How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
Moving a car a long distance typically costs $500 - $1,500, depending on distance, vehicle, and transport type. Compare real carrier quotes below.
Car Shipping Cost by Distance (2026)
| Distance | Per mile | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| Short (under 500 miles) | $1.00 - $1.70 | $500 - $800 |
| Medium (500 - 1,500 miles) | $0.60 - $1.00 | $700 - $1,100 |
| Long (1,500+ miles, cross-country) | $0.40 - $0.75 | $900 - $1,500 |
Estimates for a standard running sedan on open transport. Your exact price depends on your route and dates - get a real quote to compare.
What Affects Your Car Transport Price
- Distance: The single biggest factor. Cost per mile drops as distance grows.
- Open vs. enclosed: Enclosed transport protects the car but costs 30-60% more.
- Vehicle size & condition: SUVs, trucks, and non-running vehicles cost more to load and haul.
- Season & route: Peak season and remote pickup/drop-off raise prices; popular lanes are cheaper.
- Timing: Flexible pickup dates are cheaper than guaranteed or expedited pickup.
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Car Transport Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to ship a car long-distance?
In 2026, long-distance car shipping typically costs $500-$1,500. Cost per mile falls with distance: about $1.00-$1.70/mile for short moves under 500 miles, down to $0.40-$0.75/mile for cross-country transport over 1,500 miles.
Is car shipping cheaper than driving it yourself?
For long moves it often is, once you count gas, hotels, food, time off work, and the wear/mileage you add to the car. For short local moves, a standard tow or driving is usually cheaper.
Open vs. enclosed auto transport - which do I need?
Open transport is the standard and most affordable option and is fine for most vehicles. Enclosed transport costs 30-60% more and is worth it for classic, luxury, or high-value cars that need protection from the elements.
How do I get an accurate car transport quote?
Real quotes depend on your exact pickup and delivery ZIP codes, the vehicle, and your dates. Compare a few vetted carriers to see the real market rate for your route before you book.