Shipping a car across the country—or even just a few states over—can be a convenient but costly task. Whether you're relocating, buying a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member, finding the best car shipping rates is key to saving money without sacrificing quality.

This article breaks down how car shipping rates work, what affects pricing, and how you can find the most affordable and reliable auto transport service.

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What Are Car Shipping Rates?

Car shipping rates refer to the cost of transporting a vehicle from one location to another using an auto transport company. These rates vary based on several factors, including distance, vehicle size, shipping method, and timing.

Average Car Shipping Costs

Distance	Open copyright Price	Enclosed copyright Price
0 – 500 miles	$500 – $750	$800 – $1,200
500 – 1,000 miles	$750 – $1,100	$1,100 – $1,500
1,000 – 2,000 miles	$1,100 – $1,500	$1,500 – $2,000
2,000+ miles	$1,500 – $2,000+	$2,000 – $2,500+

Note: Open transport is the most common and affordable option, while enclosed transport offers more protection at a higher cost.

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What Affects Car Shipping Rates?

To get the best car shipping rates, it helps to understand what influences the cost:

1. Distance

Longer routes cost more overall, but the price per mile usually decreases with distance.

2. Vehicle Size & Weight

Larger or heavier vehicles take up more space and require more fuel to move, which increases the price.

3. Transport Type

• Open copyright: Most affordable and widely used.

• Enclosed copyright: Offers better protection, ideal for luxury or vintage vehicles.

4. Location

Shipping between major cities is cheaper due to higher demand. Rural pickups or deliveries usually cost more.

5. Time of Year

Car shipping is more expensive during peak seasons like summer and the holidays. You’ll often find lower rates in late fall or early spring.

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How to Get the Best Car Shipping Rates

Here are some smart strategies to secure an affordable rate without compromising on service:

✅ Compare Multiple Quotes

Use online platforms or contact several companies directly to compare prices.

✅ Book in Advance

Avoid last-minute bookings, which usually come with a premium price tag.

✅ Be Flexible With Dates

Being open to a wider pickup window can give carriers more options and result in a better price.

✅ Choose Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

If convenience isn’t a priority, this method is usually cheaper than door-to-door service.

✅ Ask for Discounts

Many companies offer price reductions for:

• Military members

• Students

• Seniors

• First-time customers

• Multi-vehicle shipments

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Top Car Shipping Companies with Competitive Rates

Here are a few reputable auto transport companies known for offering excellent service and competitive pricing:

• Montway Auto Transport – Transparent pricing, strong customer reviews.

• AmeriFreight – Known for discounts and protection plans.

• Sherpa Auto Transport – Offers a “Price Lock Promise” to avoid hidden fees.

• Ship a Car Direct – Great service with damage-free guarantees.

• uShip – Lets carriers compete for your business, which can lower your price.

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Final Thoughts

Finding the best car shipping rates isn’t just about getting the cheapest deal—it’s about balancing cost, reliability, and peace of mind. By doing your research, comparing quotes, and choosing the right service for your needs, you can save money while ensuring your car arrives safely and on time.

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Start saving today! Get free, no-obligation quotes from top-rated car shipping companies and lock in the best rate for your next move.