Long-distance car transport is a convenient solution for moving your vehicle across state lines or even coast to coast. Instead of driving for hundreds or thousands of miles, risking wear and tear, and dealing with the stress of a long road trip, you can have your car professionally shipped by an auto transport company.
Carriers typically cover about 500 miles daily, so a cross-country transport might take 7 to 10 days. This service not only saves time but also protects your vehicle from potential damage on the road. Whether relocating or buying a car from afar, Sherpa Auto Transport provides safe and affordable long-distance vehicle shipping.
Key Takeaways:
- Long-distance auto transport means your vehicle is shipped by a professional car shipping company, saving you the time and expense of driving it yourself.
- Expect cross-country shipments to take around 10 days from the time of pickup.
- Opting for an open trailer for transport, shipping a smaller vehicle, and booking your shipment in advance can help you save on your long distance shipment.
In This Review:
- What is Long Distance Car Transport?
- Benefits of Long Distance Car Transport
- Cost of Long Distance Car Transport
- Long Distance Car Transport Options
- Preparing for Long Distance Car Transport
- Long Distance Car Transport: What to Consider
- How to Choose a Long Distance Shipping Company
- Long Distance Car Transport FAQs
What is Long Distance Car Transport?
Long-distance car transport refers to the process of shipping a vehicle over significant distances, often across state lines or even coast-to-coast. This service is designed to help individuals and businesses move their vehicles safely and efficiently without the need for personal driving. Auto transport is also more effective than towing for long distances.
Whether you’re relocating, going on vacation, or embarking on a business trip, long-distance car transport can save you time and reduce the wear and tear on your vehicle.
By partnering with a reputable car shipping company, you can ensure that your vehicle is transported securely, minimizing the risk of damage and providing peace of mind throughout the journey.
Benefits of Long Distance Car Transport
Using a professional car shipping service can be more cost-effective and convenient than driving the vehicle yourself, especially for long distances.
Here are a few benefits of long distance auto transport:
- Savings on gas money, lodging expenses, and the time it would take to drive the vehicle.
- Extend the life of your vehicle by keeping off the unnecessary mileage.
- Enclosed trailers are a great option for added protection from road debris and bad weather.
- By booking in advance, you can coordinate your vehicle shipment to align with your schedule.
Cost of Long Distance Car Transport
Understanding the associated costs is crucial for effective budgeting when shipping your car over a long distance. Long-distance car transport typically involves moving at least 1,500 miles, generally between $1,000 and $1,700 per vehicle. However, several factors can influence this cost, potentially pushing the price higher or lower depending on your circumstances.
Market Demand
One of the primary factors affecting the cost is the current market demand. Market demand can significantly impact car shipping quotes, fluctuating prices based on the season, fuel costs, and carrier availability.
Transport companies often adjust their rates based on their workload, with prices fluctuating depending on the season, fuel costs, and carrier availability. For instance, prices tend to increase during peak moving seasons, such as summer and late fall, when many people are relocating for new jobs or heading south for the winter.
Vehicle
The size and weight of your vehicle also significantly affect the shipping cost. When requesting a car shipping quote, be sure to provide accurate details about your vehicle’s size and weight to get an accurate estimate.
Larger vehicles, such as trucks and vans, take up more space on the carrier and add more weight, resulting in higher transport fees. On the other hand, smaller cars, sedans, and motorcycles are typically less expensive to ship.
Inoperable vehicles are also more expensive to ship since the carrier typically needs special equipment to load and unload them. If you’re looking to ship multiple cars at once, make sure to ask about available discounts.
Selected Services
Another critical consideration is the type of transport you select. Car shipping services offer various options, including open and enclosed transport, to meet different needs and budgets. Open transport is the most common and cost-effective option, where your vehicle is shipped on a large trailer that you typically see transporting cars on the interstate.
However, if you own a luxury, classic, or high-value vehicle, you might prefer enclosed transport, which offers additional protection at a higher price. Enclosed transport can increase the cost by approximately 50% compared to open transport.
Still, it provides peace of mind that your vehicle will be shielded from weather, road debris, and other potential hazards.
Finally, expedited shipping will also increase the cost if you need your vehicle delivered within a specific timeframe. Expedited services provide faster pickup and delivery but at a premium rate, making them ideal for those with tight schedules or urgent shipping needs.
By considering these factors, you can better estimate the cost of long-distance car transport and choose the options that best fit your budget and needs.
Long Distance Car Transport Options
When planning long-distance car transport, you have several options, each offering different levels of convenience, protection, and cost. Understanding these options will help you decide to best suit your needs and budget.
When evaluating car transport companies, consider factors such as their reputation, service offerings, and customer reviews to make an informed decision.
Door-to-Door Shipping:
Door-to-door shipping is a highly convenient option where the transport carrier picks up and delivers your vehicle as close to your specified addresses. Door-to-door shipping is particularly beneficial for cross country car shipping, as it minimizes the hassle of coordinating multiple drop-off and pick-up points.
This service minimizes the hassle by eliminating the need to drop off or pick up your car at a distant terminal. While there might be limitations based on local regulations or accessibility, door-to-door service ensures that your vehicle’s journey starts and ends as close to your chosen locations as possible.
This option is beneficial for those with tight schedules or those who prefer the convenience of having their car delivered directly to their doorstep.
Open Carrier Transport:
Open carrier transport is the most cost-effective method for long-distance vehicle shipping, making it the most popular choice among customers. With over 90% of Sherpa Auto Transport’s customers opting for this service, open transport means your vehicle is shipped on a large double-decker trailer.
While this method is affordable and widely available, it’s worth noting that your car will be exposed to weather conditions and road debris during transit. Despite this, open carrier transport is a reliable and budget-friendly option for most vehicles, especially those used for everyday purposes.
Enclosed Carrier Transport:
Enclosed carrier transport offers a higher level of protection, making it the preferred choice for luxury, exotic, and classic cars. These carriers shield vehicles from weather, road debris, and other potential hazards, providing owners of high-end or irreplaceable vehicles peace of mind.
Although enclosed transport is typically 50% more expensive than open transport, it offers added security and protection, making it a worthwhile investment for those transporting valuable or sensitive vehicles over long distances.
By carefully considering these transport options, you can select the one that best meets your requirements, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and securely at its destination.
Preparing for Long Distance Car Transport
Preparing for long-distance car transport involves several crucial steps to ensure a smooth and successful shipping experience.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Preparing Your Vehicle
Before shipping your vehicle, it’s essential to prepare it properly. This includes:
- Cleaning the Vehicle: Ensure your car is free of dirt and debris. This will make it easier to inspect for any pre-existing damage.
- Removing Personal Items: Take out any personal belongings or accessories that could be damaged or cause damage during transport.
- Checking Fluids and Tire Pressure: Ensure your vehicle’s fluids are at appropriate levels and the tires are properly inflated to avoid any issues during loading and unloading.
- Documenting Existing Damage: Notify the car shipping company of any existing damage or mechanical issues with the vehicle. Taking photos can provide a clear record of the car’s condition before transport.
Read more in our Vehicle Shipping tips.
Understanding Car Shipping Costs
Car shipping costs can vary based on several factors. Here are some key considerations:
- Distance: The longer the distance, the higher the shipping cost. Cross-country vehicle shipping will naturally be more expensive than shorter routes.
- Type of Vehicle: Larger or heavier vehicles like trucks or SUVs may require special accommodations and incur higher shipping costs.
- Shipping Method: Enclosed transport offers additional protection but is typically more expensive than open transport. Consider your vehicle’s value and the level of protection you need.
- Fuel Costs: Fluctuating fuel prices can impact shipping costs, especially long-distance routes.
Long Distance Car Transport: What to Consider
There are several things to remember when choosing an auto transport service for your long-distance car shipment.
Along with your shipment timeline, what type of trailer, and where your vehicle will be dropped off, you also need to think about these critical factors:
- Pickup Dates: Booking as far in advance as possible is your best move when arranging your long-distance car transport. An expedited pickup window will come at a cost, so getting a head start on the shipping process can help with cheap car shipping.
- Your transportation needs: If you’re sending your vehicle across the country, the journey could take up to two weeks. Be prepared to be without your car for at least 10 days before arranging moving services.
- Communication: You’ll want to be able to track the progress of your vehicle shipment. Sherpa’s commitment to customer support means we stay in contact from pickup through delivery.
- Carrier reliability: Your vehicle is likely one of your most valuable possessions. You’ll feel more at ease with your long-distance car shipping experience if the company has a track record of safe transport and excellent customer service.
Risks and Considerations
While long-distance car transport is generally safe and reliable, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks and considerations:
- Vehicle Damage: Although rare, damage can occur during transport. Ensure the car shipping company thoroughly vets contracted carriers who prioritize the safety of your vehicle.
- Delays: Weather, traffic, or mechanical issues can cause delays. Plan accordingly and maintain flexibility in your schedule.
- Insurance Coverage: Check the car shipping company’s insurance coverage and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary for added peace of mind.
By understanding these risks and considerations, you can take proactive steps to minimize them and ensure a successful car shipping experience. Partnering with a reputable car shipping company will further enhance the safety and reliability of your vehicle’s journey.
How to Choose a Long Distance Car Shipping Company
When you’re ready to book your long-distance car transport, there are a few essential factors to consider when choosing among car shipping companies. First, look for transparent pricing. A reputable company should provide a clear, upfront quote without hidden fees or unexpected charges. If a company is vague about pricing, it’s a red flag, and you might want to explore other options.
Experience is another crucial factor. Choose a company with a proven track record in the industry that has safely and successfully transported various vehicles across various distances, including cars, SUVs, motorcycles, and trucks. Experience often translates into a more efficient and secure shipping process.
Positive customer reviews are also a valuable resource. Feedback from past customers can give you insight into the company’s reliability, punctuality, and customer service. Companies that consistently receive high marks in these areas are usually trustworthy.
Finally, select a company that is firmly committed to safety. A reputable car shipping company will have a rigorous carrier vetting process, prioritizing the safety of your vehicle. This commitment is essential for your peace of mind, knowing your vehicle is in good hands.
Why Choose Sherpa for Long-Distance Shipping
Here are a few reasons why Sherpa Auto Transport is the best choice for long-distance car shipping:
- Industry Accolades and Reputation: We have a solid reputation in the auto shipping industry. We have A+ rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We’re also proud of our numerous industry accolades from US News, Forbes, and Move.org. While Montway Auto Transport is known for its affordability and innovative pricing tools, Sherpa Auto Transport stands out for its transparent pricing and customer-centric approach.
- Transparent Pricing: With our exclusive Price Lock Promise, you don’t have to worry about price changes throughout your car’s shipping journey. The initial quote you receive from Sherpa is the price you’ll pay when your vehicle reaches its destination. If the original quote isn’t enough to complete the job, we’ll provide up to $300 to keep your price the same.
- Customer-Centric Approach: We’re driven to provide every customer with a top-notch auto transport experience. We evaluate our success based on their feedback. We’re proud to have a Total Review Score of 4.9 out of 5 stars and thousands of five-star customer reviews across the leading platforms.
Long Distance Car Transport FAQs
How are cars shipped across country?
Cars are often shipped in open-air trailers, with pickup and drop-off arranged at various locations along the routes. Enclosed car haulers are used for classic cars and other high-end vehicles. Sherpa offers door-to-door service for maximum convenience.
How long does it take to ship a car?
Long-distance auto transport typically takes about seven to ten days. Your shipping route, type of vehicle, and various other factors can impact the estimated transit time. If you’re sending your vehicle in an enclosed trailer, a cross-country journey may take two weeks. Road conditions and weather issues could extend your car shipment timeline.
Can I put stuff in my car when I ship it?
Your inland shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or below the window line. Sherpa and the carrier are not responsible for items stored in the vehicle during transit.
Should I drive my car instead of shipping it?
Car shipping is often more affordable and convenient than driving for long distances and cross-country routes. When considering whether to drive or ship your car, you should consider your budget, timeline, and vehicle value.