Car shipping is typically divided into two categories: open and enclosed. In open auto transport, cars are loaded onto a flatbed trailer (for one or two cars) or, more commonly, a dual-level trailer (for up to 10 cars). You’ve likely seen these trailers on highways during long trips. This method is the most common and cost-effective. Enclosed car shipping, however, is ideal for protecting vehicles from the elements, especially classic cars, garage-kept vehicles with show-quality finishes, or exotic cars. Generally, if your car’s value is around $70k or above, consider using enclosed transport. For vehicles valued over $100k, enclosed shipping is strongly recommended. Not only does it provide better protection, but many open carriers are also hesitant to transport high-value vehicles.

Car shipping prices typically vary from approximately $300 for open transport under 500 miles to over $1,800 for enclosed transport exceeding 2,500 miles. However, we believe that these estimates are higher than necessary. According to Forbes, the average cost of coast-to-coast car shipping is $1,650. Yet, after using our free car shipping quote calculator, you'll likely discover that shipping a car is more affordable than expected.

The cost of shipping a car can vary significantly based on several factors such as the type of vehicle, shipping method, and distance traveled. Additional factors like expedited shipping or extra vehicle weight can also influence the total shipping cost. Moreover, seasonal fluctuations can impact the overall expense of transporting your vehicle with CarTravel.

Choosing open car transport is the most economical method for shipping your vehicle(s). Another money-saving tip is to schedule your shipment during the winter months, especially in February, when fewer people are moving cars between states. During this time, drivers are often more willing to lower their standard rates for car shipping.