Car Shipping Cost Calculator

How Mileage Affects Car Shipping

The most significant factor in shipping car cost is the distance your vehicle needs to travel. Cross country car shipping will typically cost more than shipping a car a few hundred miles. This is because more miles translate to more fuel, more time for the driver, and increased wear and tear on the transport vehicle.

Big or Small, It Changes Your Vehicle Shipping Cost

The size and type of your vehicle play a big role in determining the vehicle shipping cost. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans typically cost more to ship than smaller cars. This is because they take up more space on the auto transport carrier and weigh more, affecting fuel consumption.

Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport

Trailer type greatly affects car shipping costs. Open trailers are the most common and generally the most affordable option for auto transport. But for classic, or luxury vehicles, enclosed car transport is often preferred. Enclosed trailers offer more protection from the elements and road debris, but they come at a higher car shipping cost.

How Time of Year Affects Car Shipping Prices

The time of year can impact car shipping prices. Peak seasons, such as summer and early winter, often see higher demand for car transport services, which can drive up costs. This is similar to how holiday travel affects airline ticket prices. Being flexible with your shipping dates can sometimes help you get a better car shipping quote.

Location, Location, Location: And Your Cost to Ship a Car

Where you're shipping your car to and from also affects the overall cost to ship a car. Shipping to or from major metropolitan areas is usually less expensive and easier than shipping to or from rural or remote locations. Car transport companies may charge more for routes that are less common or more difficult to access.