shipping

Zero Upfront Deposit—There is no need to pay upfront. Book your shipment with no deposit required and pay only when your vehicle is on its way.

Damage-Free Guarantee – If anything happens during transport, we cover the repair costs, ensuring your car arrives in the same condition it left.

Complete Inspection Process – We conduct detailed inspections before and after transport, providing a Before-and-After Report for transparency.

24/7 Customer Support—Do you have questions? Our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to keep you informed.

Transparent Pricing—No Hidden Fees. Our binding price quotes include all costs—fuel, taxes, tolls, and insurance—so you know exactly what you’re paying.

Flexible Shipping Options – Whether shipping one car or an entire fleet, we tailor solutions to fit your needs—perfect for individuals, dealerships, and businesses.

Exclusive Discounts – Enjoy savings with our military discounts, seasonal promotions, and multi-car shipping offers.

A-1 Auto Transport makes interstate vehicle shipping safe, easy, and stress-free. Get your free quote today and experience the A-1 difference.

Individuals and dealerships alike rely on experienced auto transporters to handle longer distances efficiently. From North Dakota to New Mexico, or across the coast-to-coast routes, our car shipping needs are tailored to ensure safe delivery. We transport golf carts, pickup trucks, and other types of vehicles, accommodating personal items when required. Using a combination of open car shipping, open car transport, or enclosed auto transport, our car shipper network maintains competitive pricing while guaranteeing proper auto carriers and Motor Carrier compliance through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Customer feedback consistently praises our service for reliability, speed, and transparent cost of car shipping estimates.

Relevant Statistics About Cross-State Vehicle Moving

  • Average Cost: Shipping a car interstate typically costs between $500 and $2,000, with an average of around $1,150. Distance, vehicle type, and transport method influence the final price.
  • Delivery Time: Over 80% of vehicles transported interstate are delivered within seven days, depending on the distance and specific route.
  • Annual Volume: Interstate auto transport companies handle approximately 3 million vehicles yearly, reflecting the high demand for these services.​
  • Customer Satisfaction: A recent survey found that 95% of customers were satisfied with their interstate auto transport service, indicating high trust in the industry.​
  • Transport Methods: Approximately 70% of interstate car shipments utilize open carrier trailers, while 30% opt for enclosed carriers for added protection, especially for high-value or classic vehicles.​
several enclosed truck

General Facts About National Car Hauling

  • Definition: Interstate auto shipment involves transporting vehicles across state lines, providing a hassle-free solution for long-distance moves or out-of-state vehicle purchases.
  • Convenience: This method is efficient and time-saving, eliminating the need for long drives and reducing vehicle wear and tear.
  • Transport Carriers: Specialized auto transport trucks, both open and enclosed carriers, ensure vehicles are securely shipped and delivered in pristine condition.
  • Cost Factors: Pricing varies based on distance, vehicle type, and transport method. Open carriers are more affordable, while enclosed options offer protection for high-value vehicles.
  • Choosing a Transporter: A smooth, stress-free experience requires selecting a reputable auto shipping company with proper licensing, insurance, and positive customer reviews.

When you need to transport a car from South Dakota to San Francisco or any other destination, choosing one of the Best Car Shipping Companies ensures a smooth experience. Scheduling your pickup date in advance allows companies to optimize transport routes and reduce the risk of higher prices. Whether you’re handling an online car purchase or arranging international car shipping, reputable providers offer comprehensive international shipping options tailored to your vehicle make. Check Transport Reviews and contact the company via their phone number to compare services, ensuring your car is shipped safely and efficiently across any route.

Call Us at (1-888-230-9116) or Fill out Our Form to Get a Free Quote on Your Interstate Car Shipping.

a flatbed truck moving a vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions

What is interstate auto transport and how does it work?

Interstate auto transport involves moving your vehicle from one U.S. state to another using licensed carriers. Once you book, your car is picked up, loaded onto an open or enclosed trailer, and delivered to the specified address or terminal. A Bill of Lading is completed at both pickup and delivery for inspection and record. Professional carriers ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations for cross-state vehicle movement. Discover our comprehensive process at Car Transportation Services.

How much does interstate car transport cost?

The average cost to ship a car interstate ranges from $600 to $1,500, depending on factors like distance, route popularity, vehicle size, transport type, and time of year. Shorter routes (under 500 miles) may cost around $400–$700, while cross-country deliveries (2,000+ miles) often reach $1,200–$1,800. To calculate your exact price, visit A1’s car shipping rates page for an instant estimate.

What’s the difference between open and enclosed interstate transport?

Open transport is the most common and affordable method, suitable for everyday vehicles. Enclosed transport provides extra protection from weather, debris, and road conditions, ideal for high-value or classic cars. While enclosed shipping can cost 30–50% more, it offers peace of mind and higher insurance coverage limits. 

How long does interstate car shipping take?

Typical interstate deliveries take 2–7 days, depending on the distance and route. For example, East-to-West Coast moves may take up to a week, while neighboring-state routes are often completed within 2–3 days. Weather, road conditions, and carrier schedules can affect delivery. For time-sensitive needs, explore A1’s same-day auto transport options.

Is door-to-door service available for interstate shipping?

Yes. Door-to-door delivery allows your car to be picked up and dropped off as close to your preferred locations as possible. If large trucks can’t access your street, the driver may meet you at a nearby open area such as a parking lot or service station. See our door-to-door auto transport service for full details.

What documents do I need for interstate auto transport?

Most carriers only require vehicle registration, a photo ID, and proof of ownership or a lien release (if the vehicle is financed). For out-of-state moves, ensure your car is insured and the registration is current. Keep copies of your Bill of Lading and any inspection reports, as these documents verify the vehicle's condition and delivery status.

How does insurance work when shipping across states?

Every reputable carrier must carry FMCSA-mandated liability coverage, typically ranging from $100,000 to $250,000 per vehicle. You can request additional coverage for luxury or high-value cars. Review your policy with the carrier before pickup. For information on coverage options, see Understanding Auto Transport Insurance Requirements.

Can I ship an inoperable vehicle across state lines?

Yes. Non-running cars can be shipped safely using specialized carriers equipped with winches or forklifts. This service typically costs $150–$300 more due to additional equipment and labor. Always inform your transporter beforehand to ensure proper arrangements. Learn about specialized handling at Inoperable Vehicle Shipping.

How do I track my vehicle while it’s in transit?

A1 Auto Transport provides online shipment updates and direct communication with our dispatch team. Many carriers now use GPS systems so you can monitor your vehicle’s progress in real time. You can check updates anytime through our car shipping tracker.

How can I ensure a safe and reliable interstate shipping experience?

Choose a licensed and insured carrier, verify their FMCSA number, and read verified customer reviews. Prepare your vehicle by cleaning it, taking photographs of its current condition, and removing any personal items. Request a written quote and ensure insurance details are transparent.

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“A1 Auto Transport became synonymous with top-notch service delivery, unfailing punctuality and constantly preoccupied with customer satisfaction.

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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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