Best Ways to Ship Your Car Cross Country
Relocating across the country involves many logistics. Professional car shipping is often the most affordable and efficient choice, surpassing the high costs (fuel, hotels) and time required for driving your car during a long-distance move. This guide outlines the best ways to ship your car cross-country.
1. Weighing your options
Before hiring a shipping company, consider all options:
- Driving: Expensive and time-consuming for long distances. Remember to calculate not just gas, but also the cost of depreciation and the miles put on your car.
- Towing: Towing a car across country behind a rental truck (via tow dolly) can be cheaper than car shipping, but it is inconvenient and poses safety risks. (For towing details: towing a car across country)
- Selling: A drastic step, only recommended if you lack funds for transport or plan to buy a replacement vehicle.
2. Compare car shipping quotes and pricing
Shipping costs vary daily by distance, location, and service. Compare quotes from multiple moving companies to find affordable rates. Be sure to inquire about “all-inclusive” quotes to avoid unexpected fees, such as fuel surcharges or insurance costs, that might be added later. Understanding the difference between open and enclosed transport will significantly impact the price, with enclosed transport offering premium protection at a higher cost. Finally, always check the company’s insurance policy and coverage limits before booking to ensure your vehicle is fully protected during transit.
You can start your comparison here: car ship quotes.
H3 Transport Types & Shipping Costs
- Open Transport: The standard, most common, and most affordable auto transport method. It’s used for over 90% of all domestic shipments.
- Enclosed Transport: Costs ~40% more. Reserved for luxury or classic cars, offering maximum protection from road debris and weather.
Average shipping costs for cross-country car shipping (2,000 miles) range from $1,250 to $1,710. Booking in advance can help reduce the final shipping costs. Price volatility is influenced heavily by seasonal demand and fuel prices.
3. Choosing the right shipping company
Selecting a reliable provider is key. To find the best vehicle shipping, look beyond price:
- Experience: Choose companies that have been operating for a decade or more. A long track record indicates stability in the volatile auto transport market.
- Insurance: Ensure the shipping company provides robust coverage; some offer gap coverage towards deductibles. Always consult your personal auto insurance agent as well.
- Discounts: Ask about discounts if you are shipping multiple cars during your move. (Compare The Carrier and similar brokers can assist.)
4. Preparing your car for pickup
Prepare your vehicle thoroughly before the auto transport begins:
- Functionality: Ensure the car is drivable, the emergency brake works, and fluids are topped off.
- Gas: Tank must be less than one-quarter full (less weight reduces shipping costs).
- Remove Items: Get rid of loose items, valuables, bike racks, and antennas.
- Cleanliness: Wash your car to clearly document pre-existing damage on the Bill of Lading (BOL). Take detailed photos of your car’s condition, inside and out.
- Security: Disable the car alarm and deactivate electronic toll passes.
5. Final check upon delivery
Inspection is critical for filing insurance claims:
- Inspect Immediately: At delivery, inspect the vehicle with the driver. Take your time and do not feel rushed.
- Document Damage: If new damage is found, it must be documented on the Bill of Lading (BOL) before you sign. Without documentation, filing a claim is impossible.
Choosing professional auto transport simplifies your move and ensures a safe cross-country car shipping experience.
