Moving a car from one state to another can seem complicated, but with the right method, it becomes easier. Whether you’re relocating, selling, or simply need your car in a different state, there are multiple ways to transport your vehicle. Each method has its own costs, benefits, and challenges. In this guide, we will cover how to ship a car to another state, the factors that influence prices, and tips to save on the cost of shipping a car.
How much does it cost to ship a car? The cost to ship a car depends on several factors. The price can vary based on distance, vehicle type, transport method, and time of year. On average, the cost of shipping a car ranges from a few hundred dollars for shorter distances to over a thousand dollars for cross-country shipping. For instance, if you’re looking to ship a car from Texas to California, the price would be less than a cross-country shipment. Let’s explore the factors that impact how much it costs to ship a car.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
Several factors play into the cost to ship a car. Here’s what you should consider:
Distance
One of the most important factors is the distance. Shipping a car locally or over a short distance is cheaper than a cross-country move. However, the cost per mile can decrease as the distance increases. For example, to ship a car from Texas to California (about 1,500 miles), you may pay less per mile than someone shipping a car a shorter distance within the same state.
Time of Year/Seasonality
The time of year plays a big role in how much to ship a car. During summer, demand for car shipping increases, leading to higher costs. In contrast, the winter months can be less busy, especially in northern states where weather affects transportation.
Vehicle Condition
If your car is not in working condition, expect to pay more. Non-operational vehicles require special equipment to load and unload, increasing the cost of shipping a car. The size and weight of your car also affect the price. Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks cost more to transport compared to sedans.
Pickup and Delivery Locations
The pickup and drop-off locations can also impact the price. For instance, shipping a car from a rural area can cost more than a major city due to the limited availability of transport services. If you’re moving between cities with heavy demand, like car shipping from Los Angeles, prices may be more competitive.
Type of Transport: Open vs. Enclosed
When considering how to ship a car across the country or between states, there are two main transport options: open and enclosed carriers. The type of transport you choose significantly affects both price and protection.
Open Transport
Open transport is the most common method. Cars are loaded onto a trailer without full protection, which makes it the cheapest option. Open carriers can carry multiple vehicles, allowing for more economical shipping. However, cars are exposed to weather and road debris during the journey.
Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transport is more expensive but provides added protection. If you have a luxury or classic car, this might be the better choice to avoid damage from weather and debris. The enclosed car shipping cost can be significantly higher than open transport due to the extra care and limited capacity.
Average Cost Estimates for Car Shipping
To give you a better idea of how much does it cost to ship a car, here are average estimates based on distance:
Short Distance (Up to 500 miles)
For distances under 500 miles, the cost to ship a car can range from $300 to $500. For example, shipping a car to another state within a short range, like Texas to a neighboring state, would typically fall within this price range.
Medium Distance (500–1,000 miles)
For 500 to 1,000 miles, the cost is higher. Expect to pay around $600 to $900. A route like a ship car from Texas to California falls into this category.
Long Distance (1,000+ miles)
For longer distances, such as shipping a car from California to New York, you could be looking at $1,000 to $1,500. Cross-country trips are the most expensive, but there are often ways to save depending on the transport method and timing.
Additional Fees to Consider
When planning your budget, be mindful of extra fees that can add up quickly.
Expedited Shipping
If you need your car delivered fast, expedited shipping is available, but it comes with a premium price. Depending on the urgency, this can add several hundred dollars to your total cost.
Insurance
While most transport companies offer basic insurance, you may want to purchase additional coverage for extra peace of mind, especially for long-distance or enclosed transport.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal Service
Door-to-door service offers the convenience of having your car picked up and delivered to your exact locations, but it’s pricier than terminal-to-terminal, where you drop off and pick up your car at designated locations.
Cost-Saving Tips for Car Shipping
Although the cost to ship a car can be high, there are ways to save:
Book in Advance: The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a better deal.
Flexible Dates: Being flexible with your pickup and delivery dates can help reduce the price.
Terminal-to-Terminal: Opt for terminal-to-terminal service if you don’t need door-to-door delivery.
Choose Open Transport: While it provides less protection, it’s much cheaper than enclosed shipping.
Conclusion
Shipping a car to another state requires careful planning and understanding of the factors that affect the cost. Whether you’re looking to ship a car from Texas to California or across the country from California to New York, the cost to ship a car will depend on the distance, time of year, vehicle condition, and the type of transport you choose. By considering all these factors and using the tips provided, you can make the process easier and save money in the long run. Whether you’re opting for open or enclosed car shipping, there’s a method that fits your budget and needs.