Compare the 5 Best Auto Shipping Companies

Need to ship your vehicle across the country but overwhelmed by too many options?

We’ve already done the hard work—vetting each provider to protect you from bait-and-switch pricing, unreliable carriers, and hidden fees. Just choose the company that fits your needs, and you’ll get one direct quote from them. No spam, no sales calls, and no surprises—just honest, up-front info from a transport company you can trust.

Car Shipping Made Easy: 2025 Guide for Vehicle Transport

Shipping a car is most commonly done using a truck and trailer, but it's not the only option. Depending on your needs, exploring alternative transport methods—such as rail, air, or even sea—can sometimes offer advantages in cost, speed, or convenience. Understanding these options helps ensure you choose the best solution for your specific situation.

How to Ship a Car: Common Methods Explained

Truck or Trailer Transport

Shipping a vehicle by truck or trailer is the most popular and cost-effective method for land-based transport. It’s widely used due to its affordability, flexibility, and nationwide availability. There are two primary types of trailer-based shipping:

Open Car Transport : The most budget-friendly option. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open trailer and transported alongside other vehicles. While exposed to weather and road elements, this method is safe and commonly used for standard vehicles.

Enclosed Car Shipping: A premium service ideal for luxury, exotic, or classic cars. Vehicles are protected inside an enclosed trailer, shielding them from the elements during transit. Though more expensive, it offers added peace of mind and security.

Airplane Transport

Shipping a vehicle via air freight is rare and extremely costly. Typically used for high-value or time-sensitive shipments—such as luxury vehicles or international relocations—this method can exceed the value of the car itself.

Freight Train Transport

Transporting cars by train is possible but not practical for single vehicles due to high costs and limited routing. However, it becomes cost-effective when shipping multiple vehicles as part of a fleet or bulk move, especially over long distances.

Ocean Freight Shipping

Ideal for international or coastal relocations, ocean freight allows you to ship both individual cars and fleets overseas. Depending on the origin and destination, the cost is often comparable to long-distance trailer transport.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company

Selecting the best car shipping company for your relocation requires careful research and comparison. Begin with a broad search to understand your options, then narrow the list by evaluating each company’s reputation, reviews, and credentials. Pay close attention to insurance coverage—it's essential to ensure your vehicle is fully protected in the event of damage or delays. The last thing you want during a move is the added stress of dealing with claims or disputes, so choose a provider with transparent policies and strong customer support.

Getting Quotes and Avoiding Price Traps

Start by requesting quotes from multiple car shipping brokers to get a clear sense of the costs involved and set a realistic budget for your move. Once you understand the price range, you can begin comparing companies based on value—not just cost.

While it may be tempting to go with the lowest quote, be cautious. Extremely low prices can be a red flag, often tied to subpar service, unreliable carriers, or hidden fees. Instead, focus on finding a reputable company that offers transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and proper insurance coverage. In car shipping, the cheapest option can sometimes cost you the most in the long run.

Watch Out for Hidden Fees

Hidden costs are a common pitfall in the car shipping industry, often leaving customers with a higher bill than expected at delivery. To avoid surprises, always request a binding quote when possible, and ask direct questions during the quoting process about potential extra charges—such as fuel surcharges, residential delivery fees, or added insurance.

While many companies offer free online quotes, the most accurate pricing depends on the details you provide. Be prepared to share your vehicle’s make and model, pickup and drop-off locations, preferred transport method (open or enclosed), and estimated shipping dates. If you plan to leave personal belongings in the vehicle, confirm whether that’s allowed and if it affects the price.

Some carriers may also require cash or certified check upon delivery, so ask about payment terms upfront. Ultimately, failing to ask the right questions or fully understand the quote could result in unexpected fees—often revealed only after it's too late to adjust your decision.

Check Reviews and Company Reputation

Before choosing a car shipping company, it’s important to research its reputation. Platforms like Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) offer real customer feedback that can help you assess service quality and reliability. Pay attention to how a company handles complaints—negative reviews often reveal how well issues are resolved.

You can also evaluate a company's experience by looking at its operational history and the volume of reviews it has received. A long track record and a high number of successful shipments are good indicators of a trustworthy provider.

Consider Experience and Company Age

Choosing a car shipping company with years—or even decades—of experience can offer peace of mind. Established brokers typically have well-developed carrier networks, stronger industry relationships, and the resources to handle complex logistics efficiently. This often translates to more reliable service and better rates for customers.

That said, newer companies may bring a different kind of value. Many leverage modern technology, streamlined processes, and flexible strategies to find competitive deals and enhance customer experience. Both seasoned and newer providers have their strengths—what matters most is finding a company that aligns with your priorities for service, pricing, and reliability.

Look for Guaranteed Quotes or Price Locks

Opting for a broker that offers guaranteed quotes or price locks can provide added peace of mind during the car shipping process. While many companies provide estimates, the final bill can sometimes be higher due to unexpected fees or market fluctuations. Choosing a company that prioritizes transparent, upfront pricing helps eliminate surprises and builds trust—making the entire experience smoother and more predictable.

Understand Insurance Coverage Options

All licensed auto carriers are required to carry a minimum level of insurance, but that coverage may not be enough for every situation. Some brokers go a step further by offering supplemental insurance or deductible reimbursement, which can be a major advantage if the carrier’s policy falls short. If you choose to work directly with a carrier, ask about their available add-on insurance options.

Keep in mind, your personal auto insurance policy may not cover incidents that occur during shipping—including weather-related delays, accidents, theft, or handling damage. To ensure your vehicle is fully protected, review the carrier’s or broker’s insurance terms carefully. When in doubt, consider purchasing additional coverage to bridge any gaps and guarantee peace of mind throughout the transport process.

Prioritize Clear Communication and Customer Support

Strong communication is essential when shipping a car. As you evaluate car shipping companies, pay close attention to how they interact with customers. Features like live chat, responsive email support, and 24/7 customer service can make a significant difference, offering peace of mind throughout the process. A company that’s easy to reach and proactive in providing updates is more likely to handle your vehicle professionally and ensure it arrives safely and on time.

Verify Pricing Transparency and Credentials

Car shipping companies that provide clear, upfront pricing tend to be more trustworthy than those with vague or hidden fees. Understanding all costs associated with your move before booking helps you avoid surprises and builds confidence in your chosen provider. Transparent pricing is a key indicator of a company's integrity and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Once you've narrowed down your options, take time to verify the professionalism and legitimacy of each company. Make sure the auto shipper is authorized to operate in interstate commerce by confirming their registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Look for a valid USDOT number and MC number, which are required credentials for legal and compliant vehicle transport. Checking these details helps ensure your car is in the hands of a qualified and responsible carrier.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car Across the Country?

Car shipping costs typically range from $550 to $2,450, with the national average around $1,150. This breaks down to $0.60 to $1.70 per mile, depending on the route and service level, with an average of $1.15 per mile. Final pricing is influenced by several factors, including transport type (open or enclosed), distance, fuel costs, seasonal demand, and any applicable discounts.

What Affects the Cost of Car Shipping?

The cost of transporting a vehicle is mainly driven by distance and the type of shipping option you choose. Selecting between open or enclosed transport can significantly impact your final price, with enclosed shipping typically costing more. Other key factors include your pickup and delivery locations, vehicle type, shipping timeline, and the season in which you ship. Each of these elements plays a role in the overall cost, which is why car shipping prices can vary widely from one move to another.

How Location Impacts Car Shipping Costs

Your pick-up and drop-off locations play a major role in determining shipping costs. Transporting to or from major cities is often more affordable due to higher carrier availability and competition. In contrast, rural or remote areas may cost more, as fewer carriers service those routes. Additionally, your choice between door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal service can affect pricing—terminal options may be cheaper but require you to handle vehicle drop-off and pick-up at designated hubs.

How Vehicle Type Affects Shipping Costs

Carriers and brokers calculate pricing based on several vehicle-specific factors. Larger, heavier, or longer vehicles generally cost more to ship because they take up more space on the trailer and add weight, limiting capacity for other vehicles. Additionally, whether the vehicle is operable or inoperable impacts the cost—non-running vehicles often require special equipment or handling, which can increase the price. These factors are key components in determining your overall shipping rate.

Delivery Options: Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal

When shipping a vehicle, you can choose between door-to-door service and terminal-to-terminal shipping. Door-to-door transport offers maximum convenience, with a carrier picking up your vehicle from your home (or nearby location) and delivering it directly to your destination. Alternatively, terminal-to-terminal shipping requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated hubs but is typically more cost-effective. In some cases, rail shipping may also be available, offering additional savings depending on your route and flexibility.

Car Shipping Timeframe Options

Brokers and carriers typically offer multiple delivery timeframe options to suit different needs and budgets. The most common choices include:

Standard Shipping: The most affordable option, though it usually takes the longest to deliver. Ideal if you're flexible with timing.

Priority Shipping: Faster than standard service and moderately priced, offering a good balance between speed and cost.

Expedited Shipping: The quickest (and most expensive) option, reserved for time-sensitive shipments requiring immediate pickup and faster delivery.

Understanding these options helps you choose the right balance between speed and cost for your vehicle transport.

Seasonal Trends in Car Shipping

The car shipping industry experiences seasonal fluctuations that can impact both pricing and availability. Spring and summer are peak moving seasons, often leading to higher rates due to increased demand. In contrast, fall and winter tend to be slower, which may result in lower prices as companies compete for business. However, fall can still see a spike in activity as snowbirds relocate to warmer states. Understanding these seasonal trends can help you plan ahead and potentially save on your vehicle transport.

Important Things to Keep in Mind When Using a Car Shipping Company

Shipping a vehicle isn’t something most people do regularly—and even if you’ve done it before, the process can still be complex. With many variables involved, from pricing and timing to insurance and transport types, it’s important to be well-informed. Here are a few key things to understand before working with a car transport company to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

Car Shipping Quotes vs. Final Cost

Car shipping quotes are often estimates, not guaranteed prices. While your auto shipper will provide a projected cost upfront, the final amount is usually confirmed upon delivery. To avoid unexpected charges, it’s important to provide detailed and accurate information about your vehicle, transport needs, and delivery locations. The more complete your details, the fewer surprises you’ll encounter on your final bill.

Understanding Car Shipping Timelines

Unless your contract specifically guarantees timing, car shipping schedules are considered estimates. The pickup and delivery dates provided typically reflect the earliest possible pickup and the latest expected delivery. For accurate shipment details, refer to your Bill of Lading, which serves as both your receipt and the formal agreement outlining key terms, including timing, condition of the vehicle, and delivery expectations.

Protecting Your Vehicle During Transport

Before your car is picked up, it’s essential to understand your insurance coverage. Whether you rely on the shipping company’s standard policy, purchase supplemental protection, or use your own auto insurance, make sure you review all terms carefully. Knowing exactly what’s covered helps ensure you're fully protected in the event of damage or delays during transit.

Equally important is documenting your vehicle’s condition before shipment. Take clear, timestamped photos from multiple angles and note any existing dents, scratches, or other imperfections. Once your car is delivered, inspect it again and compare it to your pre-shipment documentation. If new damage is discovered, your records will be vital for filing a claim and holding the shipping company accountable.

Documentation and Preparation for Vehicle Shipping

The Bill of Lading is one of the most important documents in the car shipping process. It acts as both the contract between you and the transport company and a receipt for the service. Be sure to review it carefully at pickup and delivery, confirming that all details—including notes on your vehicle’s condition—are accurate. This document plays a key role in resolving any disputes and protecting your interests.

In addition to reviewing the Bill of Lading, make sure your vehicle meets the cleanliness and preparation standards outlined by the shipping company. You’ll also need to provide valid documentation, including proof of vehicle ownership and insurance. Ensuring everything is in order ahead of time helps streamline the shipping process and ensures compliance with both company policies and legal requirements.

Open vs. Enclosed Vehicle Shipping

Open trailer shipping is a widely used and cost-effective method for transporting vehicles. Despite common misconceptions, it’s generally safe and suitable for most standard cars. However, if you're shipping a high-value, luxury, or classic vehicle, the added protection of an enclosed trailer may be worth the higher cost. Enclosed shipping shields your car from weather, road debris, and other potential risks, offering greater peace of mind during transit.