If you need to move a vehicle a long distance, you might be wondering how do you ship a car across country. Transporting a vehicle across the country involves choosing between open carriers, enclosed trailers, or driving it yourself. Each method has its own costs, timelines, and levels of risk.
This guide will walk you through the entire process. We will cover how to prepare your car, choose a reliable company, and understand the costs involved.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what steps to take for a smooth cross-country auto transport experience.
How Do You Ship A Car Across Country
The core process of shipping a car involves several key stages. You start by researching and selecting a transport method. Then, you get quotes from multiple companies, book your shipment, prepare your vehicle, and finally, track its delivery.
While it may seem straightforward, each step requires careful attention to detail. Skipping preparation or choosing the wrong carrier can lead to delays, damage, or unexpected fees.
Understanding this framework is the first step to a successful move.
Researching Your Auto Transport Options
Before you get any quotes, you need to decide how your car will travel. The three main options are open transport, enclosed transport, and driving it yourself. Each serves a different need and budget.
Your choice will be the biggest factor in the final cost and the level of protection your vehicle receives during its journey.
Open Carrier Transport
This is the most common and economical method. Your car is shipped on a multi-level trailer alongside other vehicles, fully exposed to the elements.
Over 95% of all cars shipped use this method. The carriers are used by dealerships and manufacturers for new car deliveries.
- Pros: Most affordable option, widely available, can handle multiple vehicles at once.
- Cons: Vehicle is exposed to road debris, weather (rain, sun, snow), and dust.
It’s a reliable choice for standard, everyday vehicles.
Enclosed Carrier Transport
This is a premium service where your vehicle is placed inside a fully enclosed trailer. It provides protection from weather, road grime, and flying debris.
This option is typically chosen for classic cars, high-value exotics, luxury vehicles, or cars under restoration.
- Pros: Maximum protection from weather and road hazards, more discreet.
- Cons: Costs significantly more (often 30-60% higher than open transport), less availability.
Driving It Yourself
While not technically “shipping,” driving the car yourself is an option some consider. It gives you full control over the timeline and handling of the vehicle.
However, you must factor in the cost of gas, hotels, meals, wear and tear on your car, and your own time. For very long distances, the cumulative cost and fatigue often make professional shipping a better value.
Getting Accurate Price Quotes
Once you know your preferred method, it’s time to get quotes. Prices vary based on many factors, so getting multiple estimates is crucial. Never book with the first company you contact.
Be prepared to provide specific details to get an accurate quote.
Key Factors That Influence Cost
Transport companies consider several variables when calculating your price.
- Distance: The longer the route, the higher the base cost, though the cost per mile often decreases.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger, heavier vehicles (like trucks and SUVs) take up more space and may cost more than compact cars.
- Transport Type: Enclosed transport is more expensive than open transport.
- Season and Demand: Prices peak during high-demand seasons (summer, early fall, around holidays) and when moving between popular states like California and Florida.
- Pickup and Delivery Locations: Major metropolitan areas are easier and cheaper to service than remote rural locations, which may incur additional fees.
- Operability: A car that does not run (inoperable) requires special equipment to load and will cost more to ship.
- Timeline: Expedited or guaranteed pick-up dates usually come with a premium price.
How To Request Quotes
Contact at least 3-5 reputable brokers or carriers. Provide consistent information to each one for comparable quotes.
- Have your vehicle’s make, model, year, and exact condition ready.
- Know your exact pickup zip code and destination zip code.
- Specify your desired transport type (open or enclosed).
- Note if the vehicle is running or not.
- Provide your flexible pickup and delivery windows.
Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true. Extremely lowball estimates can be a sign of scams or hidden fees later.
Choosing A Reputable Shipping Company
This is the most critical step for peace of mind. The industry includes both carriers (who own the trucks) and brokers (who arrange the shipment). Both can be legitimate, but you must vet them thoroughly.
Broker vs Carrier: Understanding The Difference
A carrier is the company that physically operates the truck that will transport your vehicle. They employ the drivers and own the equipment.
A broker acts as a middleman. They take your order and then find an available carrier from their network to fulfill the shipment. Brokers provide convenience and choice but add a layer between you and the driver.
Whether you choose a broker or a carrier, ensure they are properly licensed and insured.
Vetting A Transport Company
Do not skip this research. A few simple checks can save you from a nightmare scenario.
- Verify USDOT and MC Numbers: Any legitimate carrier or broker in the United States must have a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can look this up on the FMCSA’s SAFER website to check their safety rating, insurance status, and complaint history.
- Read Customer Reviews: Check independent sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google Reviews. Look for patterns in feedback, not just isolated complaints.
- Check Insurance Coverage: The company must have active cargo and liability insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance and understand what it covers. Your personal auto insurance may also provide some coverage during transport—check your policy.
- Get Everything In Writing: A reputable company will provide a clear, detailed contract. This should outline the price, pickup/delivery windows, service terms, and insurance information. Never agree to a verbal contract.
Preparing Your Vehicle For Shipment
Proper preparation protects your car and ensures a smooth pickup and delivery process. The carrier will note the vehicle’s condition at pickup, so your own documentation is key.
Cleaning and Documentation
Start with a thorough cleaning, inside and out. A clean car makes it easier to spot any existing damage.
- Wash and dry the exterior. This allows you and the driver to complete an accurate inspection report.
- Clean the interior. Remove all personal belongings. Transport companies prohibit shipping personal items in the vehicle due to insurance and weight restrictions.
- Document pre-existing damage. Take date-stamped photos and videos from all angles. Focus on dents, scratches, chips, and interior flaws. Have the driver note these on the Bill of Lading (the condition report).
- Check fluid levels and ensure there are no active leaks.
Mechanical and Accessory Preparation
A few mechanical checks will prevent issues during loading and unloading.
- Disable alarms: If your car has an alarm, provide the driver with instructions to disable it or leave the keys in a way that prevents it from going off during transit.
- Check tire pressure: Inflate tires to the proper level to prevent flat-spotting during a long journey.
- Fuel level: Leave only about a quarter tank of gas. This reduces weight for the carrier and is a safety precaution.
- Retract antennas and remove loose parts: Lower radio antennas, remove toll transponders, and take off any aftermarket parts that are not permanently attached (like spoilers or roof racks).
The Pickup And Delivery Process
Knowing what to expect on pickup and delivery day reduces stress. Flexibility is important, as exact times can be affected by weather, traffic, and other deliveries.
During Vehicle Pickup
The carrier’s driver will contact you to schedule a specific pickup window. Be ready to meet them.
- Final Inspection: Walk around the vehicle with the driver. Point out any pre-existing damage you documented. The driver will fill out the Bill of Lading, which is a legal document noting the car’s condition. You must review and sign this. Keep your copy.
- Key Handoff: Provide the driver with the keys. They may need to move the vehicle several times during the multi-stop journey.
- Payment: Most companies require payment upon pickup, either in cash, cashier’s check, or verified funds. Some may accept credit cards. Clarify this before booking.
Tracking and Communication
Once your car is on the truck, the driver or company should provide you with a way to track the shipment or at least a phone number for updates. While you won’t get minute-by-minute tracking, you should recieve major status updates.
Maintain communication but be patient. Drivers have strict regulations on driving hours and may not always be able to answer the phone immediately.
Final Delivery and Inspection
The delivery process mirrors pickup. The driver will call to arrange a delivery window.
- Conduct a Thorough Inspection: Before you sign the delivery receipt, inspect the vehicle in daylight. Use your copy of the Bill of Lading and your pre-shipment photos to compare the condition.
- Note Any New Damage: If you find new damage, note it clearly on the driver’s copy of the Bill of Lading before you sign. Take photos. This is crucial for filing an insurance claim.
- Complete Payment (if any balance is due): Finalize any remaining payment as agreed in your contract.
- Retrieve Your Keys: Get your keys and all vehicle documents back from the driver.
Understanding Insurance And Damage Claims
Reputable carriers carry primary liability insurance. However, understanding the claims process is essential in the rare event that damage occurs.
The Bill of Lading you signed is the primary evidence. Damage not noted on it at pickup is assumed to have happened during transport.
If you find new damage upon delivery, you must note it on the driver’s copy before signing. Then, contact the transport company immediately to initiate a claim. They will guide you through their specific process, which typically involves submitting photos and the documented Bill of Lading.
Persistance is often required, which is why choosing a company with a solid reputation is so important.
FAQ: Common Questions About Cross-Country Car Shipping
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about shipping a car.
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car Across The Country?
For a standard sedan on an open carrier, cross-country shipping typically ranges from $800 to $2,000. The average for a long-distance move is often between $1,200 and $1,500. Prices fluctuate constantly based on fuel, demand, and the specific factors mentioned earlier.
How Long Does It Take To Ship A Car Across Country?
For a coast-to-coast shipment, expect a transit time of 7 to 14 days. This includes the driver’s route, which involves multiple pickups and deliveries. Door-to-door service may add extra time for scheduling at each end. Always ask for an estimated range when booking.
Should I Ship My Car Or Drive It?
This depends on your car’s value, your time, and your budget. Shipping is often more cost-effective when you factor in gas, lodging, food, and vehicle wear and tear for a multi-day drive. It is also safer and less stressful. Driving might make sense for shorter distances or if you want a road trip adventure.
What Is The Safest Way To Ship A Car?
An enclosed carrier provides the highest level of protection from weather and road debris, making it the safest method. For most modern cars, however, open transport is very safe and statistically has a low incidence of major damage. The safest choice overall is a combination of a reputable, insured carrier and thorough vehicle preparation.
Can I Pack Belongings In My Car When Shipping It?
No. Almost all carriers strictly prohibit shipping personal items in the vehicle. Their insurance covers the vehicle only, not its contents. Additionally, extra weight can affect the carrier’s legal weight limits and handling. A few personal items like a phone charger might be allowed, but always check with your specific company first.