How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?

There is no single price that applies to every vehicle shipment. The cost to ship a car depends on the route, vehicle, carrier type and the circumstances of the individual shipment. Understanding these factors can help you compare transport options and provide the information needed for a more relevant quote.

Windsor Auto Transport LLC is an auto transport broker. We help customers request quotes and arrange vehicle transportation with motor carriers based on the details of each shipment.

What Determines the Cost of Shipping a Car?

1. Transport Distance

The distance between the pickup and delivery locations is an important pricing factor. Longer routes generally involve more mileage, fuel, driver time and operating costs. The specific route can matter as well as the total mileage.

2. Vehicle Size and Type

A compact car and a large SUV or pickup truck do not take up the same amount of space on a carrier. Vehicle dimensions and weight can therefore influence transport arrangements and pricing.

3. Open or Enclosed Transport

Open auto transport and enclosed auto transport are different carrier options. Enclosed transportation provides additional separation from outside road and weather conditions and may involve different equipment and carrier availability.

4. Operable or Inoperable Vehicle

If a vehicle cannot run, steer, brake or otherwise be loaded in the normal manner, additional equipment or arrangements may be necessary. Always provide accurate information about vehicle condition when requesting a quote.

5. Pickup and Delivery Route

Carrier access and the location of the pickup and delivery points can affect a shipment. Routes frequently traveled by auto carriers may have different availability from routes requiring a carrier to travel farther away from its normal path.

6. Carrier Availability and Timing

Auto transport operates in a changing transportation market. Carrier availability for a particular route and time period can affect the options available for a shipment.

Why We Don't Publish One Flat Nationwide Price

A flat advertised figure can be misleading because two vehicles traveling different routes under different conditions may require very different transportation arrangements. A quote based on the actual origin, destination, vehicle and carrier preference provides more useful information.

Does Open vs. Enclosed Transport Affect the Quote?

Yes. The type of carrier requested is one of the factors used when arranging vehicle transportation. Open transport is commonly considered for everyday vehicles, while customers transporting classic, collector, luxury or other valued vehicles may prefer to consider enclosed transport.

Does an Inoperable Vehicle Cost More to Transport?

An inoperable vehicle can require additional loading arrangements or equipment. The exact condition should be disclosed before transport is arranged so the shipment can be matched with an appropriate carrier.

How Can I Get an Accurate Car Shipping Quote?

Provide complete and accurate information. At minimum, be ready to provide:

Pickup location
Delivery location
Vehicle year, make and model
Whether the vehicle is operable
Whether you are considering open or enclosed transport
Relevant timing or vehicle-access information

Learn More Before Shipping Your Vehicle

If this is your first time arranging vehicle transportation, read our Car Shipping Guide. It explains the overall process, vehicle preparation, pickup and delivery, and the role of an auto transport broker.

Request Your Car Shipping Quote

Get a quote based on your actual vehicle and transportation route.

Get a Free Auto Transport Quote

You can also call Windsor Auto Transport LLC at (760) 898-6824.