Moving a vehicle across state lines doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member, learning how to ship a car to another state can save you time, mileage, and unnecessary wear on your vehicle.
This guide explains the full process, cost factors, timelines, and the important choice between open vs enclosed car transport so you can ship your car safely and affordably.
Why People Choose to Ship a Car Instead of Driving
Shipping a car is often easier and more cost-effective than a long road trip. Here’s why:
- Avoid adding hundreds or thousands of miles to your vehicle
- Save time on multi-day drives
- Reduce fuel, lodging, and food costs
- Prevent mechanical wear and potential breakdowns
- Ideal for non-running, luxury, or classic vehicles
Professional auto transport companies handle the logistics so your vehicle arrives safely while you focus on your move.
Step 1: Understand Your Car Shipping Options
Before booking, you’ll need to decide between open vs enclosed car transport. This is one of the most important choices in the entire process.
Open Car Transport
Open transport uses multi-vehicle trailers with no walls or roof. It’s the industry standard and the most commonly used method.
Best for: Standard cars, SUVs, trucks, and daily drivers
Benefits:
- Most affordable option
- Faster availability
- Safe and widely used nationwide
Considerations:
- Vehicle is exposed to weather and road debris
Despite the exposure, open carriers safely transport millions of vehicles each year.
Enclosed Car Transport
Enclosed transport places your vehicle inside a fully covered trailer for maximum protection.
Best for:
Luxury cars, classic cars, exotic vehicles, show cars, or custom paint jobs
Benefits:
- Protection from rain, snow, sun, dust, and debris
- Added security and privacy
- Reduced risk of cosmetic damage
Considerations:
- Higher price
- Fewer carriers available
When deciding between open vs enclosed car transport, consider your vehicle’s value, condition, and how much protection you want.
Step 2: Request Car Shipping Quotes
Prices for shipping a car to another state vary based on multiple factors:
- Total distance
- Vehicle size and weight
- Transport type (open vs enclosed car transport)
- Pickup and drop-off locations
- Seasonal demand
- Fuel costs
Always compare quotes from multiple licensed and insured auto transport companies. Extremely low prices can be a red flag for poor service or hidden fees.
Step 3: Choose Pickup and Delivery Type
Door-to-Door Transport
The driver picks up and drops off your vehicle as close to your address as possible.
✔ Most convenient
✔ Saves time
✔ Most popular option
Terminal-to-Terminal Transport
You drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated lots.
✔ Slightly cheaper
✘ Less convenient
Door-to-door service is typically worth the small extra cost.
Step 4: Book Your Car Shipment
Once you choose a company:
- Confirm the total price and payment terms
- Review insurance coverage
- Get estimated pickup and delivery windows
- Understand cancellation and rescheduling policies
Booking early gives you better rates and scheduling flexibility.
Step 5: Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport
Proper preparation helps prevent delays and disputes.
Before pickup:
- Wash your car to clearly show its condition
- Take detailed photos of all sides
- Remove personal belongings
- Leave about a quarter tank of fuel
- Disable alarms and remove toll passes
- Ensure the battery is charged and tires are inflated
Carriers are not responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle.
Step 6: Vehicle Inspection at Pickup
The driver will inspect your car and document its condition on a Bill of Lading. You’ll sign this report, which serves as proof of the car’s condition before transport.
This step is essential for insurance purposes.
Step 7: Track Your Shipment
Many transport companies provide updates while your vehicle is in transit. Delivery times depend on distance and route demand.
Typical Transit Times
| Distance | Estimated Delivery |
| Under 500 miles | 1–2 days |
| 500–1,500 miles | 2–5 days |
| Cross-country | 7–10 days |
Weather, traffic, and scheduling logistics can sometimes cause delays.
Step 8: Delivery and Final Inspection
When your car arrives:
- Inspect the vehicle carefully
- Compare its condition to the pickup report
- Note any new damage on the Bill of Lading
- Keep a copy for your records
Most shipments arrive without issues, especially when using reputable carriers.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Another State?
Here’s a general pricing guide:
| Distance | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
| Short distance | $500–$900 | $800–$1,300 |
| Mid-range | $800–$1,400 | $1,200–$2,000 |
| Long distance | $1,200–$2,000 | $1,800–$3,500 |
Choosing between open vs enclosed car transport is the biggest factor affecting price.
How to Decide: Open vs Enclosed Car Transport
Ask yourself:
- Is my car high-value or rare?
- Does it have custom paint or modifications?
- Would I be concerned about weather exposure?
If yes, enclosed shipping is worth the extra cost. If not, open transport is a safe and budget-friendly solution.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Car Shipping Experience
- Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance
- Avoid peak summer season if possible
- Be flexible with pickup dates for better pricing
- Verify the company’s licensing and insurance
- Communicate clearly with the carrier
Final Thoughts
Learning how to ship a car to another state helps you avoid surprises and make confident decisions. By comparing quotes, preparing your vehicle properly, and choosing between open vs enclosed car transport, you can ensure a safe and efficient shipping experience.
With the right planning, your car will arrive on time and in the same condition it left.
FAQ
Can I ship a non-running car?
Yes, but it may cost more because special equipment is required for loading and unloading.
Is auto transport insurance included?
Yes, all licensed carriers must carry insurance, but coverage limits vary.
How far in advance should I book car shipping?
Booking 1–2 weeks ahead is ideal for better pricing and availability.