Several factors influence the cost of shipping a car, with distance and chosen shipping options being the primary determinants. For instance, opting for an enclosed shipping method can be more expensive than an open one. Other considerations that may impact cost include your location, the type of vehicle you’re shipping, the shipping length, and the time of year you choose for your move.

• Where You’re Shipping From and To: The location of where you pick up and drop off your car plays a significant role in determining the cost. If you’re shipping to a location with more competitive markets, like a city, you may be able to keep costs down. Terminal-to-terminal shipping, while less expensive, requires you to drop off and pick up your car yourself.
• The Size and Specs of Your Car: Carriers and brokers typically base their pricing on the type of vehicle being transported. Generally, larger and heavier cars cost more to ship than smaller ones. The length of your car can also affect cost, as it occupies more space on the trailer. Whether or not your car is operable can impact the cost as well; inoperable cars may cost slightly more than those that run.
• Shipping Options: You can choose between open and enclosed trailers as your shipping option. Open trailers are less expensive but may result in your car sustaining damage from road debris. Enclosed trailers provide better protection for your vehicle but cost a bit more.
• How You Want Your Car Delivered: You can select between door-to-door shipping, where the carrier picks up and delivers your car directly to your residence, or terminal-to-terminal shipping, where you drop off your car at a shipping terminal or hub and pick it up from another one. Door-to-door shipping is generally more expensive but provides greater convenience.
• How Long It Takes: Carriers and brokers offer various time frames for delivering your car. They typically provide standard shipping times, priority shipping, or expedited shipping. Standard shipping is the most affordable but may take the longest. Faster service, such as priority or expedited shipping, comes at a higher cost.
• Time of Year: The car shipping industry experiences fluctuations in demand throughout the year. People tend to move more during the spring and summer months, leading to higher shipping costs during those times. Shipping costs may be lower during the fall as companies attempt to attract customers. The car shipping industry can become busy again in the fall as people head south for the winter.