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Your ultimate guide on how to transport a car is here! Do you need to ship car to another state? Maybe you need overseas car shipping? Your car needs to get from your home in Missouri to a specialist mechanic in Detroit. But what is the best way of shipping a car across country? Keep on reading to learn how to transport a car.
Whether you are relocating, going on vacation, or attending a classic car show and need to move your car to another state, this post is for you! Let’s examine how to transport a car to another state. We’ll also look at the different auto transport methods, and consider the advantages and disadvantages of the different ways how to transport a car cross country.
How to Move a Car to Another State | Your Nationwide Guide
What do you do when you have to get your car from one side of the US to the other? There are a number of reasons why people need to move their car over long distances, for instance you have:
- bought a new car from another state
- found a used car online from another state
- decided to relocate for work
- to send your child a car for college, and they want you to ship a car full of stuff.
- embraced the snowbird snowbird lifestyle and you’re on your way to your winter/summer home.
- a car that needs a specialist mechanic in another state.
DID YOU KNOW?
Nationwide Answers
Did You Know? Professional car transport companies like Nationwide Auto Transportation can ship your car even if it is a non-runner? We’ll we can! This post on college car shipping offers loads of helpful information. Need more assistance? Nationwide Auto Transportation has more than 16 years of student auto moving experience. Get in touch and we’ll assist any way we can!
How much does it cost to have a car shipped?
As you learn more about how to transport a car to another state and country, you will see that there are many factors that influence the cost. There’s no set answer for “how much to move a car cross country”.
What’s the first option that springs to most people’s mind when you need to get your car somewhere far away? It’s usually to drive it to the destination where it needs to be, right? But is that always the best, cheapest or safest way? Wouldn’t it be easier just to fly where you need to be, and meet your car there? Read on as we untangle the best way to transport your car to another state.
I Don’t Want to Ship Car to Another State | The Self-Driving Option
Professional auto carriers like Nationwide Auto Transportation know how to transport a car from one state to another. We are, after all the experts who deal with this on a daily basis, unlike the average American like you and I who has no clue what we need to do when we need to transport a car to another state.
The first thought most people have when they think of how to transport a car to another state is to drive it there themselves. This sounds a lot simpler than it is in reality. Our informative blog posts about the pitfalls of driving your car for long distances will make it easier to drive your car to your destination.
Why I Don’t Drive My Car Across the Country
Considering how to transport a car efficiently and safely? Here’s why I chose not to drive my car across the country myself, and instead used a professional car transport service.
Firstly, a long drive across the country is exhausting, stressful, and time-consuming if not part of a leisurely road trip. The risks are many: potential road accidents, adverse weather conditions, and considerable strain on both my body and car.
One might think driving yourself is cheaper, but let’s break it down. The cost of gas alone can be staggering, not to mention the hidden expenses:
- Gas Prices: Consistently high, and they add up quickly over long distances.
- Accommodation: Costs can range from $67 to $154 per night.
- Meals and Snacks: Eating out costs at least $30 daily, excluding snacks.
- Vehicle Wear and Tear: The journey can significantly degrade your car’s condition.
Here are other potential costs to consider:
- Lodging and food expenses skyrocket over a multi-day trip.
- Multiple Cars: If you own more than one, it’s impossible to drive them simultaneously.
- Job Constraints: Not all employers offer the time off needed for such a trip.
- Unforeseen Issues: Car breakdowns, bad drivers, potholes, speeding tickets, wrong turns, animals on the road, or even accidents.
Instead of dealing with these hassles and expenses, I found it more convenient and cost-effective to hire a professional. A registered car shipping company ensures your vehicle is secure and provides regular updates throughout the relocation. Why not consider a reliable service for peace of mind? Check out Nationwide Auto Transportation for expert advice on car buyers auto transport and door-to-door auto transport services.
For a deeper dive into the real costs and logistics of car transport, visit this comprehensive guide from Nationwide Auto Transportation.
Nationwide Auto Transportation Tip of the Day: Are you planning to drive in another country? The U.S. The Department of State — Bureau Of Consular Affairs has some invaluable, helpful information. Also remember, Nationwide Auto Transportation can assist you with International Car Shipping when you need it
How to Self-Drive Your Car | Things to Consider
- How do I pay road tolls in the US? There are 15 states that employ the E-ZPass system, but local transponders are available in different states. Toll booths accept most forms of payment methods, excluding checks. This is why it’s better to Ship Car to Another State.
- Do I have to tell a cop why I am driving in another state? It is your right to not answer, but you have to be able to identify yourself.
- Do they check papers when driving to another state? You are required to show your vehicle registration, license and proof of insurance.
- How to get my car to another state without driving it? Some of the options we explore on how to transport a car to another state, include:
- Self drive
- Hire someone to drive your car cross country
- Trailer or tow your car
- Ship your car on a train
- Ship a car by boat
- Hire a car carrier company for cross-country shipping
- When to apply for a new driving license in another state? In Florida you have 30 days from taking up residency in the state to apply for a driver’s license. Bur remember, the states all have different laws and requirements, so it is advised to check with your local DMV what is required.
Still feel that driving your car to another state by yourself is an appropriate way to transport your car across the country? If you are starting to have second thoughts, why not hire someone to drive your car to another state?
Consider Hiring a Driver for Interstate Car Transport
Delegate the Driving | Outsourcing vehicle shipping to another state
Driving your car state to state? Sometimes, it’s smarter not to. You can hire someone or use a professional driveaway service. They’re pros at steering your ride to its new home.
Driveaway Services Demystified
Remember Nicolas Cage’s high-speed heists? Fun to watch, not practical for real-life car moves. Luckily, legitimate driveaway services are here to legally ship your car to another state.
Expert Networks for Car Shipping
When transporting your car cross country, auto transporters are the answer. They have a squad of drivers ready to move your vehicle. Or, if you prefer, cut a deal with a friend you trust. Keep an eye on costs; they can tally up just like a solo road trip.
Weighing the Driveaway Option
Letting someone drive your car to another state comes with perks. You can load up the trunk, even bring along your pet. Yet, anticipate wear and tear, potential road hazards, and the odometer ticking up.
Vehicle Health Check: Pre-Drive Essentials
Ensure your car’s up for the trek. A mechanic’s once-over is a must, followed by a quality cleaning session. You want your vehicle not just to arrive, but to arrive in top shape.
Documentation Checklist | Get Your Ducks in a Row
Before passing the keys, sort out your paperwork:
- ID and license? Check.
- Registration and insurance? Sorted.
- Toll passes? Ready.
- All set? Absolutely.
Hiring a driveaway service isn’t pocket change. Daily rates hover around $500, not counting your additional travel expenses. Think it through before committing.
The Ups and Downs of Personal Car Drivers
Opting for a personal driver over a shipping service has its pluses and minuses. It’s convenient and less taxing, but not the cheapest path. Ensure whoever’s driving is well-versed in long-haul trips, especially if they’re chauffeuring a newly purchased vehicle cross-country.
For a clearer picture and a cost-effective plan, request a no-charge estimate from Nationwide Auto Transportation. We’re slicing through the fog around fly-and-drive options to reveal the best ways to ship your car with comfort and savings in mind.
Fly One Way and Drive Home
You have done all your homework, spent hours researching different car types, prices, and models… and you have finally found something that you want to buy. However, it’s in a state that is a two-day drive away. How are you going to Ship Car to Another State?
Wondering how to transport a car from one state to another, without you driving all the way? There is always the fly and drive option. Unsure of the costs, or what your best option for how to transport a car from one state to another is? There are a number of fly or drive calculators to help you make up your mind.
To Ship Car to Another State, Nationwide Auto Transportation uses historic route data, combined with a plethora of data on different vehicle types, to accurately calculate your car shipping costs. When you compare prices of shipping your car, driving it, or hiring someone to transport a car across the country, you will be pleasantly surprised at how affordable a reputable car shipping company is.
You can see from the previous section that hiring someone to drive your car to another state can be quite costly. There is however one scenario that might be a workable and affordable solution. You could fly one way, and then drive your new car back home. Small families can use this opportunity to take a road trip across America, and it is also one way how to transport a car where it needs to be.
FAQ About Fly and Drive
Before deciding how to transport a car from one state to another, there are quite a number of deciding factors to keep in mind. Ask yourself: Do I—
- like driving long distances and staying focused for hours on end?
- mind airport crowds and do I like flying?
- have the time and budget for a long road trip and airplane tickets?
Keep in mind that if you do not enjoy, or cannot afford the time or money to transport a car cross country, it could end up being a really terrible, stressful experience.
Ship Car to Another State | How long does it take to drive 1000 miles?
In other words, “How far can you safely drive in a day?” It is not advised to drive more than 9 hours a day, without breaks. Experts also recommend that drivers take a 45 minute break after every 4.5 hours of driving. To get an accurate distance, multiply your average speed by the number of hours you will drive for.
How long does it take to fly 1000 miles?
As you have learnt there are many outside influences when you decide how to transport a car to another state, the same goes for when you want to fly across the country. Boarding delays, air-traffic, city traffic, strong winds and bad weather are just some factors that can make you spend more time flying to another city.
Example:
- The drive from Phoenix, Arizona to Dallas, Texas will cover 1,067 miles.
- It will take you about 15 hours and 12 minutes to drive non-stop
- at an average of 70 mph
- in ordinary traffic conditions.
- The flight distance between Dallas, Tx and Phoenix, AR is 868 miles.
- The in-flight air time (flying at 500 mph) will be 130 minutes
- add another hour and 10 minutes for boarding and other delays
- total time to fly would be close to 5 hours.
Nationwide Auto Transportation makes how to transport a car from Dallas to Phoenix, as easy as clicking the Contact Us button. Let us Ship Car to Another State!
A friendly consultant will give you a call back at a convenient time to discuss your best car shipping option. Now, do you know how to transport a car to another state with a tow dolly?
How to Transport a Car Using a Tow Dolly
Unloading your U-Haul Tow Dolly rental is certainly not for everyone, and more so if you do not know how to transport a car using a U-Haul tow dolly. In short, do not try this at home… unless you are a super confident, proficient driver.
You have everything ready for your move to your new state, except you have no idea how to transport a car to another state. Don’t worry, this post will give you enough relevant information to make the right choice, and in this section we look at using a tow dolly for long distance car transport, and inspect any car dolly towing issues that could occur.
How to Use A Tow Dolly Rear Wheel Drive – a Quick Guide
If you would like to know how to tow a rear wheel drive car on a dolly, here are a couple of important tips:
- Never tow on the drive wheels of a rear wheel drive car
- Check the specs for your vehicle type and model
- Some have a maximum recommended towing distance of 50 miles at not more than 50 mph
- There are cars that cannot be towed at speeds exceeding 15 mph, and not further than 5 miles
- Lock the steering wheel
- Disconnect the drivetrain
- The towing vehicle needs to be a minimum of 750 lbs heavier than the towed car
- Slow down
Ship Car to Another State | Using a Tow Dolly FAQ Answers
If you are the type of person who feels that they do things better than most, you will probably look at renting a moving truck, and/or Penske tow dolly, from Penske Truck Rental, and then look for a car tow dolly rental company, or a car tow dolly for sale near me.
Whether you are a DIY mover, or you are simply interested in how to transport a car with a tow dolly, here are a few answers to questions you may have:
- Should car be in park or neutral on tow dolly?
Once on the two dolly, engage first gear. Your car should be in neutral when towed with four wheels on the tarmac, and manual cars are safe to tow without the engine running.
- How fast can you travel with a car dolly when you Ship Car to Another State?
When you learn the proper way to use a tow dolly, slower is always safer and better for your car, as well as the vehicle doing the towing. It is not recommended to exceed 55 mph, and to always use tow dolly straps.
- If you use a tow dolly will your car accumulate miles?
Drivers who know how to use a tow dolly front wheel drive agree that no mileage is added, but when you tow a rear wheel drive car, your odometer reading will change.
- What kind of tow dolly can I use to haul a truck?
As long as your truck meets the weight limits prescribed by the tow dolly manufacturer, you should be able to find it on the list of cars that use a tow dolly.
- Maximum load of 3,450 lbs – front-wheel drive vehicle
- 3,900 lbs – rear-wheel drive vehicle.
How to Transport a Car Using Container Transport
If you think about the different ways to transport a car to another state, container auto transport is not the first option that springs to mind, and there are a few valid reasons for this. For starters, auto transport in containers is usually reserved for worldwide car shipping, but there are exceptions.
Auto Container Transport | For Who?
When you need to decide how to transport your car to another country, auto container transport is one of the safest transport methods, but when would you use container transport for inland shipping?
- Classic Cars or Antiques
- Motorcycles
- Luxury Sports Cars
- Vehicles that are valued at more than $100,000
You can read this Car Shipping Container Transport Tutorial, for an in depth look at how to transport a car using auto container transport. If you own a high value vehicle, why don’t you look at enclosed transport from Nationwide Auto Transport? Call our office when you are ready for container auto transport, or simply fill in our online quote.
What Are the Benefits of Container Auto Transport?
- Better insurance
- Total protection for your vehicle
- Extra security
- Climate control
- Easier overseas transport
How to Transport Your Car in a Container FAQ
How are cars transported on ships?
Besides standard RORO shipping, how are cars shipped overseas? Cars can be shipped in either:
- 20’ containers – suitable for one car or SUV
- 40’ containers – Can fit two vehicles (save if you need to ship multiple cars)
How much does it cost to ship my car in a container?
The size of your car plays a large role in price, and a car shipping container can set you back between $1,500 to $5,000 (excluding extra fees) and destination dependent. This does not compare well with the industry average of around $1,400 when you transport a car cross country using a legitimate car carrier.
Can I transport auto in a container with 1/4 tank of fuel?
It is recommended not to have more fuel than ¼ tank when shipping your car in an auto shipping container. This is not only for weight reasons, but it is also safer and inline with government regulations.
If you have any other questions regarding how to transport a car in a container, or other car shipping related questions, please send us an e-mail on [email protected].
How to Transport a Car by Plane
There is a certain echelon of people who can afford to pay a premium for certain things, like how to transport your car to another state in a few hours, but did you know it is not really necessary to pay an arm and a leg for expedited car shipping? Ship a car by plane – How much does it cost, takes a look at the ups and downs when you ship a car over the ocean by plane.
What becomes very clear right from the outset is that flying, or any other form of car shipping, is in 99% of cases the best way to transport your car across the country. When you transport your car on a plane, and drive to your destination, your vehicle will more than likely get there before you. However, and that is a large dollar sign ‘however’, it is going to cost you.
So, can you ship a car by plane, and how much does it cost to ship a car by plane? It could cost you more than the average cost of a small car, but when you own an exotic, classic or other high value vehicle, the safety of your auto investment is your priority.
How Much to Transport a Car by Plane?
The average price to transport a car by plane will set you back anything from $2,500 to $5,500, and it is prudent to remember that when you transport a car by plane, door-to-door transport is not on the cards. You will still need to hire the services of a trusted car shipping company like Nationwide Auto Transportation. Enclosed car shipping with a reputable auto carrier is comparably just as safe, but a whole heap cheaper!
FAQ About Ship a Car by Plane Answered
How much does it cost to carry a car on a plane?
Flying is the most expensive way to transport a car and is usually up to three times the cost of other car shipping options. It could cost you anything from $2,500 to $5,500 to ship a car by plane within the US. When you look at how to transport a car overseas, it could be even more.
What kind of plane can carry a car?
The Antonov is a huge plane that can even carry tanks. For overseas and domestic flights, there are several cargo planes that are designed to transport a car by air.
Can You Transport a Car by Auto Transport Train?
In this section we look at how to transport a car to another state by train, and we unbox if it is a car shipping option that will tick the right boxes for your car transport needs.
When it comes to auto transport by train Americans have a very limited choice. East Coast residents can transport a car with Amtrak Auto transport by train that runs from Virginia to Florida. You have various ride along options and tickets can be quite pricey because you have to accompany your car during auto transport via train.
How Much Does A Train Ticket With Auto Transport Cost? | Ship Car to Another State
The auto train transport to Florida, leaves out of Lorton, Virginia, and arrives in Sanford, Florida about 17 and ½ hours later. This is super fast in terms of auto transport delivery times, but auto transport on Florida trains comes with a number of drawbacks, the first being that there is only one available route on the East Coast.
Out of all the train auto transport companies including Amtrak, CSX, Union Pacific, and Burlington Northern Santa Fe, only Amtrak offers a cross country auto transport train to the American public. The average cost, including a ticket for you to accompany your car (yip, you have to escort your vehicle and pay for a room), is about $520, depending on how comfortable you want to be.
Let’s start with a Coach class ticket at $99, First class will set you back around $295, and a superliner bedroom will cost you a sizzling $600!
Ship Car to Another State | Wrapping Up Auto Transport Auto Train
Auto transport via rail is slightly cheaper than other shipping methods in certain cases, however the lack of auto train transport companies, and viable routes for shipping a car with a train, limits who can make use of this service.
Once your car has arrived at the train station, you will more than likely still need to drive it a long way to your final destination, or use a car shipping company, which would have probably been a better first choice.
If you are not sure if shipping your car by train is a good idea, visit the Nationwide Auto Transportation Homepage and talk to an industry specialist about your alternatives.
Auto Transport by Truck Across the Country | Ship Car to Another State
Auto transport companies know how to transport a car and with their industry knowledge driven shipping calculator, it is easy to work out how much to transport a car across country will cost you.
Compare the different ways how to transport a car across America, and you will find that what we discuss in this section is arguably the most efficient and cost-effective way to transport your car to another state. I am obviously talking about those trucks that we see on our highways daily, loaded with cars, auto transport carriers and their auto transport trailers full of vehicles, but do you know the ins and outs of how to transport a car from one state to another by truck?
What is Auto Shipping by Road?
One of the first questions people ask from an auto transport company is how much does it cost to transport a car from point A to point B, without really knowing how their car will get where they need it to be. The main purpose of this post is to educate readers on the different options they have on how to transport a car cross country, and shed light on auto transport services, and how much would it cost to transport a car to where you need it to be.
What is Open Car Transport?
Open Car Transport is the go to way of how to transport a car across the country. It is a convenient and affordable option when you need to get a standard vehicle to another state.
What is Enclosed Auto Transport?
Shipping your car with enclosed auto transport ensures peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is handled with kid gloves, and looked after with care, from collection to delivery. Your vehicle is protected from any road hazards and bad weather conditions. Open Car Shipping Costs | Enclosed vs. Open Transport Guide
FAQ About Reliable Auto Transport
When you type auto transport near me in your browser, you are inundated with a flood of companies trying to get your attention, and your dollars. Nationwide Auto Transportation believes that your car is just as important as you are, and that is why we take care of our customers in the same professional manner that we look after your precious auto investment.
With this in mind, here are a few answers to popular questions and answers about how to transport a car to another state by using an auto car carrier or intermodal shipment.
How much to transport a car to another state?
There are a few variables that influence the final cost of how much to transport a car to another state:
- Weight
- Size
- Distance
- Location
To get accurate auto transport quotes, it is advised to request a call back, or use our free quote button.
How to transport a bike in a car?
If you ask me how to transport a motorcycle with a car, the short and easy answer is that unless you own a truck or large van, you don’t transport a bike in a car. Rather look at Motorcycle Shipping by a professional auto carrier.
How Are You Going to Transport Your Car to Another State?
Ready to ship your car with confidence? I recommend Nationwide Auto Transportation—your go-to expert for seamless vehicle shipping. From coast to coast, and even internationally, we’ve got your back. Don’t just take my word for it, see what our customers say about their experiences.
Planning to cross borders? Our international car shipping guide has all the answers. And remember, transporting your car doesn’t have to be complicated—contact us today and let’s discuss your needs. For service as expansive as the routes we travel, choose Nationwide Auto Transportation. Let’s get your car where it needs to go—safely, reliably, and on time!
