Shipping your vehicle cheaply anywhere in the country has never been easier
Affordable car shipping that you can rely on
Are you looking for a fast, reliable, and cheap car shipping service? At RoadRunner, our extensive network of certified carriers allows us to provide you with the highest level of service at the cheapest car shipping rate possible. Use our online car shipping cost calculator to get your instant shipping quote and view availability for your specific route.
Save money without compromising on quality
RoadRunner Auto Transport provides affordable car shipping options, allowing customers to save money without compromising quality.
Thrifty Auto Shipping from RoadRunner Auto Transport
If you need to ship a car, one of your main concerns is likely how much it will cost. At RoadRunner Auto Transport, we are committed to providing our customers with affordable and reliable car shipping services. Whether you need to transport a vehicle across the country or just a few states over, we can help you find the cheapest and most efficient way to do it.
The Factors That Determine the Price of Car Shipping
Car shipping can be an expensive undertaking. Whether you want to transport your vehicle across cities or states, several factors determine the price. Some factors are under your control, while others are not. Understanding these factors can help you make informed choices that can save you money.
1. Distance
The distance between the two locations is usually the most significant factor determining the cost of car shipping. The longer the distance, the higher the price you will pay. This is because the cost of fuel, insurance, and labor increases with distance. For example, if you want to transport your vehicle from New York to California, you are likely to pay a higher price compared to shipping to a nearby state like Pennsylvania.
2. Type of Vehicle
The type of vehicle you want to ship is another essential factor determining the price. This is because the vehicle's size and weight influence the transport cost. For instance, if you want to transport a heavy truck, you will pay more compared to shipping a smaller car. Similarly, high-end luxury cars such as Lamborghini and Rolls Royce may require extra insurance and handling, which increases the shipping cost.
3. Time of Year
The time of year you want to ship your car is another factor that influences the price. The auto shipping industry is cyclical and usually peaks during summer months when many people are moving. During this time, the demand for car shipping services increases, and the prices go up. Conversely, during the winter months, the demand for auto shipping decreases, and the prices drop. If you want to save money when shipping your car, consider scheduling during the off-season.
4. Type of Shipping Option
There are two main types of shipping options for car transportation: open and enclosed shipping. Open shipping is the most popular and less expensive. It involves transporting your vehicle on an open trailer where it is exposed to the elements. On the other hand, enclosed shipping provides more protection for your car and is the perfect option for expensive and classic cars. Enclosed shipping is more expensive than open shipping, but it protects your vehicle.
5. Location Type
The type of location you want to ship your car to also affects the price. If you are shipping your car to a rural location with narrow streets and challenging terrains, you may pay more compared to a location with easy access, such as a major city. To save on the cost of shipping, consider delivering your car to a carrier terminal, where you can pick it up yourself.
6. Mode of Payment
The mode of payment you choose can also impact the shipping cost. For instance, if you decide to pay using a credit card, you may incur additional fees, which can increase the total cost of shipping. To save money, consider paying with cash or check or negotiating with the shipping company for a better rate.
What You Can Do Before Booking to Get Cheap Car Shipping
Car shipping can be costly, so it's crucial to take the necessary steps to reduce the cost. Here are some tips you can use before booking to get cheap car shipping.
1. Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to get affordable car transport is by planning ahead. To get the best deal, you should start looking for shipping quotes at least four weeks in advance. This gives you enough time to compare prices from different shipping companies and find the cheapest one available.
2. Choose Open Car Shipping
Another way to get cheap car shipping is by choosing open car shipping. Open car shipping is when your car is shipped on an open trailer with other vehicles. This is generally cheaper than enclosed auto transport because the shipping company can transport more cars at once.
3. Use Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
If you're looking for a cheap way to ship your car, you could consider using terminal-to-terminal shipping. This means you drop off your car at a terminal, and the shipping company delivers it to another terminal. Terminal-to-terminal shipping is generally cheaper than door-to-door shipping because the shipping company doesn't have to make as many stops.
4. Ship Your Car During Off-Season
If you can, try to ship your car during the off-season. Most people ship their cars during the summer months, which is the peak season for car shipping. Shipping your car during the off-season can help you save money because shipping companies often offer discounts during this time.
5. Be Flexible
Finally, if you're looking for cheap car shipping, it's important to be flexible. You should be willing to adjust your shipping date and time to get the best deal. Shipping companies often offer discounts for flexible shipping schedules.
Book in Advance
Like most aspects of life, planning, and booking in advance can save you some cash on auto transport. The earlier you book your car transportation service, the better the rates you can get. Auto transport companies like to work with scheduled routing for efficient transportation of multiple cars, so if you book late, you might get charged a premium price.
Flexible Scheduling
If you are not in a hurry to transport your car, you can opt for flexible scheduling. The concept is all about selecting a date range instead of a specific date for the pickup or delivery of your car. Some auto transport companies offer discounts for clients with flexible scheduling options since it allows them to plan their routes better. Being flexible with your schedule gives you more opportunities to choose the cheapest price.
Choose Open Auto Transport
Auto transport options come in open or enclosed trailers. Open trailers are the cheaper option. Open trailers can carry multiple cars on a trailer, making them more cost-effective for both the auto transport company and the client. Enclosed car shipping provides more protection to the car in transit, but you might want to consider the cost factor and choose the cheapest option.
Choose Terminal to Terminal Transport Option
Another cost-saving option is opting for the terminal-to-terminal option when booking for auto transport. It entails dropping off your car at a terminal specified by the auto transport company and once delivered, you pick it up at the destination terminal. This option is cheaper since the auto transport company doesn't have to make town-specific stops and uses resources such as a GPS tracker to monitor the specific route of your car to the destination.
Types of Car Shipping
Auto transportation services come in different forms, and they are best suited for different car shipping
Open Auto Transport
Open auto transport is the most common type of auto transport service. As mentioned earlier, open trailers are designed to carry multiple cars to their destination, making them more cost-effective. Open auto transport is ideal for people with standard-size cars since their cars can fit into the trailer without any problem. The only downside is that their car might be exposed and vulnerable to road debris and weather conditions during transit.
Door-to-Door Auto Transport
Door-to-Door Auto Transport is a convenience-driven auto transport service. It entails the auto transport company picking up the car at its current location and delivering it to the destination specified by the client. The service ensures that the client's car is delivered directly to their doorstep, saving them time and energy. Door-to-Door Auto Transport is suitable for people who want their car delivered to their destination without any complications.
Terminal-to-Terminal Auto Transport
Terminal-to-Terminal Auto Transport is a cost-saving auto transport service. It entails the client dropping off their car at a specific terminal and picking it up at the destination terminal. This is the cheapest auto transport service option available, making it ideal for people working on a tight budget.
Terminal-to-Terminal auto transport service is best suited for people who live near a terminal and don't mind the extra task of dropping off and picking up their car. In conclusion, there are several cost-saving options for booking auto transport services. Booking in advance, being flexible with your schedule, choosing an open trailer, choosing a terminal-to-terminal transport option, and opting for the best type of auto transport service based on your specific needs are all ways to save on auto transport costs.
Domestic Car Shipping Cost
The cost of shipping a car within the United States varies based on several factors, including the distance covered, the type of car being transported, the shipping method, seasonal fluctuations, and the availability of carriers.
For example, if you are looking to transport a standard car about 1,000 miles, the average cost could range from $500 to $1500, depending on the transport company and the time frame. The type of car you want to transport can also significantly impact the cost. The cost may be higher than a standard vehicle if you are transporting a luxury or exotic car. In addition, the method of transportation that you choose, whether open or enclosed, will influence the final cost.
The cost of shipping a car in the summer is predicted to be higher than every other time of the year. This is mostly because customers can receive their services more quickly and with less difficulty during warmer months, which indicates a high demand for transportation services. During the winter season, the price premium for car shipping services doesn’t typically apply, as businesses offer incentives for customers to transport their vehicles during this period of the year.
International Car Shipping Cost
Shipping a car internationally involves more costs, risks, and a longer turnaround time. Numerous factors can impact the cost of international car shipping, such as the country of origin and destination, distance to the port, the type of vehicle being transported, the shipping method used, and customs charges.
The cost of shipping a car internationally is usually higher than the cost of domestic shipping since it involves loading the car onto an ocean carrier, which incurs additional expenses and risks. Factors such as the distance and availability of carriers that can transport the vehicle also affect the overall price.
The international shipping cost usually ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 or higher, depending on the country of origin and destination. International customs charges must also be considered, as they can vary depending on the country and sometimes add a significant additional cost.
What You Should Know Before Shipping Your Car
Shipping your car from one place to another can be stressful, whether moving to a new state or needing your vehicle transported for other reasons. Unfortunately, many people have a negative experience because they didn't take the time to do their research and ensure they were working with a reputable car shipping company.
If you're considering shipping your car, there are a few things you should know before you make a decision. Here are some important factors to consider:
1. The Cost of Shipping
The cost of shipping your car can vary depending on a number of factors, including the distance of the shipment and the type of transport you choose (open or enclosed). Getting a quote from multiple car shipping companies is important to find the best deal. Keep in mind that the cheapest
2. The Type of Transport
There are two main types of transport when it comes to shipping a car - open and enclosed. Open transport is the most common and affordable option. Your car will be loaded onto a multi-level carrier with other vehicles and transported to the destination. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, provides additional protection for your car. Your vehicle will be loaded into an enclosed trailer, protecting it from weather and debris. This option is more expensive, but it may be worth the extra cost if you're shipping a high-value car or classic car.
3. The Reputation of the Car Shipping Company
Before you choose a car shipping company, research its reputation. Look for reviews and ratings from past customers to get a sense of its level of service. Ensure the company is licensed and insured, and ask for references from other customers who have shipped their vehicles.
4. Insurance Coverage
Make sure you understand the insurance coverage provided by the car shipping company. Most companies have a standard level of coverage, but you may be able to purchase additional coverage if you have a high-value car or other concerns. Ensure you understand the coverage terms, including any deductibles or exclusions.
5. Preparation for Shipment
Before your car is shipped, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare it for transport. Make sure you clean the car thoroughly and remove any personal items or valuables. Take photos of the car before it is shipped so you have documentation of its condition. Ensure you disable any alarms or electronic devices and check the battery and tire pressure. Finally, make sure you have a spare key to give to the car shipping company in case they need to move the car during transport.
6. Timing and Scheduling
Make sure you understand the timing and scheduling of your car shipment. Find out how long the transport will take and ensure you have a clear timeline for pickup and delivery. Factor in any unexpected delays or complications, such as weather or traffic. Make sure you have a point of contact at the car shipping company to update you on your shipment status and address any concerns.
RoadRunner Auto Transport: Your Trusted Partner in Auto Shipping
With over 30 years of reliable nationwide vehicle shipping services, RoadRunner Auto Transport has earned its reputation as one of the most trusted car transport companies in the US. Our experienced team of shipping experts strives to exceed our customers' expectations and deliver outstanding customer service at every step of the vehicle delivery process.
Here's what sets us apart:
- Trusted Professionals: Our team of experienced transport coordinators, shipment support agents, dispatch specialists, and dependable drivers ensure your vehicle receives the utmost care throughout the entire process.
- Top-Rated Service: Backed by thousands of 5-star reviews, we are committed to exceeding your expectations.
- Nationwide Convenience: Enjoy door-to-door service to any location in the US, with complete vehicle coverage options for peace of mind.
- Flexible Payment: No upfront deposit is required. Pay only when your shipment is scheduled for pickup.
- 24/7 Support & Tracking: Our extended office hours ensure you can reach us anytime, and our online portal allows you to track your shipment progress conveniently.
Contact us today to learn more and get started with your car transport.
Common Price-Related Car Shipping Questions
What is the cheapest company to ship your car?
The cost of shipping a car can vary widely depending on factors such as the distance of the shipment, the type of service chosen, the size, weight, and value of the car, and the time of the year.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state?
The cheapest way to ship a car to another state typically involves:
- Using open transport services, where vehicles are loaded onto an open trailer with several other cars. This method is more cost-effective than enclosed transport because it doesn't offer protection against weather or debris but is considerably more affordable.
- Choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. With terminal-to-terminal shipping, you're responsible for getting your car to a designated drop-off location and picking it up from a similar location near your destination. This option reduces the carrier's travel and can significantly lower the shipping price.
- Planning your shipment during the off-peak season can lead to lower rates due to decreased demand.
- Obtaining quotes from multiple car shipping companies and negotiating for the best rate can also help ensure you get the cheapest possible option for shipping your car to another state.
What is the most effective way to ship a car?
The most effective way to ship a car depends on various factors such as distance, budget, timeframe, and level of convenience. Generally, there are two options for car shipping: open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is a cost-effective method for transporting the car on an open trailer with several other vehicles. Enclosed transport is a premium service that offers higher security and protection to the car during transportation. It is recommended to do research and choose a reputable and experienced company with proper insurance and licensing.
