Car shipping is a convenient option for moving your vehicle, whether you’re relocating, traveling for snowbird season, or buying a car from another state. But if you’ve ever gotten a quote, you might’ve wondered: What exactly affects the car shipping cost?
The truth is, car shipping costs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Prices vary based on a range of factors, from how far your car is traveling to the time of year you book. Knowing these variables can help you plan ahead and even save money.
What Affects the Car Shipping Cost?
1. Distance
It’s no surprise that the longer the route, the higher the cost. Shipping a car across the country (like from California to Florida) will cost significantly more than transporting it a few hundred miles.
- Short distances (under 500 miles): Expect to pay $500–$700.
- Medium distances (500–1,000 miles): $700–$1,000.
- Long distances (1,000+ miles): $1,000–$1,500 or more.
The price per mile decreases for longer trips, but the overall cost is still higher due to the time and fuel required.
2. Vehicle Size and Weight
The size and weight of your vehicle play a big role in shipping costs. Larger, heavier vehicles take up more space on the carrier and require more fuel to transport.
- Smaller cars (sedans, compact vehicles): Cost less to ship.
- Larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks, vans): Cost more due to their size and weight.
- Modified vehicles: Lift kits or customizations can increase costs because they may require special handling.
3. Type of Transport: Open vs. Enclosed
When booking car shipping, you’ll choose between open transport and enclosed transport:
- Open Transport: Your car is shipped on an open carrier with other vehicles. This is the most common and affordable option, but your car will be exposed to weather and road debris.
- Enclosed Transport: Your car is shipped in a covered trailer, protecting it from the elements. This is ideal for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles, but it costs 30–50% more than open transport.
4. Seasonal Demand
Car shipping prices fluctuate based on the time of year.
- Peak Season (Snowbird Season): During the fall and winter months, many snowbirds ship their cars to warmer states like Florida and Arizona, increasing demand and prices.
- Off-Season: In spring and early summer, demand drops, and prices are typically lower.
- Weather Conditions: Extreme weather, like snowstorms or hurricanes, can impact availability and increase costs.
5. Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Where your car is picked up and delivered affects the cost.
- Urban Areas: Shipping to or from major cities is cheaper because carriers travel these routes more frequently.
- Rural Areas: Transporting cars to remote locations costs more due to fewer carriers operating in these areas and the added time to reach them.
- Terminal-to-Terminal vs. Door-to-Door: Door-to-door service (where the carrier picks up and delivers directly to your location) costs more than terminal-to-terminal service, where you drop off and pick up the car at a central hub.
6. Fuel Prices
Fuel prices are a major factor in car shipping costs. When fuel costs rise, shipping companies pass that expense onto customers.
- High fuel prices: Expect higher shipping rates during times of increased fuel costs.
- Low fuel prices: Shipping rates may be slightly lower when fuel is cheaper.
Since fuel prices fluctuate regularly, they can affect shipping quotes from month to month.
7. Carrier Availability and Timing
The number of available carriers and your shipping timeline can influence costs.
- Flexible Dates: If you can provide a flexible pickup and delivery window, you may get a lower rate since the carrier can fit your shipment into their schedule.
- Expedited Shipping: If you need your car shipped quickly, you’ll pay extra for priority service.
- Busy Routes: Popular routes tend to be cheaper because carriers frequently travel them. Less common routes may cost more due to limited availability.
How to Save on Car Shipping Costs
Here are a few tips to get the best value when shipping your car:
- Book Early: Plan ahead and book your shipment 4–6 weeks in advance to lock in a good rate.
- Be Flexible: Allowing a few days of flexibility for pickup and delivery can save you money.
- Choose Open Transport: Unless your car requires special protection, open transport is the more budget-friendly option.
- Bundle Shipments: If you’re shipping multiple cars, ask about discounts for bundling.
- Ship Off-Season: Avoid peak times, like snowbird season, to take advantage of lower demand and prices.
Conclusion
Car shipping costs are influenced by many factors, from the distance and vehicle size to seasonal demand and fuel prices.
If you’re ready to ship your car, we’re here to help! Our team offers reliable, affordable, and stress-free car shipping services.
Contact us today for a free quote and let us take care of your car shipping needs.