Whether you’re relocating for work, heading west for college, or buying a car online, shipping a vehicle across the country can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. With the right planning (and the right carrier), coast to coast car shipping can be smooth, safe, and surprisingly affordable. Here’s what you need to know before handing over the keys.
Why People Ship Their Cars Cross-Country
Shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast – or vice versa – is more common than ever. The distance alone (typically 2,500 to 3,000 miles) makes it a challenge, but the reasons people do it are as varied as the routes themselves.
Some of the most common use cases we see at Bridgetown Express LLC include:
- Cross-country moves or job relocations
- Military PCS orders
- Snowbirds heading west for the winter
- College students moving states
- Buying or selling vehicles across state lines
- Moving luxury or exotic vehicles to a second home or vacation property
In many of these scenarios, driving the vehicle yourself just doesn’t make sense – whether due to time, cost, wear-and-tear, or peace of mind.
How Much Does Coast-to-Coast Car Shipping Cost?
Let’s get to the numbers. Shipping a car from the East Coast to the West Coast can range from $1,100 to $1,900+, depending on several factors:
What Affects the Price?
- Vehicle size & weight: Sedans cost less; trucks and SUVs more.
- Transport type: Open carriers are cheaper; enclosed adds protection and cost.
- Distance & route popularity: Routes like NY to LA are common and competitively priced.
- Fuel prices & seasonality: Summer moves (aka busy season) may cost more.
- Pickup and delivery location: Rural areas can drive up the price vs. metro hubs.
At Bridgetown, we offer transparent, all-inclusive quotes with no surprise fees, and discounts for multi-vehicle or military shipments.
Should You Choose Open or Enclosed Transport?
This is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose:
Open Transport (Most Popular)
- Most cost-effective
- Vehicles are transported on a two-tier trailer
- Great for standard cars and everyday drivers
- Slight exposure to road conditions and weather
Enclosed Transport
- More expensive (15–40% more)
- Vehicle is sealed inside a covered trailer
- Ideal for luxury, classic, exotic, or collector vehicles
- Offers the highest level of protection
Not sure? We’ll help you decide based on your car and your comfort level.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car Coast to Coast?
A typical East-to-West Coast shipment takes 7-10 days from pickup to delivery, depending on weather, stops, and route conditions.
Standard Coast-to-Coast Timeline:
- Day 1–3: Pickup window
- Day 4–10: Transit across states
- Day 10 (or earlier): Delivery to your destination
We keep customers in the loop every step of the way with real-time tracking and direct communication with drivers. No radio silence. No surprises.
What Do You Need to Ship Your Car Cross-Country?
You don’t need much, but having the right info ready helps avoid delays.
Your coast-to-coast checklist:
- Valid government-issued ID
- Car title or registration (especially for sales)
- Vehicle must be drivable unless arranged otherwise
- Remove personal items unless pre-approved
- Fuel tank no more than 1/4 full
- Take pre-shipping photos for insurance
Is Your Car Insured During Shipping?
Yes – we include insurance coverage in every shipment. We’re fully licensed, bonded, and insured, compliant with FMCSA regulations.
What’s typically covered:
- Damage during loading/unloading
- Collision during transit
- Theft or vandalism while in the carrier’s care
We also provide the Certificate of Insurance upon request and recommend taking before-and-after photos just in case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Cross-Country Car Shipping
Let’s save you some stress. Here are the biggest mistakes people make:
- Booking last minute during peak season
- Choosing the lowest bid without vetting the company
- Leaving personal items in the car (not insured!)
- Not reading reviews or checking FMCSA registration
- Failing to inspect the vehicle at delivery
Conclusion
Shipping your car from coast to coast doesn’t have to be a nightmare – in fact, it can be the easiest part of your move if you choose the right company.
At Bridgetown Express LLC, we specialize in long-distance car transport and know the ins and outs of cross-country routes, pickup timing, and vehicle safety. Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or escaping the winter chill, we’ve got the team, tools, and trucks to make it happen – no drama, no delay.
Ready to ship your car from East to West (or vice versa)?