Car Shipping Cost Calculator
Get an instant, data-based estimate for shipping your car anywhere in the U.S. Enter your route and vehicle — no email required. Then lock in your exact price with a free quote from licensed, insured carriers.
- No signup to estimate
- Real per-mile rates
- Open & enclosed
How car shipping costs are calculated
Auto transport pricing isn't random — it comes down to a handful of factors.
Distance
Longer routes cost more in total but less per mile. Rates taper from around $1.15/mi on short hauls to about $0.42/mi cross-country.
Vehicle size
A compact sedan takes less deck space and fuel than a lifted truck, SUV, or van. Bigger, heavier vehicles cost more.
Open vs. enclosed
Open transport is the standard and the best value. Enclosed protects classics and exotics from weather and debris for roughly 30–50% more.
Running condition
A vehicle that starts and steers loads in minutes. Inoperable vehicles need a winch and extra labor, which adds to the rate.
Season & demand
Snowbird season, summer moves, and month-end surges tighten truck space and push prices up.
Pickup flexibility
A 2–3 day pickup window lets us match a carrier already routed your way — the easiest way to save.
Get your exact free quote
The calculator gets you in the ballpark. This gets you the real number — free, no obligation, from licensed and insured carriers.
Car shipping cost questions
How much does it cost to ship a car?
Most car shipments run between about $0.40 and $1.15 per mile, depending on distance — shorter routes cost more per mile, longer routes less. A typical 1,000-mile move for a running sedan on an open carrier lands around $700–$900. Use the calculator above for an estimate on your exact route.
What makes car shipping more expensive?
Distance, vehicle size and weight, enclosed vs. open transport (enclosed runs 30–50% more), whether the vehicle runs, seasonal demand, and how tight your pickup window is. A flexible 2–3 day pickup window is the single easiest way to lower your price.
Is this calculator's estimate the final price?
No — it's a data-based estimate to help you budget. The real price reflects live carrier availability on your lane, which changes daily. Request a free quote for an exact, no-obligation number.
Does it cost more to ship an inoperable car?
Yes. A vehicle that doesn't start or steer needs a winch and extra labor to load, which typically adds a flat fee. Tell your coordinator the exact condition (rolls and steers, no keys, needs a forklift, etc.) so the carrier arrives with the right equipment.