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How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car?

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Key Takeaways:

AspectKey Point
Average Total Cost$900 – $1,800 for 1,500 – 2,000 miles
Average Cost Per Mile$0.60 – $1.90
Cost VariabilityInfluenced by distance, type of transport, vehicle size
Cheapest Transport OptionOpen carrier transport
Common InquiriesFAQs about duration, cost savings, and shipping with belongings

$900 – $1,800 Average Total Cost (1,500 – 2,000 Miles)

Shipping a car can be a considerable expense, with prices typically ranging between $900 and $1,800 for distances of 1,500 to 2,000 miles. This range is an average estimate, and the actual cost can vary based on various factors such as vehicle size and transport method.

$0.60 – $1.90 Average Cost Per Mile

When broken down per mile, car shipping costs average between $0.60 and $1.90. This variability stems from multiple factors such as distance, vehicle type, and the specific services you opt for.

Average Cost To Ship A Car

Car Shipping Cost By Vehicle Size & Type

The size and type of your vehicle greatly influence the shipping cost. Below is a detailed table comparing the costs based on vehicle size for different distances.

Vehicle Size & TypeCost to Ship Less Than 500 MilesCost to Ship 500 to 2,000 MilesCost to Ship More Than 2,000 Miles
Sedan$600 – $700$700 – $1,500$1,200 – $1,700
Compact SUV$700 – $800$900 – $1,600$1,300 – $2,000
SUV$800 – $900$1,000 – $1,700$1,400 – $2,200
Truck$900 – $1,000$1,100 – $1,800$1,500 – $2,400

Car Shipping Rates Per Mile

Distance is a major factor in the cost per mile for shipping a car. The further the distance, the lower the cost per mile.

Car Shipping Cost Per Mile

Distance (Miles)Average Cost Per Mile
500$1.10 – $1.90
1,000$1.00 – $1.75
1,500$0.80 – $1.40
2,000+$0.60 – $1.30

Cost To Ship A Car By Transport Type

The method of transport you choose will significantly impact the cost.

Car Shipping Rates By Transport Type

Distance (Miles)Average Open Carrier Transport CostAverage Enclosed Transport Cost
500 – 1,000$600 – $1,000$900 – $1,400
1,000 – 1,500$700 – $1,200$1,000 – $1,600
1,500 – 2,000$900 – $1,300$1,200 – $1,800
> 2,000$1,200 – $1,700+$1,500 – $2,400

Open Carrier Transport

Open carrier transport is the most commonly used and cost-effective method. It involves using an open trailer, which can carry multiple vehicles at once.

Enclosed Car Transport

For higher protection, enclosed car transport is another option. While more expensive, it shields the vehicle from weather and road debris.

Auto Train Transport

Auto train transport is a niche option where a vehicle is shipped via a rail service, often combined with a travel plan for the owner.

Car Shipping Cost Factors

Several factors influence the cost of shipping a car:

  1. Distance: The further the distance, the lower the cost per mile.
  2. Vehicle Size and Type: Larger vehicles cost more to ship.
  3. Transport Method: Open carrier is cheaper than enclosed transport.
  4. Season: Shipping costs can vary by season, with higher charges often during peak times.
  5. Fuel Prices: Fluctuations in fuel prices can impact transportation costs.
  6. Route Popularity: Popular routes can sometimes be cheaper due to higher availability.

Cost To Ship A Car To Another Country

International car shipping costs vary significantly based on the destination, customs duties, and transport mode (sea or air). On average, expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000.

Cost To Ship A Motorcycle

Motorcycles are generally cheaper to ship than cars, with costs typically ranging from $300 to $700 for distances up to 1,500 miles.

Car Shipping FAQs

How Long Does It Take To Ship A Car?

Transit time can vary, but here is a general breakdown of how long it typically takes to ship a car based on distance.

How Long It Takes To Ship A Car

Distance (Miles)Days
< 5002 – 4
500 – 1,0003 – 5
1,000 – 1,5004 – 6
1,500 – 2,0005 – 7
2,000 – 2,5006 – 8
2,500+7 – 9

What Is The Cheapest Way To Ship A Car?

The cheapest way to ship a car is via open carrier transport. It is less expensive than enclosed transport and generally more available.

Can I Ship My Car To Another State Or Country?

Yes, you can ship your car to another state or country. However, consider the potential for additional costs such as customs duties or international shipping fees.

Is It Cheaper To Drive Or Ship A Car Across The Country?

This depends on multiple factors, including fuel costs, lodging, and potential wear and tear on the vehicle. For long distances, shipping is often more cost-effective.

Can You Ship A Car With Stuff In It?

Legally, most car shipping companies do not allow personal items in the vehicle during transport. Check with your carrier for their specific policies.

Getting Quotes From Car Shipping Companies

To get the best rate, we recommend obtaining quotes from multiple car shipping companies.

Questions To Ask Vehicle Transport Companies

  1. What type of transport options do you offer?
  2. What is your price per mile?
  3. Do you offer insurance for shipped vehicles?
  4. What is the estimated delivery time for my route?
  5. Are there any additional fees?

Shipping your car can be complicated, but understanding the variables and asking the right questions can help you make an informed decision.

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