Are you going to get the car shipping experience for the first time in the United States? Moreover, you have some queries about the cost to ship a car to another state. Don’t worry because Delivero Logistics is here with you to guide you through all the necessary steps, from which you will find out how much to ship a car to another state in 2025 and beyond.
The pricing might feel bewildering at first since there are so many alternatives, from open auto transport carriers to enclosed trailers, and each one includes a different price tag.
The good news is that there are simple solutions to minimize car shipping cost per mile without compromising peace of mind. You may make wise decisions and save money by being aware of the variables that influence pricing, such as pickup alternatives, timing, and distance.
Keep reading and exploring to learn how expensive is it to ship a car to another state if you are a first-time shipper.
Average Cost to Ship a Car in 2025
Understanding how much does it cost to ship a car is vital for efficient budgeting and planning. The average cost of shipping an automobile nationwide as of early 2025 is $1,245; however, costs vary greatly depending on the total distance and mode of transportation.
Here is the pricing breakdown depending on distance:
Short distance (under 500 miles)
- Average pricing range: $550-$800
- Typical per-mile rate: $1.40-$2.00
- For Example: Chicago to Detroit, Miami to Atlanta
Medium distance (500-1,500 miles)
- Average pricing range: $800-$1,200
- The average cost per mile is between $0.85 and $1.20.
- For Example: New York to Miami, Los Angeles to Denver
Long distance (1,500+ miles)
- Average pricing range: $1,200-$1,800
- Typical per-mile rate: $0.60-$0.85
- Examples include: New York (NY ) to Los Angeles (LA), Seattle to Miami
Let’s break down the factors that influence how much to ship a vehicle to another state in 2025.
Also Read: How to Ship a Car to Another State: Insider Secrets From Auto Transport Experts
Factors That Affect The Cost To Ship A Car To Another State
Beyond only distance or vehicle type, several important factors affect car transportation costs. These include your car’s size and condition, the shipping distance, the carrier type, seasonal demand, delivery preferences, and the speed at which you want your vehicle to be delivered. Even the quantity of available carriers bidding on your item might affect the ultimate pricing. Understanding how each of these variables contributes to the overall cost will help you make educated decisions and perhaps save money on your car transportation.
Vehicle size
The size of your vehicle determines the typical cost to ship a car. For instance, average prices above show a cost of $650 to $825 to transport a car between Massachusetts and Florida, while the same company may charge $850 to $1,200 to ship an SUV, van, or pickup truck an identical distance.
Because they weigh more and occupy more room on a carrier, larger vehicles are more expensive to carry due to heavy hauling. The charge per vehicle will decrease as the truck’s capacity increases.
Season
Expect to spend more during peak months when firms are busier, and space on cargo vehicles is more restricted. Prices for transporting a vehicle in the summer months might climb as much as $200 to $300 each trip.
However, scheduling a shipment in regions with bad weather during the winter might also result in higher vehicle transport expenses. The cost will probably increase if a carrier has to deal with snowstorms and other possible weather delays.
Whether you’re in the early stages of organizing your vehicle transfer, inquire about peak rates and find out whether the shipping carrier or broker offers reductions during the offseason that decrease the average vehicle shipping cost. These reductions might add up to considerable total savings if you can plan your shipment correctly.
Shipping Distance
Your car will cost you more the farther it must go. The cost to ship a car could differ depending on the vehicle transporter you pick, so investigate many firms to find out how much to ship a car to another state.
Additionally, carriers sometimes charge less for long-distance vehicle transportation on open roadways. For example, sailing between Miami and Boston necessitates the carrier to transit through multiple urban regions where traffic may be high, which could influence travel time.
But much of the drive from Boston to Los Angeles is done at high speeds without the hindrance of urban traffic. The more ground a carrier can cover throughout the course of a day, the cheaper the per-mile fee will be.
Also Read: Car Vending Machine: What Happens After You Pick Your Car Online
Carrier Type (Open vs. Enclosed)
Shipping your automobile on an open car carrier is cheaper since these carriers can often transport more vehicles than enclosed carriers, cutting the shipping company’s cost per vehicle.
Simply, we will say that if your audience happens to have a car, they consider their ‘baby,’ they might want to think about enclosed transport to protect your vehicle against the elements and road debris. However, you must pick the best car shipping company for enclosed shipping.
Delivery Time Period (rush or normal)
If you want your car transported quickly, the total cost will be more. For expedited shipment, budget an additional $200 to $500. On the other hand, if you’re flexible about when your car can arrive at its final destination, you’ll pay less.
Generally, you’ll have a three-day window for collection, followed by a specific delivery date. Moreover, if you need your vehicle picked up by a specified date, most businesses may keep it at their facility for an extra cost to ship a car.
Affordable Car Shipping Methods And Delivery Options
We’ve found that the final cost might vary significantly depending on how you choose to transport your automobile and where it is picked up or delivered. Looking at these alternatives together lets you determine where savings are available.
Open Transport
Since your automobile shares space with other vehicles on an open trailer, open auto transport is typically the least expensive option. It’s frequently utilized by dealerships and moving firms, which makes it easy to schedule.
Although it exposes your car to weather and road debris, this is frequently the greatest trade-off between cost and dependability for regular cars.
Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed auto transport gives better protection but at a higher expense. Your automobile drives on a covered trailer, safe from rain, snow, and road damage.
Many people pick this for historic automobiles, premium models, or vehicles with distinctive paint. While it might cost 30–50% more than open transport, it delivers peace of mind if your vehicle needs particular attention during the trip.
Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
With terminal-to-terminal service, you minimize money by dropping off and picking up your automobile at predefined locations instead of your doorstep. Since drivers don’t have to reach your particular home, expenses are cheaper.
Less convenience and the possibility of having to travel to the terminal are the drawbacks. Still, if budget concerns most, this solution is worth it.
Door-to-Door Delivery
The simplest option is door to door auto movers, but it’s not necessarily the cheapest option to determine the cost to ship a car. To load and unload the vehicle, the carrier arrives at your house or as close as feasible.
Although you’ll often pay a little bit more, this saves time and effort, particularly if you live in a busy location. For consumers who prefer utmost convenience, this option might be worth the extra expense.
How to Reduce the Cost to Ship a Car in the US?
If you’re seeking the lowest price feasible, the most budget-friendly mix is open transit with terminal-to-terminal delivery.
Beyond that, there are numerous simple techniques to keep your automobile transportation costs under control:
- Make reservations in advance. Scheduling your cargo at least two to four weeks ahead generally provides you with better pricing and more transportation alternatives. Last-minute appointments sometimes cost extra.
- Compare several quotes. Before making a reservation, get at least three estimates from reliable suppliers. Comparing quotes from the finest vehicle shipping companies lets you recognize inflated pricing and discover the best value.
- Ask about discounts. Many carriers provide pricing savings for service members, students, the elderly, or for numerous automobiles. It never hurts to inquire; some even offer seasonal promotions.
- Be flexible with timing. Avoid busy periods like summer or vacations when demand soars. Flexible pickup or delivery dates might help you snag a lower price.
- Steer clear of superfluous additions. Unless you absolutely need them, bypass bonuses like guaranteed pickup or expedited delivery. Such premium services could raise your whole hundreds of dollars.
Conclusion
Shipping a car is expensive and calls for careful thought of several factors. Throughout this tutorial, we’ve discussed how distance, vehicle type, transit mode, and schedule might affect your shipping expenses. Although the average cost to ship a Car ranges from $550 to $2,450, according to current market statistics, knowing these factors enables you to make economical choices.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What Is The Cheapest Way To Ship A Car?
The cheapest approach to send an automobile is often by employing an open transport carrier and selecting terminal-to-terminal delivery rather than door-to-door.
How To Estimate Car Shipping Costs?
To estimate the cost to ship a car, utilize our online calculator by inputting your vehicle’s information, pickup/delivery locations, and selected transport method, as these are the primary determinants.
Is Shipping A Vehicle Worth It?
Shipping a vehicle is worth it when it’s a long-distance transfer (over 300-500 miles), if you have to haul a non-running vehicle, or if you’re looking to save time and wear-and-tear on your automobile.
