Car Shipping Made Easy | Your Best Auto Shipping Guide

Car Shipping Made Easy - Auto Transport Guide

Car shipping in 2024 has evolved with new industry trends, safety regulations, and advanced transport options.

Whether you're moving across the country or purchasing a car from another state, Nationwide Auto Transportation offers reliable and affordable car shipping solutions.

Our 2024 Car Shipping Guide explains everything you need to know about open vs. enclosed transport, shipping costs, delivery timelines, and recent industry updates.

Car Shipping Industry in 2024 | Key Trends & Insights

Market Growth: The U.S. vehicle shipping market is valued at $10.1 billion in 2024, showing a shift due to economic and regulatory changes.
Regulations Update: New hazardous materials transport waivers and German vehicle securing laws affect international shipping.
Growing Shipping Distances: The average vehicle transport distance has increased to 920 miles per shipment, reflecting a rise in long-distance moves.
Port Infrastructure Expansion: The Port of Brunswick in Georgia is now the largest U.S. automobile port, surpassing Baltimore.

Shipping Your Car | Things You Should Know

Car shipping is the act of moving a car from one state to another through a car carrier. The 2024 Auto Shipping Guide will focus on this and other auto transportation aspects.

There are two main types of auto shipping, namely Open car transport and Enclosed car transport.

Nationwide Auto Transportation is a certified member of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association. With that, we provide door-to-door, open, and enclosed car transport services facilitated by licensed, insured, and bonded carriers.

Our car carriers are regularly maintained so your car is transported safely.

We ship different types of cars. Anything from:

SUVs,
vans,
pickup trucks,
sedans,
luxury vehicles,
exotic and vintage cars irrespective of the brand.

As long as the car is in good condition for safe car transportation. We are open to discussing custom shipping of non-operational vehicles, but please contact our logistics experts to discuss your order in more detail.

2024 Auto Shipping Guide | What is Open Car Shipping?

At Nationwide Auto Transportation, we make open car shipping simple, affordable, and reliable. Whether you're moving across the country or buying a car from out of state, our door-to-door auto transport service covers routes across the United States. This means your vehicle arrives safely and on time.

A car carrier with cars doing open car transport

How Does Open Car Shipping Work?

With open car transport your vehicle is shipped on an open carrier — the most popular and cost-effective way to ship a car. These large trucks, often seen on highways, can carry up to 10 vehicles at once, allowing the shipping cost to be shared among multiple car owners.

While open auto transport exposes vehicles to weather elements like sun, rain, snow, and road debris, the risk of damage remains minimal. The trucks have protective barriers that block most debris, so at most, your car might need a wash upon arrival.

Why Choose Open Car Transport?

🚛 Affordability: It's the cheapest way to ship a car since the cost is divided among all vehicles on the carrier.
⏳ Faster Shipping Times: With more open carriers on the road, your car can often be picked up and delivered quicker than enclosed transport.
🚗 Versatility: Ideal for shipping sedans, SUVs, trucks, and other everyday vehicles.
🔒 Secure Transport: All vehicles are carefully loaded and securely strapped to prevent movement or vibration during transit.

Is Open Car Shipping Right for You?

If you're looking for a fast, affordable auto transport solution, open car shipping is often the best choice. It’s perfect for standard vehicles and popular routes, allowing you to pay for one-way car transport without unnecessary costs.

Still unsure? Contact our car shipping experts today to discuss your options and get a free, instant car shipping quote.

What is Enclosed Auto Transport?

Enclosed auto transport involves transporting your vehicle within a covered trailer, offering superior protection against weather elements and road debris. This method is ideal for luxury, classic, exotic, and antique cars, as well as mini vans.

Key Benefits of Enclosed Auto Transport

Enhanced Protection: Vehicles shipped in enclosed trailers are shielded from all weather and road conditions, minimizing the risk of cosmetic and mechanical damage during transit.
Reduced Risk of Uninsured Damage: Enclosed carriers protect your vehicle from road debris like stones, gravel, and dust, which can cause scratches and damage during transit.
Safer Loading for Low-Clearance Vehicles: Vehicles with low ground clearance, such as sports cars, benefit from hydraulic lift gates used in enclosed transport, reducing the risk of damage during loading and unloading.

Considerations

Enclosed auto transport offers superior protection. However it typically costs 30% to 60% more than open transport. This is because of specialized equipment and limited vehicle capacity.

Additionally, scheduling may require more flexibility. The reason? Fewer enclosed carriers operate compared to open carriers.

At Nationwide Auto Transportation, we prioritize the safety and security of your vehicle. Our enclosed auto transport services gets your car there in pristine condition, regardless of distance. To learn more, visit our Enclosed Car Shipping Services.

For detailed information on federal regulations governing vehicle transport, refer to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines.

Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport | Which One is Right for You?

Factor	Open Car Transport	Enclosed Car Transport
Vehicle Type	Standard vehicles: sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, family cars	High-value vehicles: luxury, exotic, classic, antique, or custom cars
Protection Level	Exposed to weather elements (sun, rain, snow) and road debris, but minimal damage risk	Fully protected from weather, road debris, and dust — best for delicate cars
Cost	Most affordable option — 30% to 60% cheaper than enclosed transport	More expensive due to added protection and limited vehicle capacity
Carrier Capacity	Transports up to 10 vehicles per carrier	Transports 3 to 5 vehicles per trailer — fewer cars, more security
Shipping Speed	Faster, more carriers available — ideal for quick scheduling	Slower due to fewer enclosed carriers and longer loading times
Insurance Coverage	Fully insured, though coverage may be lower than enclosed options	Higher insurance coverage for added peace of mind
Best For	Budget-conscious customers, everyday car transport, short distances	Car collectors, luxury car owners, long-distance or high-value moves
Risk of Damage	Minimal, but potential exposure to weather and road debris	Very low — maximum protection with covered trailers
Loading Method	Standard ramps for loading and unloading	Hydraulic lift gates — ideal for low-clearance vehicles
Availability	High — more open carriers on the road, easier to book	Lower — fewer enclosed carriers, so schedule flexibility is needed
Recommendation	Choose open if you want affordable, fast car shipping	Choose enclosed for premium protection and specialty vehicles

Need Help Deciding?

At Nationwide Auto Transportation, we offer both Open Car Transport and Enclosed Auto Transport to fit your needs.

If you're still unsure which option is right for you, contact our car shipping experts for personalized advice and a free quote today!

My Car is Inoperable | Will This Affect the Auto Shipping Cost?

Shipping an inoperable vehicle requires specialized equipment and handling, which can increase transportation costs.

At Nationwide Auto Transportation, we have the expertise and equipment to safely transport non-running vehicles. Inform us about your vehicle's condition during booking so we can make the necessary arrangements. We collaborate with organizations like Insurance Auto Auctions (IAAI) and Copart to facilitate the transport of non-operational cars.

Should I Ship My Car or Drive It?

Driving your car across long distances may seem cost-effective, but it comes with hidden expenses such as fuel, lodging, potential vehicle wear and tear, and time away from work.

Shipping your car with a professional auto transport company like Nationwide Auto Transportation can save you time and reduce stress. We offer reliable and efficient car shipping services tailored to your needs.

For more insights on the costs and benefits of shipping versus driving, consider reading this comprehensive guide.

For personalized assistance and a free quote, contact our logistics experts today.

Requirements for Shipping a Car with Nationwide Auto Transportation

Shipping your vehicle with Nationwide Auto Transportation is a straightforward process. For a smooth experience, follow these steps:

Request a Free Quote: Begin by obtaining a free quote through our website. This will provide an estimate based on your vehicle type, pickup, and delivery locations.
Complete the Booking Form: After receiving your quote, you'll be sent a booking form via email. Fill out and return this form to initiate the shipping process.
Vehicle Preparation: See that your vehicle is operational unless prior arrangements have been made for non-running cars. Remove personal belongings and secure any loose parts. For detailed preparation guidelines, refer to our Car Shipping Made Easy Guide.
Documentation:
- Photo Identification: Provide a valid driver's license or an unexpired passport.
- Vehicle Title and Registration: While not always mandatory, having these documents can facilitate the process. Some states may require them during transport.
- Proof of Ownership: If you're not the vehicle owner, supply a notarized letter of authorization from the owner.
Payment: Upon securing a carrier, an invoice will be sent detailing the deposit amount and payment methods. The remaining balance is typically due upon delivery. Check that you have the agreed-upon payment ready when the driver arrives.

Follow these guidelines for a seamless and efficient vehicle shipping experience with Nationwide Auto Transportation.

What Car Shipping Services Does Nationwide Auto Transportation Offer?

At Nationwide Auto Transportation, we make car shipping simple. With over 15 years of experience and a large network of trusted carriers, we help people move their vehicles anywhere in the continental U.S. — quickly and safely.

Here’s a look at the car shipping services we offer:

Military Car Transport

If you're in the military and need to move your car for a deployment or a permanent change of station (PCS), we’ve got you covered. Our Military Auto Transport service gets your vehicle where it needs to go — on time and safely.

We also offer military discounts as a small thank-you for your service. To avoid last-minute stress, we recommend booking 7-10 days in advance, especially during busy seasons.

Student Car Shipping

Heading off to college? Long drives can be risky for young drivers and hard on your car. Our Student Auto Transport service takes the stress out of getting your car to campus.

Let us handle the shipping so you or your child can focus on settling into school. Plus, it helps you save money on gas, hotel stays, and wear and tear on the vehicle.

Same Day Car Shipping

Need to ship your car fast? With our Same Day Car Shipping service, we can arrange for pickup within 24 hours.

We work with a wide network of carriers, so no matter the distance or route, we’ll find a quick solution. Delivery times depend on how far your car is going, but we always aim to get it there as fast as possible.

Snowbirds Car Shipping

If you're a snowbird heading south for the winter — or back north for summer — we’ll get your car there safely. Our Snowbirds Car Shipping service helps seasonal travelers move their vehicles between homes without the stress of a long drive.

You focus on enjoying your time away — we’ll handle the car transport.

Boat Shipping

We don't just move cars — we also specialize in Boat Shipping.

Whether you’re transporting a fishing boat, jet ski, or yacht, we make sure that your watercraft arrives safely at its next port or storage facility.

Which Car Shipping Service is Right for You?

No matter your situation — whether you're a service member, a college student, a seasonal traveler, or even a boat owner — we have a vehicle transport solution to meet your needs.

Ready to get started? Our car shipping experts are waiting for your call! Click for a free quote and personalized advice!

Does Nationwide Auto Transportation Offer International Car Shipping?

While Nationwide Auto Transportation doesn’t directly handle international car shipping, we make it easy to get your vehicle to ports or terminals where international shipping companies operate.

We coordinate the domestic leg of the journey — safely transporting your car to the nearest sea port or freight terminal — so it’s ready for overseas shipping.

When shipping a car internationally, you generally have two options:

Container Shipping: Your car is secured inside a shipping container — sometimes alongside household items — for maximum protection.
Roll-On/Roll-Off (Ro/Ro) Shipping: A cost-effective method where your vehicle is driven onto a ship’s deck and secured for transport. While cheaper, this method doesn’t allow personal belongings inside the car.

For more information on international vehicle transport regulations, visit the Federal Maritime Commission.

What is Snowbird Car Shipping?

Snowbird car shipping helps seasonal travelers move their cars when heading south for the winter or north for the summer.

Instead of driving thousands of miles, you can ship your vehicle and simply fly to your destination — saving time, stress, and wear on your car.

Benefits of snowbird auto transport include:

🚗 No long drives: Avoid exhausting, multi-day road trips.
❄️ Stay safe: Skip risky winter weather driving.
🏖️ More vacation time: Focus on relaxing while we handle your car's transport.

Our Snowbirds Car Shipping service covers routes across the U.S. This means your vehicle arrives when and where you need it.

What is Auction-to-Dealer Car Shipping?

Car auctions can offer great deals for dealers, but moving newly purchased vehicles to your lot can be challenging.

With our auction-to-dealer car shipping service, we provide fast and reliable vehicle transport from auction sites directly to dealerships.

We understand that many auctions require vehicles to be removed almost immediately after purchase. That’s why we work quickly to schedule same-day pickups when possible, ensuring your inventory arrives without delays.

We also offer discounted multi-car transport for dealers moving several vehicles at once.

For more details, contact us or visit our Car Buyers Auto Transport page.

Bought a Car Online? Let Us Ship It to Your Door

Buying a car online from eBay, Craigslist, or a dealership out of state can save you money — but getting the car home is another story.

Our Auction to Dealer Transport service takes the hassle out of long-distance vehicle purchases.

We work directly with sellers, dealerships, and auctions to pick up your new car and deliver it safely to your doorstep.

No stress. No extra miles on your new ride.

Get a Car Shipping Quote Today

Looking for a smooth, reliable way to ship your car? Whether you're a snowbird, military member, college student, or car buyer, we're here to help.

Check out our latest 2024 Auto Shipping Guide for expert tips! Give us a call at 1-800-311-7073 for personalized advice and a free quote.

FAQ | Car Shipping Tips with Nationwide Auto Transportation

Can I ship personal items in the car? You can ship up to 100 pounds of personal items in the trunk only. This is usually free of charge, but you have to let us know. If you'd like to send additional items in the car as well, some carriers allow you to do that, but they ask for an extra fee which averages about $100 for items on the back seat below the window level. Speak to our consultants about what types of items are allowed.
Can I schedule pickup or delivery on a guaranteed date? We can pick up and deliver your car on chosen dates, but it's always better if you provide a 3-day window for pickup. We will contact you 5 days prior to the date as your load is a shared load and it is going with other vehicles. If you need pickup or delivery on a guaranteed date, let us know. A small additional charge may be required to guarantee this schedule.
When must I book my car shipping? We recommend that you place your order at least one week in advance. The more notice you give us for your booking, the better. This ensures we reserve a spot for your preferred dates. We can also offer same-day pickup, but this is considered expedited shipping and might affect the shipping cost.
How long will it take to ship my car? The estimated delivery time is based on the distance. For example:

Up to 400 miles - same or next day delivery
400 miles - 1000 miles - 2-4 days
1000 miles - 1500 miles - 3-5 days
1500 miles - 2100 miles - 4-7 days
2100 miles + - 7-10 days Expedited shipping with two drivers can be arranged to reduce this time.

Do you offer services for military personnel? Yes, we provide military car transport with discounts as a gesture of gratitude to our servicemen and their families. We cater to all military bases within the United States.
What is the "Same Day Auto Shipping" service? For those in urgent need of car transportation, we can arrange a pickup within 24 hours through our extensive network. Delivery time depends on the route and distance.
Can you help if I buy a car online? Certainly! Whether you purchase a car on eBay, Craigslist, or any other online platform, we provide a seamless auto shipping experience for out-of-state purchases.
Do you have services for students moving to college? Yes, we offer a student car shipping option. Instead of letting young, possibly inexperienced drivers travel long distances, you can rely on our professionals to safely transport the car.