How Much Does It Cost to Have a Vehicle Transported?

Transporting a vehicle is one of the most common needs during long-distance moves, military relocations, seasonal travel, or online car purchases. But when it comes to cost, most people are unsure what to expect — and that’s because vehicle shipping prices vary widely depending on distance, vehicle type, season, and the transport method you choose.

This guide breaks down average auto transport prices, the factors that affect cost, open vs. enclosed shipping, and how VanLinesMove helps you get the best price without surprise fees.

Lets know everything about How Much Does It Cost to Have a Vehicle Transported?

How Much Does It Cost to Have a Vehicle Transported in 2025?

The cost to transport a car in the U.S. ranges from $600 to $2,200+, depending on distance, shipping method, and vehicle size.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Short-distance (0–500 miles): $600–$900
• Mid-distance (500–1,000 miles): $900–$1,300
• Long-distance (1,000–2,500 miles): $1,200–$1,800
• Cross-country (2,500+ miles): $1,500–$2,200

Luxury vehicles, oversized trucks, classic cars, and enclosed transport can increase the cost significantly.

Main Factors That Influence Vehicle Shipping Cost

Every vehicle transport quote is different because several variables affect pricing. Understanding these helps you estimate your budget more accurately.

1. Distance of the Move

The longer the distance, the higher the cost — but the cost per mile actually decreases with long-distance routes.

Short moves have higher per-mile charges because loading, labor, and fuel costs are spread across fewer miles. This is why moving a car 400 miles is not half the price of moving it 800 miles.

2. Vehicle Size, Type & Weight

Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to transport because they take up more space on the carrier and increase fuel usage.

Sedans are typically the cheapest to ship, while SUVs, extended trucks, vans, and modified vehicles fall into higher pricing categories due to additional space requirements and weight restrictions.

3. Type of Transport: Open vs. Enclosed

Your transport choice has one of the biggest impacts on price.

Open Transport (Most Common & Affordable)

This is the standard method where vehicles are placed on an open carrier.

It is safe, economical, and widely used — and typically 30–50% cheaper than enclosed shipping. Most customers choose this option for daily-use cars.

Enclosed Transport (Premium & Protected)

Enclosed carriers protect your car from weather, debris, and road conditions.

This is ideal for luxury cars, antiques, sports cars, or newly purchased high-value models. Enclosed shipping usually costs 50–100% more due to limited capacity and specialized handling.

4. Pickup & Drop-Off Options

Convenience level also affects cost.

Door-to-Door Delivery

Your car is picked up and delivered to your chosen locations.

It’s the most convenient option and reduces your travel time but increases the price slightly due to additional routing and driver time.

Terminal-to-Terminal Delivery

You drop off and pick up your car at transportation terminals.

This is cheaper but less convenient — and may involve storage fees if you don’t pick up the car on time.

5. Seasonal Demand

Vehicle transport pricing fluctuates throughout the year.

Peak seasons like summer, snowbird season (October–April), and holidays can drive prices up significantly. Winter weather can also slow routes, increasing operational costs for carriers.

6. Vehicle Running Condition

A car that does not run requires special loading equipment such as winches, which increases labor and cost.

Inoperable vehicles may cost $100–$250 more, depending on condition and loading difficulty.

7. Fuel Prices & Market Conditions

Auto transport is heavily affected by fuel costs and economic changes.

When fuel prices rise, so do transport rates, as carriers adjust pricing to match operating expenses.

Additional Costs You May Encounter

These optional or situational fees can affect your total cost:

Expedited Shipping

If you need your car picked up within a specific 1–2 day window, prices increase due to priority scheduling and reduced route flexibility.

Storage Fees

Leaving a vehicle at a terminal longer than the allowed window can result in daily storage charges.

Insurance Add-Ons

Basic liability is included, but some customers choose additional coverage for high-value vehicles. This increases cost but provides extended protection.

How to Calculate Your Car Transport Cost Accurately

Unlike flat-rate moves, auto shipping quotes depend on real-time market pricing.

You can estimate your cost by considering:

1. Total distance
2. Vehicle type
3. Transport method (open/enclosed)
4. Pickup timeframe
5. Pickup/drop-off locations
6. Season of transport

Using a professional auto transport service ensures accurate quoting and transparent pricing.

How to Save Money When Shipping a Car

If you're looking to reduce your transport costs, here are smart strategies:

Be Flexible With Pickup Dates

Avoiding strict deadlines allows carriers to combine your car with other routes, reducing your cost.

Choose Open Transport

Unless you have a luxury or antique car, open transport offers safe, affordable shipping for most vehicles.

Ship During the Off-Season

Avoid peak demand periods such as summer and snowbird migration months.

Avoid Terminal Storage

Picking up your car on time prevents extra daily storage fees.

Book in Advance

The earlier you schedule, the better the rates — last-minute booking usually costs more.

How VanLinesMove Helps with Affordable & Safe Vehicle Transport

VanLinesMove provides reliable, insured, and cost-transparent vehicle shipping, whether you're moving cross-country or relocating for work.

Our professional team helps you compare options, choose the right transport method, and get the best real-time pricing without hidden fees. We handle every detail — from scheduling carriers to coordinating delivery with your moving date — ensuring your relocation is seamless.

Why Choose VanLinesMove for Auto Transport?

• Competitive pricing with no hidden charges
• Secure open and enclosed carrier options
• Door-to-door delivery nationwide
• Licensed, insured, and vetted carriers
• Real-time tracking on eligible routes
• Combined vehicle + household move discounts

Moving a vehicle doesn’t need to be stressful — with VanLinesMove, it’s easy, safe, and budget-friendly.

Conclusion

The cost to transport a vehicle varies depending on distance, type of vehicle, transport method, season, and convenience level.

Whether you’re moving cross-country, buying a new car out of state, or relocating for work, understanding the factors that influence price helps you budget smartly and avoid surprises. With VanLinesMove, you get transparent pricing, flexible options, and expert support to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time.

FAQs:

1. What is the average cost to transport a vehicle?

Most vehicle transports cost between $700 and $1,600, depending on distance, vehicle type, and transport method.

2. Is enclosed transport more expensive?

Yes. Enclosed carriers typically cost 30–60% more because they provide added protection against weather and road debris.

3. How long does vehicle transport usually take?

Standard delivery takes 5–10 days, depending on the route and carrier schedule.

4. Can I ship a non-running vehicle?

Yes, but it usually costs $100–$200 extra because special equipment is required to load and unload the vehicle.

5. How do I get the best price for car shipping?

Book early, choose open transport, remain flexible with pickup dates, and compare quotes from trusted shippers like VanLinesMove.