Terminal-to-terminal auto transport is a vehicle shipping method where your car is dropped off at a designated location (a terminal) and picked up at another terminal near your destination. These terminals are usually located in major cities or transport hubs, making it a convenient option for some but also less ideal for others.
Unlike door-to-door auto transport, where a carrier picks up and delivers the car to your specified locations, terminal-to-terminal shipping requires you to coordinate drop-off and pickup at shipping terminals.
How Terminal-to-Terminal Car Shipping Works
If you choose terminal-to-terminal shipping, here’s what to expect:
- Drop-Off at a Terminal:
- You take your car to the nearest transport terminal.
- The terminal staff inspects your car and checks for any pre-existing damage.
- You sign the necessary paperwork and leave your car for transport.
- Transport to Destination Terminal:
- Your car is loaded onto a carrier with other vehicles heading in the same direction.
- The transport company schedules the shipment based on the availability of other cars going to the same region.
- Pickup at the Destination Terminal:
- Once your car arrives, you’ll be notified that it’s ready for pickup.
- You visit the terminal, inspect your vehicle, and sign off on the delivery.
- After verification, you drive your car home from the terminal.
Pros and Cons of Terminal-to-Terminal Auto Transport
✅ Pros:
✔ More Affordable Than Door-to-Door Shipping
- Since carriers don’t have to make individual stops for each customer, this method often costs less.
✔ More Flexible Drop-Off and Pickup Options
- Terminals have set hours, so you can drop off or pick up your vehicle at a time that works for you.
✔ Ideal for Customers Near Major Cities
- If you live close to a shipping terminal, this can be a very convenient option.
❌ Cons:
✘ Less Convenient Than Door-to-Door Transport
- You must travel to the terminal, which may be far from your home.
✘ Possible Storage Fees
- If you don’t pick up your car within a certain timeframe, storage fees may apply.
✘ Longer Transit Time
- Carriers wait to fill loads before shipping, so it may take longer to get your vehicle compared to door-to-door service.
How Much Does Terminal-to-Terminal Auto Transport Cost?
The cost of terminal-to-terminal shipping depends on several factors:
- Distance: Longer routes cost more, but per-mile rates are usually lower.
- Vehicle Size & Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to transport.
- Seasonality: Prices may rise during peak seasons (summer and snowbird season).
- Terminal Fees: Some terminals charge storage fees if you don’t pick up your car on time.
Average Price Range:
Distance:
- Short (Under 500 Miles): $400–$700
- Medium (500–1,500 Miles): $700–$1,100
- Long (1,500+ Miles): $1,100–$1,500
While terminal-to-terminal shipping is usually cheaper than door-to-door transport, the total cost may increase if you need to travel far to drop off or pick up your car.
Conclusion
Terminal-to-terminal auto transport is a great option if you’re looking to save money and also don’t mind picking up your car from a designated location. It’s an affordable and reliable alternative to door-to-door shipping, especially for those who live near major terminals.
So, if you’re ready to ship your car, contact us today for a free quote! Our team will help you find the best transport option for your needs.