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Car shipping, and the cost to ship a car, is the last thing on your mind—that is until you need to get your car halfway across the country…

Auto transport companies assist businesses and individuals to move vehicles all over the country, or abroad, but how do you find a company that suits your budget and that will get your precious vehicle safely to its new destination?

In order to accurately determine the cost of shipping your car across the US, you need to consider a number of factors, and the more information you have, the easier it will be to decide whether to ship your car or drive it, and what the different budget options will be.

cost to ship a car

Discover comprehensive and expert advice on vehicle relocation with our detailed guide at Nationwide Auto Transportation. Our article, ‘Vehicle Relocations Tips,’ offers essential insights and practical steps to ensure a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience. Whether you’re moving across the state or the country, our tips will help you navigate the complexities of vehicle transport with ease. Learn more about effective vehicle relocation strategies here.


To Drive or to Ship: That is the Question

Weigh the benefits and drawbacks of driving versus shipping your car for long distances. Once you know the cost of car shipping, you can make an informed decision.

Why you Should (Not) Drive Across the Country, a blog post on our website will guide you on how to move your car to its new home. 

Why would you need to ship your car across the country? As mentioned before there are a large number of reasons for relocating and having to ship your car to another state, below we unbox just a few:

  1. Snowbirds moving South for the winter
  2. Military Relocation
  3. University or College
  4. Buying out of state
  5. Classic car shows
  6. New work opportunities
  7. New home
cost to ship a car


“Unlock the secrets behind car shipping costs with Nationwide’s comprehensive breakdown.”


How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car? vs How Much Does it Cost to Drive a Car?

Shipping a car can be less expensive than driving it across state lines and this is especially true if you drive an older model or something that guzzles gas faster than you can pump. Not only will your gas expenses be high, there is always the stress of additional costs such as towing and repairs that may happen.

On the face of it, it would seem that driving your car will always be the best option, but when you take into account things like time spent on the road, distances that need to be traveled, fuel, food and accommodation then car shipping seems a lot more reasonable.

AAA provides useful tips for long road trips and our post on Car Shipping Costs will be useful to work out how much does it cost to ship a car across country.

How much does it cost to ship a car?

A reputable auto shipping company like Nationwide Auto Transportation will be able to tell you about how much does it cost to ship a car across country. It is important to note that all vehicles are not created equal, and this will affect how much does it usually cost to ship a car.

In order to calculate the shipping cost, we use:

  • Vehicle weight
  • Vehicle size
  • Insurance requirements
  • Distance the vehicle will be shipped

To calculate the cost to ship a car, car shipping companies use sophisticated tools like the  Nationwide Auto Transportation Calculator. What will it cost to ship your specific car from your current city to your new one? Please contact us on 800-311-7073 to get a quote on shipping a car between states.

cost to ship a car

How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car Internationally?

Take time to consider if it is cost-effective to take your car with you, or would it be better to sell it and purchase a new one when you arrive at your destination. Weight your options carefully and consider if it is financially viable to take your car overseas. A bespoke Jaguar E-type, or other classic or super car may be something you cannot bear to leave behind. However, analyze the cost-effectiveness of taking it with you or selling and purchasing a new one upon arrival.

A sentimental or luxury car that is hard to store may be ideal for international car shipping. However, consider if buying a new one in another country would be more cost-effective.

International Car Shipping: Keep your car when you relocate. An article that will help you with more information regarding what it costs to ship your car abroad.

How much does it cost to ship your car overseas?

Distance and shipping method are key factors in the cost of shipping a car to another country. USA Seaport for Cars: Guide to International Auto Shipping provides insight into the cost of international car shipping.


For a comprehensive guide on where to find the best deals on cars across the United States, check out our latest post on the “Cheapest State to Buy a Car.” Whether you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, this guide offers essential insights to help you maximize savings. Discover which states offer the lowest prices and what to consider when buying out of state. Visit Nationwide Auto Transportation’s blog for more information.


How Much Does It Cost To Ship a Car From a Dealership?

What about when it comes to moving cars across America on a daily basis? Well, car dealers are constantly buying and selling new stock and shipping them to and from states and cities all over the country. This can be a challenge as logistics normally dictate that the stock be taken away straight after purchase. Obviously, this is where the reliable auction to dealer car shipping services of professional auto transport companies like Nationwide Auto Transportation come in very handy. The company also offers bulk auto transport services.

Buying a Car From a Dealer: What you need to know is a helpful little post if you are thinking of making a new auto purchase, but what if you have finally found that dream with 4-wheels, within your budget, in another state? Is it better to drive or ship your car? Is it better to break in your new car by driving or shipping it? Break in a New Car—By NOT Driving it Across State… is a post that answers all of the above questions.

How Much Would it Cost to Ship a Car Cargo Box?

It’s not recommended to ship your car any way other than in- or on a dedicated vehicle/trailer. Avoid the risk of major damage by using professional auto movers.

When you use a reputable car shipping company you have peace of mind. They are equipped to look after your precious investment and to get it where it needs to be, safely and affordably. Not only will they advise you on open or enclosed shipping, get a free no-obligation quotation to ease your mind

How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car 2,000 Miles?

Research from the comparison site uShip shows that the average cost to ship a car less than 200 miles is $2.92 per mile while shipping a car more than 1,000 miles will be $0.78 per mile, which makes how much the cost to ship a car is, an efficient choice for long distances.

Let’s glance at a few popular destinations and routes, and what it would cost to ship a car to them:

  • How much does it cost to ship a car to Boston from Denver? – Approximately $1700.
  • Ship a car from Texas to California? – About $920.
  • How much does it cost to ship a car From California to Washington DC? – About $880.
  • Ship a car from Florida to Texas? – About $650.
  • How much does it cost to ship a car from New York to Florida? – Between $700 and $800.

So, How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car On a Plane or Train?

When you’re looking at how much domestic car shipping costs, you can also look into trains and airplanes for international moves.

Shipping a car via train has grown in popularity due to the fixed cost of rail shipping; it is independent of fluctuating fuel prices, making it a cost-effective option for transporting a car over 800 miles. The average price to ship a car on a train is roughly $1000.

That leaves us with shipping your car on a plane. For cars that have unique sentimental or monetary value, it has been suggested that shipping by plane is the safest, fastest way of moving a valuable vehicle over long distances. In some cases, enclosed transportation via a road-bound car carrier can be a safer alternative, and transporting a car via plane is often as time-consuming as using a car carrier. 

cost to ship a car

How do you budget for car shipping?

It is highly recommended that you contact us today for one of our helpful consultants to assist you in finding the safest, most convenient and affordable way to move you car over long distances to a new state or town. 

Would you like to know how much it will cost to ship your car from your current city to your new home? Contact us today to learn how much shipping a car will cost.


Are you planning to ship a boat internationally? Navigate the waters effortlessly with our comprehensive International Boat Shipping Guide and set sail for a seamless transport experience.