Moving across the country is exciting, stressful, and expensive all at once. For many people, the biggest question isn’t what to pack in the moving truck — it’s what to do with the car.
When you’re relocating, opening a second home, or even selling a car to someone several states away, you may not want (or be able) to drive it yourself. That’s where learning how to ship your car across the USA becomes a game changer.
Instead of racking up miles, paying for fuel, and stressing over long drives, professional auto transport services can safely get your vehicle from point A to point B.
Who would use these services? Why does shipping a car to your destination make sense? Here’s what we’ve learned along the way and the five best transport options available.
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Why Ship Your Car Across the USA Instead of Driving
You already have a lot of challenges ahead of you, so consider these reasons the ones that really make it great to ship your car across the USA.
Driving across the country sounds like an adventure, but in reality it can be exhausting, expensive, and risky. Think about the costs: gas, hotels, meals, lost work time, and unexpected repairs.
Add in the stress of towing a car or attaching it to a moving truck — which most families have zero experience with — and it quickly becomes overwhelming.
If you ship your car across the USA, you avoid all of that and simply get to where you’re going. That alone is peace of mind.
For older adults who don’t want to spend days behind the wheel, second-home owners who need their car waiting for them, or families already driving rented moving vans, auto transport is simply safer and easier.
You get peace of mind, no extra mileage on your car, and fewer headaches.
Corporate HR departments should also consider this: many relocation packages now include car shipping for employees moving across the country. For a new hire, not having to drive or sell their car is a major perk.
Who Uses Auto Transport Services?
These services aren’t just for car dealers or big businesses. Everyday people use these to ship their car across the USA all the time take a look at who is using them.
- Everyday Consumers – anyone moving across states.
- Second-Home Owners – snowbirds or seasonal movers heading to Florida, the Carolinas, or Arizona.
- College Students – parents sending students with cars across the country.
- Military Families – frequent relocations where shipping is faster and safer.
- Corporate HR – relocation packages that cover employee car transport.
- Car Buyers/Sellers – shipping vehicles purchased online or sold out of state.
- Older Adults/Seniors – those who can’t or don’t want to drive long distances.
- Classic & Vintage Car Owners – enclosed shipping protects high-value cars.
- Estate or Garage Cleanouts – shipping cars to buyers across the country.
- Marketplace Buyers – even cars bought on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
👉 If you’ve ever scored a classic car at an estate sale or through Facebook Marketplace, auto transport services are the easiest way to get it home without the middleman fees.
5 Best Transport Options to Ship Your Car Across the USA
1. Open-Air Car Carriers (Most Common)
You’ve seen them on the highway — large trailers hauling multiple cars. This is the most popular and affordable option.
- Pros: Cost-effective, widely available, efficient.
- Cons: Cars are exposed to weather and road debris.
2. Enclosed Auto Transport (For Luxury & Classic Cars)
When your car needs protection, enclosed trailers shield it from the elements.
- Pros: Perfect for high-value, antique, or collector cars.
- Cons: More expensive, fewer carriers available.
3. Door-to-Door Service
The carrier picks up your vehicle at your home and delivers it to your new address (or as close as possible).
- Pros: Incredibly convenient, no terminals to deal with.
- Cons: Slightly higher cost, may be tricky in tight neighborhoods.
4. Terminal-to-Terminal Transport
You drop off your car at a terminal and pick it up at another near your destination.
- Pros: Lower cost if you’re flexible.
- Cons: Less convenient, requires extra coordination.
5. Corporate & Relocation Packages
Some employers include auto transport in relocation packages. Ask to ship your car across the USA because it is a benefit worth asking about if you’re moving for work and it might be possible to build that in to your transfer package.
- Pros: Often covered by your company.
- Cons: Only applies if your employer offers it.
👉 No matter which option fits your budget or timeline, using auto transport services ensures your car gets where it needs to go without the stress of a cross-country drive.
Pros and Cons of Auto Transport
Pros:
- Saves time, money, and stress on long drives.
- Reduces wear and tear on your car.
- Safer for older adults, families with moving trucks, or non-drivers.
- Flexible choices to match budget and needs.
Cons:
- Prices fluctuate depending on distance, season, and gas costs.
- Delivery windows aren’t always exact.
- Requires prep (clean out personal items, document car condition).
- Choosing between a broker and carrier can be confusing — always verify credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is shipping my car really safer than driving?
Yes. Shipping avoids road fatigue, accidents, and unexpected repairs on long trips. Professional transporters handle everything securely.
2. Can I put personal items in the car during transport?
Some companies allow it, but many restrict or limit weight. Always confirm with your chosen carrier before packing anything inside.
3. How long will it take to ship my car?
Most coast-to-coast shipments take 7–10 days. Shorter trips can be as quick as 2–5 days depending on the route.
4. Do I need to prepare my car before shipping?
Yes. Clean it, remove valuables, take photos, and make sure gas is only about a quarter tank full.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship Your Car Across the USA?
Costs vary, based on what we have learned but here’s a ballpark you will have to research your area, destination etc.
- Coast-to-Coast: $1,000–$1,500 for open carriers; $1,800+ for enclosed.
- Shorter Distances: $500–$800 for mid-range routes.
- Factors That Affect Price: vehicle size, time of year, fuel costs, open vs enclosed, and door-to-door vs terminal-to-terminal.
While it’s not cheap, it’s often less than replacing a car or dealing with accidents, breakdowns, or wear-and-tear from long trips. The less-stress way is the best way!
Tips for a Smooth Shipping Experience
- Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t just settle on the first number.
- Ask About Insurance: Make sure coverage is included.
- Document Your Vehicle: Take photos before pickup.
- Plan Ahead: Book early, especially during peak times.
- Communicate Clearly: Confirm pickup and delivery windows in writing.
Moving Without the Miles
Whether you’re moving for work, settling into a second home, sending your kid off to college, or selling a classic car, knowing how to ship your car across the USA takes one big burden off your plate.
It’s not just a service for corporations or dealerships — it’s a practical solution for everyday families and individuals who want their car waiting for them at their destination.
👉 Ready to take the stress out of your move? Get a Free Car Shipping Quote Here.
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