How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car Cross-Country in 2026?
Car shipping costs range from $900 to $2,800 for a 1,000+ mile move. Here is exactly what drives the price, what each transport type costs, and how to get the best rate.
Shipping a car cross-country is significantly cheaper than driving it yourself once you factor in your time, fuel, hotels, and wear on the vehicle. But the moving industry for cars has its own set of variables, pricing models, and potential pitfalls.
Average Car Shipping Costs by Distance (2026)
| Distance | Open Carrier | Enclosed Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| 500 miles | $600–$1,000 | $900–$1,500 |
| 1,000 miles | $900–$1,400 | $1,300–$2,000 |
| 1,500 miles | $1,100–$1,700 | $1,600–$2,400 |
| 2,500+ miles | $1,300–$2,000 | $1,900–$2,800 |
Open vs. Enclosed Transport: The Core Decision
Open car transport uses the multi-vehicle carriers you see on the highway — typically 8–10 cars at once. Your vehicle is exposed to the elements but protected from road debris. Enclosed transport uses a covered trailer with 2–6 cars. Prices run 40–60% higher but offer complete weather and debris protection.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal
Door-to-door shipping picks up your car at your exact address and delivers it to your new home. Terminal-to-terminal requires you to drop off and pick up at a company facility. Terminal service runs $100–$300 less, but terminals can be far from your location and have limited hours.
What Else Affects the Price
- Vehicle size — trucks and SUVs cost 10–20% more than sedans due to the space they occupy on the carrier
- Time of year — summer routes cost more; winter can delay northern routes
- Fuel prices — auto shipping brokers often add fuel surcharges similar to moving companies
- Lead time — last-minute bookings run 15–25% more
How to Get the Best Rate
- Get quotes from at least 3 brokers — prices vary widely for identical routes
- Book 2–3 weeks in advance for best pricing and carrier availability
- Be flexible on pickup and delivery windows — a 3–5 day window reduces your cost
- Use a broker rather than booking a carrier directly — brokers access a marketplace of carriers and typically find lower rates