Car shipping cost
How much does it cost to ship a car?
Most car shipments run $500–$1,600. Here are real price ranges by distance, the six factors that set your quote, and practical ways to pay less.
Get a Free QuotePrice ranges
Typical car shipping cost by distance
Ballpark figures for a standard sedan. Larger vehicles and peak season run higher.
| Distance | Open transport | Enclosed transport |
|---|---|---|
| Under 500 miles | $300–$600 | $500–$900 |
| 500–1,000 miles | $500–$800 | $800–$1,200 |
| 1,000–1,500 miles | $700–$1,000 | $1,000–$1,400 |
| 1,500–2,500 miles | $900–$1,400 | $1,300–$1,900 |
| 2,500+ miles | $1,000–$1,600 | $1,400–$2,200 |
These are estimates for planning only — not quotes. Your exact price comes from service providers. Get a free quote for real numbers on your route.
What sets your price
Six factors that affect car shipping cost
Distance
Vehicle size
Open vs. enclosed
Season & timing
Route & access
Vehicle condition
FAQ
Car shipping cost questions
How much does it cost to ship a car?
Most car shipments cost between $500 and $1,600. Short regional moves can be a few hundred dollars, while long cross-country moves — especially in an enclosed trailer — can exceed that. Distance, vehicle size, transport type, and season set your exact price.
Why is enclosed transport more expensive?
Enclosed trailers carry fewer vehicles and offer full protection from weather and road debris, so the cost per car is higher — typically 30–60% more than open transport.
How can I lower my car shipping cost?
Compare multiple quotes, stay flexible on pickup dates, ship on open transport when possible, book ahead of peak season, and choose terminal-to-terminal over door-to-door if you can drop off and pick up.
Is the cheapest quote always best?
Not always. A price far below the others can mean a service provider that struggles to actually book the load, causing delays. Weigh price against the service provider’s authority, insurance, and reviews.
Related: car shipping guide · open transport · enclosed transport
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