Cars are a reliable source of transportation, but you can’t take them everywhere. If you intend to move across the county, you could drive all that way. However, a more practical and accessible choice is to have your vehicle shipped to you. How much does it cost to ship a car, and how is it done?

Keep reading to learn about your choices for auto transportation and which you should choose.

Car Hauling 

Auto shipping services utilize multiple different methods to safely transport your cargo. One of these methods includes car hauling. Hauling involves the use of special equipment to load 10 or more cars on a 2-3 tier trailer.

The process of hauling cars via semi-trailer is, as you can imagine, a precarious process. As the cars are uncovered, they’re left exposed to elements, meaning careful routes must be planned so drivers can best avoid debris or anything that could cause damage.

Operators of these large transport vehicles are typically reliable and do their best to keep everything safe and secure. Most haulers have insurance that protects the vehicles they move. If you were to use this method and find damage to your car, contact your insurance company, get a quote for repairs, and present these to the transportation company.

If you don’t want to risk damage, you can choose enclosed transport. The cost is higher but offers peace of mind knowing the chance of damaging your car is much lower. Car hauling is used by individual drivers, commercial fleets, and car dealers for cross-country shipping.

Individual Shipping

Personal or individual shipping auto shipping services differ from hauling as drivers carry one vehicle at a time. Individual shipping is a good option as you have more flexibility with delivery.

Driveaway 

A seemingly less continental way to have your car transferred is by hiring a professional driver. Professional drivers will drive your car wherever you need it. It’s a safe option as the transporters have experience using heavy machinery and with various car types.

While it adds to your odometer, you can trust a person is making the best choices and keeping your vehicle safe.

Freight and Air Travel 

One of the quickest types of auto transportation is by train or airplane. The downside of typical rail and air services is that you’re required to be a passenger. Additionally, air shipping involves strict limitations.

In most cases, you can’t leave anything unnecessary in the vehicle, and you can’t have a full tank of gas. Both techniques are quite expensive. The aspects that will influence the cost of shipping your car are size/type, distance to travel, type of transport, timeframes, and the weather/seasons.

Not sure what type is right for you? Get in touch with the best car shipping company to get a quote.

The Average Cost to Ship a Car 

Car hauling costs depend on the length of the trip. Most companies charge a fee per mile driven, which typically ranges from $0.50 to $2 per mile. Individual car shipping costs more, but you could save money by choosing to ship your vehicle during the winter months when the demand is lower.

Some driveaway services may offer flat rates for shipping between states. For example, moving your car from Florida to Pennsylvania may start at a flat rate of around $350. You will also pay fees, driver costs, fuel, and tips, so the end bill may be more than $1,000, depending on these factors.

Train transport is the most limited as it’s not offered everywhere; companies like Amtrak only have a few destinations where they offer auto transport. Shipping between Florida and Washington, D.C. starts at $497, including your passenger ticket.

Lastly, the fees for delivery by airplane vary widely. There are restrictions to work with, but it’s the easiest way to conduct an overseas transfer. You’re looking at a bill of around $3,000.

Shipping Your Car Safely and Effectively 

The answer to ‘how much does it cost to ship a car’ isn’t cut and dry. As so many factors influence it, you could get a quote for $500 to a couple thousand.  Whatever method and shipping company you go with, make sure you know all of the rules and insurance rates.

If you enjoyed our post, check out the rest of our blog to read more interesting topics like this one!