Best Car Shipping Rates: How to Get the Most Affordable Auto Transport
Best Car Shipping Rates: How to Get the Most Affordable Auto Transport
Blog Article
When it comes to moving a vehicle across state lines or the country, one of the most important considerations is cost. Whether you're relocating, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member, finding the
best car shipping rates
can save you hundreds of dollars without sacrificing quality or safety.
In this article, we’ll break down what impacts shipping costs, how to compare companies, and how to lock in the best rates.
What Are Car Shipping Rates?
Car shipping rates refer to the total cost of transporting a vehicle from one place to another via an auto transport company. These rates can vary based on factors like distance, vehicle type, and transport method.
Average Car Shipping Costs
| Distance | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|
| 0–500 miles | $500 – $750 | $800 – $1,200 |
| 500–1,000 miles | $750 – $1,000 | $1,100 – $1,500 |
| 1,000+ miles | $1,000 – $1,500+ | $1,500 – $2,000+ |
Tip: Open transport is more common and less expensive than enclosed shipping, which is typically reserved for luxury or classic cars.
What Affects Car Shipping Prices?
To find the best car shipping rates, it’s important to understand what influences the price:
1. Shipping Distance
Longer distances usually mean higher costs—but the rate per mile often decreases the farther you go.
2. Vehicle Type
Larger, heavier vehicles like SUVs or trucks cost more to ship than compact cars due to space and weight limitations.
3. Transport Type
Open copyright: More affordable and widely available.
Enclosed copyright: Offers protection from weather and road debris but costs more.
4. Pickup & Delivery Options
Door-to-Door: More convenient but slightly more expensive.
Terminal-to-Terminal: More cost-effective but less convenient.
5. Seasonal Demand
Prices are typically higher in the summer and during snowbird season (fall/spring) due to increased demand.
How to Get the Best Car Shipping Rates
Here are proven ways to reduce your shipping costs while still getting high-quality service:
✅ Compare Multiple Quotes
Always get at least 3–5 quotes from reputable car shipping companies. Use online quote tools or marketplaces like uShip to make comparison easy.
✅ Book in Advance
Last-minute bookings tend to cost more. Booking 2–4 weeks ahead can secure lower rates and better availability.
✅ Be Flexible With Dates
Flexible scheduling allows carriers to optimize routes, which may lead to discounted pricing.
✅ Choose Open Transport
Unless you have a luxury or specialty car, open carriers provide the best value for most people.
✅ Ask About Discounts
Some companies offer discounts for:
Military personnel
College students
Seniors
First-time customers
Multi-car shipments
Top Car Shipping Companies Offering the Best Rates
Here are a few trusted companies known for offering great prices and excellent service:
Montway Auto Transport – Competitive pricing and excellent customer service.
AmeriFreight – Known for discounts and quality protection plans.
Ship a Car Direct – Offers no up-front fees and damage-free guarantees.
Sherpa Auto Transport – Price Lock Promise ensures no surprise costs.
uShip – Lets you compare bids from multiple carriers for the lowest rate.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best car shipping rates doesn’t mean going for the cheapest option—it means choosing a reliable company that offers the best value. By understanding the pricing factors and doing your homework, you can save money and ship your vehicle with confidence.
Ready to ship your car? Start by comparing quotes from top-rated companies and secure the best rate for your vehicle today.
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